The Republic of South Africa, also known as "South Africa", is located in South Africa African continent Southernmost point, facing east The Indian Ocean , approach the west Atlantic , our Northern neighbor Namibia , Botswana , Zimbabwe , Mozambique and Eswatini , besides Lesotho Surrounded by South African territory. The administrative capital is Pretoria The legislative capital is Cape Town The judicial capital is Bloemfontein . The total area is 1219,090 square kilometers, and the coastline is about 3,000 kilometers long. Most of the country belongs to Savanna climate . The country is divided into 9 provinces with 278 local governments. According to the 2022 South African Census data, the total population of South Africa is 62 million people , ^[22] English and Afrikaans It is the lingua franca and the main religion is Christianity . ^[4]

The first indigenous people in South Africa were SAN , Khoi And later moved south Bantu . After the 17th century, Netherlander The British invaded South Africa one after another and continued to push the colonies inland. In the mid-19th century, white rulers established four political entities: two British colonies, the Cape and Natal colonies; Two Boer republics, the Transvaal Republic and the Orange Free State. From 1899 to 1902, Anglo-burgundy War The British won a hard-fought victory. In 1910, the four political entities were merged into the "Union of South Africa", and South Africa became a self-governing British territory. In 1961, South Africa withdrew The British Commonwealth The Republic of South Africa was established in 1994. ^[4]

South Africa is the second largest economy in Africa, a middle-income developing country, and the most economically developed and industrialized country in Africa. South Africa is rich in natural resources. The financial and legal systems are relatively perfect, and the infrastructure of communication, transportation and energy is good. Mining, manufacturing, agriculture and services are relatively developed, are the four pillars of the economy, deep mining and other technologies in the world's leading position. In 2022, South Africa's GDP was $405.6 billion and its per capita GDP was $6,771. ^[4]

History of gold

What does gold mean for South Africa? 2021-09-02 10:46

In South Africa, 99 percent of engineers, 78 percent of natural scientists, 91 percent of technicians, and 72 percent of technicians are white, and almost all labor is black ... details

The content comes from

Chinese name: Republic of South Africa ^[1]
Foreign name: The Republic of South Africa ^[1]
Abbreviated form: S.Africa
continent: Africa
capital: Pretoria, Cape Town , Bloemfontein ^[1]
Major city: Johannesburg , Durban , Port Elizabeth Etc. ^[1]
National Day: May 31, 1961
National song: " God bless Africa The Cry of South Africa
Country code: ZAF
Official language: Afrikaans , English ^[1]
currency: South African rand ^[1]
Time zone: UTC+2
Political system: Presidential republic
National leader: Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa (President)
Population number: 62 million ^[22] (2022 South African Census data)
Population density: 48.9 persons/km2 ^[2] (2020)

Major nationality: black people , Coloured people , The white race , Asian ^[1]
Major religion: Protestantism ^[1] , Catholicism
Land area: 1219090 km² ^[1]
Total GDP: $405.6 billion ^[4] ^[16] (2022)
Per capita GDP: $6,771 ^[4] (2022)
International telephone area code: 27
International domain name abbreviation: .za
Road access: Drive on the left
Geographical orientation: South latitude 22 to 35 degrees East longitude Between 17 degrees and 33 degrees
Largest city: Johannesburg
Central bank: Reserve Bank of the Republic of South Africa
Government code: ZAF
The national flower: Royal flower
note: Vibriation ㄈ roll
reputation: Rainbow Nation
Leading institution: Witwatersrand University , University of Pretoria Etc.

catalogue

Historical evolution

broadcast

EDITOR

In 1652, the Dutch began their invasion, waging a number of colonial wars against the native blacks of South Africa.

In the early 19th century, the British began to invade South Africa, in 1806, the British seized the South African "Cape Colony", the Dutch Boers were forced to migrate inland, and in 1852 and 1854 have established the "Orange Free State" and "Transvaal Republic".

In 1867 and 1886, after the discovery of diamonds and gold in South Africa, a large number of European immigrants arrived. The English passed" Anglo-burgundy War (1899-1902), annexed the Orange Free State and the Transvaal Republic.

In May 1910, the United Kingdom merged the Cape, Transvaal, Natal and Orange Free State into the Union of South Africa, which became a British self-governing territory.

The South African authorities have long pursued a policy of racial discrimination and apartheid in the country through legislative and administrative means. In 1948, South African National Party After taking power, he fully implemented the apartheid system and suppressed the resistance struggle of the South African people, which was condemned and sanctioned by the international community.

In 1961, South Africa withdrew from the Commonwealth and became the Republic of South Africa.

After de Klerk became National Party leader and president in 1989, he introduced political reforms, lifting the ban on black liberation organizations and releasing black leaders such as Nelson Mandela, president of the African National Congress (ANC).

In 1991, 19 parties, including the ANC, the South African Government and the National Party, held multi-party negotiations on the political settlement of the South African issue, and reached an agreement on the political transition arrangement in 1993.

In April and May 1994, South Africa held its first non-racial general election, and the tripartite alliance of the African National Congress, the South African Communist Party and the Congress of South African Trade Unions, led by the African National Congress, won with a majority of 62.65%. Mandela As the first black president of South Africa, the ANC, the National Party, and the Inkatha Freedom Party formed a national unity government. That same year, South Africa rejoined the Commonwealth.

In December 1996, South African President Nelson Mandela signed a new constitution, which laid the legal foundation for the establishment of a new national system of racial equality. ^[4]

Geographical environment

broadcast

EDITOR

Regional location

South Africa is located in the southernmost part of the African continent, between 22° to 35° South latitude and 17° to 33° East longitude, with a total area of 1219,090 square kilometers. South Africa borders Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe to the north and Mozambique and Eswatini to the northeast. Lesotho is the South African country of China and is surrounded by South African territory. Prince Edward Island and Marion Island in the Atlantic Ocean, 1,920 km southeast of Cape Town, are also South African territories. South Africa is close to the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean on the east, South and west sides, and has a very important geographical position with a coastline of more than 3,000 kilometers. ^[4]

S.Africa

landform

South Africa is located in the southernmost part of the African Plateau, with coastal lowlands in the south, east and west, and mountains in the north. Northern inland region Kalahari Desert Mostly shrub grassland or arid desert, this area is about 650 to 1250 meters above sea level. The surrounding highlands are more than 1,200 meters above sea level. The highest point in South Africa is Mount Tabana on the Great Eastern Cliff at 3482 meters. To the east is the Longsan Mountain range.

Topographic map of South Africa

climate

Most of South Africa has a warm temperate climate, with an average annual temperature of 10-24 ° C. Average summer temperatures in major cities are as follows: Johannesburg 15~26℃, Tshwane 18~29℃, Cape Town 16~26℃. Average winter temperatures: 4~17℃ in Johannesburg, 5~20℃ in Tshwane, 7~18℃ in Cape Town. ^[3]

hydrology

There are two major rivers in South Africa: one flows from east to west into the Atlantic Ocean Orange River (The Orange River), with a total length of 2160 kilometers, is one of the largest rivers in Africa, with a drainage area of about 950,000 square kilometers. The other is the main flow with Botswana , Zimbabwe Border mergence Mozambique import The Indian Ocean the The Limpopo River (The Limpopo River), a total length of 1,680 kilometers, drainage area of 385,000 square kilometers.

Other smaller rivers originating in the inland plateaus mostly cut through the "Great Bluff" into the Indian Ocean, with a few flowing west into the Atlantic Ocean. The main ones are: The Vaal on the border between the Free State and the four northern provinces, and the Kwana Province The Tugela River (The Tugela), The Sundis River in the Eastern Cape (The Sundays) and Great Fish River (The Great Fish), The Olifants River in The Western Cape, The Letaba River in the Northern Province and the eastern Free State Province The Calydon River (The Caledon), etc.

Natural resources

South Africa is very rich in mineral resources, is one of the world's five largest mineral resources countries, its minerals known for variety, large reserves, high production is famous in the world, has been known as the world's second rich mineral geological structure. South Africa has proven reserves of more than 70 minerals, with a total value of about $2.5 trillion. According to statistics, South Africa's platinum group metals, manganese ore, chromium ore, aluminosilicate, gold, diamonds, fluorspar, vanadium, vermiculite, zirconium group ores, titanium group ores and other minerals reserves, production and exports are among the top in the world, and even account for more than 50% of the world's total. among Platinum group metal , fluorspar , chromium The reserves rank first in the world, gold, vanadium, manganese, zirconium rank second, titanium rank fourth, phosphate ore, uranium, lead, antimony rank fifth, coal, zinc rank eighth, copper rank ninth. ^[4] Danin Oil and gas resources Lack. South Africa depends on energy coal Resources, petroleum , Natural gas It mainly relies on imports, partly using bioenergy, coal-to-oil technology, nuclear, solar and wind energy. ^[3]

Administrative division

broadcast

EDITOR

Zoning details

South Africa is divided into nine provinces, namely Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Limpopo, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Mpumalanga, North West Province and Northern Cape, with 278 local governments, including eight metropolitan areas, 44 regional Councils and 226 local Councils.

South Africa's government, Parliament and Supreme Court of Appeal are located in three cities, so there are three capitals. South Africa is the only country in the world to have three capital cities. ^[4]

Subdivisions of South Africa

Major city

Administrative Capital - Pretoria

Views of Pretoria

Pretoria is the administrative capital of South Africa, home to the country's central government and 135 foreign missions and international agencies. After the 2000 local government elections, it merged with 12 surrounding local governments and was renamed Tshwane, although the name and city limits of the former Pretoria remain common. Its administrative body is called the Municipal Council. The Tshwane metropolitan area is about 3,200 square kilometers. Tshwane is South Africa's ferrous metallurgy industry center and road, railway hub, 53% of South Africa's transport exports from Tshwane, mainly steel, machinery, chemical, textile, fertilizer, paper, food and other industries as well as diamond, platinum, gold, chromium, coal and other mining. ^[6]

Views of Pretoria

In addition to gathering important administrative units such as the presidential Palace of the Republic of South Africa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Justice, Pretoria is located in the embassies of various countries, the famous University of Pretoria, the University of South Africa, the National Astronomical Observatory, the National Opera House, and the National Cultural Museum, which is a veritable national political, cultural, educational and scientific research center. The Bito National Zoo is one of the top 10 zoos in the world and is home to more than 3,500 animals.

Pretoria is 1378 meters above sea level, the air is fresh and the climate is pleasant, the urban planning is good, surrounded by mountains, and the suburbs are planned enough parks and green Spaces. The most famous park is the Federation Building Trapezoidal Garden in the city center. Every year, October is the blooming season for the purple and blue city flower couplets, which are planted on both sides of the city's roads. The whole city is immersed in the colorful clusters of thousands of purple spots. It is a true "garden city". The average temperature is about 22 degrees Celsius in summer and about 10 degrees in winter. The temperature sometimes drops below 0 degrees on winter nights, but it rarely snows. ^[7]

Legislative Capital - Cape Town

Cape Town scenery

Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa, the seat of the National Parliament and the capital of the Western Cape Province. It is also the country's second largest city and an important port, facing the Atlantic Table Bay, backed by Table Mountain, beautiful scenery, for the world famous tourist city, population of about 4.01 million. Cape Town is recognized as one of the most beautiful and charming coastal cities in the world, is the oldest city in South Africa, but also the birthplace of the Republic of South Africa, was founded in 1652, the original Dutch East India Company supply station, is the first Western European colonists in South Africa established a stronghold.

Cape Town port

There are many old colonial buildings in Cape Town. The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest building in Cape Town, with 17th-century European immigrant houses, furniture, Dutch windmill paintings and old farmhouse looks. The city has the beautiful Government Street Park, opposite the famous Parliament House, which is the seat of the South African National Assembly. Cape Town has large textile, wine, tobacco, oil refining, chemical, leather, paper, shipbuilding and other industries. Due to its location at the intersection of important international shipping lanes, the port is excellent, and it has the largest dry dock in the Southern Hemisphere. More than 30 countries, including China, have consular missions here. ^[7]

April 18, 2005, Zhejiang Province, China Hangzhou City Establishing sister city relations with Cape Town. ^[9]

Judicial Capital - Bloemfontein

A view of Bloemfontein

Bloemfontein is the judicial capital of South Africa, the seat of South Africa's Supreme Court of Appeal, and the capital of the Free State Province. Originally a fortress, Bloemfontein was officially established as a city in 1846 and is now the centre of trade, transport and communication in South Africa. The word Bloemfontein means "the root of flowers". The city has rolling hills and beautiful scenery.

Bloemfontein is located in the Central Highlands of South Africa, the geographical center of the country, surrounded by hills, hot in summer, cold and frost in winter. The city has rolling hills, beautiful scenery and many gardens, known as the "Rose City". The nearby Franklin Game Reserve is one of South Africa's top tourist attractions. ^[7]

March 2000, Jiangsu Province, China Nanjing The sister city relationship was concluded with Bloemfontein. ^[8]

Johannesburg (Johannesburg)

Views of Johannesburg

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, but also the third largest city in Africa, the climate is cool, suitable for tourism all year round. Located in the inland plateau, about 1750 meters above sea level, the temperature difference between day and night is large, but the climate is mild. The average temperature in summer is 20 degrees Celsius and in winter it is around 11 degrees Celsius. The city center is full of high-rise buildings, government offices, banks, stations, stock exchanges, etc., are all new and modern buildings. Because the residences are mostly in the suburbs, the manicured flower beds and gorgeous bungalows are another scene, and the busy city center appears deserted after night. Johannesburg is surrounded by a variety of ethnically populated satellite cities, including Vereeniging, Benoni, Germiston, etc., all of which are connected with Joburg by highway and rail.

In 1886, gold was discovered in the northern mountains of South Africa, which attracted countless gold seekers, so Johannesburg is also known as the "Golden City". ^[7]

Durban

Durban scenery

Durban is located in South Africa's bay facing the Indian Ocean. It is the second largest port in Africa after Alexandria, Egypt, and has a maritime climate with heavy humidity in summer and very mild winters. Tourism accounts for a significant proportion of Durban's overall economy. The city is best known for its beach area and dozens of parks, such as KwaZulu-Natal's Gold Coast, where many people come to dive and watch. Durban has an international civil airport. Because it is the first port in South Africa, maritime transport is quite developed, and the domestic Cape Town, Port Elizabeth has steamship operation, and the major ports abroad also have navigation.

The Durban market is thriving. With large shopping malls, department stores, and nearly 100 stalls in the Marina Park, the flea market held in the last week of each month is enough for shoppers to spend most of the day searching for various goods. Indian markets are also popular shopping destinations for locals and tourists alike, where exotic little goods such as spices, brass products and Zulu handicrafts, unique to India, can be found. ^[7]

Nelson Mandela Bay City view

Nelson Mandela Bay City

Nelson Mandela Bay is a new metropolitan area created after the 2000 local government elections in South Africa. Located in the Eastern Cape, Algo Bay, including the city of Port Elizabeth and neighboring cities and regions, is one of the cleanest cities in South Africa and the former capital of the Eastern Cape Province. It has a population of over 1 million. With beautiful scenery and developed tourism, it enjoys the reputation of "Friendly City".

In 1820, British colonists began to settle here, so the city has a number of historic buildings, including the city's oldest street, Duncan Street, built in 1827 a solid building, built in 1861 is now a military museum lighthouse and so on. Other monuments include St. Augustine's Cathedral, Fort Frederic, and Coratan. The 283km narrow-gauge railway between Port Elizabeth and LOERIE is one of the few remaining narrow-gauge railway lines in the world. ^[7]

National symbol

broadcast

EDITOR

flag

Flag of South Africa

Flag of South Africa It was opened on 27 April 1994. flag Rectangular in shape, the ratio of length to width is 3:2. It is made up of six colors, red, green, blue, white, black and yellow, and is shaped like a Y (the official explanation is V, which flows into a flat line, not a Y). The upper area of the flag is red, and the lower area is blue, each accounting for one-third of the width of the flag, representing blood. In the center of the flag is a horizontal Y-shaped three-color strip, accounting for one-third of the width of the flag. It is a symbol of the convergence of different South African nations, common development, and the future road together. The black triangle used to separate the red and blue zones from the cloth that connects the flagpole. The middle color of the three-color strip is green, the width accounts for one-fifth of the width of the flag, representing the land, the green side has gold and white, each accounting for one-fifteenth of the width of the flag, gold represents gold, white represents white with a gold end connected to a black triangle, black represents black.

National emblem

Coat of arms of South Africa

Coat of arms of South Africa It was opened on 27 April 2000. The sun symbolizes a bright future; The winged heron eagle is the representative of God, symbolizing the strength of defense; The kaleidoscopic pattern symbolizes the beauty of the country, the revival of Africa and the convergence of forces; Instead of the heron eagle, the spear with its feet flat and the round head stick symbolized peace as well as defense and sovereignty; The drum-shaped coat of arms symbolizes abundance and defense; The figures on the shield, taken from the famous stone art, symbolize unity; The ears of wheat symbolize abundance, growth, development potential, food and clothing of the people, and agricultural characteristics. Ivory symbolizes wisdom, strength, gentleness and eternity; The text between the two sides of the ivory reads "Unity in diversity".

National anthem

In May 1995, South Africa officially adopted the new National anthem The lyrics of the new national anthem Zulu , Zhehausa, Suto, English and Afrikaans Written in five languages, including the prayer of the original national anthem "God Bless Africa", the song is 1 minute 35 seconds long and ends with the powerful, high-pitched tune of the original national anthem "The Voice of South Africa". The original national anthem, entitled "God Bless Africa", was ratified on 15 March 1994. The song was written by black pastor Nock Sangtonga in 1897 and first performed in South Africa in 1912 Indigenous people In the National Assembly as a black man nationalism The song of praise was well received by black people in Africa.

National stone

Diamond .

The national flower

Royal flower . Bush, aka Bodhi flower Commonly known as wood lily or longan flower.

population

broadcast

EDITOR

As of 2022, the total population of South Africa is 60.6 million. It is divided into black, colored, white and Asian four races, accounting for 81%, 8.8%, 7.6% and 2.6% of the total population respectively. The black people are mainly Zulu, Xhosa, Swaz, Tswana, North Sotho, South Sotho, Tsonga, Venda, Ndebele nine tribes, mainly speaking Bantu language. White people are mainly The Afrikaners (mainly Dutch, the integration of French and German immigrants formed a white African ethnic group) and British white, the language is Afrikaans and English . The coloured people are mainly a mixed race of white people and local black people, and mainly speak Afrikaans. Asians are mainly Indian (the vast majority) and Chinese. There are 11 official languages, of which English and Afrikaans are common languages. About 80% of the population believes in Christianity, while the rest believe in primitive religions, Islam, Hinduism, etc. ^[4] ^[18]

political

broadcast

EDITOR

regime

The Constitution of South Africa stipulates that South Africa has an executive, a legislature and a judiciary Separation of powers The system of central, provincial and local governments is interdependent and each has its own power. ^[6]

constitution

The 1994 Interim Constitution was the first in South Africa's history to embody racial equality. In 1996, a new constitution, drafted on the basis of the interim Constitution, was formally ratified, and its phased implementation began in 1997. The Constitution provides for the separation of powers between the executive, the legislature and the judiciary, and the central, provincial and local governments are interdependent and independent of each other. The Bill of Rights in the Constitution is known as the cornerstone of South African democracy and explicitly guarantees the rights of citizens. Amendments to the preamble of the Constitution must be approved by three-quarters of the members of the National Assembly and six provinces in the Provincial Council; Amendments to other articles of the Constitution must be approved by two-thirds of the members of the National Assembly; If part of the amendment involves provincial provisions, it must be approved by six provinces in the Provincial Council.

congress

S.Africa It has a bicameral system, divided into the National Assembly and the National Council of Provincial Affairs (referred to as the "National Council of Provinces"), each with a term of five years. The current Parliament was elected in national and nine provincial elections held in May 2019. There are 400 seats in the National Assembly, 200 of which are allocated on the basis of national election results and 200 on the basis of provincial election results. The ANC won 230 seats, the Democratic Alliance 84 seats, the Economic Freedom Fighters 44 seats, the Inkatha Freedom Party 14 seats, the New Freedom Front 10 seats, the rest of the seats are held by the African Christian Democratic Party, the United Democratic Movement and other parties. President of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula (female). The Provincial Council consists of 90 deputies, 10 from each province, and is composed of the prefect, three special representatives (appointed by the prefect), and six permanent representatives (elected by the provincial Council in accordance with the proportion of the political parties in the provincial Council). Provincial Council President Amos Masondo (ANC). The National Assembly and the Provincial Council of South Africa have special committees, AD hoc committees and joint committees corresponding to government departments. ^[22]

government

South Africa's government is divided into three levels: central, provincial and local. The central government adopts the presidential cabinet system. The president also serves as the head of government and heads the cabinet. The Cabinet consists of the President, the Vice President and all ministers. The provincial government consists of the Governor and five to ten members of the Executive Council. Local government consists of a municipal council, a mayor, an administrative council or mayor's council, and a special council. Most districts also have a speaker who convenes municipal council meetings. Most local governments are held accountable by the mayor, who is elected by the municipal Council and vested with supreme executive power, and appointed by the Mayor to perform government functions. ^[4]

The main government departments in South Africa are: Ministry of Agriculture, Agrarian Reform and Rural Development, Ministry of Basic Education, Ministry of Information, Ministry of Joint Administration and Traditional Affairs, Ministry of Defence and Veterans, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Fisheries, Ministry of Employment and Labour, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Higher Education and Science and Technology, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Human Settlements, Water and Public Health, Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, Ministry of Justice and Prisons, Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy, Police Ministry of State Affairs, Ministry of the Presidency, Ministry of Women, Youth and Disability, Ministry of State-owned Enterprises, Ministry of Public Service and Administration, Ministry of Public Works and Infrastructure, Ministry of Small Business Development, Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture, Ministry of State Security, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ministry of Transport, etc. ^[6]

judiciary

South Africa's judicial system consists of three main systems: courts, criminal justice and prosecution. In addition, there are institutions based on historical and social realities. The court system includes: the Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court of Appeal, the High Court, the District Court, the District Court and the Special Court. The criminal justice system consists of the Ministry of Police, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development, and the Ministry of Prisons. The prosecuting authority is the State Prosecution Service. ^[6]

Political party

Implement a multi-party system. There are 13 political parties in the National Assembly.

Political party	nature	introduce
(1) African National Congress	The main ruling party, the largest black party	The African National Congress advocated the establishment of a new South Africa of unity, democracy and racial equality, and led the anti-racism struggle in South Africa. Founded in 1912, it changed its name in 1925 and has about 1 million members. Had long advocated nonviolent struggle. It was declared "illegal" by the South African authorities in 1960 and its main leaders fled into exile. In 1961, he decided to carry out armed struggle and set up the "Spear of the Nation" military organization, with Mandela as commander-in-chief. In 1962, Mandela and others were arrested. The ANC persevered in its struggle under extremely difficult conditions, gained widespread sympathy and support at home and abroad, and gradually became the most influential black liberation organization in South Africa. After the 1980s, adjusting the strategy of struggle, defining the strategy of political settlement of the South African problem and flexible handling of the constitutional negotiations played a key role in the smooth transition process of South Africa.
(2) Democratic Alliance	The largest opposition party	It was formerly known as the Democratic Party and changed its name to its current name after merging with the New Kuomintang Party in June 2000. The main members are white, representing the interests of the British white business and financial community. It was a white "liberal" left-wing party that advocated the abolition of apartheid and was actively involved in the South African peace process. In October 2001, the New National Party withdrew from the Democratic Alliance. In order to increase its strength, the NLD implemented a strategic shift to build a national party that included both black and white members.
(3) Economic Freedom Fighters		It was launched in June 2013 by Julius Malema, former president of the ANC Youth League. He advocated a radical policy of taking back all land without compensation and redistributing it, nationalizing the mining industry, and promising free education and health care for all.
(4) Inkatha Freedom Party	Nationalist party	A black nationalist party dominated by the Zulu ethnic group of KwaZulu-Natal. Formerly known as the National Cultural Liberation Movement, it was founded in 1928 and opened to all races in 1990, changing to a political party under its current name. For the purpose of fighting for the liberation of the black people, he advocated the settlement of the South African issue through peaceful negotiations.
(5) South African Communist Party		It formed a "tripartite alliance" with the ANC and the Congress of South African Trade Unions. Its members run for office as members of the ANC. It was established in July 1921. It was declared "illegal" by the South African authorities in 1950. It regained legal status in February 1990. It has always taken the realization of communism as its ultimate goal and insisted on the nature of a "socialist working class party", but believes that South Africa is basically a highly dependent capitalist society developed through special colonialism, and the current task is still to promote the nationalist revolution aimed at the complete liberation of the black people. In July 2022, the 15th National Congress was held to elect a new leadership, and Solly Mapaila, then the first Deputy secretary, was elected General secretary.

In addition, other political parties are: Freedom Front Plus, Congress of the People, United Democratic Movement, African Christian Democratic Party Democratic Party, Pan Africanist Congress, Minority Front, African Transformation Movement, Good Party Party), etc. ^[4] ^[16]

dignitaries

Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa

Current President: Cyril Ramaphosa, born 1952. Bachelor of Laws. He was involved in the black student movement and founded the South African National Congress of Mineworkers. He was elected general secretary of the ANC in 1991. After the establishment of the New South Africa in 1994, he was a member of the National Assembly and President of the Constituent Assembly. After losing the race for the presidency of the ANC in 1997, he gave up politics and turned to business (he still retains party posts such as the ANC National Executive Committee). He was elected Deputy President of the ANC in 2012. He became Vice President in May 2014. He was elected President of the ANC in December 2017 and re-elected in December 2022. On 14 February 2018, President Zuma was forced to announce his resignation after being recalled by the ANC, and Ramaphosa took over as president. In May 2019, the ANC won the sixth national election in South Africa, and Ramaphosa was re-elected as president. Re-elected as ANC president in December 2022. ^[4] ^[19]

economy

broadcast

EDITOR

summarize

South Africa is a middle-income developing country and the most economically developed country in Africa. Natural resources are abundant. The financial and legal systems are relatively perfect, and the infrastructure of communication, transportation and energy is good. Mining, manufacturing, agriculture and services are relatively developed, are the four pillars of the economy, deep mining and other technologies in the world's leading position. However, the development of various sectors and regions of the national economy is unbalanced, and the characteristics of urban and rural, black and white dual economy are obvious.

In the early 1980s and early 1990s, the economy declined due to the impact of international sanctions. The new South African government formulated a "Reconstruction and development plan", which emphasized the improvement of the social and economic status of blacks. In 1996, the "Growth, Employment and Redistribution Plan" was launched, aiming to achieve economic growth, increase employment and gradually change the unbalanced distribution by promoting privatization, reducing the fiscal deficit, increasing labor market flexibility, promoting exports, relaxing foreign exchange controls and encouraging the development of small and medium-sized enterprises. The economy grew at an average annual rate of 3% from 1994 to 2004 and more than 5% from 2005 to 2007. Affected by the international financial crisis, South Africa's economic growth slowed down in 2008, with year-on-year growth falling to 3.1% and -1.8% in 2009, once falling into recession. In response to the impact of the financial crisis, the South African government has cut interest rates six times since December 2008, and introduced comprehensive policy measures such as increasing expenditure and reducing taxes, stimulating investment and consumption, and strengthening social security to curb the downward momentum of the economy. South Africa's economy has stabilised thanks to a combination of government stimulus measures, a gradually improving international economic environment and preparations for the Football World Cup.

Since 2010, the Zuma government has introduced the "New Growth Path" and the "National Development Plan 2030", focusing on addressing social problems such as poverty, unemployment and wealth disparity, and accelerating economic and social transformation by strengthening government macro-control. Since 2013, South Africa has experienced large capital outflows due to factors such as the withdrawal of quantitative easing policies by the United States. In recent years, affected by multiple factors such as the global economic downturn, frequent domestic strikes, power shortages, and sluggish consumption, South Africa's economy is generally sluggish and its growth is weak. President Ramaphosa has launched the "New Investment Initiative" and the "Economic Stimulus and Recovery Plan", held the employment summit and the investment conference, and committed to restoring economic growth. From 2014 to 2019, the economic growth rate remained around 1%, and in 2020, the economy contracted by 6.4% due to the COVID-19 epidemic and the "ban" measures. In 2021, there was a strong recovery, and the economic growth was 4.9%. Key economic data for 2022 are as follows:

In 2022, South Africa's GDP is $405.6 billion, with a per capita GDP of $6,771, and annual GDP growth: 1.9%. In 2022, the foreign exchange reserves will be $66.7 billion and the total foreign debt will be $155.1 billion.

industry

S.Africa Manufacturing, construction, energy and mining are the four major sectors of South African industry. The manufacturing industry has a wide range of categories and advanced technology, and its output value accounts for 17.2% of the GDP. The main products are steel, metal products, chemicals, transportation equipment, machine manufacturing, food processing, textiles, clothing and so on. The steel industry is the backbone of South Africa's manufacturing industry, with six steel syndicates and more than 130 steel enterprises. In recent years, uncompetitive industries such as textiles and clothing have shrunk, and emerging export industries such as automobile manufacturing have developed rapidly.

In recent years, the construction industry in South Africa has developed rapidly, but the problems such as obsolete equipment and lack of skilled workers are prominent. The southern government is currently implementing the infrastructure development plan, and the construction industry is facing a good opportunity for further development.

South Africa's energy industry has a solid foundation and relatively advanced technology. The electricity industry is well developed, and the state-owned South African Electricity Company (ESKOM) supplies 95% of South Africa's electricity consumption. In recent years, due to power production and management lag and other reasons, the national power shortage phenomenon is serious. Near Cape Town, the only nuclear power plant on the African continent, the Koeberg nuclear power plant, has a capacity of 1.8 million kilowatts. In addition, South Africa's SASOL (SASOL) coal synthetic fuel and natural gas synthetic fuel technology commercialization level ranks in the world.

S.Africa Mining production has a long history, with a complete modern mining system and advanced mining and smelting technology, is the pillar of South Africa's economy. It accounts for about 18% of gross domestic product. Mineral products are the main export product, and in 2020, mineral products exports will account for about 25% of total exports. South Africa is one of the world's major producers and exporters of gold, platinum group metals and chromium. Diamond production accounts for about 9% of the world. South Africa's De Beers is the world's largest diamond production and sales company, with total assets of $20 billion, its turnover once accounted for 90% of the world's diamond supply market, and it still controls 60% of the world's rough diamond trade. ^[22]

agriculture

S.Africa Agriculture is more developed, and the output value accounts for 3% of GDP. Arable land accounts for about 12 per cent of the land area, but only 22 per cent is suitable for productive cultivation. Agriculture, forestry and fishing employ about 7% of the population, and their export earnings account for 15% of non-mining export earnings. Agricultural production is significantly affected by climate change. Maize is the most important food crop. All kinds of canned food, tobacco, wine, coffee and beverages sell well overseas. Rich in flowers, fruits, wine enjoys a high reputation.

Fishery industry

South Africa accounts for 5% of Africa's aquaculture production. The South African commercial fishing fleet consists of more than 500 vessels of all kinds. About 28,000 people work in the Marine fishing industry. The main fishing species are mussels, trout, oysters and Cape Cod. The annual catch is about 580,000 tonnes, with an output value of nearly R2 billion. In addition, South Africa's beekeeping industry is worth about R20 million a year. ^[4]

Animal husbandry

South Africa's animal husbandry is relatively developed, mainly concentrated in the western two-thirds of the country. Livestock types mainly include cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and so on, poultry mainly ostrich, chicken and so on. The main products are poultry eggs, beef, fresh milk, dairy products, mutton, pork, sheep wool and so on. ^[22]

tourism

tourism It is one of the fastest growing industries in South Africa, accounting for 9% of GDP and employing 1.4 million people. Rich tourism resources, perfect facilities. Tourist spots are mainly concentrated in the northeast and east and south coastal areas. Ecotourism and folk tourism are the two main growth points of South African tourism. In 2010, the 19th World Cup Finals were held in South Africa, which strongly boosted South Africa's tourism industry. Due to the impact of COVID-19, more than 2.8 million foreign tourists visited South Africa in 2020, down significantly from more than 10.23 million in 2019 (Statistics South Africa data). Nearly 5.7 million foreign tourists will be received in 2022, an increase of more than 150% year-on-year, but still lower than the pre-epidemic level. ^[22]

finance

There are 31 registered banks in South Africa, and another 42 foreign banks have representative offices in South Africa. Banking assets of R2,967 billion. The four largest banks are: Standard bank (Standard Bank, First Rand Bank, Amalgamated Banks of South Africa Group, NedBank Limited). The total assets of the four commercial banks account for 84.6% of the total assets of the South Commercial Bank. In 2022, South Africa has foreign exchange reserves of $66.7 billion and external debt of $155.1 billion.

Central bank

The South Africa Reserve Bank (South Africa Reserve Bank) is the central bank of South Africa, founded in 1920, as a joint-stock bank, in addition to the governor and deputy governors appointed by the government, enjoy a great deal of independent decision-making power. It is based in Pretoria. Responsible for formulating and implementing monetary policy, regulating the money supply, supervising other financial institutions, and maintaining the stability of financial markets. ^[3]

Commercial bank

South Africa has a well-developed banking sector, There are 31 registered banks in South Africa, and another 42 foreign banks have representative offices in South Africa. Banking assets of R2,967 billion. The four largest banks are: Standard Bank, First Rand Bank, Amalgamated Banks of South Africa Group, NedBank Limited. The total assets of the four commercial banks account for 84.6% of the total assets of the South Commercial Bank. ^[4]

Chinese bank

Bank of China, China Construction Bank and Bank of Communications of China have branches in Johannesburg respectively. The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China has representative offices in Cape Town, the Export-Import Bank of China, the China-Africa Development Fund and the China Export and Credit Insurance Corporation have representative offices in Johannesburg, and the Southern Africa Regional Group of the China Development Bank is also located in Johannesburg. In 2008, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China acquired 20 percent of the shares of South Africa's Standard Bank, the largest bank in Africa, and became the largest shareholder of the bank. ^[3]

insurance

In South Africa, insurance can be divided into long-term insurance and short-term insurance. Short-term insurance (non-life insurance) is mainly related to risk assessment. Insurance contracts are usually signed annually and can be cancelled by either party at any time. This kind of insurance includes engineering, guarantee, debt, traffic accident, medical, property and other insurance. There are over 100 registered short-term insurance companies in South Africa. Long-term insurance mainly refers to life insurance, and others include assistance, sinking fund, health, disability and other insurance. Long-term insurance, pensions and reserve funds are primarily concerned with maximizing investment returns, and life insurance is chief among them. There are over 78 registered long term insurance companies in South Africa. ^[3]

Credit card use

Electronic banking is well developed in South Africa, with the widespread use of ATMs and credit cards. VISA cards, Master cards, UnionPay cards and other bank cards issued by Chinese banks can be used. ^[3]

Securities market

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange was established in 1887. In November 2000, it was renamed the South African JSE Stock Exchange, and in June 2001, it acquired the South African Futures Exchange, using a fully automatic electronic trading system, and is now the largest stock exchange in Africa and one of the top 20 stock exchanges in the world. In April 2020, the total market value is about 763.7 billion US dollars, and there are about 400 listed companies on the main board. The JSE is an important financing channel for South Africa, and also provides a trading platform to the Namibian Stock Exchange, harmonizes listing standards with the stock exchanges of Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Egypt, Ghana, Mauritius and Nigeria, and provides technical support to exchanges in other African countries. South Africa's financial services industry is developed, complete trading facilities, many large domestic companies and some multinational companies are competing to list on the JSE stock exchange. ^[3]

currency

It was opened in South Africa in 1961 Rand Is a monetary unit. South Africa has had a managed floating exchange rate since 1974. In 1995, the dual exchange rate system was abolished and a single exchange rate system was introduced. The rand exchange rate fluctuates greatly in the international market, mainly due to the economic situation of major economies, the trend of major currencies (such as the US dollar and the euro), the rise and fall of international commodity prices and the adjustment of domestic interest rates and other factors. ^[3]

foreign trade

South Africa has a free trade system and is a founding member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The European Union and the United States are South Africa's traditional trading partners, but in recent years, trade with Asia, the Middle East and other regions is also growing. In 2022, South Africa's imports and exports of goods amounted to $231.5 billion, an increase of 8% over the previous year. Among them, exports reached $121.6 billion and imports reached $109.8 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $11.8 billion.

The main export mineral products, precious metals and products, transportation equipment, etc. The main imports of mechanical and electrical products, mineral products, chemical products and transportation equipment. In 2020, the top 10 export destinations are: China, the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan, the Netherlands, Botswana, India, Mozambique, Namibia; The top 10 sources of imports are: China, Germany, the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Thailand, Japan, Italy and the United Kingdom. ^[4]

Foreign investment

Inward investment in South Africa Mainly from Europe and the United States, especially in Europe. Europe accounts for almost 70 per cent of cumulative investment in South Africa, while the Americas account for almost 20 per cent. Foreign capital is mainly securities capital, and direct investment (FDI) is less. Investments by foreign companies with assets in South Africa are mostly concentrated in sectors such as mining, manufacturing, finance, petroleum processing and sales. In 2013, South Africa absorbed $8.3 billion of foreign direct investment, $5.8 billion in 2014, a sharp drop to $1.6 billion in 2015, $2.25 billion in 2016, $3.2 billion in 2017, $4.9 billion in 2018, and $4.6 billion in 2019. Foreign direct investment in South Africa slipped to $3.1 billion in 2020 due to the global recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the report of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, by the end of 2020, South Africa has attracted foreign investment stock of 136.74 billion US dollars. ^[4] ^[19]

Sino-south Investment

Two-way investment between the two countries has been expanding. By August 2022, the stock of China's direct investment in South Africa (including financial investment) was US $10.1 billion, covering mining, finance, manufacturing, infrastructure, media and other fields. South Africa's direct investment in China was US $890 million, mainly in food, mining and other industries. Since 2018, South Africa has held five investment conferences. China has sent high-level government delegations and representatives of large enterprises to participate in these conferences online and offline. The renminbi is one of South Africa's reserve currencies. ^[5] ^[17]

External assistance

Since 1994, governments and international organizations have pledged assistance to the South African Government in support of the Reconstruction and Development Plan. The main donors are the United States, Britain and Germany. Multilateral organizations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund have also provided assistance to South Africa. In recent years, aid to South Africa began to enter the field of new Energy, to support South Africa's Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (Just Energy Transition Investment Plan). ^[4]

culture

broadcast

EDITOR

Language

In 1996, South Africa's new constitution established 11 official languages: Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Xhosa, Zulu, Sepeti, Soto, Swati, Tswana, Venda and Tsonga. Governments at all levels may choose any official language as their office language according to actual conditions, and at least two languages shall be used. English and Afrikaans are the common languages. The various dialects of the Black languages belong to the Bantu branch of the family, which consists of four main branches: Nguni, Soto, Tsonga, and Venda. ^[6]

religion

South Africa's religious beliefs are characterized by diversity, the world's major religions have influence in South Africa, and religious activities are relatively common. Christianity is practiced by 79.8% of the population, with the other major religions being Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Buddhism. A few people follow primitive religions.

South Africa's multi-racial and multi-cultural social structure makes the life customs of South Africans present a harmonious state, the mainstream culture of the society does not interfere with each other, and there are no special taboos and customs that are easy to cause misunderstanding. ^[6]

custom

Common etiquette

In social situations, the common greeting etiquette adopted by South Africans is the handshake, and they mainly address the social object as "Sir", "Miss" or "madam". Black tribes, especially in the vast rural areas, often exhibit styles that are different from the mainstream of society. For example, it is customary to present their guests with ostrich or peacock feathers, and it is appropriate for the guests to put these precious feathers in their hats or hair.

In South Africa, tips are usually paid for baggage handlers, taxi drivers, tour guides, interpreters, bus drivers, restaurant waiters, parking guards, gas station workers, etc. There is no set standard for tipping. It varies from person to person. Restaurant meals in addition to the cost of meals, generally need to pay an additional 10%-15% tip. When handling luggage at airports, stations, hotels, etc., the tip is about R10 per piece of luggage. Parking guards tip from R2.

South African law prohibits smoking in indoor public places. Some restaurants have a smoking area. Please do not talk loudly, spit or throw debris in public places. Please keep your clothes neat and decent. ^[7]

Clothing, food and other major customs

In the cities, South Africans dress mostly Westernized. Dress modestly for formal occasions. When engaged in official or business contacts, it is best to wear conservative, dark color suits or dresses, otherwise it will be considered impolite. In addition, black South Africans often have the habit of wearing their national dress. Black people of different tribes often have their own characteristics in dress.

Summer temperatures in South Africa average 20 degrees to 35 degrees, often thundershowers, suitable for wearing cool comfortable light clothing, with an umbrella or raincoat, preferably plus a light coat. Winters are mild, with temperatures averaging 0 to 15 degrees, making for light sweaters and coats. Cape Town is very rainy in winter, so bring rain gear. South Africa has strong sunshine and dry climate, so pay attention to sun protection.

In South Africa, the local families with above middle income mainly eat western food on weekdays, the main foods include beef, chicken, eggs and bread, and they like to drink coffee and black tea. South Africa's Rubao tea tastes mellow and is good for health and is very popular. In the countryside, the staple food is corn, potatoes, beans. A knife and fork are often used in meals, and some residents in rural areas also use their hands to grab food. When visiting a South African home, bring a box of chocolates, flowers or other gifts to show your appreciation. ^[7]

Major taboo

For Christian South Africans, the number 13 is taboo.

Black South Africans have great respect for their ancestors, and they are particularly wary of outsiders' disrespect for their ancestors. ^[7]

diet

South African ostrich steak is featured, along with prairie specialities and corn food. In coastal cities, seafood is also a pleasant experience. In the Indian diaspora, people can also enjoy exotic food and South African barbecue, and many small shops sell barbecue meats for tourists to taste. With the arrival of European immigrants, Malay slaves and Indians, South African cuisine has evolved into a diverse blend of culinary arts, especially aromatic curry dishes, slow cooking platters, traditional cuisines, and indigenous barbecue, which are best known. ^[7]

South Africa Pap

In South Africa, there is a local favorite food, called Pap, is the main food of the local people. This food is made of white corn flour mixed with other grain powder, and tastes creamy and chewy. Because it has no taste, it needs to be dipped in gravy or eaten with vegetables, beans, chicken, beef, and some also add curry, which tastes excellent. Pap is not complicated but quite laborious - prepare the iron VAT to add water, boil the water and add the corn flour to continue stirring, as the temperature rises, the corn flour gradually becomes mushy, at this time continue to add flour and stir until it becomes a white paste can be out of the pot. In the lack of mechanical assistance in street kitchens, this is not an easy task, especially when the Pap powder is gradually thick, and every stirring must be very strong. The heat, water and flour used in the production process all rely on the chef's experience to master, too thin into porridge, too thick is not convenient to eat. ^[13]

South African hotels and restaurants have high food hygiene standards and are subject to government supervision and inspection. The quality of food sold in large chain supermarkets is safe and reliable, and fresh fruit, vegetable salad and drinking water can be eaten safely. Do not buy edible street food. Rivers and lakes may have schistosomiasis, should avoid direct drinking. ^[7]

literature

South Africa has produced some of the greatest writers and poets whose literary works are well known at home and abroad and have won many prestigious awards. The works of these writers and poets have enriched the English literary Canon. Fiction has been published in each of South Africa's 11 official languages, with the vast majority of works written in Afrikaans and English. ^[10]

Zachs Muda is a famous South African playwright and novelist whose works include "Justifying the Enemy: Becoming Human in South Africa" and "Red Heart". Zax Muda combines his inner experience as a South African citizen with the external examination of the diaspora intellectuals to analyze the social reality of South Africa in depth. Actively use their own influence, take root in the local, participate in the country's economic and cultural construction. Hu Zhongqing also stressed that literary research should pay attention to the diversity of authorship, its deep sense of distress and strong feelings for the family and country, which further broadened the students' horizons of academic research.

Andre Brink is a famous South African novelist, critic and social activist. ^[11] Brink reshaped the presence of women in South African history through classical archetypal imagery in literature. The lecture attempts to take the archetypal images as the classics, take the female characters in the novel as the weaves, and use the three archetypal images of the Greek tragedy Medea's murder, the French hero Joan of Arc and the story-master Schehrachad in the Arabian Nights. Metaphorically speaking, the female characters of different skin colors, cultures and historical backgrounds in Brink's four later novels, Desert Thoughts, Devil's Valley, The Opposite of Silence and Felida, reveal the tragic fate of women, their resistance after oppression and their infinite desire for dominance under the complex field of racist politics and gender politics in South Africa. The mirror reflects the cultural and historical connotations and dominant narrative desires of women in the context of South African history and reality. ^[12]

Festivals

South Africa has 12 public holidays throughout the year. On the one hand, the holidays remain religious, on the other hand, they highlight the commemoration of anti-apartheid historical events and the political atmosphere of unity and peace. For example, Freedom Day commemorates the first non-racial general election in the new South Africa and is the National Day of South Africa; Youth Day commemorates the Soweto uprising; The Day of Reconciliation educates the people to learn from the historical lessons of the "Blood River War" of that year.

Major holidays include: New Year's Day (January 1), Human Rights Day (March 21), Good Friday (April 10), Family Day (April 13), Freedom Day (April 27), Labor Day (May 1), Youth Day (June 16), Women's Day (August 9, August 10), Heritage Day (September 24), Reconciliation Day (December 16), Christmas Day (December 25) and the Feast Day (December 26). ^[7]

Military affairs

broadcast

EDITOR

The President is commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The highest defense decision-making body is the National Security Council, which includes the Defense Advisory Council and the Ministry of Defense. The Secretary of Defense represents the president in day-to-day military affairs. The Commander of the National Defense Forces is responsible for the operations, command and military training of the entire army, appointed by the President, responsible to the Minister of Defense in peacetime, and directly under the President in wartime. Gen. Rudzani Maphwanya, Commander-in-chief of the Defense Forces.

The South African National Security Forces include the Defence Force and the Police Force. The land, sea and air forces of the Wehrmacht were built in 1912, 1922 and 1920 respectively. After the establishment of the new South Africa, the former apartheid-era National Defense Force was integrated with parts of the ANC, the Pan African Congress and the former Black Homeland National Liberation Organization, and its mission was to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, fulfill international obligations, and help maintain domestic security.

In 1997, the compulsory military service was changed to a voluntary service. At present, the South African National Defence Force has a total strength of 79,400 people, including about 54,300 army, about 8,000 Navy, about 11,100 Air force, 6,000 health forces, and 15,000 people belong to the Defense and Veterans Department, Joint Operations Command and other command organs. The police force is 138,000 strong. Inspector General of Police Fannie Masemola.

traffic

broadcast

EDITOR

highroad

South Africa has the longest road network in Africa, and the road network not only covers the whole country, but also connects with neighboring countries and is very convenient. South Africa's roads are divided into national, provincial and local three levels, with a total mileage of about 755,000 kilometers, of which more than 70,000 kilometers of paved roads. It carries about 4.5 million passengers and 3.1 million vehicles of freight annually. The South African Department of Transport is responsible for transport policy. The National Highways Authority (SANRAL) and provincial and local governments are responsible for the construction and maintenance of roads. The State Highway Administration is responsible for the national highway network. 16,170 kilometers of national highways, including about 3,000 kilometers of toll roads.

South Africa road traffic infrastructure is complete, the road condition is good, more one-way streets. Towns are far apart, road speeds are fast, and traffic accidents are frequent. Plan your journey before driving, obey traffic rules, avoid driving at night, and do not drink, drive tired, or speed. In some remote areas, there are no guardrails on both sides of the road, there may be animals crossing the road, especially to pay attention to driving safety. ^[7]

Drive on the left in South Africa. You must wear seat belts while driving, and you must not use mobile phones to talk. All speed limits in South Africa are measured in kilometres per hour. In general, the speed limit in urban areas is 60 km/h, while the speed limit on secondary roads is 100 km/h and the speed limit on national roads is 120 km/h. Always pay attention to the speed limit, as the value of the speed limit may vary depending on the road conditions, and if there is any violation, law enforcement will arrive immediately. ^[14]

railway

South Africa's railway network and road network complement each other to form a complete land transport system. South African railways connect with Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and other countries, with a total mileage of 34,100 kilometers, ranking 11th in the world, accounting for 35% of the total railway mileage in Africa. Among them, 18,200 kilometers are electrified railways, with more than 2,000 electric locomotives and an annual freight volume of about 175 million tons. 95% of the railway is used for freight transport. South Africa's railway passenger transport is not developed. Passenger trains are divided into different grades, in addition to the general direct express, there are inter-regional express. The "Pride of Africa" private luxury travel train from Pretoria to Cape Town enjoys an international reputation, but the ticket price is quite expensive. ^[7]

Transnet controls rail freight transport in South Africa and is the largest rail operator in Southern Africa, with operations in 17 countries across the continent and employing 25,000 people. The South African government also developed passenger rail services and established the South African Passenger Rail Authority (PRASA). The luxury blue coach from Tshwane to Cape Town is renowned. Gauteng High-speed Rail is South Africa's only high-speed passenger railway, connecting Oliver Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg Airport), Johannesburg and Tshwane, with a total length of 80 km and a speed of 160 km/h.

Air freight

South Africa's air transport industry is relatively developed. There are 27 civil airports in South Africa, the top 10 airports are located in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein, Port of Elisabeth and other major cities. It accounts for 98% of the country's air passenger traffic and is operated by Airports South Africa (ACSA). There are more than 600 domestic flights and more than 70 international flights every week, and some countries in Africa, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, South America direct flights. Johannesburg's Oliver Tambo International Airport is the largest international airport in Africa, with an annual passenger capacity of up to 50 per cent 24 million visitors; Cape Town International Airport has an annual capacity of 5 million passengers. ^[6]

O. R. Tambo International Airport, formerly known as Johannesburg International Airport, was renamed in 2006 in honour of Oliver Reginald Tambo, former president of the African National Congress. Located in the city of Aiguleni near Johannesburg, the airport is Africa's largest and most frequented international airport, handling more than 21.31 million passengers a year. Built in 1952, the airport is 1,680 meters above sea level and has two runways, the West runway is 4,418 meters long, which is one of the longest runways in the world. The eastern runway is 3,389 meters long. Both runways are paved with asphalt and can take off and land large passenger aircraft such as Boeing 747-400 and Airbus 380. ^[7]

Saa, one of the largest airlines on the African continent and one of the world's 50 largest airlines, connects 28 cities across the continent to 1,356 destinations in 193 countries and territories, and has been loss-making since 2012 due to operating inefficiencies. On 5 December 2019, the South African government announced that South African Airways had entered insolvency proceedings. From 3 January 2019, the route between Johannesburg and Beijing will be changed to Johannesburg - Shenzhen - Beijing. ^[6]

Water transport

South Africa is one of the most developed countries in the world with the largest, best equipped and most efficient maritime transport network in Africa, with 96% of its exports going by sea. South Africa has about 990 merchant ships with a gross tonnage of 755,000 tons and an annual port throughput of about 1.2 billion tons. The National Ports Authority, South Africa's national transport group, manages the port.

Eight of the 17 largest commercial ports in Southern Africa are located in South Africa, from the North-East to the south-west coast of South Africa are Richard Bay, Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth, Port Mossel, Cape Town and Saldanha Bay. Richard Bay Port is South Africa's largest deep-water port and coal export port. The port of Durban is the busiest and largest container port in Southern Africa and is the main port of call for goods from the Far East, Europe, the Americas and East and West Africa to and from South Africa. The Port of East London is South Africa's main vehicle export port. ^[7] Durban is one of Africa's busiest and largest container ports, while Richard Bay is the world's largest coal export port. ^[6]

society

broadcast

EDITOR

Science and technology

South Africa is a big and powerful country in science and technology in Africa, with a relatively sound science and technology management system and the highest science and technology leading body divided into two parts: legislation and law enforcement. The Sub-Committee on Science and Technology under the Parliamentary Committee on Science, Culture and Arts is responsible for technology legislation. The National Science and Technology Council (also known as the Ministerial Science and Technology Council) is the government's top science and technology leadership body, responsible for law enforcement. The South African government has formulated and implemented a series of science and technology development strategies, plans and policies, which have strongly promoted South Africa's economic development and scientific and technological innovation. In 2020, the South African government announced an investment of R4 billion to boost digital infrastructure. ^[3]

In 2022, South Africa ranks 58th out of 63 countries in digital competitiveness, a slight improvement from 60th the previous year. In 2023, South Africa launches 3D Building Printing Project for Sustainable Human Settlements (3DCP). ^[21]

education

The Government of South Africa's educational principles are that citizens, regardless of race, have equal rights and obligations to receive education and training; An education system free from racial and gender discrimination; Protecting linguistic, cultural and religious diversity; Protecting academic freedom; Equal funding for education. Because of the long-standing apartheid education system, blacks had far less educational opportunities than whites. ^[3]

In January 1995, South Africa officially implemented free compulsory education for children aged 7-16 and abolished apartheid-era textbooks. The government has continuously increased its investment in education, focusing on the reform of the teaching curriculum, the education fund raising system and the higher education system. The school system is divided into five stages: pre-school, primary school, secondary school, university and postgraduate. There are 23 public institutions of higher learning with 750,000 students. 90 private colleges and universities with 35,000 students; 150 continuing education and training colleges with 350,000 students; There are 27,850 primary and secondary schools with 12.14 million students. There are 366,000 teachers in the country. The adult literacy rate in 2015 was 94.4%, and the population with higher education accounted for about 9.1% of the total population. Famous universities are: Witwatersrand University, University of Pretoria, University of South Africa, University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, University of Johannesburg and so on. Education accounts for a large proportion of South Africa's public budget, with a budget of R391.9 billion for Basic Education, Post-school Education and Training in the financial year 2021/22. ^[3]

Medical treatment

South Africa's health care system is relatively complete, and the South African government is striving to establish a national health service system that everyone can enjoy equality, efficiency, reliability and sustainable development to improve the health of South Africans. In July 2019, the South African government approved the Universal Health Insurance Bill, which plans to officially start the third stage of health insurance in 2022, that is, to introduce mandatory health insurance fees and collaborate with private medical institutions in order to promote universal health insurance throughout the country. In the financial year 2021/22, the South African government's Health expenditure budget is 248.8 billion rand, which is equivalent to the level of medium-developed countries. Life expectancy in South Africa in 2021 is 64.38 years, an increase of 0.39% compared to 2020. ^[3]

communication

South Africa's telecommunications and information technology industry has developed rapidly, and its telecommunications development level ranks 20th in the world. South Africa has 5 million fixed-line telephones and about 29 million mobile phone subscribers. There were 28.58 million Internet users, with a penetration rate of about 52 percent. TELKOM is the leading fixed-line operator in South Africa and the largest telecommunications company in Africa, listed in both Johannesburg and New York. Mobile operators include Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Virgin Mobile and 8ta. South Africa's two largest information technology companies, DIDATA and DATATEC, have established a presence in the UK and US markets, and the level of satellite broadcasting and network technology is strong. Millard International Holdings (MIH) already has a monopoly on the majority of live satellite services in sub-Saharan Africa. South Africa's software industry is also moving internationally. South Africa has unique advantages in developing the digital economy, for example, South Africa is the world's number one global business process outsourcing destination, providing large multinational corporations and South African companies with first-class call centers, technical support and back office services. ^[3]

In 2023, South Africa's network coverage and mobile communication ownership rate will be 100%, ranking among the top of the BRICS countries. More than 70% of Internet users. ^[21]

Physical education

South Africans love all kinds of sports, the most popular of which is football. The South African football team is also known as Bafana Bafana. South Africa hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup. 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa It was the first African country to host the event. Cricket is the number two sport in South Africa and the national cricket team is nicknamed the Springboks. At the same time, South Africa has produced a number of world champions in swimming, track and field, surfing, boxing, tennis and other sports. ^[10]

medium

The number of regularly published newspapers is the highest in Africa. There are more than 50 daily and weekly newspapers, more than 200 provincial and local newspapers, and more than 600 magazines. Large circulation is: Sunday Times (English), Daily Sun (English), Report (Afrikaans), Soweto Man (English), City Paper (English), Star (English), Citizen (English). The Sunday Times, The Reporter and the Independent on Sunday are national newspapers.

The South Africa Press Association, once the only national news agency that was non-government and non-profit, officially ceased operations at the end of March 2015, The African News Agency replaced the South African Broadcasting Corporation's (SABC) radio and television stations. The radio station has 18 domestic programs, broadcast nationwide in 11 languages, reaching 20 million listeners; The foreign program "Africa Channel" broadcasts abroad in four languages. The station has four channels, including two public service programs and two commercial television programs. M-NET is the most influential pay-TV channel in Africa. ^[4]

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) was established on 1 August 1936 with funding from the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and is headquartered in Johannesburg. There are sub-stations in Bito, Cape Town, Kimberley, Durban, Petersburg and Port Elizabeth. It is the dominant broadcaster in South Africa and the largest and most influential broadcaster in Africa. ^[6]

communication

South Africa has a high level of telecommunications development, and 226 countries and regions can be directly dialed in South Africa. The telecommunication network is basically digitized, and data microwave and optical fiber cable are the main transmission media. South Africa is a member of the International Telecommunication Union and the African Telecommunication Union.

South Africa has 5 million fixed-line telephones and about 29 million mobile phone subscribers. There were 28.58 million Internet users, with a penetration rate of about 52 percent. TELKOM is the leading fixed-line operator in South Africa and the largest telecommunications company in Africa, listed in both Johannesburg and New York. Mobile operators include Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Virgin Mobile and 8ta. South Africa's two largest information technology companies, DIDATA and DATATEC, have established a presence in the UK and US markets, and the level of satellite broadcasting and network technology is strong. Millard International Holdings (MIH) already has a monopoly on the majority of live satellite services in sub-Saharan Africa. South Africa's software industry is also moving internationally. South Africa has unique advantages in developing the digital economy, for example, South Africa is the world's number one global business process outsourcing destination, providing large multinational corporations and South African companies with first-class call centers, technical support and back office services. ^[6]

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) is the regulatory body for the development of the broadcasting and telecommunications industry in South Africa, which is responsible for formulating policies and regulations concerning the industry, issuing licenses to companies in the industry and promoting orderly opening up of the industry to competition. South African telecommunications company TELKOM is the largest telecommunications company in Africa, and its satellite live broadcasting and network technology level is more competitive in the world.

The postal business is monopolized by the South African Post Office, and the postal network is developed, and the business scope basically covers the whole country. There are 2,760 post offices and 30 mail sorting centers, employing 25,000 people and handling 6.5 million pieces of mail a day. South Africa is a member of the International Postal Union, the Pan-African Postal Union, the Commonwealth Postal Regulatory Commission and the Southern African Transport and Communications Commission. ^[6]

electricity

South Africa is a major power in Africa, supplying 40% of the continent's electricity. Coal is the main fuel for thermal power generation, with 13 thermal power plants, accounting for 90% of the total power generation; In addition, there are one nuclear power plant, two pumped storage power plants, six hydroelectric power plants, and two oil-fired power plants. In 2020, South Africa's power structure is dominated by coal-fired power generation, of which coal energy accounts for 83.5%, renewable energy accounts for 10.5%, variable renewable energy accounts for 5.6%, nuclear energy accounts for 5.2%, diesel accounts for 0.9%, and variable renewable energy accounts for more than nuclear energy for the first time.

Electricity production in South Africa is mainly the responsibility of the South African Electricity Company (Eskom), which supplies more than 95% of South Africa's electricity. Its power generation capacity ranks among the top 10 in the world, power sales rank among the top 11 in the world, and it has the world's largest dry condensing power station. ^[3]

payroll

Minimum wage levels in South Africa vary by industry and region. In November 2018, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law the new National Minimum Wage bill, which sets the minimum wage at R20 per hour. In August 2019, Employment and Labour Minister Nksessi announced amendments to the wages of employees in the wholesale and retail sectors. For workers earning more than the National Minimum Wage Act (NMW), a new adjustment of 4.53 per cent will take effect from 2 August 2019; For workers in the wholesale and retail sectors who are paid less than NMW, the wage increase takes effect from January 2019. The revised industry decision will apply to cashiers, drivers, clerks, salespeople, bakers, presenters, supervisors, block managers, trainee managers, etc. From March 2020, the national minimum wage will increase from R20 to R20.76 per hour. ^[6]

Public security

South Africa has easy access to firearms and one of the highest crime rates in the world. The main forms of crime are burglary, carjacking, theft and sexual crimes. Riots have occurred in some areas from time to time, affecting foreign citizens, including local Chinese citizens, resulting in damage to personal and property safety. ^[7] South African residents can legally own guns. Under South Africa's Firearms Control Act 2000, adults over the age of 21 can apply for a gun license, subject to a rigorous examination of the applicant's character, criminal history and alcohol abuse.

According to Interpol statistics, South Africa is one of the countries with the highest crime rate in the world, and various criminal crimes have become the most prominent social problems in the country. The total number of crimes is high and the public security situation is grim. Between October and December 2020, 459,518 crimes were reported in South Africa, an increase of 16.5% compared to 394,398 crimes during the period from June to September 2020. A total of 6,283 people died as a result of violent crime between October and December 2020, equivalent to one violent crime death every 20 minutes. Incidents of theft, robbery and physical injury targeting Chinese companies and citizens have occurred in recent years. ^[6]

disaster

South Africa is located in the southern hemisphere at latitude 22 to 35 degrees south, and the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer is usually from December to February and winter from June to August. It is divided into rainy season and dry season, and the climate varies from region to region. The Cape Peninsula has a Mediterranean climate, the KwaZulu and Natal coasts have a subtropical climate, and the northeast interior has a steppe climate. Overall, sunny and dry. Winter temperatures average 0 to 15 degrees and summer temperatures average 20 to 35 degrees.

The main natural disasters in South Africa are droughts and floods. Forest fires are common in forested areas such as the Western Cape. The Atlantic coast is occasionally hit by hurricanes. Outdoor travel should pay attention to prevent lightning, hail and other disasters. ^[7]

diplomacy

broadcast

EDITOR

Foreign policy

The new South Africa pursues an independent and all-round foreign policy and stands for maintaining and developing friendly bilateral relations with all countries on the basis of respect for sovereignty, equality and mutual benefit. Active foreign exchanges and rising international status. It has established diplomatic relations with 186 countries. China has actively participated in the peace process in the Great Lakes region and the settlement of hotspot issues in Africa such as Zimbabwe and South Sudan, worked hard to promote African integration and the building of the African Union, and vigorously promoted South-South cooperation and North-South dialogue. It is a member of international organizations or multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations, the African Union, the Commonwealth and the Group of Twenty. In 2004, it became the permanent seat of the Pan-African Parliament. He served as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council from 2007-2008, 2011-2012 and 2019-2020. In December 2010, it was admitted as a member of the BRICS, and hosted the fifth BRICS Summit in Durban in March 2013, the tenth BRICS Summit in Johannesburg in July 2018, and the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg in August 2023. In November 2011, it hosted the 17th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. ^[22]

External relations

Relations with China

The People's Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa established diplomatic relations on 1 January 1998. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have developed comprehensively and rapidly. In April 2000, the two heads of state signed the Pretoria Declaration on Partnership between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa, announcing the establishment of the high-level national bilateral Committee, which has held seven plenary meetings and held several sub-committee meetings on foreign affairs, economy and trade, science and technology, defense, education, energy and mineral cooperation.

During Vice President Zeng Qinghong's visit to South Africa in 2004, the two sides established a strategic partnership based on equality, mutual benefit and common development. During Premier Wen Jiabao's visit to South Africa in 2006, the two countries signed the Cooperation Program on Deepening China-South Africa Strategic Partnership. In January 2008, the two countries established a strategic dialogue mechanism and have held 11 dialogues so far. During President Zuma's visit to China in August 2010, the two heads of state jointly signed the Beijing Declaration on the Establishment of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa, elevating bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. In December 2014, President Zuma paid a state visit to China, during which the two sides signed the 5-10 Years Strategic Plan for Cooperation 2015-2024 between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa. In March 2022, the two sides signed the Ten-year Strategic Plan for Cooperation between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa 2020-2029.

China is South Africa's largest trading partner, and South Africa is China's largest trading partner in Africa. In June 2004, South Africa recognized China's market economy status. In 2022, bilateral trade reached 56.74 billion U.S. dollars, up by 5.0% year-on-year. In November 2018, South Africa participated in the first China International Import Expo as the guest of honor. In November 2023, South Africa once again served as the guest of honor at the sixth CIIE.

Two-way investment between the two countries has been expanding. By August 2023, Chinese enterprises had invested US $10 billion in South Africa, covering mining, home appliances, automobiles, building materials, finance, media and other fields. South Africa's actual investment in China amounted to about US $900 million, covering media, mining, chemical and food industries. Since 2018, South Africa has held five investment conferences. China has sent high-level government delegations and representatives of large enterprises to participate in these conferences online and offline. The renminbi is one of South Africa's reserve currencies. ^[23]

Relations with African countries

South Africa regards Africa as the foothold of its foreign policy and the strategic basis for playing the role of a major country. It takes safeguarding regional security and development in Southern Africa and promoting regional integration in Southern Africa as its top diplomatic priority. It has participated in the formulation and implementation of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) and actively participated in the mediation of hotspot issues such as Zimbabwe, Sudan and Madagascar. Try to speak for African countries in multilateral forums. In recent years, China has actively promoted cooperation between the United Nations and the African Union, and is committed to promoting peace and security in Africa. ^[4]

Relations with Europe

South Africa maintains good political and economic relations with Europe (mainly Western and Northern European countries). The EU is South Africa's largest regional trading partner, investor and aid provider. Eu investment accounts for more than half of foreign direct investment in South Africa. South Africa and the EU have signed a Trade, Development and cooperation agreement, a Joint Commission mechanism for cooperation, and established a strategic partnership in May 2007. ^[4]

Relations with the United States

The United States and South Korea cooperate in a wide range of areas. There are "Mutual defense treaties" and military agreements. Presidents Mandela and Mbeki have both visited the United States on numerous occasions. The Clinton administration had a national bilateral Commission at the vice presidential level, and the Bush administration had a bilateral coordination forum at the ministerial level. The US is the second largest trading partner of South Africa, and South Africa is the largest export market of the US in sub-Saharan Africa and the second largest beneficiary of the US African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). He opposed the US, Britain and France's military strikes on Syria and called for a peaceful solution to the conflict. The United States expressed concern over its withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and called on other parties to continue to honor their commitments. They oppose the US policy practices that favor Israel, such as the relocation of the embassy to Jerusalem. ^[4]

Relations with Russia

During the apartheid regime in South Africa, the two countries broke off diplomatic relations in 1957 due to Soviet support for the anti-apartheid struggle of the South African Communist Party and the African National Congress, but resumed diplomatic relations in 1992. The two sides have signed a military cooperation agreement and established a joint intergovernmental commission. During President Mandela's visit to Russia in 1999, the two sides signed the Statement of Principles of Friendship and Cooperation between South Africa and Russia, which charted the course for the future development of bilateral, regional and global relations.

In September 2006, Russian President Vladimir Putin paid a state visit to South Africa and the two sides signed the Treaty of Friendship and Partnership, establishing the strategic partnership between the two countries. In March 2013, Russian President Vladimir Putin attended the fifth BRICS Summit held in Durban, South Africa and paid a working visit to South Africa. In May, President Zuma paid a working visit to Russia. In May 2015, President Zuma went to Moscow to attend a military parade marking the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Great Patriotic War. In July, President Zuma attended the 7th BRICS Summit in Ufa, Russia. In October 2019, President Cyril Ramaphosa attended the first Russia-Africa Summit in Russia. In April 2020, President Ramaphosa had a phone conversation with President Vladimir Putin, focusing on cooperation in the fight against COVID-19. In November, President Ramaphosa attended the 12th BRICS Summit hosted by President Putin (held via video). In March and October 2022, President Ramaphosa had two phone conversations with President Putin. In January 2023, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited South Africa. ^[4]

Relations with the Asia-Pacific region

South Africa attaches great importance to developing relations with countries in the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Latin America, and the areas of cooperation are constantly expanding.

Cooperation between South Africa and countries in the Asia-Pacific region has been strengthened. South Africa and Japan have established the South Africa-Japan Partnership Forum at the ministerial level. Japan is South Africa's fourth largest trading partner and an important investor and aid donor. South Africa and India have traditionally enjoyed friendly relations with a bilateral Joint commission and established a strategic partnership during President Mandela's visit to India in 1997. ^[4]

Relations with the Middle East

South Africa continues to maintain friendly and cooperative relations with all countries in the Middle East region. South Africa's cooperation with Saudi Arabia, Iran and other countries in defense, energy and other fields has been strengthened, and trade has been growing. We follow the Middle East peace process and hope that all parties will resolve the issue through negotiations under the principle of "land for peace". It condemns Israel's excessive use of force in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, killing innocent Palestinian civilians, and strongly demands that the use of force be stopped, relevant UN resolutions be followed, and disputes be resolved through peaceful negotiations. He strongly criticized the United States and Britain for launching wars against Iraq, calling the war "a heavy blow to multilateralism" and advocating that the United Nations play a leading role in the post-war reconstruction of Iraq. ^[4]

On December 29, 2023 local time, South Africa filed a lawsuit with the International Court of Justice of the United Nations, accusing Israel of carrying out the operation in the Gaza Strip genocide . In its petition, South Africa alleges that Israel, through its State organs, agents of the State and other individuals and entities, committed genocide against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip in violation of the United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. South Africa urged the International Court of Justice to take measures to prevent "further, serious and irreparable harm" to the rights of the Palestinian people under the Convention, while ensuring that Israel complied with its obligations under the Convention. Israel's Foreign Ministry said in a statement on the same day that South Africa's move was "baseless" and called on the International Court of Justice to dismiss South Africa's lawsuit. The statement said the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), which launched an attack on Israel on October 7, bears responsibility for the suffering of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. Israel is committed to abiding by and acting in accordance with international law, and its military operations are directed exclusively against Hamas and organizations that cooperate with it. ^[20]

On February 13, 2024, South Africa announced that it had filed a new complaint with the International Court of Justice, asking the court to urgently review Israel's declared impending military offensive on Rafah and, if necessary, to oppose "new violations". ^[24]

Relations with Latin America

South Africa has been developing relations with Brazil, Argentina and other Latin American countries. In December 2000, South Africa became an "associated country" of MERCOsur. In 2003, South Africa, Brazil and India established the India-Pakistan-South Dialogue Forum (IBSA), which held its 5th summit in South Africa in October 2011. In September 2006, President Mbeki attended the 14th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement in Cuba. In September, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez visited South Korea. In September 2009, President Zuma attended the second Africa-South America Summit in Venezuela, during which he held bilateral meetings with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and Uruguayan President Jose Luis Vazquez. In October, President Zuma paid a state visit to Brazil. In July 2010, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva paid a state visit to South Africa. In December 2010, President Zuma paid a state visit to Cuba and attended the 16th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Climate Change in Mexico. In July 2014, President Zuma attended the sixth BRICS Summit in Fortaleza, Brazil. In November 2018, President Ramaphosa attended the G20 Summit in Argentina. In November 2019, President Cyril Ramaphosa attended the 11th BRICS Summit in Brazil. ^[4]

travel

broadcast

EDITOR

Main attraction

Cape of Good Hope

Cape of Good Hope is the landmark of CapeTown, and even CapeTown was built because of Cape of Good Hope, and even the name CapeTown comes from Cape of Good Hope. In the 16th century, traffic between East and West was blocked by the Arabs. In order to acquire Eastern luxuries such as spices, silk and porcelain, European countries sent fleets to find new routes. The route around the southern tip of Africa is undoubtedly one of the most important, and until the opening of the Suez Canal, it was the only sea route from Europe to Asia, bringing in a lot of money for all countries. The Cape of Good Hope therefore has a special significance in the history of navigation and trade. Even now, giant cargo ships that cannot pass through the Suez Canal still use the route. The waters around the Cape of Good Hope are the convergence of the Atlantic and Indian oceans, and the huge waves caused by the collision of ocean currents are constant all year round, so the first European to come here, Dias, called this place "Cape of storms." But around here there is hope to reach the east and acquire wealth, so the king of Portugal renamed it "Cape of Good Hope".

Visitors can also take a gondola to the Cape's main peak, where an ancient lighthouse is located. Standing at the top of the tower, overlooking the lower boundary, the infinite scenery, all in the eyes. Of course, visitors can also walk up the next peak, which also has a lighthouse, and it is newer, to warn ships of the Cape of Good Hope storm. ^[15]

Ahrabis Falls

Aurabis Falls is located in the upper reaches of the Orange River (also known as the Gerape River) in the National Park of the same name in the Northern Cape. The waterfall is 56 meters high, and the best time to visit it is from April to September, avoiding the hot sun in midsummer, and the weather is cool and comfortable to travel. However, the waterfall often flows from February to April, because this is the rainy season of summer. ^[15]

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain in South Africa, 1,087 meters above sea level, standing on the northern end of the high and rocky Cape Peninsula, the top of the mountain can overlook the city of Cape Town and the opposite Table Bay. The magical Table Mountain is flat as a table top and is known by locals as "God's Table". The Table Mountain range blocks the cold currents, creating a warm and humid climate for Cape Town. Table Mountain is almost surrounded by straight cliffs, and climbing Table Mountain on foot is a very dangerous and hard thing. You can take a cable car up the mountain. Table Mountain is located in the National park, also called Table Mountain Nature Reserve, the vast area, near the city of Cape Town in the north. ^[15]

Penguin Beach

In the town of Simon, on the east coast of Cape Town, a small bay known as Boulder Park is home to South African penguins, where flocks surf, splash, feed or enjoy the sun on the beach. In 1982, local fishermen found the first two pairs of penguins here, under the spontaneous protection of local residents, after more than 20 years of breeding, now the number of penguins has more than 3,000, and a special penguin reserve has been set up on the beach for penguins to breed and survive. Visitors can get a closer look through a wood-paneled corridor that plunges down to the beach where the penguins live. ^[15]

Pilinsburg National Park

Pilinsburg National Park, also translated as Bilinsburg National Park, is located in the North West Province of South Africa, around the Sun City, an area of 550 square kilometers, is the fourth largest national park in South Africa, where the animals are completely wild. Ride into the park in an open jeep driven by a professional hunter and if you are lucky you can spot the famous "five masters of Africa" - elephants, lions, cheetahs, African buffaloes and rhinos. But even if you don't see these large animals, lively antelope, silent wildebeest, graceful giraffes, herds of zebras will make you feel worth the visit. Book a day and night adventure tour of Pilinsburg at the Sun City Reception Centre Wilderness Adventure counter and take the shuttle bus to the park entrance at the appointed time. ^[15]

World heritage site

As of 2022, South Africa has World heritage site 8, including 4 World cultural Heritage, 3 World Natural Heritage, and 1 World Cultural and Natural Heritage (shared with Lesotho).

World Heritage List of South Africa
name	type	Selection time
Fossil human remains at Stekfontein, Swatkrone, Kromdray and surrounding areas	World cultural heritage	It was selected in 1999 and expanded in 2005
Isimangriso Wetland Park	World natural Heritage	The year 1999
Robben Island	World cultural heritage	The year 1999
Maroti-drakensberg Cross-border World Heritage Site	World cultural and natural heritage	Selected in 2000, expanded in 2013; with Lesotho Shared.
Mapungubwe cultural landscape	World cultural heritage	The year 2003
Cape Flora Reserve	World natural Heritage	The year 2004
The Fridberg dome	World natural Heritage	The year 2005
Richthwaite culture and botanical landscape	World cultural heritage	The year 2007

Hit the road

Growth task Introduction to editing Editing rule Edit by oneself

I have a question.

Content questioning Online customer service Official post bar feedback

Complaint and suggestion

Report bad information The article was not appealed Complaint infringement information Blocked query and unblocked

Beijing Public network Anbei 11000002000001