Skip to content Skip to left sidebar Skip to right sidebar Skip to footer

last-news

MEDIA STATEMENT: 6 pm, Status Update – Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George, 8 May 2024, @19:00 pm

MEDIA STATEMENT: 6 pm Status Update – Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

Issued George Municipality, 8 May 2024, @19:00 pm

George Municipality confirms that figures remain unchanged at this point, 6:00 pm 8 May. As the rescue effort is ongoing overnight, the emergency response team will now implement more substantive concrete breakers and additional trucks to remove building rubble from the site to free remaining entrapped patients.

36 patients retrieved.
7 are blue (Deceased).
16 are red patients (Critical).
6 are yellow patients (Life-threatening injuries).
7 are green (minor injuries).
A total of 39 of the initial 75 workers on site remain unaccounted for at present.

The rescue operation is approaching 53 hours as of 18:45 this evening, 8 May.

An update will be issued by 9 pm on Wednesday 8 May 2024, – South African Time.

On-site Triage Description:
Blue: Deceased
Red: Critical
Yellow: Life-threatening injuries
Green: Minor injuries

Photos by: Herman Pieters, Garden Route District Municipality

MEDIA STATEMENT: 3 pm Status Update – Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George,  8 May 2024

Dr Carla Hauman and Vilje Maritz, a Garden Route Volunteer

George Municipality confirms that figures remain unchanged at this point, 3:00 pm 8 May.

36 patients retrieved.
7 are blue (Deceased).
16 are red patients (Critical).
6 are yellow patients (Life-threatening injuries).
7 are green (minor injuries).
A total of 39 of the initial 75 workers on site remain unaccounted for at present.

Support to the rescue personnel

The rescue operation is approaching 49 hours as of 14:30 this afternoon, 8 May.

An update will be issued by 6 pm on Wednesday 8 May 2024, – South African Time.

On-site Triage Description:
Blue: Deceased
Red: Critical
Yellow: Life-threatening injuries
Green: Minor injuries

Support for Emergency Personnel at Victoria Street Building Collapse Site

In light of the exhaustive rescue operations and the high physical stress endured by the multi-disciplinary emergency personnel working tirelessly at the Victoria Street Building collapse site, volunteers have stepped in to provide essential support.

Vitamin B complex for rescue workers

Recognising the critical need for sustaining these dedicated workers’ health and energy levels, volunteers are supplying vitamin B complex boosters. These supplements play a vital role in releasing energy through metabolism and supporting overall bodily functions under strenuous conditions.

The George Municipality thanks all volunteers and medical professionals for their invaluable assistance during this critical time.

 

PhotoS by: Herman Pieters, Garden Route District Municipality

MEDIA STATEMENT: 12pm Status Update – Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

George Municipality confirms that figures remain unchanged at this point, 12pm 8 May:

36 patients retrieved;

7 are blue (Deceased);

16 are red patients (Critical);

6 are yellow patients (Life-threatening injuries)

7 are green (minor injuries).

A total of 39 of the initial 75 workers on site remain unaccounted for at present.

A specialised asbestos removal company is currently tasked with deconstructing the old parking structure located at the back of the site. This structure is not a part of the new development that was under construction. This is to aid access for rescue operations which continue at the building collapse site on Victoria Street.

The rescue operation is now approaching  46 hours as of 12:00 this afternoon, 8 May.

An update will be issued by 3pm  on Wednesday 8 May 2024,  – South African Time.

On site Triage Description:

Blue:      Deceased

Red:       Critical

Yellow: Life-threatening injuries

Green: Minor injuries

Photograph Credit Herman Pieters, GRDM Communications

MEDIA STATEMENT: 9am Status Update – Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

George Municipality confirms that thirty-six (36) patients have been retrieved from the collapsed building as at 09:00 Wednesday 8 May.

Of the 36 retrieved, 7 are blue (declared deceased), 16 are red patients (critical); 6 are yellow patients (Life-threatening injuries) and 7 are green (minor injuries).

A total of 39 of the initial 75 workers on site remain unaccounted for at present.

Rescue operations continue at the building collapse site on Victoria Street today with a multi-disciplinary rescue team of more than 200 emergency services available.

The rescue operation is now approaching 43 hours as of 09:00 this morning 8 May.

An update will be issued by 12pm on Wednesday 8 May 2024, – South African Time.

On site Triage Description:
Blue: Deceased
Red: Critical
Yellow: Life-threatening injuries
Green: Minor injuries

MEDIA STATEMENT: 6am Status Update – Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

Issued George Municipality, 8 May 2024, 05:33

The tally of retrieMEDIA STATEMENT: 6am Status Update – Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George
Issued George Municipality, 8 May 2024, 05:33

The tally of retrieved patients has risen to thirty-six (36) as at 5:33 this morning Wednesday 8 May.
This leaves 39 persons unaccounted for at present.

Rescue operations at the building collapse site on Victoria Street continue with a multi-disciplinary rescue team of more than 200 emergency services. Seven (7) patients have been declared deceased.

Seventy-five (75) construction workers were present on the site at the time of the collapse which occurred at 14:09 on Monday 6 May and the rescue operation is now approaching 39 hours as of 5:33 this morning 8 May.

An update will be issued by 9am on Wednesday 8 May 2024, – South African Time.
ved patients has risen to thirty-six (36) as at 5:33 this morning Wednesday 8 May.
This leaves 39 persons unaccounted for at present.

Rescue operations at the building collapse site on Victoria Street continue with a multi-disciplinary rescue team of more than 200 emergency services. Seven (7) patients have been declared deceased.

Seventy-five (75) construction workers were present on the site at the time of the collapse which occurred at 14:09 on Monday 6 May and the rescue operation is now approaching 39 hours as of 5:33 this morning 8 May.

An update will be issued by 9am on Wednesday 8 May 2024, – South African Time.

MEDIA STATEMENT: 9pm Status Update – Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

Issued George Municipality, 7 May 2024, 21:30

The tally of retrieved patients has risen to thirty-four (34) as at 21:09 this evening, 7 May.
This leaves 41 persons unaccounted for at present.

Rescue operations at the building collapse site continue with a multi-disciplinary rescue team of more than 200 emergency services. Seven (7) patients have been declared deceased.

Seventy-five (75) construction workers were present on the site at the time of the collapse which occurred at 14:09 on Monday 6 May and the rescue operation is now approaching 31 hours as of 21:09 today, 7 May.

An update will be issued by 6am on Wednesday 8 May 2024, – South African Time.

Photograph Credit: Herman Pieters, GRDM Communications

MEDIA STATEMENT: Update on Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George (7 May, 20:30)

A multi-disciplinary rescue team of more than 200 emergency services personnel are continuing to conduct rescue operations and as of 19:40 this evening, 7 May 2024, seven (7) patients have been declared deceased.

Thirty-three (33) patients have been removed from the rubble of the collapsed multi-story construction site at 75 Victoria Street, leaving 42 persons unaccounted for.

Seventy-five (75) construction workers were present on the site at the time of the collapse which occurred at 14:09 on Monday 6 May and the rescue operation is now approaching 30 hours as of 20:00 today, 7 May.

An update will be issued at 21:00, 7 May 2024 – South African Time.

Photograph Credit: Herman Pieters, GRDM Communications 

MEDIA STATEMENT: Update on Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

Issued George Municipal, 7 May 2024, 15.00

The rescue operations continuing and as of 14:30 this afternoon, 7 May 2024 a total of six (6) patients have been declared deceased.

Twenty-eight (28) patients have been removed from the rubble of the collapsed multi-story construction site at 75 Victoria Street, leaving 47 persons unaccounted for.

Seventy-five (75) construction workers were present on the site at the time of the collapse which occurred at 14:09 on Monday 6 May and the rescue operation is now approaching 24.20 hours as of 14:25 today, 7 May.

An update will be issued at 18:00, 7 May 2024 – South African Time.

Note: Should any member of the public wish to provide safety goggles, Headlamps, drinking water, energy drinks, wine gums, or food for the emergency services while they are on-site – kindly deliver to the tent site via Ivy Street at 79 Victoria Street, Delplan Consulting which is being manned by Gift of the Givers and Herman Pienaar of LoveGeorge which will remain operational throughout the night.

For enquiries to give please contact: Gift of the Givers: Mario Ferreira (082 490 2752) and Herman Pienaar (082 829 6428)

Safety equipment including helmets, safety goggles, headlamps and construction gloves are needed. If anyone can assist, please deliver to GRDM Fire Station, Pearl Road, Tamsui Industria.

We have had requests from the public about financial donations. Please use below banking details:

George Municipality: Relief and Charitable Fund
ABSA BANK Cheque Acc: 9149554208
Branch Code: 632005

MEDIA STATEMENT: Update on Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George, 7 May 2024, 15:00

The rescue operations continuing and as of 14:30 this afternoon, 7 May 2024 a total of six (6) patients have been declared deceased.

Twenty-eight (28) patients have been removed from the rubble of the collapsed multi-story construction site at 75 Victoria Street, leaving 47 persons unaccounted for.

Seventy-five (75) construction workers were present on the site at the time of the collapse which occurred at 14:09 on Monday 6 May and the rescue operation is now approaching 24.20 hours as of 14:25 today, 7 May.

An update will be issued at 18:00, 7 May 2024 – South African Time.

Note: Should any member of the public wish to provide safety goggles, Headlamps, drinking water, energy drinks, wine gums, or food for the emergency services while they are on-site – kindly deliver to the tent site via Ivy Street at 79 Victoria Street, Delplan Consulting which is being manned by Gift of the Givers and Herman Pienaar of LoveGeorge which will remain operational throughout the night.

For enquiries to give please contact: Gift of the Givers: Mario Ferreira (082 490 2752) and Herman Pienaar (082 829 6428)

Safety equipment including helmets, safety goggles, headlamps and construction gloves are needed. If anyone can assist, please deliver to GRDM Fire Station, Pearl Road, Tamsui Industria.

We have had requests from the public about financial donations. Please use below banking details:

George Municipality: Relief and Charitable Fund
ABSA BANK Cheque Acc: 9149554208
Branch Code: 632005

MEDIA STATEMENT: Update on Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

Issued George Municipal, 7 May 2024, 9am

George Municipality confirms that as of 9am this morning, 7 May, a total of five (5) patients have been declared deceased.

Twenty-six (26) patients have been removed from the rubble of the collapsed multi-story construction site at 75 Victoria Street, leaving 49 persons unaccounted for.

Status of patients: 11 red / 3 yellow / 7 green / 5 blue

75 construction workers were present on the site at the time of the collapse which occurred at 14:09 on Monday 6 May.

Three teams of rescue personnel are currently working on three different areas within the site of the collapsed building.
An update will be issued at 12pm, 7 May 2024 – South African Time.

Note: Should any member of the public wish to provide safety goggles, Headlamps, drinking water, energy drinks, wine gums, food for the emergency services while they are on site – kindly deliver to the tent site via Ivy Street at 79 Victoria St, Delplan Consulting which is being manned by Gift of the Givers and Herman Pienaar of LoveGeorge which will remain operational throughout the night.

For enquiries to give please contact: Gift of the Givers: Mario Ferreira (082 490 2752) and Herman Pienaar (082 829 6428)

Safety equipment including safety goggles, headlamps and construction gloves are needed. If anyone can assist please deliver to GRDM Fire Station, Pearl Road, Tamsui Industria.

 

Photograph Credit Herman Pieters, GRDM Communications Manager

MEDIA STATEMENT: Update on Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George (7 May, 5:15am)

Issued George Municipal, 7 May 2024, 5.15am

George Municipality confirms that as of 5:15am this morning, 7 May, a total of four (4) patients have been declared deceased.

Twenty-four (24) patients have been removed from the rubble of the collapsed multi-story construction site at 75 Victoria Street, leaving fifty-one (51) persons unaccounted for.

Status of patients: 10 red / 3 yellow / 7 green / 4 blue

Seventy-five (75) construction workers were present on the site at the time of the collapse which occurred at 14:09 on Monday 6 May.

Three teams of rescue personnel are currently working on three different areas within the site of the collapsed building.

An update will be issued at 9am, 7 May 2024 – South African Time.

Road Closures
Victoria Street remains closed for access at the York Street intersection, as well as midway down the street which means the Victoria Street gate to the George Municipal Building is not accessible to pedestrians or vehicles.

We request the public to please avoid this general area due to the constant presence of moving emergency vehicles and personnel.

Kindly access the municipal building via the Progress Street gate.

Thank you to volunteers
Municipal Manager Dr Gratz expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the organisations and individuals who have sprung into action to assist with the rescue operation. “We thank everyone who has volunteered of their time or provided sustenance to the rescue personnel. We continue to keep the families, friends and colleagues of those involved in this tragedy in our thoughts and prayers,” she said.

Note: Should any member of the public wish to provide drinking water, Lucozade, wine gums, or any food for the emergency services while they are on site – kindly deliver to the tent site via Ivy Street at 79 Victoria St, Delplan Consulting which is being manned by Gift of the Givers and Herman Pienaar of LoveGeorge.

For enquiries to give please contact: Gift of the Givers: Mario Ferreira (082 490 2752) and Herman Pienaar (082 829 6428)

MEDIA STATEMENT: Update on Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

Issued George Municipal, 7 May 2024, 3am

George Municipality confirms three (3) patients extracted from the rubble of the multi-story construction site at 75 Victoria Street, have now been declared deceased. At 12:45am another red patient was extracted from the rubble which brings the total number extracted to twenty-four (24).

Emergency personnel from the City of Cape Town and Breede Valley Local Municipality have joined the Emergency and Disaster personnel on site and continue the search for the 51 unaccounted persons trapped.

An update will be issued at approximately 6am, 7 May 2024 – South African Time.

MEDIA STATEMENT: Update on Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George (12pm)

Issued George Municipal, 6 May 2024, 12pm

One red patient has been extracted at 11pm tonight at the site of the multi-storey construction site which collapsed at 75 Victoria Street this afternoon at 14:09. This brings the total number of patients extracted to twenty-three (23) of which two (2) have been declared deceased.

Over 111 Emergency and Disaster personnel are currently on site to locate and retrieve the remaining fifty-two (52) persons unaccounted for.  Two sniffer dogs are currently involved in the rescue operation.

Emergency personnel en-route from City of Cape Town and Breede Valley Local Municipality will be on site by 12pm tonight.

Minister Anton Bredell, Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning arrived this evening at 11pm and is currently at the site of the rescue operation.  Premier Alan Winde will arrive in George tomorrow morning.

Garden Route District Municipality has established a Joint Operations Centre (JOC) with multiple stakeholders present as well as Western Cape Provincial Disaster Services.

Over 100 Family and friends of the local construction workers involved in the incident are gathered at the  main municipal building and continue to be assisted by Department of Social Services and Correctional Services Social Workers.

The construction companies involved are working with the GRDM Joint Operations Centre to establish a list of names of those remaining unaccounted for.

An update will be issued at about 3am tomorrow, South African Time.

Note: Should any member of the public wish to provide drinking water, Lucozade, wine gums, or any food for the over 111 emergency services while they are on site – kindly deliver to the tent site via Ivy Street at 79 Victoria St, Delplan Consulting which is being manned by Gift of the Givers and Herman Pienaar of LoveGeorge which will remain operational throughout the night.

For enquiries to give please contact: Gift of the Givers: Mario Ferreira (082 490 2752) and Herman Pienaar (082 829 6428)

 

MEDIA STATEMENT: Update on Building Collapse, Victoria Street – George

Issued George Municipal, 6 May 2024, 6pm

Following the collapse of a multi-storey building under construction in Victoria Street this afternoon, Disaster Service teams from George and Garden Route District Municipality are currently involved in the rescue operation. SAPS are on site.

53 Emergency personnel are on their way from the City of Cape Town and Worcester Disaster Services as well as Colin Deiner, Western Cape Provincial Disaster Services will be on site as soon as is possible to assist.

The collapse occurred just after 2pm today, 6 May with a construction crew of approximately 70 on site. 22 patients have been retrieved and sent to hospitals throughout the province. Currently the rescue operation remains underway with over 80 rescue personnel on site.

Family and friends of the construction workers involved in the incident are being given space to gather at the foyer of the main municipal building and will be assisted.

A second update will be issued at about 9pm tonight South African Time.

Western Cape Government supporting and monitoring response to building collapse in George

The Western Cape Government (WCG) is closely monitoring and sending resources to assist the emergency response to a construction site collapse in George, in the Southern Cape.

Premier Alan Winde and relevant provincial ministers and government are being briefed on the incident.

Premier Winde said, “All the necessary support has been offered to emergency personnel to expedite their response. At the moment, officials are focused on saving lives. This is our top priority at this stage.”

The Western Cape Government is sending personnel support as well as emergency response support.

The Premier is receiving ongoing updates on the situation. He has urged the public to allow emergency services officials the carry out their duties and to not put their own lives at risk by travelling to the site.

Further updates will be provided in due course.

George Municipal Internal Audit Department Launches International Internal Audit Awareness Month

May marks International Internal Audit Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognising the vital role of internal audit professionals and elevating the profession’s visibility. The Internal Audit Department at George Municipality is proud to participate in this global initiative by launching an awareness campaign to showcase the value-added role of internal audit within the organisation.

Led by Mr JP Rossouw, Chief Audit Executive, the George Internal Audit Team is enthusiastic about promoting the importance of internal audit and encouraging young South Africans to consider a career in this field. As guardians of good governance and risk management, internal auditors play a crucial role in enhancing processes and adding value to organisations.

Throughout May, the Internal Audit Department will collaborate with the Media Office to publish informative content on the municipal social media platforms. This content will highlight the role and responsibilities of internal audit, as well as address frequently asked questions to increase awareness and understanding.

In addition to informative content, the Internal Audit Department will host weekly competitions with exciting prizes for participants. Questions related to internal audit will be circulated to all users via a provided link, inviting everyone to participate and engage in celebrating International Internal Audit Awareness Month.

• Jean-Pierre Rossouw (Chief Audit Executive)
• Heybré Ellis (Manager: Internal Audit)
• Zimasa Bulo (Senior Internal Auditor)
• Kloper Mabunda (Internal Auditor)
• Natacha Martins (IA Intern)
• Xolisile Sotushe (IA Intern)
• Jomeila Apollis (IA Intern)

The Internal Audit Department welcomes inquiries and encourages individuals to reach out for further information about the role and responsibilities of internal audit.

See Video link
https://youtu.be/MZ9-vQZ24mQ

Solar Electrification Pilot Project launched in Thembalethu

In the photo is Dmitry Reznichenko a Project Engineer at Specialized Solar Systems (front left) showing Alderman Leon van Wyk, the Executive Mayor of George (front right) how the remotely managed technology works. The onlookers are, from left, Cllr Nosicelo Mbethe (Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services & Fleet), Phumla Magwebu (Beneficiary) and Cllr Thandiswa Qatana of the George Municipal Council. Standing at the back is Zenande Gubeka from Specialized Solar Systems).

Amidst ongoing challenges with load shedding affecting millions across South Africa, thirteen families residing in informal settlements in Thembalethu, a township in George, now enjoy reliable off-grid solar-powered electricity supply, courtesy of the Specialized Solar Systems’ Solar Electrification Pilot project.

During an official visit to the informal settlements on Thursday, 26 April 2024, Alderman Leon van Wyk, the Executive Mayor of George, inaugurated the Thembalethu Alternating Current (AC) Solar Electrification Pilot Project. “What we’ve now seen is the inauguration of the first pilot project and it is pleasing to see that this has worked. We want to applaud the company for taking this initiative and developing some new novel technology to make this work, so we certainly hope we can take this forward and expand this project to other areas.”

Expressing his enthusiasm for the initiative, Mayor van Wyk emphasised the collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector in transforming lives and improving living conditions. “This project is a remarkable example of groundbreaking technology enhancing dignified living while ensuring safety and affordability,” Mayor van Wyk added.

Andrew Behrens, the projects manager from Specialized Solar Systems (SSS) explained the innovative off-grid system, which utilises remotely managed technology to convert solar energy into usable electricity. Through overhead reticulation and automated switching meters, households receive fair and reliable power, managed remotely. Additionally, residents have the option to choose bundled power packages with Pay-As-You-Go billing, ensuring affordability and accessibility.

The project, initiated following a proposal invitation by George Municipality in 2022, was undertaken by Specialized Solar Systems in 2023 at no cost to the Municipality. Pierre Conradie, a senior electrical engineer at SSS highlighted the project’s goal to provide electricity to residents in informal areas not covered by traditional electrification programs. The Thembalethu project introduces groundbreaking technology, setting a sustainable precedent for future energy solutions.

Phumla Magwebu, a Zone 3 Informal Settlements beneficiary in Thembalethu, expressed gratitude for the project, saying, “The project has brought light into our lives. I’m very grateful, I wish more people could benefit from it.”

The project aims to collect valuable data and feedback to ensure its success and sustainability for future initiatives. “After about 6 months of project pilot evaluation, we will discuss the future of the projects based on the results and data from the pilot, said Daniel Greeff, the acting Director of the George Municipality’s Electrotechnical Services Directorate. George Municipality appreciates all stakeholders, including municipal officials, councillors, and the community, for their contributions to this transformative project.

Front row: Cllr Nosicelo Mbethe (Portfolio Councillor for Electrotechnical Services & Fleet), Ald Leon van Wyk (Executive Mayor of George), Cllr Thandiswa Qatana (Proportional Councillor in the George Municipality) and Pierre Conradie (Electrical Engineer) Specialized Solar Systems.
Middle row:
Phumeza Ndinga (Beneficiary), Phumla Magwebu (Beneficiary), Mayvis Bhoto (Beneficiary), Yonga Giba (Beneficiary), Andrew Behrens (Project Manager, Specialized Solar Systems), and Dmitry Reznichenko (Project Engineer) Specialized Solar Systems.
Back row:
Melt Loubser (Managing Director MDL), Johan Henning (Senior Technician Specialized Solar Systems), Stiaan Adams (Electrical Engineer CMB), Jonathan Hodgson (CEO, Specialized Solar Systems), Peter Bergs (Managing Director) Specialized Solar Systems, and Zenande Gubeka (CRM Specialized Solar Systems).
The project aims to collect valuable data and feedback to ensure its success
Andrew Behrens, the senior project manager from SSS explained the project to attendees
13 families from Thembalethu informal settlements enjoy reliable off-grid solar

 

Sea Training to enhance Water Rescue Unit

In the photograph are from left Chief Fire Officer and Instructor, Neels Barnard; Divisional Commander Johan Brand, Station Commander Santa Sternsdorf, Firefighter Brad Bussack, Junior Firefighter Richard Bruinders and Firefighter and Instructor, Johan Troskie.

In preparation for bolstering the Water Rescue Unit ahead of the upcoming festive season, four dedicated officials from the George Fire Brigade underwent rigorous sea training on Tuesday 23 April. The training included crucial sea hours necessary for obtaining their skipper’s licenses. Under the expert guidance of Instructors Chief Fire Officer Neels Barnard and Fire Official Johan Troskie, the officials honed their skills at Wilderness Beach.

This intensive training will allow five (5) fire and rescue officials to obtain their skippers tickets by the end of May. This marks a significant step in strengthening our emergency response capabilities, ensuring swift and effective assistance to those in need, particularly in water-related emergencies. George Municipality remains committed to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our community, especially during peak periods of activity.

1800 CC Jetski combined with pontoons of a rubberduck which is now called a Jetrib. The Jetrib is operated by two people, a skipper and a rescue swimmer and then can carry a third person as a victim. It is an extremely versatile sea vessel.

 

Rubber Duck rescue boat. 5.5 meter in length for deeper sea search and rescue.

 

See Video link
https://youtu.be/QttxvvfFED0

George Municipality Launches the Start-Up Tribe Academy for Local Entrepreneurs

Luvo Bomvana, Local Economic Development Manager, George Municipality

George Municipality is proud to announce the launch of the Start-Up Tribe Academy, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses in the local community. In collaboration with Start-Up Tribe, an esteemed online platform offering free online learning, this initiative seeks to empower aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the business world.

Supported by the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Start-Up Tribe initiative has gained international recognition for its efforts to address unemployment and promote economic growth. With a presence in 27 countries and over 400 cities and municipalities worldwide, Start-Up Tribe has been instrumental in providing valuable resources and educational opportunities to entrepreneurs.

The Start-Up Tribe Academy offers a wide range of free online courses designed to cater to entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey. Whether you are a novice exploring business ideas or an experienced entrepreneur seeking to expand your skills, the Academy provides accessible and engaging learning materials tailored to your needs. From introductory courses in the 14-Day Start Course to advanced Growth Courses, participants can benefit from insights shared by successful entrepreneurs and industry experts.

According to Luvo Bomvana, the Economic Development Manager at George Municipality, entrepreneurship plays a vital role in addressing key socio-economic challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality. “By participating in the Start-Up Tribe initiative, George Municipality aims to strengthen the local entrepreneurship ecosystem and provide entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and support to thrive,” Bomvana said.

Access the Start-Up Tribe Academy via a link on the George Municipality website, offering a user-friendly platform for easy access to educational resources. Through periodic data analysis and support from the Start-Up Tribe team, the Municipality will closely monitor progress and measure the impact of the initiative.

Importantly, the implementation of the Start-Up Tribe Academy incurs no financial costs to the Municipality, as it is fully funded by the Start-Up Tribe. With a customised syllabus and comprehensive back-end support, the Academy represents a valuable resource for local entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses.

For more information about the Start-Up Tribe and how to access the Academy, please visit https://www.thestartuptribe.org/pages/george

Additionally, frequently asked questions can be found at https://www.thestartuptribe.org/pages/faq.

#Startuptribeishere #Supportingsmallbusiness #Supportlocalentrepreneurs

 

10th World Travel Market Africa, A Success For George Tourism

Sharon House, Senior Tourism Officer was kept busy with prebooked meetings for the duration of WTM.

George Municipality’s Tourism team recently attended World Travel Market Africa (WTM), at the Cape Town International Convention Centre held from the 11 – 13 April 2024, together with members of the George Tourism fraternity promoting the destination at the highest level.

Unam Gila and Nomzamo Entile from Explore our Hood with Manager for Tourism, Joan Shaw on the WTM stand.

George exhibited on the Garden Route & Klein Karoo stand, alongside premium products such as Red Berry Farm and the Hawthorne Hotel to promote the benefits of the destination for business and leisure travel to hundreds of Tour Operators from across the globe.
The George focus was on our key markets which are the United Kingdom, Germany and the United States of America, but also including local buyers that sell tours in key markets, and some agents as far afield as Australia and India. The interest from other South African buyers was also showing stronger than ever this year.

George sponsored and facilitated the attendance of local entrepreneurs, Explore our Hood, who operate experience tours in Thembalethu. The couple has just facilitated a German/South African exchange program with great success and continues to promote tourism in this vibrant township.

WTMA celebrated its 10th year on African soil and an early start ensured confirmed meetings with 40 buyers before the show started. Although a few cancellations were received on the first day, these were filled with walk-in trade, making for a busy show. The standard of the buyers was excellent, and many are already engaging with us.
Tourism Manager, Joan Shaw says “We have just come up for air, after a busy show which was one of the best we have attended to date. Our Marketer, Sharon House, and I had good meetings and the interest in our area remains high, especially for leisure business.”
For more information or to join the Exhibition in 2025, contact Sharon House at 044 801 9298, or email shouse@george.gov.za.