|
29 September 2025 Issue 341 - A Legacy of Interconnectedness
|
|
|
|---|
| South African Economy Turning the Corner with Support from China |
|
|
Chinese Ambassador Wu Peng (r) engaging with exhibitors and visitors at the 9th China Trade and Investment Promotion Conference (photo: TDS)
|
|
|---|
China will mark the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic on October 1. Over nearly eight decades, China has transformed itself into a global powerhouse, lifting more than 800 million people out of poverty, pioneering in science and technology, and contributing positively to global development. Its achievements have not been limited to its domestic sphere — China has shared its knowledge, skills, technology, and even human capital with the Global South, helping partner nations chart their own development paths.
This spirit of shared growth and mutual cooperation lies at the heart of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between China and South Africa, a relationship that has steadily deepened over three decades of diplomatic ties. This year, three recent milestones — the celebration of a prestigious book prize, China’s National Day reception in Pretoria, and the 9th China–South Africa Investment Promotion Conference and Trade Fair — all highlight the depth, dynamism, and promise of this partnership. |
|
|---|
|
| Tolstoy, Gandhi and South Africa - A Legacy of Interconnectedness in a constantly Changing World |
|
|
|---|
Letters written between Tolstoy and Gandhi - UNISA Photo |
|
|---|
Even before the age of instant messaging and digital connectivity, humanity demonstrated profound forms of interconnectedness. A striking example of this can be found in the correspondence between Russian writer Leo Tolstoy and Indian lawyer Mohandas Gandhi, then living in South Africa. Despite postal delays of up to six months, their exchange of letters captured ideas of peace, non-violence, and human dignity that would ripple across nations and generations. Their connection resonates with the theory of quantum entanglement — distant yet inseparable lives influencing each other profoundly.
This interconnectedness was the theme of a recent event at the University of South Africa (UNISA), hosted in collaboration with the Embassy of Russia and the High Commission of India, marking the birthdays of Tolstoy (9 September 1828) and Gandhi (2 October 1869). The gathering celebrated two global icons whose philosophies continue to shape modern society and highlighted the enduring cultural and political bonds between Russia, India, and South Africa. |
|
|---|
| Where Diplomacy Meets Community - Bulgarian Embassy Hosts IDSA |
|
|
|---|
Pictured (l-r) Roschelle Botes, Karem Ruiz de Livieres of Paraguay and IDSA President, Simeon Kaymaktchiev of Bulgaria, Winnie Lamola, IDSA Patron and Jennifer Cheng of Singapore and IDSA Activities Chair (photo: TDS) |
|
|---|
Nestled in South-Eastern Europe, Bulgaria offers a unique geographical positioning, serving as a gateway to both Central and Western Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean. Known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, Bulgaria attracts millions of tourists each year, drawn to its scenic coastlines, ancient towns, thermal spring resorts, and its blend of Mediterranean and continental cuisine. Bulgarian wines, with centuries-old traditions behind them, offer an intriguing tasting experience for the South African palate.
On 12 September, the Residence of the Bulgarian Ambassador in Pretoria opened its doors to host the International Diplomatic Spouses Association (IDSA) for their monthly Coffee Morning. The event was hosted by Simeon Kaymaktchiev, spouse Maria Pavlova, Ambassador of Bulgaria to South Africa. |
|
|---|
| Courtney House International School Celebrates Three Decades of Educational Excellence and Global Vision |
|
|
|---|
Executive Head Dimitra Bailanis receiving tbe award for Top Performing Curro Cambridge School for 2024 |
|
|---|
As Courtney House International School marks its 30th anniversary, Executive Head Dimitra Bailanis reflects on a remarkable journey of transformation that embodies the institution's enduring symbol: from acorn to mighty oak.
Since its establishment in 1995 with a modest pre-school class of five children, Courtney House International has evolved into a distinguished Cambridge International pathway school, serving pupils from Early Years through A-Levels. This milestone, coinciding with the school's recent International Day festivities, underscores the institution's commitment to nurturing global citizens equipped for diplomatic and cross-cultural leadership. |
|
|---|
|
| Mpondo Festival promotes Gender Dignity and Economic Development |
|
|
|---|
The rolling hills of the Eastern Cape came alive with colour, rhythm, and the beating heart of tradition as the amaMpondo hosted the 19th Mpondo Culture and Heritage Festival and the 17th Mpondo Reed Dance in September 2025. Against the vibrant backdrop of song, dance, and the swirl of traditional attire, leaders from across Southern Africa gathered to reaffirm the power of culture as a unifying force and a tool for social and economic progress.
The festival, commonly known as Umgubho wamaMpondo, transformed Matshona Village into a sea of celebration. More than 20,000 people filled the Lwandlolubomvu Great Place and Royal Grounds, joining hands in a cultural experience that not only showcased the splendour of amaMpondo traditions but also strengthened the bonds between kingdoms, communities and nations. |
|
|---|
|
| Launch of the Joint Coordination Team to Strengthen Africa’s Health Architecture |
|
|
|---|
The African Union Commission (AUC), through its Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development (HHS) successfully launched on September 24, 2025, the Joint Coordination Team (JCT) on the margins of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) in New York.
Presided over by Amb. Amma A. Twum-Amoah, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, the inaugural meeting of the JCT marks a historic step in aligning Africa’s health institutions, strategies, and resources to achieve a more integrated, resilient, and self-reliant health system for the continent.
Speaking at the opening, Amb. Amma A. Twum-Amoah stressed that the JCT is a strategic response to the growing need for coherence and synergy across Africa’s health ecosystem, moving beyond siloed approaches to foster joint planning, resource mobilization, and programme implementation.
|
|
|---|
|
|
