Press Release Embassy of the United States 877 Pretorius Street, Arcadia, Pretoria August 5, 2019 U.S. EMBASSY: APPLY EARLY FOR VISAS The U.S. Mission in South Africa encourages all residents of South Africa considering travel to the United States to apply for their visa as early as possible in order to secure an appointment for …
Read More» Press Release Embassy of the United States 877 Pretorius Street, Arcadia, Pretoria August 6, 2019 USTDA Expands Affordable Internet Access in South Africa, Creates New U.S. Export Opportunities The U.S. Trade and Development Agency has awarded a grant to South Africa’s Wireless Access Providers Association (WAPA) for a pilot project that will help improve internet …
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Press Release Embassy of the United States 877 Pretorius Street, Arcadia, Pretoria July 19, 2019 To honor Nelson Mandela’s legacy of public service, a team of more than 30 volunteers from the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria spent Thursday at the Zola Community Health Center (CHC) in Soweto. The team of American and South African Embassy …
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Celebrating our 🇺🇸 Independence Day in 🇿🇦South Africa On July 3 we commemorated the 243rd anniversary of our Independence Day with our guests from government, civil society, business, media, academia, and the arts. The celebration of American history & culture, under the theme “California Dreaming,” included traditional American food, drink and live music, with more than a hint …
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THE WHITE HOUSE MEDIA STATEMENT May 16, 2019 President Donald J. Trump Announces Presidential Delegation to Attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa Today, President Donald J. Trump announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, on May 25, …
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus, Department Spokesperson Press statement May 15, 2019 South Africa: Congratulatory Message on Elections The United States congratulates the people of South Africa on successful national elections. We commend all South Africans who participated peacefully in the elections, which reflects South Africa’s commitment to democracy. We …
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Peace Corps Swearing-In Ceremony, April 1, 2019 The United States Peace Corps and the United States Mission to South Africa swore in 34 new Peace Corps Volunteers on Monday, April 1, 2019, in Pretoria. Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Ian McCary delivered remarks and swear in the volunteers. Pretoria News was there to cover the …
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The Public Affairs Section of the Embassy announces an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out or support our programs, which include, but are not limited to educational, vocational and cultural exchanges. We also invite proposals for small grants for programs that will provide South African audiences with current, accurate information and …
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On Tuesday, Charge d’Affaires Jessye Lapenn celebrated the launch of the USAID Kingson Capital Development Credit Authority loan portfolio guarantee agreement. Jacko Maree, Special Envoy on Investment to President Ramaphosa, and KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Sihle Zikalala also attended the Durban signing ceremony. The USAID DCA $10 million guarantee with …
Read More» Press Release | April 05, 2019 A delegation of American investors visited Johannesburg, April 4-5, to explore co-investment opportunities across sectors and to strengthen relationships with African pension funds, asset managers, and financial institutions for potential partnerships and co-investments. The delegation, known as the National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP), partnered with the U.S. Agency …
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Press Release | April 1, 2019 U.S. Consul General in Durban Sherry Zalika Sykes visited King Shaka International Airport yesterday to view a shipment of UN World Food Programme food and relief supplies to be transported from Durban to Mozambique by the U.S. Department of Defense. We thank the South African Department of International Relations …
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Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan traveled to South Africa from March 13 to 16, 2019. His visit focused on promoting U.S. trade and investment, as well as advancing peace and security, including with respect to the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. Throughout the trip, the Deputy Secretary affirmed the United States’ longstanding and wide-ranging …
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The Star | February 28, 2019 | Tieho Lungile Matsuma The prestigious scholarship afforded her the opportunity to study towards a master’s degree in petroleum engineering at the University of Tulsa in Oklahoma in the US. Her research focused on how to optimise the production of natural gas using artificial lift methods. Before going to the …
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On December 5, 2018, we close our Embassy and Consulates to pay homage to President George Herbert Walker Bush, who served as the 41st president of the United States, and died November 30 at the age of 94. President George H.W. Bush was the longest-lived president in U.S. history and a statesman whose service to …
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International Writing Program Women’s Creative Mentorship Announcement: The United States Consulate in Cape Town is pleased to announce an opportunity for young women writers based in the Western Cape to participate in the Women’s Creative Mentorship Project. The deadline for applications is January 1, 2019. Program Summary: The International Writing Program (IWP) in collaboration with …
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Press Release | December 3, 2018 U.S. announces a total of $1.2 billion over two years to support South Africa’s HIV response to reach epidemic control The United States’ Global AIDS Coordinator & Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy, Ambassador Deborah L. Birx M.D, and South Africa’s Minister of Health, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, announced yesterday …
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The number of South Africans studying in the United States increased by 6.8% to 2,040 students for the 2017/18 academic year, according to the 2018 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange. A majority of these students are studying toward an undergraduate degree (57%), with a growing number in graduate study (27%), with a further …
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How often do you get to meet a man who has been in space four times? The United States Mission to South Africa welcomed Major General Charles Bolden to South Africa from November 12-17 and his recent mission to South Africa had students, pupils, space enthusiasts, aerospace professionals on the edge of their seats as he described …
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USAID | Press Release | 11-07-2018 (Johannesburg) The United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Senior Deputy Assistant Administrator for Africa Ramsey Day delivered opening remarks at the Africa Investment Forum (AIF) November 7, 2018 Investing in Commodities Exchanges panel in Johannesburg, South Africa. The panel sought to increase the understanding of the benefits of …
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Power Africa | Press Release | 11-07-2018 Power Africa, the U.S. government-led initiative coordinated by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to double electricity access in sub-Saharan Africa, launched its newest publication, the “Transmission Roadmap to 2030: A Practical Approach to Unlocking Electricity Trade” at the African Investment Forum on Wednesday, November 7. The Roadmap …
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A one-time teacher has risen through SANDF ranks, breaking gender boundaries and earning a Master’s degree, supported by the International Military Education and Training (Imet) program which is funded by the US government and presented in partnership with the SANDF. The Sunday Independent | by LESEGO MAKGATHO | October 14, 2018 COLONEL Zoleka Niyabo is spreading …
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Trip sponsored by the U.S. Consulate in Cape Town Cape Times (IOL) | October 10, 2018 |Traci Hurling, Isis Amusa and India Baird Eight years ago, three 10-year-old girls from Manenberg founded BRAVE, a non-profit organisation dedicated to inspiring, empowering and investing in girl leaders. Originally it functioned to create safe spaces for girls, but as they grew older and the obstacles they faced as young women expanded, BRAVE has …
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What is a conservation social scientist and why is she visiting South Africa? Dr. Meredith Gore is one of the world’s leading conservation experts and she recently traveled to South Africa to learn from and share best practices with South African students, community members, and government officials on tackling issues of wildlife poaching, wildlife trafficking, …
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Press Release | October 09, 2018 The U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg is pleased to announce a grant award of approximately R2.1 million (US $149,506) to the Johannesburg Inner City Partnership (JICP) to implement its “Makers Way” project in the Bertrams and Loretzville neighborhoods of Johannesburg. More than 25 local organizations submitted project proposals to the …
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The Citizen | 2018-09-19 | Rorisang Kgosana The four Grade 11 pupils, who run an ecogreen recycling project at Ribane Laka High School, will be launching a life skills centre for their community. Four Mamelodi teenagers’ recycling project recently afforded them an opportunity to experience the “unusual” pleasures of driving “miles and miles” for the best ice cream and living with a …
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Press Release | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Marquee roster of U.S. exhibitors includes manufacturers, suppliers, product and services providers Centurion, City of Tshwane, South Africa and Waldwick, N.J. / September 17, 2018 — African countries looking to strengthen national and economic security will find American manufacturers and suppliers equipped with a wide range of innovative solutions at …
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Pretoria News | September 10, 2018 | Virgilatte Gwangwa FOUR Grade 11 pupils at Ribane Laka High School in Mamelodi, Fortunate Mancoba, Precious Tladi, Bhekumuzi Phala and Given Ketelo, have returned from representing the country at the youth leadership programme in the US. They had been selected by the US Mission to South Africa for the programme, which took place last month. The Pan-Africa …
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Media Release | August 29, 2018 United States Consul General in Johannesburg, Michael McCarthy, awards prizes for innovative 3D Design at the Rosa Parks Library & Innovation Studio in Soweto On August 28, 2018, U.S. Consul General in Johannesburg, Michael McCarthy, awarded prizes to the three winners of the U.S. Consulate General’s Rosa Parks Library & Innovation …
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The United States Mission to South Africa is pleased to welcome the Minnesota Orchestra to South Africa, as it embarks on its Music for Mandela tour across the country. As part of its Mandela Centenary commemorations, the Embassy is delighted to have provided support for the orchestra’s tour, the first ever tour of a full …
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To honor the legacy and lifetime of service embodied by Nelson Mandela, a team from the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria joined Sun International and the Minister of Social Development, Susan Shabangu, to give 67 minutes of service on Mandela Day, July 18, where they packed food parcels for South African children in need. The U.S. …
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Twenty-nine South African students and scholars have received fully-funded Fulbright scholarships to conduct research and complete postgraduate studies at U.S. academic institutions. The world-renowned Department of State-funded Fulbright Program provides scholarships to university graduates seeking a Master’s or Doctoral degree in nearly any field of study at a university in the U.S. Thirteen South Africans …
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Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo unveiled the 2018 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report on June 28, 2018. “Every year our report focuses on a specific thing. This year’s TIP Report highlights the critical work of local communities to stop traffickers and provide support to victims. Human trafficing is a global problem, but it’s a local …
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Published in cape {town} etc | Aimee Pace | June 15, 2018 The City of Cape Town has signed a new grant agreement with a US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) on Thursday to study the effective use of natural gas distribution networks to increase energy sources of both Cape Town and the Western Cape. The City’s Executive Major, Patricia De Lille said in a statement, “The …
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News Release | 15 June 2018 (Johannesburg) The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Business leadership South Africa (BLSA) announced a three-year extension of their ground-breaking development partnership, the Beyond Advocacy Fund, with an infusion of an additional $3.6 million in funding. This partnership tackles some of the …
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Forty-six young South Africans will travel to the United States to participate in the Mandela Washington Fellowship, which aims to enhance leadership skills, bolster entrepreneurship, and connect young leaders from across Africa with the American people, and with each another. During their six-week visit, 28 U.S. universities will host 700 Fellows from sub-Saharan Africa for …
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U.S. Embassy-Sponsored Training Focuses on Surveillance and Early Detection to Prevent Outbreaks and Spread of Avian Influenza The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria is hosting a workshop on surveillance and early detection to prevent outbreaks and the rapid spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza HPAI (“bird flu”) in Pretoria April 24-26. Bringing together epidemiologists and veterinarians …
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Media Advisory April 20, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The U.S. Consulate General in Cape Town was honored to participate in this year’s Kennedy Center Gold Medal in the Arts gala on Saturday, April 14, 2018. This year’s gala, held at the recently inaugurated Zeitz MOCAA, honored six extraordinary South African artists: Basil J.R. Jones and …
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Excitement was the order of the day as 33 new American Peace Corps Volunteers were sworn-in during a special ceremony at the U.S. Community Center in Pretoria on Monday, April 16. This 37th cohort of volunteers arrived in South Africa in January before embarking on an immersive 10-week training schedule that included training in language, …
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The United States is a global leader in finding and recovering public assets that are stolen and hidden abroad by corrupt regimes. The U.S. State Department plays a key role in recovering these ill-gotten gains by facilitating cooperation with foreign governments and building partner capacity and cross-border cooperation. To help facilitate effective international cooperation between …
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A bipartisan delegation of United States Senators visited South Africa from April 4 – 6, 2018 on a visit to strengthen ties between the American and South African people. Led by Senator Christopher Coons of Delaware, the delegation sought to increase partnerships and enhance trade and investment opportunities which can lead to greater prosperity for both of our countries. The delegation included Senator Jeff …
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Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Department of State Washington, DC April 5, 2018 In recognition of the positive role young people play in building sustainable peace, the U.S. Department of State is honoring outstanding young leaders from around the world. On Wednesday, May 2, the ten recipients of the third annual Emerging Young Leaders …
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Congratulations, South Africa! We were thrilled to be at today’s signing of renewable energy independent power producer project (REIPPP) agreements, which will result in R55.92 billion in new investments in the energy sector (including foreign direct investment from U.S. companies!), create nearly 60,000 new jobs, and generate 2300 megawatts of energy. Chargé d’Affaires Jessye Lapenn …
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As published in Independent Group Newspapers March-April, 2018. It was with great excitement and a bit of national pride that I read the South African Institute of Race Relations’ (SAIRR) March 13 report, “SA has made significant progress against HIV/Aids, but more must be done”, which captured South Africa’s success in driving down the rate …
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The United States Mission to South Africa and its Regional English Language Office hosted world-renowned American Arts Integration and English Language Specialist Karen Konnerth for a series of puppet performances for primary and high school students in Pretoria and Durban. She also held workshops for teachers in Polokwane, Lyndhurst, and Benoni. Konnerth is a visual …
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As part of a response to the #BlackPantherChallenge, an ongoing campaign to take young people to watch the inspirational Black Panther superhero film in cinema, the U.S. Mission to South Africa hosted 120 young leaders to watch a special screening of Black Panther at Brooklyn Mall on Human Rights Day, March 21. Young leaders from …
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Press Release | March 23, 2018 The U.S. Consul General to Durban, Sherry Zalika Sykes, attended South Africa’s World Tuberculosis (TB) event on March 21, in Cato Manor, Durban. The event was co-sponsored by the United States and attended by Deputy President David Mabuza, His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini, Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, …
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The second annual meeting of the U.S. Mobilizing Institutional Investors to Develop Africa’s Infrastructure (MiDA) delegation met with South African asset managers, financial institutions, and African pension fund representatives to build further partnerships and find co-investment opportunities in Johannesburg and Cape Town March 5-9, 2018. Formed in 2016, MiDA is a partnership between the U.S. …
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Press Release | March 19, 2018 To explore ways to bring fresh perspectives into HIV reporting in South Africa, the U.S. Embassy sponsored a three-day workshop for South African journalists in Johannesburg from March 13-15, 2018. Participants included reporters and editors from Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Eastern Cape, and Western Cape. The course provided an …
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UNITED STATES GLOBAL AIDS COORDINATOR VISITS SOUTH AFRICA TO ADVANCE U.S.-SOUTH AFRICA HEALTH PARTNERSHIP Media Release March 13, 2018 The U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator Ambassador Deborah Birx visited South Africa from February 19 to March 1 regarding implementation of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The American people, through PEPFAR, are deeply committed …
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ARE YOU A JOURNALIST REPORTING ON OR INTERESTED IN HEALTH ISSUES, SUCH AS HIV/AIDS? Do you want to sharpen your skills, learn about the latest advances, see examples of cutting edge reporting, and develop new networks? Apply today for a free, practical, hands-on, and interactive training which will focus on: The role of media in …
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Learners at Mzamowethu Combined School outside of East London, Eastern Cape, are now enjoying the addition of several new classroom buildings, thanks to the U.S. Mission’s Office of Defense Cooperation. Through AFRICOM’s Humanitarian Assistance funds, and working together with the South African Ministry of Basic Education, the Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC) has expanded and …
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The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce the donation of three forensic trailers to support provincial law enforcement officials to investigate wildlife crime scenes. The trailers were handed over to representatives of the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal authorities at a ceremony co-hosted with the non-governmental organization TRAFFIC on February 20, 2018, at the …
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The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce its support for the production of One Night in Miami… at the Market Theatre, February 2-25, 2018. To commemorate Black History Month, recognized each year in February, the U.S. Embassy has partnered with the Market Theatre in Johannesburg to deliver high-impact and thought-provoking drama to South African audiences. …
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The U.S. Mission to South Africa is pleased to announce the application period is now open for the Fulbright Foreign Student Program for 2019-2020. This world-renowned program offers scholarships that cover up to the full cost of tuition and living expenses in the United States for South African students interested in pursuing a Master’s or …
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Are you a musician? Keen to collaborate with artists from around the world? Then WATCH as our Chargé d’Affaires Jessye Lapenn meets Benjamin Jephta, a South African jazz prodigy, who went on the > OneBeat exchange program to the U.S! In this episode of our Meet The AlumnU.S. series, Benjamin Jephta shares more about his journey and what inspires his …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy in South Africa, through the office of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), presented $9,000 in restitution (approximately 125,000 Rand) to a South African victim of crime at a ceremony in Pretoria on December 6. The crime victim’s name is being withheld due to privacy considerations. Major General …
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Pretoria News | November 20, 11:34AM | Matlhatsi Dikbakwane WOMEN in business were given training on perfecting their businesses during the Women in Business Connect Session at the Es’kia Mphahlele Community Library at Sammy Marks Square last week. They were also urged to pitch their business plans in 30 seconds with three main points – introduction, content and conclusion. “All these three points are …
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During the learning visit, the Atlanta and Kenya teams were given a critical overview of some of CDC SA’s KP programs targeting men who have sex with men (MSM), and people who inject drugs (PWID) Key population (KP) representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta and Kenya visited South Africa …
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Mr. Jeffrey Minear, Counselor to Chief Justice of the United States John G. Roberts, Jr., was in Bloemfontein last week as part of a U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg visiting speaker program. Mr. Minear visited the Supreme Court of Appeal, where he met with legal researchers, Court administrative staff, and judges to discuss best practices …
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Ga-Rankuwa Voice | Words: Ofentse Mathibe; Images: Susanna Smith | October 31, 2017 The United States Embassy in conjunction with Leap Science and Maths School in Ga-Rankuwa Zone 5 held a Science Lesson session, encouraging learners to be part of this amazing field of study, on 17 October. The U.S Mission is partnering with South …
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U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jessye Lapenn co-hosted a signing ceremony with Southern African Music Rights Organization (SAMRO) Foundation Managing Director André le Roux to celebrate the launch of an Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) grant totaling $88,179 to the SAMRO Foundation. The ceremony took place at the legendary Orbit Jazz Club in Braamfontein, Johannesburg on …
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The United States Mission in South Africa notes the significance of October 27th, 2017, the centenary of the late Oliver Reginald “O.R.” Tambo. We join South Africans and others around the globe in commemorating Tambo’s leadership in efforts to liberate South Africans from apartheid and his role in the founding of South Africa’s constitutional democracy. In …
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The United States and South Africa Departments of Defense met in Pretoria, 24-25 October 2017 for the annual Defense Committee. Both sides reaffirmed their strong defense partnership and shared views on a range of topics including regional security, peacekeeping operations, military training and exercises, and cooperation in technology and armament. The meeting brought together defense professionals …
Read More» DURBAN, October 19, 2017 Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Rosenblum is in Durban this week to represent the United States at the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of Ministers meeting. While here, he will be meeting with a number of the delegates representing the 21 IORA member states and seven dialogue partners. Topics will include maritime …
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Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington Marriott Marquis Washington, DC October 4, 2017 SECRETARY TILLERSON: Good afternoon. And thank you so much, Harry, for that very kind introduction. The work and commitment of the Bill and Melinda – of Bill and Melinda Gates and the Gates Foundation that they have undertaken across a range of …
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Media Advisory | October 4, 2017 The U.S. Mission to South Africa is pleased to announce the arrival of Consul General Sherry Zalika Sykes to lead the Consulate General in Durban. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Lapenn welcomed Consul General Sykes to the country on September 14, 2017. “Consul General Sykes’ people-focused leadership in Durban …
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THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 2, 2017 Diplomatic Room | 10:50 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: My fellow Americans, we are joined together today in sadness, shock, and grief. Last night, a gunman opened fire on a large crowd at a country music concert in Las Vegas, Nevada. He brutally …
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Daily Maverick | Orateng Lepodise | September 26, 2017 Giving back is a reward. Nobody knows this better than the United States Peace Corps, which hosted a swearing-in ceremony for 40 new South African volunteers on Friday. The Peace Corps is working at improving education and health conditions and capacity in South Africa. On Friday, the Peace Corps hosted a swearing in ceremony in …
Read More» Sunday Tribune | 24 Sep 2017 | NOKUTHULA NTULI AN ACTIVIST with a passion for community empowerment, career diplomat Sherry Zalika Sykes, has returned to Durban, a city close to her heart, and the heart of her late son, Omar Sykes. The new US consul-general, who arrived in the country last Friday, has served in …
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Media Advisory | September 12, 2017 The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria will open the four-week application period for the 2018 YALI Mandela Washington Fellowship on September 13, 2017 and invites all interested candidates in South Africa to apply for this professional development program. The Mandela Washington Fellowship is the flagship program of the Young African …
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Last Thursday, US manufacturer of construction and mining equipment Caterpillar opened their new international parts distribution centre in in Kempton Park, Ekurhuleni. The centre is the only one located in Africa.
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Media Advisory | September 1, 2017 The U.S. Embassy recognized the achievements of a group of Mamelodi students for conceptualizing, organizing and implementing civic projects that sought to create solutions to problems within their schools and communities. The students presented their projects to a panel of judges and received certificates during a ceremony on Tuesday, …
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Over 866 nursing graduates have benefited from high quality training through the Nursing Education Partnership Initiative (NEPI) between the governments of South Africa and U.S. Durban | August 25, 2017: U.S. Embassy South Africa Health Attaché Steve Smith officially handed over the #NEPI program to South Africa’s National Department of Health at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital …
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Terence Creamer | Engineering News | August 29, 2017 The US Embassy’s outgoing Economic Counselor, Laird Treiber, says there has been a steady stream of American investment into South Africa during his three-year tour and that, notwithstanding the current hiatus in investment activity, economic relations are poised to expand again, owing to the strongly complementary profiles of the two economies. In an interview with Engineering News Online ahead of his departure in …
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Media Advisory | August 29, 2017 As part of its month-long programming throughout August to commemorate Women’s Month, the U.S. Mission to South Africa is hosting the President, CEO, and Co-Founder of WEConnect International, Ms. Elizabeth Vazquez, to present a series of workshops and lead discussions with women entrepreneurs and business leaders in Johannesburg, Pretoria …
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Media Advisory | August 22, 2017 With the support of a grant from the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, media practitioners from community radio stations in Gauteng had the opportunity to attend the Menell Media Exchange 2017 conference (MMX17) in Bryanston August 11-12, 2017. Reporters and presenters from Mamelodi’s community radio station Mams FM and …
Read More» Lots of laughter, stories of U.S. adventures, and memories from being a Fulbrighter were exchanged at a recent reception where the Embassy hosted The Fulbright Program alumni affiliated to the University of Pretoria . Our Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, Elizabeth McKay, enjoyed the opportunity to meet alumni who are making their mark on academia in South Africa. “Even after two …
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Media Advisory / August 11, 2017 The U.S. Mission to South Africa is pleased to announce the arrival of the new Consul General to lead the Consulate General in Cape Town. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jessica Lapenn welcomed Consul General Virginia Blaser to the country on August 6, 2017. “Consul General Blaser brings extensive experience …
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Media Advisory | August 4, 2017 The U.S. Mission to South Africa is pleased to welcome a new Consul General to lead the Consulate General in Johannesburg. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Elizabeth McKay welcomed Consul General Michael McCarthy, who will usher in a new era of leadership for the U.S. Mission’s presence in Johannesburg. “Our …
Read More» Media Advisory | July 28, 2017 “I always knew I wanted to study in America, but I was directionless as to how and when to apply. Working with EducationUSA helped me to submit good applications, on time. Without the help of EducationUSA, I am sure I would not have gotten in!” This is how Jayna …
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Media Advisory July 24, 2017 The U.S. Mission to South Africa hosted Dr. Jenna Jambeck, an expert on plastic waste from the University of Georgia, for meetings with environmental leaders, local government officials, academics and members of the public in three provinces along South Africa’s coastline July 9-18, 2017. She travelled to Port Elizabeth, Plettenberg …
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July 12, 2017 On behalf of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), I am deeply saddened by the death of Prudence Mabele. Ms. Mabele was a force of nature and a guiding light in the AIDS response, both globally and in her home country of South Africa. She was one of the …
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Media Advisory July 14, 2017 LOHATLA, South Africa – The U.S. military, in partnership with the South Africa National Defense Force, will conduct Exercise Shared Accord 2017, a command post and company-level field training exercise, July 17 – August 3. Shared Accord 17 is a U.S. Africa Command directed and U.S. Army Africa led exercise …
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Media Advisory | July 5, 2017 In partnership with SONY Pictures South Africa and e.tv, the U.S. Mission in South Africa recognized young South Africans making a difference in their communities on July 3 with an exclusive premier of the movie Spider-Man: Homecoming. Through a campaign on e.tv, Sony Pictures asked young South Africans making …
Read More» Dear Reader: Human trafficking is one of the most tragic human rights issues of our time. It splinters families, distorts global markets, undermines the rule of law, and spurs other transnational criminal activity. It threatens public safety and national security. But worst of all, the crime robs human beings of their freedom and their dignity. …
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Media Advisory: June 27, 2017 American Actor Antonio Lyons Joins Fight Against Gender-Based Violence with We Are Here The U.S. Mission to South Africa, as part of its support for South Africa’s fight against gender-based violence, is hosting American actor, musician, poet and social activist Antonio Lyons for a nation-wide series of workshops and performances …
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On her recent visit to the Lowveld, the US Embassy’s chargé d’affaires, Jessye Lapenn, learned more about some of the work the Embassy does in Mpumalanga. Lowvelder | June 24, 2017 | Philippa Francis MBOMBELA – Lowvelder joined the American acting ambassador on her visit to GRIP on Monday afternoon, where CEO Sakina Mohamed outlined the sex-work programme. The organisation uses a Pepfar …
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Media Advisory June 23, 2013 Microbiology, mathematics, biochemistry, international affairs, astronomy, ethnomusicology…. These are just some of the many disciplines pursued by South Africans in the 2017 Fulbright Students and Scholars cohort. The U.S. Embassy’s Fulbright office hosted the 2017 class of students and scholars for a pre-departure orientation on June 23 in Sandton, as …
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Media Advisory June 23, 2017 The U.S. Embassy in South Africa’s office of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facilitated the donation of border enforcement equipment and tools to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) at their K-9 facility in Kempton Park. The equipment will be utilized in support SARS’ efforts to safeguard the borders …
Read More» Media Advisory June 13, 2017 Joint Statement: 8th South African – United States Annual Bilateral Forum, 8 June 2017 The Embassy of the United States of America hosted the South African Government for the 8th Annual Bilateral Forum (ABF), on 8 June 2017, in Pretoria. The ABF takes place under the auspices of the South …
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Media Advisory | Thursday, May 18, 2017 Power Africa announced the launch of its Southern African Energy Program this week in Cape Town, South Africa. This announcement came as representatives from Power Africa, a U.S. government-led initiative, and the U.S. Mission in South Africa participated in African Utility Week and the Gas to Power World …
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Mayors Kasim Reed from Atlanta and Patricia de Lille from Cape Town met last week to build closer ties, explore opportunities to grow the two cities’ economies, and discuss best practices. U.S. Consul General to Cape Town, Teddy Taylor, hosted the two mayors at his residence and welcomed government, civil society, and business leaders to …
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Let’s Make a Deal! South African Private Sector Leaders to American Investors: “We’re Open for Business” It is not every day that you get international dealmakers of this size together under one roof, but earlier today in Sandton, some of South Africa’s top business leaders, including Chief Executive of Standard Bank – South Africa Sim Tshabalala and Chief Executive Officer …
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PEPFAR Approves 2017 Budget to Support South Africa’s Fight Against HIV/AIDS and TB Media Advisory: May 5, 2017 On April 25, U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Special Representative for Global Health Diplomacy, Ambassador Deborah Birx, approved PEPFAR’s $483 million Country Operational Plan 2017 (COP2017) budget for South Africa, an increase over 2016. The COP2017 budget …
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On April 20, U.S. Consul General Christopher Rowan, of the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg, hosted a reception to officially re-open the Consulate’s Rosa Parks Library & Innovation Studio in Soweto following a nearly four-month refurbishment project. At the reception, the Consul General reflected on the library’s more than 40 years of impact on Soweto’s …
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Peace Corps Celebrates 20 Years in South Africa and Swears-in 33 New Volunteers In 1994, Presidents Mandela and Clinton agreed the United States and South Africa should work together for the transformation of South Africa. For the past 20 years, Americans have been coming to South Africa as Peace Corps Volunteers. Last week, 33 new …
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The U.S. Consulate General Cape Town brought American musician Nat Adderley Jr. to kick off this year’s Jazz Appreciation Month by participating in a panel discussion “on “The Music Business ” at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF), conducting workshops with young musicians around the city, and performing in and around in Cape Town …
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Life on Mars? U.S. Embassy Hosts Former Senior NASA Executive and Aeronautical Engineer Jim Adams to Contemplate the Possibility with South African Audiences Media Advisory | March 15, 2017 The U.S. Mission to South Africa hosted former senior NASA executive Jim Adams March 8-14, 2017, for a series of speeches and educational outreach programs around …
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WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH, 2017 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION We are proud of our Nation’s achievements in promoting women’s full participation in all aspects of American life and are resolute in our commitment to supporting women’s continued advancement in America and around the world. America honors the celebrated women …
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University of Georgia poultry expert Professor Michael Lacy arrived last week at Pietermaritzburg’s KZN Poultry Institute ( www.kznpi.co.za ) to assist with the training of 30 emerging poultry farmers. As a U.S. Fulbright Specialist, Lacy’s work at KZNPI kicks off a month-long visit to South Africa that will include visits to local farms, universities, and agricultural …
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U.S. Embassy Pretoria Hosts Former Mayor of Washington DC Anthony Williams Media Advisory February 21, 2017 For more information: USEmbassySApress@state.gov To encourage enhanced dialogue between the United States and South Africa on best practices in city management and urban revitalization, the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria hosted former Mayor of Washington DC Anthony Williams February 13-17, 2017. …
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The U.S. Consulate General Durban supports the work of the Denis Hurley Centre’s Usizo Lwethu Clinic The U.S. Consulate General Durban congratulates the Usizo Lwethu Clinic for its remarkable accomplishments in 2016. The clinic, located in the Denis Hurley Centre in downtown Durban, reported a notable increase in patient visits from 17,000 in 2015 to …
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Helping Those Who Assist Survivors of Sexual Abuse December 20, 2016 On the heels of the global “16 Days” of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign, the U.S. Consulate in Durban hosted a workshop at City Hall on December 14 for more than 50 social workers, counselors, law enforcement officers, and other professionals who deal with …
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Empowering the Next Generation of Women leaders in Technology The 2017 TechWomen application is now open through January 17, 2017. Semifinalists will be contacted via email in/around March 2017. Final decisions will be made no later than early May 2017. All applicants will be notified of the results of their application. TechWomen empowers the next …
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DREAMS Event Features Guest Speaker Oprah Winfrey Media Advisory | December 3, 2016 U.S. Ambassador Patrick Gaspard hosted an audience of young South African women on Friday for what may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet global media leader and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey. Ms. Winfrey, who is in South Africa celebrating the sixth graduating class …
Read More» Overview USAID’s primary development goal in South Africa is the country’s continued transformation into an equitable, effective, and exemplary nation. In consultation with the South African Government, USAID promotes improved rule of law and respect for human rights throughout Southern Africa, and supports South Africa’s leadership in advancing stability in the region and addressing the …
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U.S. Ambassador Gaspard Presents Liliesleaf Farm with an Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation Grant to Conserve Rare Documents from Liberation Media Advisory October 12, 2016 Ambassador Gaspard presented Liliesleaf Farm CEO Nicholas Wolpe with a U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) grant totaling $103,329 at a signing ceremony in Rivonia on October 12. Liliesleaf …
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U.S. Consulate General Johannesburg Message for U.S. Citizens 5 October 2016 Final Opportunity to Return Voted Ballots! Don’t wait, return your voted ballot right away! Remember U.S. embassies and consulates are not polling places; same-day in-person voting is not available outside the United States. The majority of states require voted ballots to reach local election …
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U.S. Votes “No” on CITES Appendix-I Uplisting of Elephants – Here’s Why Media Statement October 3, 2016 U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Today, during the 17th meeting of the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), the CITES Parties considered a proposal to include all populations of African elephants in Appendix I through …
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Strongest CITES Protections Signal Hopeful Future for African Grey Parrots Press Release October 3, 2016 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Johannesburg, South Africa) – African grey parrots are being loved to death. Their intelligence and longevity make them popular as pets, and overharvest for the pet trade is devastating populations in the wild. Fortunately, nations …
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U.S. Mission to South Africa Awards Grants to Community Organizations Partnering in the Fight Against HIV/AIDS Media Advisory | September 29, 2016 The U.S. Mission to South Africa hosted a HIV/AIDS Community Grants Program Awards Ceremony, culminating a multi-day workshop for 23 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from Gauteng, Free State and North West, on September 28. Through this community grants …
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Peace Corps Volunteers Sworn into Service of SA’s Rural Communities Pretoria, Monday, September 12, 2016 – Peace Corps South Africa hosted the swearing in ceremony of ‘SA 34’, the 34th contingent of trainees to serve in South Africa as Peace Corps Volunteers since 1997. The group of 36 arrived in the country on July 8 …
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Mzwandile Duma was one of the first KwaZulu-Natal youth to take part in the Future Farmers Foundation project to gain knowledge and practical experience about farming in the United States. Duma joined the program straight from high school, when he was 19 years old. Future Farmers Foundation is a small but dedicated foundation that provides platforms from which young men …
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Under the auspices of the U.S. State Department’s visiting speakers’ program, economic and trade expert Anthony Carroll addressed KZN audiences at business chambers, universities, and private-enterprise associations on the benefits of free trade and the future of U.S.-SA economic relations. Mr. Carroll is a senior associate with the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) …
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KZN youth discuss radio industry challenges DURBAN, JULY 28,2016 – The National Community Radio Forum-KwaZulu Natal, in partnership with the U.S. Consulate in Durban, hosted the Youth in Media Annual Dialogue at Durban City Hall. About 120 youth from across the province of KwaZulu-Natal attended the event, including students from University of Zululand, Durban University …
Read More» Press Release | July 18, 2016 PEPFAR and DREAMS Partners Announce Winners of the $85 Million DREAMS Innovation Challenge $40 Million Targeted on Keeping Girls in Secondary School Durban, South Africa – Today, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR); Janssen Pharmaceutica NV (Janssen), one of the Janssen pharmaceutical companies of Johnson & …
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IOL | SPECIAL FEATURE | 15 Jul ’16, 2:16pm Aaron Motsoaledi and Patrick Gaspard #AIDS2016: 16 years on, many gains have been made When the International Aids Conference opened in Durban 16 years ago, the challenge seemed insurmountable. Scientists were projecting that half of South Africa’s young people would die of Aids. At …
Read More» Media Statement July 13, 2016 Statement from Ambassador Gaspard following announcement of arrests of four suspected terrorists on July 9, 2016 I am pleased to join South Africans in commending the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) and other law enforcement agencies on the July 9 arrest of terrorists suspected of planning attacks on …
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Media Advisory | July 11, 2016 PEPFAR Investing More Than $410 Million Towards an AIDS-Free Generation in South Africa The U.S. government, through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), has approved 2016 Country Operational Plan (COP16) programming and funding of $410 million (R 5.7 billion) towards the goal of achieving an AIDS-free generation …
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President Obama on the Fatal Shootings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile White House Blog JULY 7, 2016 AT 2:12 PM ET All Americans should be deeply troubled by the fatal shootings of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Philando Castile in Falcon Heights, Minnesota. We’ve seen such tragedies far too many times, and …
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Press Release July 1, 2016 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE U.S. Ambassador to South Africa, Patrick Gaspard, hosted a reception at his residence in Pretoria on June 30 to commemorate the 240th anniversary of America’s adoption of the Declaration of Independence. The national holiday is celebrated each year on July 4 in the United States with …
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Press Release Embassy of the United States 877 Pretorius Street, Arcadia, Pretoria Monday, June 6, 2016 For More Information: Katleho Mogase | USEmbassySAPress@state.gov Ambassador Gaspard Celebrates Carnegie Hall Music Project in South Africa An affair of music, talent, and cultural exchange have brought together the interests of Carnegie Hall, the U.S. State Department and Strive Masiwa …
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Rebecca Davis | Mail & Guardian | June 7, 2016 The social media savvy Patrick Gaspard talks about his love of Jo’burg and how the US can learn from SA how to discuss racism frankly. Gaspard as diplomatic as ever United States ambassador Patrick Gaspard swoops into a boardroom at Cape Town’s Cape Grace hotel, full of apologies …
Read More» Press Release May 30, 2016 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information: Cynthia Harvey at USEmbassySAPress@state.gov Kerry Kennedy: “Ripples of Hope” Continue to Inspire U.S. – South Africa Relationship 50 Years Later Johannesburg, May 30, 2016 – Kerry Kennedy, daughter of Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) and President of RFK Human Rights, is visiting South Africa May 30-June …
Read More» Media Advisory FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 24, 2016 Pretoria – The South Africa Department of Science and Technology signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. Global Development Lab, the newest bureau within USAID, to support the growing partnership between South Africa and the United States …
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Media Advisory Embassy of the United States of America May 24, 2016 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information: Cynthia Harvey at USEmbassySAPress@state.gov U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Patrick Gaspard visited Limpopo May 23-24 to engage in a range of activities highlighting the growing ties between the people of Limpopo and the United States. Hlayisani Nkwashu, an …
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Daily Maverick | Opinionista U.S. Ambassador Patrick Gaspard May 5, 2016 11:55 If you’re like most of us, you probably don’t spend a lot of time thinking about what open governance means to you – how it impacts your daily life, your family, or your community. But every one of us has a role to …
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Media Advisory Monday, April 25, 2016 Ambassador Gaspard celebrated the growing trade relationship between South Africa and the United States and the successful renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) at a braai at his residence on April 25. As U.S. poultry, beef, and pork make their way to South African retailers’ shelves, the …
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Media Advisory Embassy of the United States of America Monday, April 18, 2016 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | For more information: USEmbassySAPress@state.gov U.S. Embassy Pretoria congratulates the winners of the 2016 GIST Startup Bootcamp’s business pitch competition, Christian Mwijage and Elineca Ndowo and their social enterprise EcoAct Tanzania. The U.S. Department of State-funded science and technology bootcamp took …
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A new U.S. funded center opened at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University exposing professionals, scholars, and students to hundreds of exchange and study opportunities. The American Corner, Port Elizabeth will create a forum for an exchange of ideas, arts, and culture between Americans and South Africans in the Eastern Cape. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof Andrew Leitch officially …
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The United States released its 2015 Human Rights Reports today. The reports, now in their 40th year, document the status of human rights conditions in 199 countries and territories around the world. In remarks to the press, Secretary Kerry discussed the reports and stressed the universality of the standards applied in the compiling of the reports, …
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The creative writing communities in Cape Town and the Northern Cape city of Kimberley enjoyed a visit by award-winning American authors, poets, and playwrights in February 2016. Brought together by the Iowa International Writing Program (IWP) with support from the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Consulate in Cape Town, the delegation engaged with …
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The United States Peace Corps held a ceremony to swear in 32 new Peace Corps volunteers from the United States at SS Skosana Nature Reserve outside Kwa-Mhlanga in Mpumalanga Province. The 32 Volunteers will be working in different communities on projects in education and health across South Africa. During their service in South Africa, volunteers …
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Henry Ford: “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” Today, at Ford South Africa, we celebrated another success in the U.S.-South African relationship. Ambassador Gaspard joined Ford leadership and the Minister for Department of Trade and Industry Rob Davies for the unveiling of the new Ford Everest. Not only does this …
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Press Release March 31, 2016 U.S. Ambassador Pays Tribute to American Champion of the Anti-Apartheid Movement Ambassador Andrew J. Young Johannesburg, South Africa — United States Ambassador to South Africa Patrick Gaspard hosted a tribute to Ambassador Andrew J. Young at the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory on March 29, 2016. The event, attended by …
Read More» South Africa has been selected by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and other key partners to receive an Achievement Award in recognition of the country’s outstanding work to combat tuberculosis (TB). USAID presented the government of South Africa with this award, which was accepted by Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi at a …
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From February 22- 26, 2016, the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offered a week long training on the Carrier Liaison Training program at OR Tambo International Airport. The training participants were staff from BidAir and Swissport. The training course presents document analysis techniques and characteristics common to security and travel documents such as …
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The United States Embassy provided a grant to the Market Theatre in Johannesburg to produce a month-long (23 performances) run of Lorraine Hansberry’s canonical play “A Raisin in the Sun,” a story whose significance remains relevant today. “And it happens time and again in this extraordinary play, things are said that could be here, now, …
Read More» Office of the Secretary U.S. Department of the Interior News Release January 29, 2016 Contact: Jessica Kershaw (Interior): Interior_Press@ios.doi.gov South Africa marks last stop on three-country visit as part of Obama Administration’s work to stop illegal trade that threatens to wipe out elephants, rhinos, other iconic species PRETORIA, South Africa – U.S. Secretary of …
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By Ntando Makhubu | Pretoria News | January 27, 2016) THE MEDIA and its role in promoting the rights of sexual minority groups was the subject of a discussion hosted by the American Embassy yesterday. The talks were hosted by the Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission Catherine Hill-Hendron. She allowed members of the media to …
Read More» Looking beyond AGOA By: Peter Fabricius | African News Agency | 18 January 2016 at 13:00pm Johannesburg – “I cannot tell you how ecstatic I am to hear the words ‘Beyond Agoa’. I think I am going to get that printed on a T-shirt,” says US ambassador Patrick Gaspard when asked what the priorities for …
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The United States Marines from Detachment Cape Town, South Africa conducted their annual Toys for Tots Program with much success. On December 23rd, 2015 the Marines delivered over 60 presents to include board games, toy cars, dolls, movies, and sports equipment to a local children’s home. The Marines had a wonderful time conducting a physical …
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Consul General Christopher Rowan visited a couple of sites that demonstrate the unshakable commitment of the United States to South Africa in combating HIV/AIDS and reducing stigma, both around testing and treatment and for children in families affected by HIV. CG Rowan visited the Shout-It-Now testing site in Tsakane, Johannesburg and Nanga Vhutshilo, a children’s care …
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Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Rose Gottemoeller will visit Nairobi, Luanda and Pretoria December 6-11, 2015. December 7-9, Under Secretary Gottemoeller will be in Nairobi, Kenya to discuss our cooperative security relationship, regional security matters, and peacekeeping efforts with counterparts at Ministries of Defense and Foreign Affairs, as well as …
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Check out “The Most African Locomotive” built through an innovative partnership between U.S. Company GE and Transnet Freight Rail. Yesterday, U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Patrick Gaspard had a tour of the Transnet Engineering Koedoespoort Facility, along with General Electric Southern Africa CEO Tom Konditi In March last year, the South African-owned freight, transport and …
Read More» In South Africa, every week 2,400 adolescent girls and young women are infected with HIV, the highest rate in sub-Saharan Africa. The United States government, through PEPFAR (U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief), and the South African government have come together to try and stem this scourge through the DREAMS initiative. The goal of …
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On Saturday, November 14, Ambassador Gaspard, Consul General Teddy Taylor, Archibishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, and Reverend Mpho Tutu welcomed the Hōkūleʻa to Cape Town. The Hōkūleʻa — a 40-year-old traditional Hawaiian sailing canoe – is in the midst of an epic around-the-world journey using no modern navigation equipment. Its Hawaii-based crew relies instead on a …
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The U.S. Consulate in Cape Town, South Africa opened its new, state-of-the-art American Corner to the public on November 16. Located inside the Central Library in the Central Business District, the new American Corner has been renovated to the tune of 3,5 million ZAR ($250,000 USD) and includes a coffee bar, high-speed Wifi, iPad bar, …
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U.S. Ambassador Patrick H. Gaspard on Tuesday November 10, 2015, launched a program, in partnership with the South African Government, to help South Africa reduce greenhouse gas emissions while promoting vibrant economic development and wellbeing for its citizens. The USAID South Africa Low Emissions Development (SA-LED) Program will help to bridge the gap between public …
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To mark the UN International Day of the Girl in October, Consul General Frances Chisholm visited female students at uMkhumbane Secondary School in Chesterville. More than fifty girls are part of a peer educator program supported by U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) Community Grants recipient Hope2Educate. This organization works to reduce the number of young teens engaged in sexual …
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Garlicke & Bousfield Attorneys recently hosted U.S. Consul General, Frances Chisholm, to discuss the latest United States initiatives on HIV /AIDS in South Africa. Consul General Chisholm indicated that U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is partnering with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Nike Foundation, to launch an international initiative, DREAMS (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe women) to reduce new …
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“Farmers are farmers. They may not speak the same language… but they understand the passion why they are on the land. They understand that wonderful opportunity and responsibility of feeding other people.” It was with these words Deputy Secretary for Agriculture Krysta Harden addressed 500 members of the agriculture industry at the Produce Marketing Association …
Read More» U.S. Consul General Frances Chisholm joined KwaZulu-Natal‘s Member of the Executive Council for Health, Dr. Sbongiseni Dhlomo and Dr. Albertina Luthuli to participate in the Rotary Family Health Day Campaign at the Luthuli Museum in Groutville on October 7. The community received free TB screening, testing and counselling for HIV, vitamin A supplements, and healthy lifestyle information. The program also provided …
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The U.S. Embassy sponsored a one-night performance memorializing American author, poet, civil rights activist, playwright, actress, director, composer, singer and dancer Maya Angelou, who died on May 28, 2014. In partnership with the historic Market Theatre and the Nelson Mandela Foundation, the U.S. Embassy celebrated the life of Maya Angelou in an original production “I Almost …
Read More» To close out Women’s Month, the “GeneratioNEXT” youth group hosted a “Women in Media” seminar at U.S. Consulate Durban on August 27. Over forty young community media practitioners and media students from Durban University of Technology and Creative Art College attended this interactive and inspiring overview of the challenges and opportunities for female media practitioners. …
Read More» “Dance comes from the people and should always be delivered back to the people.” –Alvin Ailey #AlvinAileySA ‘s Glen Allen Sims started his master class at Bapedi Hall by teaching Ailey’s iconic ‘Revelations’ and ended by learning the Pantsula. And THAT is cultural exchange at its finest (and most entertaining). Funding for Alvin Ailey American Dance …
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Students engaged Consul General Rowan on the issue of ethnicity and equality on a recent trip to Free State Province. He met with undergraduates at the University of the Free State Qwaqwa campus who participated in the First Generation (F1) student transformation program that took them to overseas institutions with similar experiences around tolerance and …
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One hundred secondary students from Pietermaritzburg and the surrounding townships attended a two-day science program hosted by the Bessie Head Library’s American Corner in partnership with the KZN Science Center. Students were fascinated by educational videos projected on the inside of a mobile planetarium with a state-of-the-art 3D digital dome. One of the videos explored …
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The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria is proud to sponsor Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s (AADT) outreach activities in Johannesburg and Cape Town during their September 3-20 tour. The group’s founder, Alvin Ailey, insisted that “dance belongs to everyone”; in following this dictum, AADT will be offering workshops, lectures, and master classes at more than 30 …
Read More» To encourage enhanced dialogue between the United States and South Africa regarding climate change, the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria hosted climate change policy expert Joel Smith August 24-28, 2015. During his five-day visit, Smith met with South African government officials at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries and the Department of Environmental Affairs. He …
Read More» On August 25, the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria hosted the sixth Annual Bilateral Forum (ABF) in Pretoria. A part of the United States – South Africa Strategic Dialogue, the ABF was co-chaired by U.S. Ambassador Patrick H. Gaspard and South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Director General Yolisa Maya. The ABF is …
Read More» A large, mostly-male crowd turned out for the August 14 dialogue, “Men Standing Against Violence Against Women” at the Durban Playhouse. Organized by Dramaide.co.za through the Brothers for Life campaign with support from USAID – U.S. Agency for International Development and The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) , the event was part of the 19th South African Women’s Arts Festival. Speakers included Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi …
Read More» Young African Leadership Initiative alumnus and 2014 Mandela Washington Fellow Creesen Naicker, in partnership with the MRP Foundation, has introduced young learners to technology in the classroom at Nyakana Combined Primary School near Stanger, in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Through its TechEd initiative, MRP has donated 100 tablets and 30 computers to Nyakana, benefitting more than 1500 pupils. Activities focus on basic literacy …
Read More» U.S. Consul General Chisholm joined KwaZulu-Natal’s MEC for Health Dr. S.M. Dhlomo for the August 4th unveiling of a “Dual Protection” billboard near Mangosuthu University of Technology in Durban. The dual protection program emphasizes both medical male circumcision and condom use to prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS. In her remarks of support, CG Chisholm highlighted the …
Read More» At a ceremony at the KT Motubatse Community Hall in Soshanguve on Thursday, August 20, U.S. Ambassador Patrick H. Gaspard and Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi commemorated two significant achievements: the one year anniversary of MomConnect and the launch of a new adolescent and youth mobi-site, B-Wise. More than 500,000 pregnant women have registered …
Read More» “Farmers are farmers. They may not speak the same language… but they understand the passion why they are on the land. They understand that wonderful opportunity and responsibility of feeding other people.” It was with these words Deputy Secretary for Agriculture Krysta Harden addressed 500 members of the agriculture industry at the Produce Marketing Association …
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Officials from UNISA and USAIDjoin UNISA Vice Chancellor Prof Mandla Makhanya (seated, left) and U.S. Ambassador Patrick Gaspard (seated, right) at the signing ceremony in the UNISA Kgorong Buildin In a signing ceremony at the University of South Africa on Tuesday August 18, 2015 U.S. Ambassador Patrick H. Gaspard and Professor Mandla S. Makhanya, UNISA …
Read More» No Picture, Just Blank Frame From Left-right: South Africa Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, John Jeffery, OUT Wellbeing, a LGBTI health NGO based in Pretoria, received a $350,000 grant to support the rights of LGBTI individuals in South Africa at a ceremony on Monday, August17, 2015, attended by U.S. Ambassador to South Africa, …
Read More» We want to reach people who are living with HIV or are at risk of contracting the virus, write Aaron Motsoaledi and Patrick H Gaspard. The numbers are so staggering that it is easy to lose sight of the fact that the HIV/Aids epidemic is about people. People like Zama, a young woman from KwaZulu-Natal …
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Workshop strengthens longstanding partnership and cooperation between SA National Defence Force and U.S. Department of Defense The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria hosted a week-long workshop on Life Cycle Management as part of a larger program on Logistics Development. The workshop, which began on Monday, August 3, 2015, concluded with the participants receiving certificates in Life …
Read More» PAS Johannesburg hosted a viewing party of President Obama’s YALI Town Hall for members of the Rosa Parks Library Youth Club. The Assistant Public Affairs Officer kicked off the event by acquainting members and other attendees with the Mandela Washington Fellowship and the YALI Network and presenting certificates to members of the community that serve …
Read More» Consulate Durban’s “GeneratioNEXT” youth leaders hosted a July 11 Career Expo at KwaMashu Township, north of Durban. The event brought young people face-to-face with NGOs, businesses, and educational institutions in KwaZulu-Natal. Exhibitors included the University of KwaZulu- Natal, the South African Department of Labor, Activate Changer Drivers, and KZN Youth Empowerment Project. The U.S. Consulate’s …
Read More» Fifty of KwaZulu Natal’s emerging entrepreneurs participated in a financial literacy workshop as part of National Savings Month, at the U.S. Consulate in Durban on July 30. The workshop also aimed to promote the development of small and medium enterprises. Acting Regional Head for Enterprise Development at ABSA Bank, Lefentse Ledwaba- Chapman, and Community Grants Coordinator …
Read More» Honoring the life’s work of an audience of entrepreneurs from over 120 countries attending the Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) in Nairobi, Kenya July25-26, President Barack Obama stated, “Entrepreneurship creates new jobs and new businesses … It helps citizens stand up for their rights and push back against corruption. Entrepreneurship offers a positive alternative to the …
Read More» This notice announces the initiation of an out-of-cycle review of the eligibility of the Republic of South Africa to receive the benefits of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), as required by the Trade Preferences Extension Act of 2015 (TPEA). The AGOA Implementation Subcommittee of the Trade Policy Staff Committee (Subcommittee) is requesting written …
Read More» In partnership with Luthuli Museum , the U.S. Consulate hosted a July 22 screening of the documentary “A Ripple of Hope: RFK in the Land of Apartheid” at the Catalina Theater on Durban’s scenic Wilson’s Wharf. A large crowd including youth leaders, students, civil society members, municipal officials, historians, and business people turned out for the film, which was followed by a panel discussion with co-producer Professor …
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A personal reflection from a volunteer It may have initially been an icy morning, this past Saturday , but as soon as the home that houses the Mamelodi Society for the Care of the Aged (MASCA) was open, it was abuzz with warm bodies ready to serve. It was a regular occurrence for the home, …
Read More» U.S. Science Envoy Dr. Jane Lubchenco will travel to South Africa, Mauritius, and Seychelles July 17 – 31 in support of President Obama’s initiative to strengthen the United States’ science and education relationships overseas. Dr. Lubchenco is serving as the first U.S. Science Envoy for the Ocean, building on the momentum created at the Our …
Read More» Members of the Partnership on Illicit Finance- Burkina Faso, Kenya, Liberia, Mauritius, Niger, Senegal, and the United States – reaffirm their pledge to fight illicit finance and corruption and to deepen the dialogue on best practices, opportunities, and challenges to reaching that goal. Corruption and illicit finance in Africa continue to undermine democracy, hamper foreign …
Read More» From June 29 – July 4, the American dance company Step Afrika! took South Africa by storm, teaching and performing in the Mother City. They electrified young and old with the American dance form of stepping. After a youth camp, two free performances for the general public, and three exhilarating live appearances on national television, …
Read More» At a July 1 ceremony in Durban’s Beachwood Nature Reserve, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife received more than four million Rand worth of anti-poaching equipment from the United States government. The donated equipment includes night-vision goggles, vehicle GPS systems, portable x-ray units, binoculars, cameras, two-way radios, and metal detectors. This equipment will assist rangers in their daily …
Read More» Pretoria – South Africa continues to value its relationship with the United States, Small Business Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu said on Thursday. “South Africa greatly values our relationship with the US. Our partnership both domestically and regionally continues to yield benefits for our people in the areas of trade and investment, capacity building, health and education, …
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Pretoria, June 23, 2015: Transnet and General Electric (GE) hosted a U.S. delegation lead by Secretary of Transport, Anthony Foxx, and South African party headed by Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises Bulelani Magwanishe for a tour at the freight transport company ’s Koedoespoort manufacturing facility. In March 2014, South Africa’s state-owned freight transport and logistics …
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Joe Sanders of Teras Cargo Transport and Walter Grindrod of Grindrod shake hands while Arun Kumar, U.S. A/Secretary of Commerce, Anthony Foxx, U.S. Secretary of Transportation, and Ambassador Patrick Gaspard offer congratulations. Yesterday June 22, 2015, U.S. Headquartered Teras Cargo Transport and Grindrod Limited from South Africa announced their Agreement to cooperate on U.S. Flag …
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Patients and volunteers of Nazareth house with the Director of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention South Africa Dr. Nancy Knight, Assistant Secretary Linda Thomas-Greenfield and Consul General Christopher Rowan US PEPFAR Program Provides Key for an AIDS-Free Generation From emergency assistance to sustainability at Nazareth House Johannesburg In the Johannesburg suburb of Yeoville, Nazareth …
Read More» Members of the media are invited to a special site tour and signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) in the field of transportation between Minister Peters and Secretary Foxx. The renewal of the MoC deals with all modes of transport, with an additional emphasis on women empowerment in the sector. Details of the event …
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U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Patrick Gaspard visited the Eastern Cape to pay homage to an American nun who served the people of South Africa for more than five decades in rural Eastern Cape. Sister Mary Paule Tacke was coldly murdered one year ago and her body was found in a river near Nyandeni Great …
Read More» U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Patrick Gaspard visited the Eastern Cape to pay homage to an American nun who served the people of South Africa for more than five decades in rural Eastern Cape. Sister Mary Paule Tacke was coldly murdered one year ago and her body was found in a river near Nyandeni Great …
Read More» EVENT: Please join us on June 22, 2015 at 14:00 GMT | 16:00 South Africa for a press briefing with Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets Arun Kumar BACKGROUND: Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Arun Kumar is joining U.S. Secretary of Transportation …
Read More» KZN textile, apparel, and footwear companies, business leaders, and government officials attended an Export Seminar at the American Corner in Pietermaritzburg organized by U.S. Consulate General Durban in coordination with the USAID Southern Africa Trade Hub. Consul General Frances Chisholm encouraged export-ready textile and footwear manufacturers to seize the opportunity to enter the U.S. market. …
Read More» Consul General Chisholm visited Iqraa Trust Chairman Dr. Mahmoud Youssef-Baker on May 25. Dr. Baker briefed the Consul General on the Trust’s support for a wide range of projects in education and skills development, health care initiatives, and youth development. CG Chisholm noted the common interests of the U.S. Government and the Iqraa Trust in promoting strong …
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Originally published in Engineering News | June 12, 2015 » The US government officially opened its new, four-storey United States Agency for International Development (USAID) office, in Totius street, Pretoria, on Friday. The nearly 8 000 m2 environment-friendly building received a Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) 4-star Green Star SA building design rating. It featured about 1 400 solar panels, which generated 355 …
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US PEPFAR Program Provides Key for an AIDS-Free Generation: Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of African Affairs Linda Thomas-Greenfield and Consul General Christopher Rowan visited Nazareth House | FaceBook story | (06/12/2015). See the story at https://www.facebook.com/USEmbassySA/posts/10152903465216596
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Originally published in Engineering News | June 12, 2015 » The US government officially opened its new, four-storey United States Agency for International Development (USAID) office, in Totius street, Pretoria, on Friday. The nearly 8 000 m2 environment-friendly building received a Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA) 4-star Green Star SA building design rating. It featured about 1 400 solar panels, which generated 355 …
Read More» U.S. Consul General for Cape Town Teddy B. Taylor recently penned this opinion piece about the discovery of the São José slave shipwreck. Beginning this month a story buried by water and sand for hundreds of years off the coast at Clifton Beach can finally be told. Thanks to the dauntless researchers and divers from …
Read More» Remarks by Ambassador Patrick H. Gaspard (As prepared) 7th SA AIDS 2015 Conference Durban Tuesday, June 9, 2015 [Acknowledgements] I want to thank the organizers of this Conference for inviting me to speak. It is indeed a privilege to be among this distinguished panel and be able to address this uniquely qualified and expert …
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South African Transport Department hosts its United States counterpart. Co-operation, strengthening of bilateral relations, and women in the transport sector, are among topics discussed. Monday, June 22: US Secretary of Transport Anthony Foxx met with South African Minister of Transport Dipuo Peters for bilateral talks lasting just under an hour, before being given a tour …
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Staff writer Wandile Mavuso | 03/06/2015 “Today we are going to be officially opening an exhibit that will help make future generations aware about the heritage of the people of South Africa. The grant will enable Lerapo to be put on permanent display”- Vice Chancellor, Cheryl de la Rey The United States Ambassador to South …
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On May 26, 2015, the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria hosted key stakeholders from civil society, the South African Government, international organizations, and the refugee and migrant community for a morning of discussions on refugee and migration issues. Deputy Chief of Mission, Catherine Hill-Herndon spoke about U.S. support for refugee and migrant programs in South Africa …
Read More» The KwaZulu-Natal Science Centre is partnering with M-Net to host M-Net’s Magic in Motion Career Expo in Durban on August 18-21. The career exhibition will target grade 11 pupils to develop local talent in the film and television industry. The Centre’s CEO Candice Potgieter is a 2014 Mandela Washington Fellow and Young African Leaders Initiative alumna. After she …
Read More» Consul General, Frances Chisholm presented awards to winners of a poetry-writing contest for students, sponsored by the U.S. Consulate General Durban in partnership with the Luthuli Museum. The contest arose out of a Black History Month commemorative event celebrated at the museum in February 2015. Addressing students during the awards ceremony, Consul General Chisholm encouraged …
Read More» The US Government seeks to partner with South Africa in expanding the quality and accessibility of higher education for all in South Africa. This was U.S. Consul General Frances Chisholm’s message to more than 300 delegates at the 17th African Renaissance Festival and Conference at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban on May …
Read More» Dessa — a rapper, singer and wordsmith from Minneapolis, Minnesota— touched down in Port Elizabeth, South Africa on May 11, 2015 to spend a week teaching and performing in communities in the Eastern Cape. She gave writing workshops to high school students, held discussions with emerging creatives about making a living as an artist, and engaged on issues around …
Read More» FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Introducing South Africa’s 2015 YALI Fellows Pretoria— The U.S. Embassy is pleased to introduce the 40 young South Africans who will participate in the 2015 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders. This is the second group of outstanding young South Africans to participate in the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African …
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There was hardly a quiet moment when the new 2015 YALI Fellows sat down for lunch with Justice Albie Sachs and Consul General Teddy B. Taylor. The smell of home cooked chicken pie and vegetables filled Taylor’s residence as fellows met for the first time this month in Cape Town. Thousands of hopeful young South Africans applied …
Read More» There was hardly a quiet moment when the new 2015 YALI Fellows sat down for lunch with Justice Albie Sachs and Consul General Teddy B. Taylor. The smell of home cooked chicken pie and vegetables filled Taylor’s residence as fellows met for the first time this month in Cape Town. Thousands of hopeful young South Africans applied …
Read More» Trade relations between South Africa and the United States have traditionally been strong, and with innovation at the helm, a more prosperous economic future could be on the cards, as US Ambassador, Patrick Gaspard explains. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, business and personal links between South Africa and the United States (US) have …
Read More» President Barack Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) is hosting the 1st Annual Southern Africa Regional Conference for Mandela Washington Fellows in Johannesburg, South Africa from May 17-19, 2015. Over 170 promising and accomplished Fellows are going to share their stories of professional leadership development and discuss collaborative plans for the future of the continent. …
Read More» FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Office of the Spokesperson | PretoriaPress@state.gov When: May 12 – 14, 2015 Where: Cape Town International Convention Centre, Cape Town, South Africa To request more information or an interview with a U.S. official contact: Rudy Gharib Communications Advisor Power Africa USAID E-Mail Address: powerafricacomms@usaid.gov Background: The United States Government is serving …
Read More» In honor of Workers’ Day, the United States Embassy in South Africa sends a message of gratitude to the hardworking laborers who fuel the robust commerce between our two nations. Trade between the United States and South Africa is strong, and we recognize that global commerce starts with the everyday worker. Today, in both of …
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Twenty one Excited South African students will be travelling to the United States of America for the Community College Initiative Program (CCIP). The students will spend one academic year (August 2015 to May 2016) studying toward a certificate in the field they are pursuing in South Africa. Since the program’s inception in 2008, about 170 …
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Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation (DNN) Anne Harrington welcomed Ratanang Margin Moagi from the Department of Energy of South Africa and Ramasukudu Gabriel Pitsoane of the South African National Nuclear Regulator to the NNSA’s and International Atomic Energy Agency’s 25th International Training Course (ITC) on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and Nuclear Facilities …
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On this 45th anniversary of World Earth Day, the U.S. Embassy in South Africa, in partnership with local environment organizations and USAID partners WESSA and RESILIM, hosted local high school students to celebrate World Earth Day at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) building in Groenkloof, Pretoria on April 22, 2015. The day’s activities …
Read More» NBA To Provide Details On First Ever Game in Africa WHO: Amadou Gallo Fall, NBA VP and Managing Director for Africa Patrick Gaspard – US Ambassador to South Africa Hon. Fikile Mbalula, Minister of Sport and Recreation WHAT: Official NBA Africa Game 2015 Press Conference and unveiling of official logo WHEN: Wednesday, April 22, …
Read More» Pretoria—April 2, 2015 “I just returned to South Africa from Washington where I met with many of the Senators who signed the letter to Minister Davies on Monday. I can assure you that everyone in Washington wants AGOA renewal to go forward, including for South Africa. But it is clear that the only way that …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy joins the South African government and other civil society leaders in condemning the violence against foreigners taking place in KwaZulu-Natal and other parts of South Africa. We remain concerned at the loss of innocent lives, destruction of property, and impact on families and communities, and we urge individuals involved to refrain from …
Read More» Vice President Biden spoke with Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa today to discuss the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The Vice President and Deputy President Ramaphosa discussed the critical role that AGOA has played in expanding U.S.-Africa trade. The Vice President reiterated the U.S. interest in renewing AGOA as soon …
Read More» Pretoria—April 9, 2015 Media stories in the South African press have published a wide variety of opinions on the on-going discussions concerning the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as it relates to South Africa. We wish to clarify some erroneous views that have recently been published in the South African media. …
Read More» Four enthusiastic students and one teacher from Inanda Seminary, a prominent KwaZulu-Natal girls’ secondary school, caught a March 27 flight to the United States to participate in the Pan-Africa Youth Leadership Program. This three-week exchange in the United States involves high school students and teachers from South Africa and a number of other African nations. …
Read More» People from across South Africa joined international visitors in the Mother City to hear some of the world best musicians at this year’s Cape Town International Jazz Festival. Now in its sixteenth year, “Africa’s Grandest Gathering” once again demonstrated that jazz is a true global unifier. Consistently hailed as America’s greatest musical contribution to the …
Read More» Senators warn that continued blockage of American poultry imports — in violation of international trade obligations — could affect South Africa’s inclusion in AGOA WASHINGTON – Thirteen United States senators wrote to the South African government on Monday to express their concern about the lack of progress being made in negotiations over antidumping duties that …
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The South African government needs to take urgent steps to address ongoing trade concerns – particularly the long-running dispute over antidumping duties on American chicken – before US lawmakers start drafting 2015 trade legislation, the US Embassy’s Minister Counselor for Economic Affairs, Laird Treiber, told Engineering News Online in an interview. Treiber reported that the …
Read More» The availability of electricity is a hot topic these days. The Power Africa Initiative is a U.S. Government program under which we are working with governments and businesses across the continent to add more than 30,000 megawatts of cleaner, more efficient electricity generation capacity as well as adding 60 million new home and business connections …
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WHAT is freedom? This is a question 50 youngsters will be trying to answer in the coming weeks through the lens of a camera. Pretoria Street Photography (PSP) recently partnered with the US embassy to facilitate a photography challenge for high school pupils.The organisation is hosting photography workshops for 50 pupils from five schools across …
Read More» About 50 law enforcement personel, medical professionals, psychologists, social workers and NGOs that work with human trafficking in KZN participated in a workshop on “Child Trafficking and Abuse: Identifying and Assisting Victims” at the U.S. Consulate in Durban on March 17. U.S. Fulbright Scholar and University of KwaZulu Natal Professor Susan Kreston led the workshop …
Read More» The exhibition brings forth the parallels between the South African Apartheid laws and the American Jim Crow laws and their psychological effects on the oppressed The longtime debate of whether separate facilities could truly be equal was the topic of conversation on March 18 at Mphabatho Cultural Museum in Moruleng. Several members of the Bakgatla-ba-Kgafela …
Read More» The Durban Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) and Garlicke & Bousfield Attorneys recently hosted the first in a series of international business dialogues for 2015. Guest speaker U.S. Consul General Frances Chisholm addressed the gathering and explained the numerous opportunities for KwaZulu-Natal businesses to expand their trade with the United States. Please click the …
Read More» Consul General Chisholm visited South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) regional offices and studios in Durban. She met with the Regional General Manager, Zamambo Mkhize and SABC regional management team to discuss media relations and explore opportunities for collaboration. SABC KZN is the home of the most popular radio station in South Africa, UKhozi FM (with …
Read More» The USAID-funded Resilience in the Limpopo River Basin (RESILIM) program, in partnership with the Marico River Conservation Association, is teaching the youth in and around Groot Marico of best practices in water conservation and water resource management to increase their communities’ and their natural environment’s resilience to the impacts of climate change during World Water …
Read More» Trade and investment ties between African nations and the U.S. are the backbone of our bilateral relationships on the continent – but how do we make that backbone even stronger? We share information about new and exciting opportunities, that’s how. Last week, the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service joined the Johannesburg Chamber of Commerce in hosting …
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U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Patrick H. Gaspard | Wanted Magazine | 03/06/2015 When President Obama asked me to come to South Africa to represent him as U.S. Ambassador it was an opportunity I just couldn’t pass up. I still remember the day twenty-five years ago when Madiba walked triumphantly into freedom. We raced out …
Read More» Fifty motivated high school learners from schools around the city of Durban packed the Information Resource Centre at U.S. Consulate Durban to watch a documentary on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as part of Black History Month commemorations on February 26 The film “Great Hearts of Courage: Martin Luther King Jr.” inspired pupils to participate …
Read More» Bringing a close to a month long celebration of Black History, Consul General Christopher Rowan and Mrs. Eleanor Rowan hosted a reception at their residence for more than seventy guests. Robert Pruitt, an American artist on an arts residency program at Gallery MOMO was the guest of honor and spoke about how he uses art …
Read More» Live Healthy Love Healthy: Soccer @ Your Library event Pupils from schools around the city centre kicked-off Valentine’s Day the right way on Friday, February 13 when they participated in soccer-based HIV awareness. Noisy kids filled the square outside the Cape Town Central Library lining up to take their shot at the goal. U.S. Consul General …
Read More» Making his official first trip to North West Province, Consul General Rowan met with Kgosi Leruo Tshekedi Molotlegi, the 36th kgosi (Tswana for “king”) , of the Royal Bafokeng Nation, to learn about his vision for the Nation’s future. Following the meeting, Rowan visited a 10th grade history class. History is an elective course at Lebone College, …
Read More» On Tuesday, February 10, Westonaria American Corner was proud to host International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) alumna, Nthabeleng Likotsi, who presented a workshop on how to start a business. The 40 would-be entrepreneurs attending learned about various sources of funding, as well as the regulatory requirements around starting a business. Find out more about our IVLP …
Read More» Can innovative technology and private sector partnerships with local governments make cities safer? Absolutely! United States Consul General Chris Rowan recently spoke at the Motorola/3M Safer Cities, Secure Enterprises Africa 2015 Conference, which highlighted security challenges faced by private enterprises and public safety officials. The event showcased Motorola and 3M safer city technologies and solutions for local public …
Read More» 02/07/2015 | The Independent on Saturday | RICHARD COMPTON PERHAPS we know it but it has to be repeated. The role of external stakeholders and their various partnerships with state preservation bodies is essential in the broad roll-out of conservation’s numerous bio-diversity priorities. The value of this external support was highlighted in Ezemvelo KZN …
Read More» From January 28-30, 2015, a dynamic group of international women leaders in technology came to Cape Town to engage with women and girls who are striving to become future leaders in the tech industry in South Africa. The visiting group was part of TechWomen, an organization sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and the …
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Staff writer Wandile Mavuso | 01/30/2015 The United States Embassy in collaboration with City of Tshwane officially opened an American corner on Wednesday, January 28, 2015. This follows an agreement whereby the City of Tshwane partnered with the United States Embassy in 2014 to open an American-style public library, an American Corner, hosted by …
Read More» The City of Cape Town and the United States Government have an excellent cooperative partnership, particularly in the area of law enforcement. As part of our shared commitment to build a safer city, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) of the United States Department of Justice invited eight members of the city’s Safety and Security Directorate …
Read More» Exciting skills development opportunity in Soweto!! U.S. Consul General Christopher Rowan opened the “Innovation Studio” at our Rosa Parks Library in Soweto this week, launching a new project that will put valuable skills in the hands of young South Africans in Soweto – skills that can help them to build a brighter future for themselves …
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American Corners are open to all members of the public and services are free of charge. The City of Tshwane in partnership with the U.S. Embassy will officially open an American Corner on Wednesday, January 28 2015. The American Corner, which provides high-speed Internet access and state of the art equipment, together with print and …
Read More» U.S. Consul General in Johannesburg, Mr. Christopher Rowan, will officially open a new, innovative educational facility at our Rosa Parks Library in Soweto. Consul General Christopher Rowan will join a group of alumni of the TechWomen Exchange Program, the Rosa Parks Library Youth Club, and members of the local community, to open the new Innovation …
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Our Ambassador Patrick Gaspard visited the Home to learn more about it’s work in supporting and empowering young, vulnerable girls from its manager, Ms Pretty Arojojoye. Pretty participated in President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) last year, returning with a deeper understanding of civic leadership and innovative ideas for the Home U.S. Ambassador to …
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The U.S. Embassy in South Africa congratulates the members of the Matric Class of 2014 and is proud to partner with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and other South African organizations to continue improving the quality of education in South Africa. Designed in collaboration with the DBE, the $7.5 million (85 million ZAR) School …
Read More» Pretoria – The United States Embassy in South Africa says it will continue to support South Africa’s efforts to raise the standard of education in the country. The embassy said it will achieve this through the School Capacity and Innovation Programme (SCIP), which is in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and other South …
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January 14, 2014 | Africa Regional Media Hub | afmediahub@state.gov EVENT: Please join us on January 17th 2014 at 06:00 GMT/01:00 EST for a telephonic press conference on the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region’s (ICGLR) Fifth Ordinary Heads of State Summit, with U.S. Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region of Africa …
Read More» On December 25, Consul General Frances Chisholm hosted a Christmas lunch for 14 Peace Corps volunteers serving in KwaZulu-Natal Province. These dedicated Americans have committed to working in South Africa’s education and public health sectors for two years. Mingling with Consulate staff at the CG’s residence, the volunteers shared their experiences of living and working …
Read More» Ambassador of the United States to South Africa, Patrick Gaspard today presented General Electric South Africa Technologies’ (GESAT) with the Finalist Certificate for the Award for Corporate Excellence (ACE Award) for its business and corporate social responsibility (CSR) accomplishments in South Africa. Since 1999, the ACE Award recognizes the important role U.S. businesses play abroad …
Read More» On December 9, the Public Affairs Section at Consulate Durban held a workshop on “Identifying and Assisting Victims of Child Trafficking and Abuse.” In conjunction with the international campaign of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence , U. S. Fulbright Scholar Susan Kreston and Professor Steve Collings from the University of KwaZulu Natal conducted this informative workshop at the Consulate’s Information …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy reiterates our profound condolences to the family of Pierre Korkie, and to all South Africans who have lost this exemplary fellow citizen. Our nations are united against the scourge of terrorism, and we share in this moment of despair and sorrow at the loss of human lives. Last week, when it became …
Read More» On Dec 8, Consul General Frances Chisholm visited an important site in the history of healthcare in South Africa, the former Addington Children’s Hospital on the Durban beachfront. Now called the “KZN Children’s Hospital,” its structure is the formerly abandoned Addington Children’s Hospital whose doors were closed in 1984 as it was a “nonracial” institution …
Read More» The US Embassy offers its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Pierre Korkie, a South African citizen murdered by terrorists along with U.S. citizen Luke Somers during a rescue operation by U.S. and Yemeni security forces on December 5. Just as we are joined in the common struggle against violent extremists, the …
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Wandile Mavuso | Staff writer Getting to Zero: Focus, Partner and Achieve towards an AIDS-free Generation was the theme of this year’s World Aids Day commemoration at the United States Embassy in Pretoria on December 2. Guest speakers included South African HIV activists Jacob and Virginia Jabari; a young woman living with HIV, Zandile Simelane; …
Read More» On December 1, Consul General Frances Chisholm joined provincial and district officials commemorating World AIDS Day 2014 at Ntambanana Municipality in the uThungulu District of KwaZulu-Natal. Expanding on the theme of “Zero Stigma and Discrimination,”participants took stock of past successes, assessed future challenges, and stressed the need to change social attitudes toward those living with …
Read More» Fifty of KwaZulu-Natal’s young entrepreneurs gathered to share ideas on the heels of Global Entrepreneurship Week at the American Corner at Bessie Head Library in Pietermaritzburg on November 25, 2014. Consulate General Durban organized a panel of entrepreneurs from a range of sectors, including Mandela Washington Fellow Creesen Naicker and NGO FinFind ’s Chief Executive Officer Darlene Menzies. Naicker …
Read More» The 2014 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange,released this week, finds the number of international students at colleges and universities in the United States increased by eight percent to a record high of 886,052 students in the 2013/14 academic year, confirming once again that the United States remains the destination of choice for higher …
Read More» Last Friday, Ambassador Gaspard and Consul General Rowan attended the 2014 City Year South Africa graduation, the culmination of a year of volunteer service, civic engagement, and leadership development. The theme for this year’s graduation was “It’s in your hands.” Ambassador Gaspard had the honor of delivering the keynote address, reminding the graduates that, “Nelson …
Read More» On November 21, Consul General Frances Chisholm presented certificates to 19 grade ten students from Zwelibanzi High School in Umlazi who successfully completed the English Access Micro Scholarship Program (ACCESS) . ACCESS is a two-year program funded by the U.S. Government. The ACCESS program at Zwelibanzi began in 2013 and was administered by “Talk English,” a Durban-based non-profit organization. World-wide, the …
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Tankiso Makhetha | Pretoria News | 11/17/2014 THE COUNTRY’S fight against poaching and wildlife trafficking has been given a handsome donation which will boost its efforts to protect South Africa’s wildlife. The US government on Friday donated $3 million (R33.2m) to various anti-trafficking organisations in the country. It also handed more than $750 000 (R8.3m) …
Read More» In fulfillment of the pledge made by President Obama during his 2013 Africa trip, we are pleased to announce our commitment of $3 million to fund anti-wildlife trafficking efforts in South Africa. This funding comes through the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), and clearly demonstrates the increased …
Read More» On Thursday, November 6th, Free State province-based alumni of U.S. government exchange programs gathered in Bloemfontein to expand their networks, reconnect with the U.S. Embassy, and gain insights into the range of alumni-specific resources available to them. Bloemfontein, poetically known as the city of roses due to the abundance of these flowers and an annual …
Read More» U.S. Consul General France Chisholm and Political-Economic Officer Suzanne Yountchi addressed the African Economic Expansion Summit (AEES) at Durban’s International Conference Center on November 11, 2014. The U.S.-based Rainbow Push Initiative and the South African and KwaZulu-Natal governments sponsored the summit, whose goal was to stimulate economic growth and infrastructure development by encouraging investment across a range of sectors. …
Read More» Recently arrived U.S. Consul General Frances Chisholm hosted representatives of the provincial and municipal governments, civil society contacts, media, members of the diplomatic corps, and other dignitaries at her Durban North residence on November 4. More than eighty guests mingled, enjoyed music by a jazz duo, and listened to remarks by the Consul General, eThekiwini …
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News from the Consulate Cape Town | 11/06/2014 Scores of smiling faces, warm handshakes, and upbeat jazz tunes officially welcomed Teddy Taylor to Cape Town during his welcome reception as the new U.S. Consul General on November 5. Taylor, who most recently served as the Diplomat in Residence at Howard University in Washington, D.C., is …
Read More» Scores of smiling faces, warm handshakes, and upbeat jazz tunes officially welcomed Teddy Taylor to Cape Town during his welcome reception as the new U.S. Consul General on November 5. Taylor, who most recently served as the Diplomat in Residence at Howard University in Washington, D.C., is a career foreign service officer who has been …
Read More» Africa will be unrecognizable in the next 15 years with a young vibrant group leading the continent, says the United States’ most senior diplomat in Africa. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, visited Cape Town over the weekend and experienced first-hand the sorrow of the country’s past and the excitement about its future. On …
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Tanya Farber | Tmes Live | 28 October, 2014 00:03 Several South African women have been murdered for being lesbian, in most African countries you’re a criminal if you’re gay, and in Sudan and Mauritania you can be put to death for homosexuality. The University of the Western Cape has just graduated its first students …
Read More» The owners of Out of Africa Adventurous Safaris were charged with conspiracy to sell illegal rhinoceros hunts in South Africa in order to defraud American hunters, money laundering and secretly trafficking in rhino horns, announced Sam Hirsch Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division; George L. Beck, Jr., U.S. …
Read More» Indaba brings together alumni from a wide range of exchange programs and dates “A shift in thinking” is how Jacqui Lück characterized her U.S. experience at a gathering of exchange program alumni in Port Elizabeth on October 3. The fourth “Alumni Indaba” in the country over the past two years, this was the first time …
Read More» Ambassador Patrick Gaspard | Letter to the Editor of Sunday Independent | 10/19/2014 Mr. Jovial Rantao Editor in Chief Sunday Independent Sauer Street, Johannesburg Johannesburg, Gauteng 2000 Dear Mr. Rantao: Your article “ As Africans died, our continent and world slept ” in the Sunday Independent on October 12 was both timely and extremely important. The Ebola outbreak in West Africa is …
Read More» The United States stands ready to work with the government of South Africa to help prevent trafficking and restore victims to draw nearer to our shared vision of a world free from slavery. IN the words of Secretary of State John Kerry, “we find perhaps no greater threat to human dignity, no greater assault on …
Read More» Consul General Frances Chisholm lent USG support for the girl child at three events commemorating International Day of the Girl Child. On October 9, in support of the KZN Youth Empowerment Program, led by the alumnus of the U.S. Government’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) she attended an event with about 30 young girls at …
Read More» On Tuesday, October 14th, the Public Affairs Section at the U.S. Consulate in Johannesburg, in partnership with the Westonaria Local Municipality, opened a new American Corner in the Westonaria Public Library. Consul General Christopher Rowan and the Executive Mayor of Westonaria, Cllr. Nonkoliso Tundzi, jointly cut a ribbon to officially declare this new American Space, …
Read More» PRETORIA – The US Embassy in South Africa is excited to announce the opening of the application for the 2015 Mandela Washington Fellowship on Tuesday, October 7. The Mandela Washington Fellowship invites 500 young African Leaders to spend six weeks in June and July 2015 at a leading US university studying one of three tracks: …
Read More» A new investigative study reveals a highly lucrative trade in a species of abalone – a sea snail – – found off the coast of South Africa. Investigators found rampant abalone poaching and a growing drug addiction crisis in the South African coastal communities where drugs are frequently exchanged for the illegally harvested snail. The …
Read More» The conduct of labour relations in SA comes across as worryingly anachronistic, the US ambassador said yesterday, referring to a pattern of long strikes in mining and other industries. “SA sometimes seems to be 40 years behind the times when it comes to labour relations,” Patrick Gaspard told a forum in Sandton on US-Africa trade …
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The Mandela Washington Fellows have returned to South Africa after spending six weeks in the United States studying at U.S. colleges, engaging with President Barack Obama in Washington, DC, and collaborating with 500 other young African leaders to address the challenges facing their continent. Ntuthuko Shezi (32) is a young South African entrepreneur, and one …
Read More» As part of their efforts to build and strengthen the quality of nursing education, Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences hosted American Professor Dr. Kathy Nokes through the Fulbright Specialist Program. Dr. Nokes, Professor and recent Director of the Graduate Nursing Program of the City University of New York’s Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, …
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As part of their efforts to build and strengthen the quality of nursing education, Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences hosted American Professor Dr. Kathy Nokes through the Fulbright Specialist Program. Dr. Nokes, Professor and recent Director of the Graduate Nursing Program of the City University of New York’s Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, …
Read More» Addressing a Nedbank-NEPAD Networking Forum in Johannesburg, Gaspard said Africa has long been important to the US policy with the two regions now working through Power Africa and Feeding the Future initiatives. The US envoy to South Africa added that the relationship between Africa and his country was moving from donor recipient to equal trade …
Read More» EVENT: Please join us on Wednesday, October 8 at 12:15 GMT for a telephonic press conference with USAID Assistant Administrator for the Bureau for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance Nancy Lindborg and Deputy Coordinator for Ebola Response in the U.S. Department of State Donald Lu. Ms. Lindborg and Mr. Lu will discuss the U.S. Government’s …
Read More» PATRICK Gaspard, the US ambassador to South Africa, is not often provoked into making ill-considered statements. Dubbed the “best political mind of his generation in New York, and possibly the nation” by Michael Bloomberg’s right-hand man, Kevin Sheekey, Gaspard has rock-solid links to Africa. Born in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in …
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There were differences between SA and the US’s administrations on various matters, but these never led to bad relations, writes Thabo Mbeki. The story told by Verashni Pillay about the historical United States-South Africa relations ( How the US and South Africa became friends again ) is pure fiction. During all the years I was president, South Africa enjoyed very good relations with both …
Read More» PRETORIA – 46 Mandela Washington Fellows have returned to South Africa after spending six weeks in the United States studying at U.S. Universities, engaging with President Barack Obama in Washington, DC, and collaborating with 500 other young African leaders to address the challenges affecting their continent. The fellows, ages 25-35, return with seed money designed …
Read More» One hundred and forty young leaders from South Africa, the United States, Vietnam, and 17 other countries came together for the inaugural World Youth Rhino Summit from September 21-23, 2014 at the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve in KwaZulu Natal. Youth delegates discussed the current rhino poaching crisis with conservation leaders, and developed their own agenda to …
Read More» As the President has stated, the Ebola epidemic in West Africa and the humanitarian crisis there is a top national security priority for the United States. In order to contain and combat it, we are partnering with the United Nations and other international partners to help the Governments of Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and …
Read More» “African Solutions to African Problems” – That was one of the primary messages U.S. Ambassador Patrick Gaspard shared in a wide-ranging conversation with more than 120 graduate and honours students at the University of the Western Cape on September 9. “We’re investing in Africa’s youth. With plans to expand the inaugural Mandela Washington Leadership program …
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