South African Embassy to Belgium & LuxembourgSouth African Mission to the European UnionAnnual Report 2008/2009

Mogôbagôba Dialogue

South African Embassy to Belgium & LuxembourgSouth African Mission to the European UnionAnnual Report 2008/2009

Message from the Ambassador

H.E. Dr Anil SooklalSouth African Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the European Union

On 27 April 2009, South Africans celebrate Freedom Day, which commemorates the country’s fi rst democratic elections in 1994. Fifteen years on, our country can celebrate the achievements that have been made in entrenching democracy and creating a better life for all.

These past fi fteen years have seen a deepening and widening of our strategic dialogue with our partners in Europe. In this edition of the Mogôbagôba Dialogue we refl ect on how the work of the South African Embassy in Brussels has contributed to our government’s eff orts to improve the lives of South Africans.

Our strategic partnership with the European Union culminated in the fi rst ever SA-EU Summit in Bordeaux in July 2008, as well as a number of high level ministerial meetings under the Slovenian, French and Czech Presidencies of the EU. Substantial progress has also been made in the attempts to harmonise the Southern African Development Community’s trading relations with the EU through the Economic Partnership Agreement negotiations, although some legitimate concerns of the SADC EPA region still need to be addressed during 2009. On a positive note, 2009 marks the 10th Anniversary of the signing of the Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement that launched our partnership in 1999.

South Africa continues to build on its existing strong relations with Belgium and Flanders. Last year, I co-chaired the Mid-Term Review of the Belgo-South African Joint Commission which reviewed our development, economic and other cooperation. South Africa and Belgium’s presence on the United Nations Security Council during 2008 off ered a unique opportunity to engage on a multilateral level and we therefore intensifi ed our interaction in New York, particularly in regard to developments in the Great Lakes Region.

In August 2008, South Africa assumed the chair of SADC. In this context, we look forward to the deepening of relations between EU and SADC Heads of Mission in Brussels in the context of the Berlin Initiative. Our active membership of the African, Caribbean and Pacifi c Group of States will continue with a deepened engagement on the revision of the Cotonou Partnership Agreement.

The objective of all our activities here in Brussels is to ensure a better life for all in South Africa, Africa and the global community. I would therefore like to encourage you to continue your support. My wife and I would like to extend our gratitude for the warmth and hospitality extended to us. I would like to thank my colleagues whose dedication, hard work and commitments has made it possible to achieve so much over the past year.

2008 was a milestone year in the relationship between South Africa and the EU. The very fi rst EU-South Africa Summit, held in Bordeaux on 25 July, marked the beginning of a new era of strengthened political dialogue and intensifi ed co-operation at the highest levels, elevating relations between both sides to a true “strategic partnership”.

The EU and South Africa have come a long way since the early days when Europe supported the anti-apartheid struggle through its fi rst Special Programme for the Victims of Apartheid. After 1994 and the birth of democracy in South Africa, the country rapidly established itself as a successful economic powerhouse in Africa and an emerging regional and global player. Co-operation with the EU evolved signifi cantly and gradually, relations extended beyond development cooperation to cover trade, political and economic aspects, underpinned by the establishment of the Trade, Development and Co-operation Agreement in 1999. In 2006, in recognition of this special relationship and South Africa’s role in the world, the EU proposed the launching of a Strategic Partnership, which led to the agreement of a joint Action Plan in May 2007.

2008 was a year of many achievements in translating the Action Plan’s commitments into concrete work. Our political dialogue expanded to include discussions on all current global issues, ranging from environment and climate change, to food security, the international fi nancial crisis and migration matters between Europe and Africa. We reviewed all major crisis areas on the African continent, exchanging views on critical countries, such as Zimbabwe and Sudan, in an open and frank way.

We broadened the spectrum of our co-operation to a number of new areas. Policy dialogues on energy, transport, space, migration and health were added to

more established fi elds of co-operation such as science and technology and the environment. Negotiations in the fi eld of trade, with the aim of establishing an Economic Partnership Agreement with countries of the Southern Africa region, including South Africa, were particularly intense and lively. Indeed, the unique role and perspectives of South Africa on the global and South-South scene presents opportunities and challenges requiring innovative and fl exible approaches.

The EU’s commitment to South Africa in the area of development co-operation continued unabatedly. In the framework of the EU’s country strategy for 2007-2013, which allocates an overall amount of €980 million to South Africa, major assistance programmes were set up in 2008 to further employment and skills development, improve access to the justice system and support the work of the national and provincial legislatures. This follows €1.5bn which had been assigned to South Africa between 1994 and 2006 under the European Programme for Reconstruction and Development.

Many actors on both sides were involved in making EU-South Africa relations a concrete reality in all these areas, from the highest political levels down to the institutions and the people whose daily work makes these achievements possible.

I wish to extend my special thanks to Ambassador Sooklal, South Africa’s representative to the EU in Brussels, and his colleagues, for all their assiduous work and strong dedication.

2009 will mark the 10th anniversary of the Trade, Development and Co-operation Agreement. May an eventful and remarkable year 2008 guide us in our continuing eff orts towards a fl ourishing and strong EU-South Africa partnership.

Director-General for Development and Relations with ACP Countries, European CommissionDirector-General for Development and Relations with ACP Countries, European Commission

Message from Mr Stefano Manservisi

South Africa and the European Union have seen a dramatic deepening and widening of relations since South Africa reentered the global community in 1994. Building on shared values and common interests, South Africa and the EU have developed, in the fi fteen years of our democracy, a mutually benefi cial partnership underlining the depth and sincerity of our bilateral relations.

South Africa and the EU share many common values and beliefs, making us natural partners to promote development, socio-economic and political progress, as well as stability in a globalising world. We are both fully committed to a vision of an African Continent which is prosperous, peaceful, democratic, non-racial, non-sexist and united, and which contributes to a world that is just and equitable. Both South Africa and the EU share the understanding that security and development are inter-dependent, and that both parties play key global roles in this regard.

In 2007, the Joint Action Plan for the SA-EU Strategic Partnership established a new overarching umbrella dialogue for our cooperation, the Mogôbagôba Dialogue. A tree in traditional African culture symbolises a place where people engage in dialogue and resolve common challenges. The highlight of 2008, was the fi rst SA-EU Summit under the Mogôbagôba Dialogue under the French Presidency of the EU. I agree with my colleague and friend, Stefano Manservisi, that this summit marked the beginning of a new era of strengthened political dialogue and intensifi ed co-operation at the highest levels.

We look forward to continuing and strengthening this dialogue under the Swedish Presidency of the EU with the Second SA-EU Summit to be hosted in South Africa in September 2009. It is already apparent that a number of global and regional issues will need to be discussed such as the global fi nancial crisis and climate change in the run up to the Copenhagen negotiations.

An objective of the Strategic Partnership was to move from political dialogue to active political cooperation on issues of mutual interest, at bilateral, regional, continental or global level. In this regard we welcome the establishment of structured dialogues in key areas for both South Africa and the EU, and look forward to concrete deliverables from these forums.

I would like to express my personal thanks for the dedication of Director General Manservisi and his team at the European Commission for their continued commitment to a strong SA-EU Strategic Partnership and creating a better life for all in South Africa.

Director General of the Department of Foreign Aff airsRepublic of South AfricaDirector General of the Department of Foreign Aff airsRepublic of South Africa

Message from Dr Ayanda Ntsaluba

South African Relations with the European Union

The EU is the world’s largest trading bloc and generates about 30% of global GDP and 20% of global trade fl ows. Implementation of the TDCA’s trade provisions has been under way since 2000 with the aim of establishing a Free Trade Area (FTA) between South Africa and the EU by 2012. Total trade has increased over fi ve-fold, from R 56.5 billion in 1994 to R 313 billion in 2007. Europe remains the principal source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in South Africa, accounting for around 80% of total FDI in 2005. Additionally, the EU accounted for approximately 66% of net foreign investment in South Africa in 2003 and 2004, and in 2005 the EU’s share of the total assets held by foreigners in South Africa amounted to approximately 60%.

The EU is the world’s biggest aid donor to developing countries, contributing approximately half of global aid. The EU is also South Africa’s largest development partner representing approximately 70% of all Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), with South Africa earmarked to receive € 980 million for 2007-2013. The European Investment Bank has also approved a loan mandate of € 900 million for South Africa.

As refl ected upon by the Directors General Ntsaluba and Manservisi, the relations between South Africa and the EU have deepened and widened dramatically in the 15 years of democracy. In 2008 we saw the culmination of the fi rst SA-EU Summit since the establishment of the SA-EU strategic partnership in 2007. The Summit was held in the context of the Mogôbagôba Dialogue and was a continuation of discussions that have already taken place at Ministerial Troika level since 2004. A key objective of our political dialogue is to further deepen SA-EU relations and to address shared bilateral, regional and global interests through frank, open and uninhibited discussions and an exchange of information.

Minister Dlamini Zuma and her Ministerial colleagues had opportunity to engage in regular structured dialogue with their EU counterparts under the Slovenian, French and Czech Presidencies. Key issues at these meetings include the implementation of the SA-EU Strategic Partnership Joint Action Plan, the SADC EPA-EU Economic Partnership Agreement, the implementation of the Africa-EU Joint Action Plan, peace and security on the African continent, the Middle East and the Western Balkans. Global issues such as the global fi nancial crisis, the Doha Development Round, climate change and food security are also prominent on our agendas.

An important annual review of the cooperation at all levels is held during the SA-EU Joint Cooperation Council, held in Cape Town, South Africa, in November 2008. This forum reviewed the cooperation in trade, development, science and technology, the environment as well as the progress in the establishment of structured dialogue fora in areas such as Peace and Security, Migration, Health, Transport, Energy and Customs and Revenue. In 2008, the EU conducted a successful migration mission to South Africa, and meetings were held by various dialogue fora including the Clean Coal Working Group and the Space Dialogue. In 2009, the focus of the Mission will be to fully activate and implement these dialogues in order to deepen the cooperation between South Africa and the EU, especially in critical areas such as education, energy effi ciency, nuclear cooperation and maritime transport.

In 2009, we will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the signature of the Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement which provided the legal basis for the cooperation between South Africa and the EU. We also look forward to the hosting of the Second SA-EU Summit in South Africa in September 2009 under the Swedish Presidency of the EU.

African, Caribbean and Pacifi c Group of States

Chair of the Southern African Development Community

South Africa assumed the Chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in August 2008. The Mission in Brussels therefore chairs the SADC Group in Brussels which meets every month at Ambassadors’ level, and more often at Senior Officials’ level. The Group has made great progress in soliciting common views on ACP and EPA issues, enabling the Group to continue the united front that it presents on major international and regional issues. Further on regional integration, taking a cue from the COMESA-SADC-EAC Tripartite Summit that took place in October 2008, the SADC Group was instrumental in establishing a COMESA-SADC-EAC Group of Ambassadors in Brussels. South Africa was elected as the first chair of the group, which will rotate every six months.

A major activity of the SADC Group was the SADC Day celebration in September 2008. The reception was an opportunity to network and inform counterparts in other Missions based in Brussels and the European Union on the existence of the Group in Brussels, what its goals are and how it wishes to work with them. The SADC Group has already started preparations for another successful celebration of SADC Week in 2009 which is planned to take place over several days in early September, including tourism, culture and investment promotion events.

As tourism is of major importance to SADC, the Group has also fostered a relationship with Visit Southern Africa (VSA) and the Regional Tourism Organisation of Southern Africa (RETOSA), with a focus on increasing tourism to the SADC region.

The SADC Group has also made progress in resuscitating the Berlin Initiative, which is an initiative to promote regular meetings between SADC Ambassadors in Brussels and EU Ambassadors in Brussels. This initiative began in Brussels in 2005 but stalled two years later. The Brussels Mission is working towards the reactivation of this very important forum between the regional blocs.

A highlight of the SADC-EU relationship was the holding of the EU-SADC Double Troika Ministerial Meeting in Brussels during November 2008. The meeting marked fourteen years of EU-SADC Dialogue under the Berlin Initiative and was attended by Ministers and representatives of the SADC Double Troika, and the EU Troika. The SADC delegation consisted of representatives of the Republic of South Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Zambia, Kingdom of Swaziland, Republic of Angola, and the Republic of Mozambique assisted by the SADC Secretariat. The European Union delegation consisted of the Republic of France, the Czech Republic, the European Commission and the Council Secretariat.

The meeting focused on the review of peace and security architecture and governance issues particularly in the SADC region, capacity building within SADC, regional integration, development cooperation and economic partnership. In addition the Ministerial meeting reflected on the global financial crisis, food and energy security.

The Mission played an active role in the activities of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) during 2008. South Africa made substantial inputs into the final declaration on the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPA) adopted by the bi-annual ACP Summit of Heads of State and Government in Accra, Ghana, in October 2008. Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Rob Davies, also led the delegation to the ACP Council of Ministers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in June 2008 and in Brussels in December 2008.

One of the most important forums for EU-ACP engagement is the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, where South African parliamentarians consistently add value to this partnership. South Africa’s delegation has been led by the Hon. Dumisani Job Sithole MP (ANC), Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Foreign Affairs, along with the honourable members Mrs Ruth Magau MP (ANC) and Mr Ian Davidson MP (DA). The South African parliamentary delegation played a crucial conciliation role in drafting the first ever jointly agreed ACP-EU JPA Resolution on Zimbabwe in Papua New Guinea in November 2008.

The Mission assisted the Hon. Mrs Magau as ACP Co-Rapporteur on the preparation of a draft resolution on Challenges to the Democratic Accommodation of Ethnic, Cultural and Religious Diversity in ACP and EU countries adopted by the ACP-EU JPA in Prague in April 2009.

The Mission is committed to playing an important role in the Second Revision of the Cotonou Partnership Agreement as well as discussions on the Future of the ACP. Besides active participation in the Committee of Ambassadors, the Mission also serves as regional co-ordinators and representatives of the Southern Africa region, Chair of the SADC Group, and an active member of the sub-committee on Establishment and Finance.

South Africa’s commitment to the ACP is summed up by the Hon. Sithole : “Since our joining the ACP in 1996 we have always remained committed to ensuring the relevance and success of the ACP as a critical component of the Grouping of the South especially on critical issues such as the eradication of poverty and integration of ACP countries into the world economy.”

Trade between South Africa (SA) and the European Union (EU) has increased dramatically since 1994, and especially since the coming into force of the Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement in 2000. Trade between SA and the EU in 2008 amounted to over € 40 billion. Between 2000 and 2007, EU exports to South Africa rose from € 11,8 billion to € 20,9 billion, while imports from SA rose from € 14,7 billion to € 20,9 billion. SA is now the EU’s 12th largest trading partner.

Since the implementation of the South Africa-EU Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement in 2000, agricultural trade has increased exponentially. Exports of oranges and bulk grape wine from South Africa have

doubled between 2005 and 2008, while apples and grape wines of less than two litres have increased by 58% and 42%, respectively, over the same period. Meanwhile the EU increased its exports of beer and food preparations to South Africa by 2386% and 1050%, respectively. During the period under review, South Africa has enjoyed a trade surplus which shows a steady increase from 2007 after a one year drop in 2006.

Amongst the EU countries, the largest importers and exporters to SA are Germany and the United Kingdom, followed by the Benelux countries (Belgium and the Netherlands). South Africa’s trade with Belgium has shown signifi cant increases with imports from SA standing at € 1,96 billion in 2007.

Trade between South Africa (SA) and the European Union (EU) has increased dramatically since 1994, and especially since the coming into force of the Trade,

doubled between 2005 and 2008, while apples and grape wines of less than two litres have increased by 58% and 42%, respectively, over the same period. Meanwhile the

Trade

The TDCA has a transition period of 12 years and the trade liberalisation schedule runs until 2012. By this time 94 percent of goods from SA to the EU will receive duty free treatment, while 86 percent of EU exports to SA will be duty free. There can therefore be no doubt that the TDCA has assisted in expanding and deepening the economic relationship between SA and the EU member states. There, however, remains unfinished business and there are still many growth opportunities.

The biggest challenge and opportunity relates to the current negotiations of an Economic Partnership Agreement. South Africa places great emphasis on regional integration and the need to align our trade relationship under the TDCA with our regional integration initiatives. In the long run, growth will depend on the size of the market, and the Southern African Development Community has a potential market of over 300 million people. At the time of the negotiations for the TDCA, we also concluded a free trade agreement in SADC which came into effect in 2008. The need to align the TDCA with our regional agenda was the principal reason for joining the EPA

even though South Africa has a legally binding trade agreement with the EU.

Concerns with the Interim EPA have overshadowed the negotiations in 2008, but South Africa welcomed the commitment of the new Commissioner for Trade, Baroness Ashton, to address the concerns of the SADC EPA Group before signature of the Interim EPA. While substantial progress was made at a meeting in Swakopmund, Namibia, in March 2008, some issues of major importance to the functioning of SACU and SADC remain unresolved.

It is certain that the more positive and constructive relationship between SA and EU will continue in our economic and political partnership. The building and strengthening of our trade, economic and political partnership is especially important at this time of economic crisis. South Africa shares a concern with the EU that the dramatic downturn in the global economy has caused many countries, companies and individuals to turn inward, increase protection and turn away from international trade.

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In 2009, South Africa celebrates its 15th anniversary as a democracy. The economy has seen dramatic improvements over the past decade and a half. Over the past few years, the economy has grown at over fi ve percent per annum, and created over one million jobs. South Africa is, however, not immune from the global crisis, especially given the dramatic reduction in demand for commodity exports.

It is expected that South Africa will show positive GDP growth in 2009, mainly as a result of a stable banking system, a large public infrastructure investment programme and the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

It is fortunate that South Africa’s major banks were not as aff ected by the fi nancial crisis and no banks had to be bailed out, thanks to stringent regulations and exchange

controls in place, which eff ectively limited exposure to so called “ toxic assets”.

In 2006, the Accelerated Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (ASGISA) initiated a massive investment programme, that amongst others, included an allocation of € 11 billion for the development of energy infrastructure, as well as € 5 billion for transport projects. Major investments in airports and sports stadiums in preparation for 2010 were also undertaken.

The expansion of South Africa’s manufacturing and mining sectors is driven by global demand and is likely to recover once demand picks up. Other sectors that show potential for growth and expansion in 2009 include agriculture, agro processing and fi sheries; construction and project management, energy, transport and tourism.

In 2009, South Africa celebrates its 15th anniversary as a democracy. The economy has seen dramatic improvements over the past decade and a half. Over the past few years, the economy has grown at over fi ve percent per annum, and created over one million jobs. South Africa is, however, not immune from the global

controls in place, which eff ectively limited exposure to so controls in place, which eff ectively limited exposure to so called “ toxic assets”.called “ toxic assets”.

In 2006, the Accelerated Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa (ASGISA) initiated a massive investment programme, that amongst others, included an allocation of € 11 billion

South African Economy

DEME: creating land for the future

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TSHD “Marieke” performing widening and deepening works of the entrance to the port of Durban, South-Africa

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Science & Technology Cooperation

Science and technology (S&T) continued to be one of the fl agship success stories of South Africa’s cooperation with the EU throughout 2008. As the oldest and arguably most productive partnership of the SA–EU Strategic Partnership, S&T was a focal area of the fi rst SA-EU Summit held in Bordeaux, France, in July 2008.

Supported by the South African Mission, the South African Department of Science and Technology (DST), the European Commission and the Government of France, through the French research organisation IRD, successfully presented the only high-level side event at the Summit, a seminar focused on SA-EU cooperation in water research. Leading South African and European researchers participated in the event, and agreed on a comprehensive action plan of activities to enhance cooperation in a domain critical for sustainable development.

Signifi cantly the Summit also endorsed the Terms of Reference for the establishment of a dedicated SA-EU Space Dialogue. With the South African National Space Agency in the process of being launched, South Africa and the EU are preparing an ambitious programme of space cooperation, targeting areas such as Earth observation and global navigation satellite systems.

South Africa’s Minister of Science and Technology HE Mosibudi Mangena attended the Summit and presented the report on cooperation noted by the Presidents’ in their declaration, highlighting the outstanding results of South Africa’s participation in the fi rst rounds of the EU’s highly competitive Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) for Research. At the time of the Summit South Africa had already participated in 47 FP7 projects with South African researchers receiving direct EU funding of more than € 6 million. These excellent early results bode well for South Africa’s future FP7 engagement.

The seventh meeting of the South Africa – EU Joint Science and Technology Cooperation Committee held in South Africa in May 2008 and co-chaired by the Director-General of the DST, Dr Phil Mjwara, and his counterpart of the European Commission’s Direc-torate-General Research, reviewed past and agreed on several new initiatives to enhance specifi cally FP7 cooperation. Engagements undertaken for example included a dedicated dialogue to identify shared energy research priorities, which should be prioritized for South Africa – EU cooperation.

At the end of 2008, some of the concerted eff orts by the parties to promote cooperation were rewarded with exciting results such as the launch of a dedicated platform to promote aeronautics and air transport R&D cooperation. Another signifi cant milestone included the approval of several FP7 International Research Staff Exchange Scheme (IRSES) projects involving South Africa, which will provide funding for the much-needed exchanges of researchers between South African and European organisations. In September 2008, the second phase of the highly successful European South African Science and Technology Advancement Programme (ESASTAP), a dedicated advisory, support and information service to support South Africa – EU S&T cooperation, was launched at a high-level event in Brussels, presided over by Dr Mjwara and attended by more than 200 participants from all over Europe.

2008 was also marked by the launch of the 30 million Euro sector budget support programme allocated to the DST under the EU’s development cooperation instrument with South Africa. This landmark programme, the fi rst of its kind ever funded by the European Commission, will specifi cally seek to reinforce the Department’s capacities to address poverty alleviation through S&T. Leveraging development cooperation support to support S&T capacity-building in developing countries was also an important focus for the DST, marked by the long-awaited launch of a dedicated Africa, Caribbean and Pacifi c (ACP) Science and Technology Programme funded under the European Development, the preparation of which South Africa actively supported. South Africa also continued to play a leading role in supporting S&T cooperation between the EU and the Africa Union, especially within the framework of the Joint Africa-EU Strategy’s Science, Information Society and Space Partnership, where South Africa is serving as a Co-Chair of the Joint Expert Group.

South Africa’s bilateral S&T partnership with Belgium remained strong, as evidenced by the Belgian Federal Government’s Science Policy Offi ce (BELSPO) inclusion of South Africa as a target country for funding post-doctoral fellowships at Belgian institutions and the Flemish Fund for Scientifi c Research’s (FWO) identifi cation of South Africa as one of only fi ve priority partner countries for international cooperation. The DST is currently considering a specifi c cooperation framework with the FWO, which should lead to an exciting new chapter for South African – Flemish S&T cooperation.

Special Guest Article By HE Minister Mosibudi Mangena, Minister of Science and Technology

South Africa’s science and technology partnership with the European Union is one of its most strategic and fruitful. The South African Mission in Brussels has over the years rendered invaluable support to my Department in its eff orts to promote cooperation with the EU on research, development and innovation, and I am therefore delighted to contribute to the Mission’s Annual Report for 2008, another outstanding year for our partnership.

I would like to focus in this article on one of the fl agship areas of our cooperation, namely the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) radio telescope project, because of its strategic importance, as well as its symbolic value in showing Africa as a full partner in global scientifi c enterprises. The European Union, through the European Commission and various EU member states, is playing a critical role in the development of this project, notably by making funding available for the project’s preparatory phase under the Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development.

The SKA project was initiated by an international consortium in the early 1990s to address fundamental astronomy questions and advance basic physics. As a next-generation facility, the SKA will encompass cutting-edge technologies in a variety of engineering disciplines, and has the potential to rival mankind’s greatest accomplishments in science, engineering and technology. The SKA will consist of more than 3 000 dishes, the majority of which will, if South Africa wins the bid to host the telescope, be concentrated in the Northern Cape. Each station will be connected, through a world-class data transfer network, to the largest supercomputer in the world, where data will be processed before being made available to astronomers and scientists around the globe.

The decision on the telescope’s location should be made in 2011, with Australia the other possible host for this unique facility. South Africa’s bid was made in partnership with several other African, mostly Southern African, nations. We are actively participating in the preparations for the telescope’s construction, and the Karoo Array Telescope (KAT) programme makes us one of the most important investors in the project. The aim of the KAT programme is the design,

development and establishment of an SKA pathfi nder (technology demonstrator) telescope, called MeerKAT, at the proposed African SKA core site by 2013. When completed, the MeerKAT will be one of the world’s premier mid-frequency radio astronomy facilities, and a valuable addition to the region’s international ground-based telescopes (the High Energy Stereoscopic System in Namibia and the Southern African Large Telescope in South Africa).

Hosting the SKA in Africa would bring lasting benefi ts to the participating countries, not least in establishing the area (particularly Southern Africa) as a major centre for world astronomy. Exciting projects like the SKA are needed to attract scientifi c and engineering experts to Africa, and such mega-facilities are invaluable in providing training, enabling a feed of expertise into companies and universities, not only those that are directly involved in radio astronomy. The creation of a critical mass of young people with exceptional skills and abilities in next-generation technologies, crucial for the global knowledge economy, would be the largest single benefi t to Africa.

There are other compelling reasons for the SKA to be located in Southern Africa. The proposed site, a remote but accessible location, boasts an excellent radio frequency environment with minimal potential sources of radio frequency interference, as well as atmospheric conditions that support astronomical observations (including a stable ionosphere and troposphere). Strong government commitment to the Southern African bid is embodied in a special declaration adopted at the fi rst New Partnership for Africa’s Development meeting for science and technology ministers.

It is often said that science knows no frontiers. International cooperation is essential for the advancement of sustainable growth and human development through science, and African scientists need to participate fully in this global enterprise. The SKA is a project that will transcend national boundaries and, irrespective of where the telescope is fi nally located, the Southern African bid has done much to redraw the map of cutting-edge global science – a map now showing Africa as an active participant. For this reason alone, our investment is worth the eff ort.

South Africa and the Square Kilometre Array: In partnership with Europe at the cutting edge of astronomy research

A highlight of the relations with the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg was the visit to South Africa by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs of Luxembourg, Mr Jean Asselborn, in November 2008. Minister Asselborn paid a courtesy call to President Kgalema Motlanthe and met Minister Dlamini Zuma, the Mayor of Cape Town, Ms Helen Zille, and the Speaker of Parliament, HE Ms Gwen Mahlangu Nkabinde. Minister Asselborn also visited the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In honour of Deputy Prime Minister Asselborn’s visit, the Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry (ALFI) hosted fund industry seminars in Johannesburg and Cape

Town. Minister Asselborn participated in both seminars which aimed to present the most recent developments in the Luxembourg Fund Industry and facilitate interaction with the South African funds industry.

The working visit served, amongst others, to strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and Luxembourg, to contribute to Luxembourg’s understandings of African issues, to facilitate its participation in the EU General Aff airs and External Relations Council and the UN Peace-Building Commission, and to strengthen bilateral economic relations, especially in the fi nancial services and funds sector.

A highlight of the relations with the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg was the visit to South Africa by Deputy Prime

Town. Minister Asselborn participated in both seminars which aimed to present the most recent developments in

Relations with Luxembourg

Relations with Belgium

South Africa and Belgium continued to build on their strong relationship in 2008. This relationship has deepened and widened to encompass bilateral, trilateral, as well as multilateral co-operation. South Africa and Belgium’s presence on the United Nations Security Council during 2008 off ered a unique opportunity to engage on a multilateral level. Both countries have a strong interest in peace and development in the Great Lakes Region, which is the topic of frequent bilateral dialogue, including the Mid-Term Review of the Belgo-South African Joint Commission which took place during May 2008.

The meeting was co-chaired by Ambassador Sooklal and the Belgian Ambassador to South Africa, Mr Mutton. Delegates from the Federal Government, as well as representatives from both Flanders and Wallonia participated in this important forum for reviewing all aspects of our bilateral cooperation. The steady improvement of relations was illustrated by frequent interactions at all levels, including cultural and people-to-people interaction. Multilaterally, the P3+2 cooperation has become stronger, the interaction in regard to Burundi has also intensifi ed, as well as cooperation in the United Nations Security Council in general. The meeting also discussed issues such as the relationship between natural resources and confl ict and human rights. In regard to Development Co-operation, the status of the projects under the two planning cycles 2001-2006 and 2007-2010 was reviewed. South Africa was especially appreciative of Belgian support in areas critical to South Africa’s development, including land reform.

Economic co-operation was also discussed and included the status of the feasibility study of the multi-purpose import platform, co-operation in the diamond sector, customs co-operation, co-operation as regards food chain safety, e-government and air links.

South Africa maintains good relations with the Flemish Government. In April 2008, South Africa and Flanders held their Annual Consultations on Flemish-South African Development Co-operation

Professional International Port Seminars

in Tshwane, South Africa, to review progress made in projects relating to human development, capacity building, poverty alleviation and health issues in the three targeted Provinces of KwaZulu Natal, the Free State and Limpopo. In 2009, we look forward to the bi-annual meeting of the South Africa-Flanders Joint Commission.

In 2009, the Mission will further engage with the French and German-speaking communities of Belgium, as well as the regions of Brussels and Wallonia, in order to establish a broader dialogue with the people of Belgium.

Defence Cooperation

In 2008, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Offi ce in Brussels coordinated a number of visits to Belgium.

In May 2008, members of the Executive National Security Programme and senior staff members of the SA National Defence College visited Belgium to familiarise themselves with the national security policy and strategy of Belgium, the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. The Defence Attaché, Colonel Rebecca Hadebe, accompanied the Delegation on constructive and informative visits to the Belgian Defence Force Headquarters, including a meeting with the Belgian Defence Force’s Strategy Directorate, NATO and the Liège University’s Space Centre where the delegation had the opportunity to witness satellite testing.

A highlight of 2008 was the visit of the Chief of the Joint Operations Division, Lieutenant General T.T. Matanzima, in June 2008. General Matanzima was able to acquaint himself with the functioning of the Belgian Joint Operations and explore cooperation with the Belgium Joint Operations Specialists regarding the conduct of Operations Planning, Joint and Multi-lateral exercises,

doctrine and capability development within their respective environments. General Matanzima met with the Belgian Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General August Van Daele and the Chief of Operations and Training, Lieutenant General Aviation Jean-Paul Buyse, and was briefed on the Belgian Defence Structure, ACOS Operational and Training Attributions and Structure. The delegation also engaged on Military Partnership Programs in Africa, Transformation Process, Doctrine Development and NATO Operations at the NATO Headquarters. Visits were also conducted to the NATO Mine-Warfare School “Eguermin” and Elsenborn Training Area.

The Defence Attaché represented the Embassy during the Commemoration of the 90th Anniversary of the Armistice which took place in Ypres on 11th November 2008, marking the end of the First World War. Colonel Hadebe attended the Mass Celebration at Saint Martin’s Cathedral followed by a Wreath Laying Ceremony during the Special Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate where she laid a Wreath in honour of the South African soldiers who perished during the First World War.

Tourism

Despite the global economic slowdown, 2008 showed a strong increase in arrivals of 5.4% from January to October 2008. This follows an excellent growth rate of 8.3% in 2007, a year during which foreign arrivals in South Africa exceeded 9 million. Arrivals from North America have remained stable compared to 2007 and increases were recorded in arrivals from Australasia (6.3%) and the Middle East (5.9%). However decreases have been noted in arrivals from Europe, at 6.5 % and 4.6% from Central and South America. The tourism industry is not immune to the effects of the international economic crisis, but South Africa remains confident to reach the targeted 10 million mark in 2010. South Africa continues to be a value-for-money destination and with international events like the 2009 Confederations Cup and 2010 World Cup lined up, tourism will certainly retain the important role it plays in our economic growth. The contribution of tourism to South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated to have increased from R 137,6 billion in 2006 to R 159,6 billion in 2007. The number of jobs created directly and indirectly in the economy through tourism increased by 5% from 896 900 in 2006 to 941 000 in 2007.

The South African Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) is committed to ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared as widely as possible. Since 1999, DEAT has financed 335 tourism projects in South Africa’s nine provinces, aimed at enhancing tourism and improving infrastructure at a local level. To date, more than R1 billion has been spent on these projects.

DEAT’s vision for the future of tourism in South Africa is threefold: firstly, tourism is valued as one of the leading economic contributors to a sustainable South African economy; secondly, it is a dynamic, innovative and highly respected sector that offered a positive and memorable experience exceeding consumer expectations; and thirdly, tourism dynamically contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of every South African.

The challenges and obstacles to achieving this vision, on a global scale, included the possibility of an economic recession in some of South Africa’s key markets; the impacts of climate change on worldwide travel patterns; and exchange rate fluctuations and restricted aviation capacity. Locally, the challenges included the availability of appropriately qualified staff, limited transformation, constrained domestic air capacity and transport links, and the limited involvement of local government in tourism planning.

The promotion of tourism is a key objective of the Embassy. In 2008, the Embassy participated in a number of tourism fairs:

three general tourism fairs (Antwerp Vakantiesalon, Vakantz Luxembourg, and Brussels Holiday Fair) and two specialized fairs, Southern Africa Days organised by Visit Southern Africa and the Sustainable Trade Market in Ghent. For the first time in 2009, the Embassy hosted a unique food and beverages session on its stand where boerewors, biltong, as well as South African wine and fruit juice were sampled. These unique activities turned out to be a great success and were also successfully used as a platform to showcase South Africa as a prime tourist destination in the run up to the 2010 Soccer World Cup.

Statistics show that the number of tourists from Belgium to South Africa has continued to steadily increase recently, currently numbering around 45 000 per annum. Reasons for this growth include the strong interest in cultural ties, as well as the thousands of Flemish people residing in South Africa who are active in the tourism industry; South Africa’s world-class infrastructure; diversity of tourism products; and the positive global perceptions of peaceful political transition in South Africa, amongst others.

FIFA 2010 World Cup South Africa

In 2009, an added focus will be the run up to the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup and here the Embassy has planned a number of exciting activities in conjunction with key stakeholders in Brussels and Luxembourg. Ambassador Sooklal hosted a number of South African soccer players based in Belgium to a dinner at South Africa House in March 2009 to engage on the activities planned for Belgium. The event also welcomed the President of the Belgian Football Federation and a number of Belgian Club Presidents. Coinciding with the National Freedom Day celebrations in Brussels and Luxembourg, the Embassy staged street parades highlighting South Africa as the host of the 2010 World Cup. At the time of going to print, the Embassy in association with a local sports bar, had arranged a live screening of the FIFA 2009 Confederations Cup opening match between South Africa (Bafana Bafana) and Iraq (the Lions of Mesopotamia) on the 14th of June 2009. The Confederations Cup is considered to be the dry-run and the final test to the host country’s readiness to host the World Cup. All of these activities involved the presence of Zakumi, the official mascot of the FIFA 2010 World Cup in South Africa. South Africa’s readiness to host the world during the month-long World Cup in 2010 is beyond doubt. The British Lions (rugby) tour from May to July 2009 and the Indian Premier (cricket) League March 2009 decision to host the T20 tournament in South Africa over security concerns in India, is a further stamp of approval that South Africa is ready.

Culture

Cultural ties and activities between South Africa and Belgium continued to flourish in 2008. Various twinning agreements between the cities of Tshwane and Maasmechelen, the cities of Gent and Mangaung, the Provinces of Antwerp and the Free State, as well as the Plettenberg Bay/Bitou Municipality and Nieuwport Municipality, amongst others is an expression of this excellent relations.

The Wor(l)ds project based on stone carving and calligraphy, was launched in the city of Brugge in June 2008 as a unique project driven by both artistic and humanitarian concerns. The original idea came from Ms Maud Bekaert, a Belgian calligrapher who visited South Africa three years ago where she established contact with South African calligraphers as well as her willingness to assist in alleviating the effects of HIV/AIDS. This prompted her to develop a fraternity with South African calligraphers. The idea was supported by the Mayor of Brugge, Mr Patrick Moenaert, the official exhibition was inaugurated on 9 June 2008, with the unveiling of the first stone carved by a South African artist, with the South African National Anthem on it. This was followed by more than 40 stones that were then put on display along a 28km hiking and cycling track in the city of Brugge, with texts inspired by South African and Belgian writers.

In June 2008, a delegation of the Field Band Foundation (FBF) of South Africa was hosted

by the Flemish organisation called Vlamo (Vlaamse amateur musiek organisatie/Flemish Association of Music Bands). Since 2007, Vlamo has a partnership with the Field Band Foundation to develop a “train the trainer” programme that focuses on the leaders of the different field bands. Vlamo is concentrating on artistic input regarding show design, choreography and percussion.

These key projects for 2008 have not only strengthened further, the existing cultural ties between South Africa and Belgium, but have also led to benefits for individual South African artists.

In July 2008, the city of Gent hosted South Africa during a two week-long event themed “One Day Meets South Africa” during the Annual Gentse Feesten, as well as a photographic exhibition themed “Then & Now”, the latter showcased the work of eight South African photographers capturing South Africa Then (during Apartheid) and South Africa Now (Transition phase/Democracy). The exhibition was also a tribute to the former South African President, Dr Nelson Mandela on his 90th birthday. South African music was provided by a Belgian-based South African jazz artist Tutu Puoane, who shared the stage with Pops Mohammed, Sonti Mndebele and Freshly Ground. As for the gastronomy, South African potjiekos, vetkoek and South African wines were served.

On 16 October 2008, Ambassador Anil Sooklal signed the fi nal purchase agreement for the South African Chancery located at 17-19 Rue Montoyer, 1000 Brussels. The Embassy had moved to this refurbished 9-storey 951m2 building end 2006. The Embassy is conveniently situated in close proximity to both the EU institutions and the Belgian government as well as other diplomatic missions.

On 16 October 2008, Ambassador Anil Sooklal signed the fi nal purchase

South African Chancery in Brussels

Each of the nine fl oors at the Chancery are named after a province of South Africa and also branded accordingly in the traditions and cultural infl uences of the particular province; namely Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, North West and the Western Cape. One of our most successful collaborations has been with the Province of Limpopo. The Limpopo Economic Development Enterprise and the Tourism and Parks, in collaboration with the Mogalakwena Craft Art Development, provided the Embassy with a special collection of artworks, comprised of beaded sculptures, embroidered panels and a hand-woven table. The artefacts, all with signifi cant value and meaning to the people of the Limpopo Province, include:

• BEADED SCULPTURES, GOLD RHINO AND THE BIG FIVE: Images of signifi cant fauna, fl ora and icons of the Limpopo Province were sculpted and beaded. The majestic BAOBAB trees have played a signifi cant role in “shaping the lives and legends of the

inhabitants” of the Limpopo Province. The GOLD RHINO is the most famous archaeological fi nd in southern Africa and now the icon of the Order of Mapungubwe.

• THE BAOBAB TREE Adasonia digitata; “mowana” in Setswana, and “muvhuyu” in Tshivenda languages of South Africa. The baobab embodies the spirit of Africa like no other tree. This ancient tree is revered in many African cultures, and steeped in legend and mystique. The Limpopo Province is home to most of the baobab trees found in South Africa and therefore prominently features in the province’s coat of arms. Some of the baobabs found in the Limpopo Province are believed to be 3 000 years old.

As one lands on the Limpopo fl oor, a welcoming note is embroidered in four dominant languages spoken in the Limpopo Province, namely English, Sepedi, Xitsonga and Tshivenda (Welcome, Le amogetswe, Ha mi amukela Vho Tanganedzwa respectively). A brief map showing the small towns of the Province complements the displayed inscription, as well as a panel bearing the national anthem. The beaded baobab tree and the Big Five, and other artefacts, immediately give a visitor a brief sense of what Limpopo is all about.

The branding team live in the villages of Simson/Ramasfi kana, Grootpan, ga-Kibi, ga-Taaiboschgroet, under the authority of traditional chief Kibi in the Blouberg region of the Limpopo Province. Working in the Mogalakwena has been a life changing development and an opportunity for them to showcase their skills, while making a living out of this project.

The Mogalakwena Craft Art Village is situated in the district of Alldays, Limpopo Province. The Village comprises almost two hectares, and features a comprehensive electricity and water supply, as well as a renovated farm house converted into “The Artist’s Retreat”, a renovated one bedroom cottage converted into “The Writer’s Cottage”. The other structure is the “Studio” which is presently being utilised by the craft artists working for MCADF.

The Mogalakwena Craft Art Village also hosts a structure for a 400m2 Craft Art Training & Development Centre. The basic structure was donated to MCADF to enable the Foundation to build the Craft Art Training and Development Centre, but while the foundations and pillars of this structure have been erected, this centre has not been completed due to lack of funds. When completed, the center will provide a working area for 100 craft artists and accommodate 30 participants during skills transfer workshops. In addition, a crèche and a basic health support centre are envisaged. There is already a need to provide an aff ordable care facility where babies and small children of the craft artists employed, as well as trainees who attend courses, can be fed and cared for during the day whilst meaningfully occupied.

Closely tied with the Craft Art Development is the Mogalakwena Research Centre for African Ecology and Anthropology. The research centre consists of: a biodiversity division, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) division, Cultural and linguistic division, Design and craft art division as well as an Education and outreach division.

The branding team live in the villages of Simson/Ramasfi kana, Grootpan, ga-Kibi, ga-Taaiboschgroet, under the authority of traditional chief Kibi in the

Mogalakwena

The South African Embassy in Brussels undertook various social initiatives during 2008 under the leadership of Dr Nelistra Singh-Sooklal. The South African Embassy in Brussels undertook various social initiatives during 2008 under the leadership of Dr Nelistra Singh-Sooklal.

Social Initiatives

Dr Singh-Sooklal was honoured to be nominated as Honorary Patron of the British and Commonwealth Women’s Club of Brussels (BCWCB) for 2008. This provided the Mission with several opportunities to showcase and market South Africa at the various activities of the BCWCB. Dr Singh-Sooklal was privileged to nominate the Widowed Women of South Africa as the recipient charity of the activities of the BCWCB for 2008. The significant amount of € 2 000 (± R 26 000) was raised by the BCWCB during 2008 to the benefit of the Widowed Women of South Africa.

Ambassador Sooklal and Dr Singh-Sooklal further hosted a wine tasting evening at South Africa House, the official Residence, in October 2008. On this occasion South Africa House welcomed Mrs Nora Sperling-Thiel of the Delheim Wine Estate based in Stellenbosch. A tombola held during the fun-filled evening raised an amount of € 330 (± R 4 000) which was donated to the Delheim Crèche “Pebbles Project” as well as the Jonguhlanga Junior Secondary School in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape.

The Delheim Crèche serves the children of the workers on the Wine Estates and after consultation the funds were used to erect a slide in the children’s playground. The Jonguhlanga Junior Secondary School used the funds to purchase furniture for the school to accommodate the Grade “O” learners.

On learning of the need for wheelchairs by community organisations dealing with physical disabilities, Dr Singh-Sooklal sought the assistance of Bruce and Yvonne Lin of Durban, South Africa, who sponsored twenty new wheelchairs valued at R 30 000. Five chairs were donated to each of the following community organizations in Kwa-Zulu Natal: The Association for the Aged (TAFTA), Dayanand Gardens, Cheshire Homes and the Widowed Women of South Africa (WWOSA).

The South African Embassy in Brussels will continue with its social initiative programme in 2009 in order to create a better life for all South Africans.

In 1998, Brussels-born Isabelle De Smul-Brink went to Plettenberg Bay for the fi rst time to work as a development worker for Livos. Livos is a Belgian Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO). Having a Masters in Physical Education, specialising in psychomotoric therapy for behaviourally disturbed and underdeveloped children, Ms. De Smul-Brink it organised extra-curricular activities for children from the townships.

In 1998, Brussels-born Isabelle De Smul-Brink went to Plettenberg Bay for the fi rst time to work as a development worker for Livos. Livos is a Belgian Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO). Having a Masters in Physical Education, specialising in psychomotoric

Born in Africa

This project turned out to be a success and therefore it was decided that this program needed to continue. After months of intensive networking and research, Isabelle and other volunteers from Belgium, namely Georges De Smul, Sofi e Wieers, Stijn Ingelaere and Lieve Platteau, accumulated enough funds to establish Born in Africa.

“Our main focus is education. It is our belief that every child has the right to the best education possible. Once a child successfully completes his or her school career she will have a much better chance at furthering her studies which will enable her to enter the job market with ease one day. For the last fi ve years we have been implementing our Reading Program at three of our local schools. We work with all the Grade 1, 3 and Xhosa-speaking children. Statistically these are the Grades with the biggest need. We have full time Reading Assistants; “Big Moms” who follow a specialized reading program. They take out half the class at a time, work with them in smaller groups in the classrooms built by Born in Africa for this purpose. To measure the success of the program we conduct a pretest at the beginning of the year and a post test at the end. With an average of 75% improvement each year, our program receives very high praises by the Western Cape Education Department,” says Isabelle.

Born in Africa off ers computer assistance in two schools on a permanent basis. It became apparent that many school teachers were computer “shy” and did not possess the adequate skills to teach a class even though the Western Cape Education Department had provided the schools with state of the art computer labs. The Born in Africa volunteers follow the school schedule in the computer room assisting both the teachers and students alike. They also off er extra computer lessons to the teachers after school to increase their capacity build their confi dence which in turn is to the advantage of the students.

Isabelle notes that “drug and alcohol abuse is also a huge problem in these communities” and Born in Africa established a programme to keep the youth busy with in the afternoon and during the school holidays. One such successful programme

is the sewing classes for the young girls. Another successful project is the swimming classes off ered during the summer months. Isabelle laughs that “once they have received their certifi cates we take them to the beach and they are like fi sh in the water!” Educational camps for both the boys and girls are also organised, usually with a career orientated theme for the older children. During the school holidays, Born in Africa organizes educational outings where they are taught how to conserve the environment and preserve it for the generations to come and much more.

Born in Africa strongly believes that education starts at home and therefore has eight mentors who do regular house visits to monitor the situation at home and act on it should something go wrong. Parents attend regular parent workshops and camps to learn new skills to empower themselves.

Born in Africa is a non-profi t organisation sustained with the help of many generous donors. For the fi nancial adoption program more than 380 ʻgodparents’ donating € 250 per annum per “adopted” child are a great source of inspiration while other projects are fully sponsored by private donations.

Should anyone want to be part of the Born in Africa team and help the previously disadvantaged children in the communities around Plettenberg Bay, more information on how to be a part of this initiative is available at www.borninafrica.org

The Embassy family is constantly in motion with a steady ebb and fl ow of transfers to and from Head Offi ce in South Africa. In 2008, Iaan Basson, Ichte Kruger, Bolale Kurite, Tshidi Mhlambo, Lucky Molefe and Francois van der Merwe returned home to South Africa after serving their four year terms.

In 2008, we also said farewell to two long serving employees at the Mission. Mimi Olligschlaeger retired after working at the mission for an amazing forty years. Katrien de Pourcq also retired from fi fteen years dedicated service at the offi cial residences. However, the Mission also gains in this renewal process and we welcomed Nolundi Dikweni, Gideon Joubert, Madalein Joubert, Coff et Lebepe, Thivhilaeli Makatu, Chris Matjila and Oupana Tsotetsi. The sweetest arrival was Zenzozothando, a boy of 3.2 kg born on 9 November 2008 to Mpho Boshego and Phumlani Mfenyana.

In 2009, a revived Social Club committee has launched events to foster team spirit and ubuntu in the Embassy. So far, the Embassy has enjoyed a Valentines Day function, as well as a Belgian Beer celebration complemented by poetry reading by Ms. Phillipa Van de Villiers, a South African poet extraordinaire. Along with planning welcomes and farewells for our constantly evolving Mission family, the Social Club fosters good camaraderie amongst staff .

The Embassy family is constantly in motion with a steady ebb and fl ow of

Social Activities

Political Section

Corporate Services

Ms Pinkie MolekoCounsellor

Mr Oupana TsotetsiCounsellor

Mr Welile MguliCounsellor

Mr Tivhilaeli MakatuCounsellor

Mr Gideon JoubertFirst Secretary

Mr Lyle DavidsonFirst Secretary

Mr Phumlani Mfenyana

Second Secretary

Mr Chris Matjila Second Secretary

Ms Mantsaye NgwailaThird Secretary

Ms Mpho Boshego Second Secretary

Mrs Madalein JoubertCorporate Services

Manager

Ms Thabita Mhlungulwana

Attache

Mrs Annali van der Berg

First Secretary (Consular)

Ms Corna KlopperAssistant Attache

Mr Lionel OctoberMinister-Counsellor

Economic

Mr Daan du ToitMinister

Science &Technology

Mr Itumuleng Makabanyane

Counsellor

Agriculture

Mr Co� et LebepeCounsellor

Customs

H.E. Dr Anil SooklalAmbassador

Ms Nolundi DikweniMinister-Plenipotentiary

Col. Rebecca HadebeDefence Attache

EconomicDefence

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SOUTH AFRICAN EMBASSY TO BELGIUM & LUXEMBOURG

SOUTH AFRICAN MISSION TO THE EUROPEAN UNION

Rue Montoyer 17-19 Montoyerstraat1000 Brussels, Belgium

Tel: +32 (0)2 285 4400 Fax: +32 (0) 2 285 4402

www.southafrica.be

SOUTH AFRICAALIVE WITH POSSIBILITY