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We all know the typical team-building experience: Games, presentations, laughter, awkward moments, dinners, drinks and fun. We can return from these events feeling bubbly and energised, but all-too-quickly, the feel-good vibes fade, and we slip back into routines and deadlines. Until the next team build when we hear: “Nothing really changed the last time, but …
Official funeral for former Minister Pravin Gordhan
President Cyril Ramaphosa has granted lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan an official funeral.
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer. He was 75 years old.
The late former Minister will be laid to rest in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday.
Speaking during the signing ceremony of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill in Pretoria on Friday, President Ramaphosa said Gordhan was one of the most principled and courageous freedom fighters the country has produced.
“South Africans woke up to the sad news of the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan. I had the occasion to go and spend some time with him last night in hospital as I returned from Cape Town before he passed on.
“I was able to get a moment to speak to him even though he could no longer hear me. But it was a sad moment for me to be able to watch him as he was passing on to his journey to another world,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the Minister’s wife, Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as his family members across the world.
“Gordhan dedicated his life to the struggle and freedom of our people, he fought to liberate this country from the shackles of apartheid. From inequality, poverty and hunger, he is one person who was driven by a vision of a society in which all people have achieved their full potential and which all may realise their dreams.
“I have decided that we will have an official funeral to say our goodbyes to him as a nation,” the President.
READ | Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan
Gordhan served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017. He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015. He also served as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until announcement of his planned retirement in March.
Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after serving as the Deputy Commissioner of the revenue service.
His contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in the student and civic movements in the 1970s and ‘80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
During South Africa’s transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue and was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
The year 2023 marked 50 years since Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree which led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 15:08
The FW de Klerk Foundation deeply mourns the passing of Pravin Gordhan on 13 September 2024. His unwavering commitment to constitutional democracy and courageous stand against corruption profoundly shaped South Africa's governance and integrity.
The post FW DE KLERK FOUNDATION PAYS TRIBUTE TO FORMER MINISTER PRAVIN GORDHAN appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.
Fitch affirms SA’s long-term foreign and local currency debt ratings at ‘BB-’
Government has noted Fitch’s decision to affirm South Africa’s long-term foreign and local currency debt ratings at ‘BB-’ and maintain the stable outlook.
According to the ratings agency, South Africa’s credit rating is constrained by several factors, including low real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, high poverty and inequality levels, a high government debt-to-GDP ratio, and a rigid fiscal structure that hampers deficit reduction.
However, the ratings are supported by a favourable debt structure with long maturities and mostly local-currency-denominated, strong institutions and a credible monetary policy framework.
The National Treasury said Fitch noted advancements in the implementation of the 35 priority reforms under Operation Vulindlela, initiated in 2020, aimed at modernising network industries such as electricity, water, and transport.
“The agency views the Government of National Unity (GNU), where the ANC remains the largest party, as a factor that reduces short-term policy uncertainty and facilitates the continuation of the implementation of the reform programme, which will contribute to a modest increase in real GDP growth.
“Fitch also acknowledges significant improvements in the electricity generation, with no supply interruptions since March 2024 and the potential for further increase in the short term,” said Treasury in a statement on Friday.
It said government’s strategy for fiscal consolidation over the medium term involves exercising expenditure restraint and implementing moderate revenue increases, while continuing to support the social wage and ensuring additional funding for critical services.
“Furthermore, government has decided to further mitigate fiscal risks by reducing borrowing over the medium term through leveraging a portion of valuation gains in the Gold and Foreign Exchange Contingency Reserve Account (GFECRA). Extensive reforms in energy, freight, water, and telecommunications are also in progress,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 13:32
The Presiding Officers of Parliament, National Assembly Speaker, Ms Thoko Didiza, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, express their profound sadness and deepest condolences on the passing of former Minister Mr Pravin Gordhan at the age of 75.
Mr Gordhan was a lifelong activist and dedicated public servant who fought against apartheid and contributed to South Africa's transition to democracy. He was among the first generation of parliamentarians following the 1994 democratic breakthrough that contributed immensely to shaping the course of our democracy through, amongst others, setting up democratic institutions, systems and laying a firm foundation for legislative reform.
His service in the cabinet and public service, including his stewardship of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and his roles as Minister of Finance, Cooperative Governance, and later Public Enterprises, demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the betterment of public institutions through ethical governance, transparency and economic reform. During his tenure at SARS, Mr Gordhan served with diligence and integrity and, together with his capable team, transformed the institution into a world-class tax and customs administration.
The Presiding Officers said: "We convey our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and comrades in the African National Congress on this sad loss.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Dear Editor The United States of America (USA) has withdrawn from the Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo (AAD) set to take place between 18 – 20 September at the Waterkloof Airbase. The AAD combines both a trade exhibition and an air show, and is regarded as a national asset. This withdrawal is a direct result …
Uphold the principles of equality in honour of Ronnie Mamoepa
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called on citizens to recommit themselves to the values of compassion, justice, and unity in honour of the late Ronnie Mamoepa.
“Together, let us construct a future that affords everyone the chance to prosper, ensures no one falls behind, and upholds the principles of equality and dignity for all.
“As President Oliver Tambo instructed, our task even in the conditions we find ourselves in today, remains that of bringing about the kind of society we visualised in the Freedom Charter,” he said on Friday.
Deputy President Mashatile was delivering a keynote address at the Ronnie Mamoepa Inaugural Annual Lecture at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Pretoria campus.
The late Mamoepa was an esteemed struggle hero, a defender of freedom and democracy, a respected figure in government communication and a dedicated public servant.
He passed away in July 2017 after a long illness at the age of 56.
His last position was as the spokesperson for the Deputy President at that time, Cyril Ramaphosa.
Hosted by the Ronnie Mamoepa Foundation, the inaugural annual lecture honoured the struggle hero, whose work in government communication helped shape the democratic narrative in South Africa.
The Deputy President’s address centred around the 30 Years of Democracy and citizen-centered government communication.
“I am of the view that Ronnie was an optimist, determined to realise the goal of a national democratic society that is non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, united, and prosperous.”
He described him as a revolutionary intellectual due to his critical thinking. “Mamoepa was an intellectual who, like other revolutionary thinkers, recognised the necessity of investing in research, reading, and critical theory and discipline.”
The Deputy President remembered that following his release from Robben Island, Mamoepa returned to his residence in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, and resumed his political activities.
“I must acknowledge that Ronnie Mamoepa, whose work ethic, and dedication to service remains unparalleled, also influenced some of the former student leaders of SASCO [South African Students Congress] who are currently members of my team in the Presidency.”
Together with Mamoepa, he said, they fought against the oppressor and equally stood against any form of discrimination.
“Our resolve to resist colonialism and apartheid stemmed from our belief in the vision of a South Africa in which the people govern, the country’s wealth is restored to the people, and the land is shared among those who work it. Our vision was to establish a society free from human exploitation.”
Government of National Unity
The Deputy President said he believed the late government communicator would have backed the Government of National Unity (GNU).
He told the attendees that GNU parties have made a firm commitment to respect the Constitution and the rule of law, as well as to promote accountability, transparency, integrity, and good governance.
“The GNU has resolved to dedicate the next five years to actions that will advance three strategic priorities – to drive inclusive growth and job creation, to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living, and to build a capable, ethical, and developmental State.”
The Deputy President assured citizens that the GNU is working around the clock to build a better South Africa for everyone.
“This means that we must work together to address all the challenges we face. We are at a time where we need to theorise and understand the context of the world we live in.”
The country’s second-in-command said as the seventh administration, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the goal is to create a society where every voice is acknowledged, and every citizen is empowered.
“We are confident that the movement of Ronnie Mamoepa will reemerge! Long Live the Spirit of Ronnie Mamoepa long live,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 14:13
President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises Mr Pravin Gordhan, who has passed away at the age of 75, following a period of illness.
President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to Mr Gordhan's spouse, Ms Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as the former Minister's older brother, Manecklal Gordhan, and sister Shanta Harilal.
The President's thoughts are with former Minister Gordhan's extended family, comrades, associates and organisations with whom he established relationships as a family and community member, freedom fighter, public sector executive and Member of the National Executive.
He served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017.
He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015, and as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until his March 2024 announcement of planned retirement.
Mr Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after a period as Deputy Commissioner.
His contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in student and civic movements in the 1970s and ‘80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
During South Africa's transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Mr Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue and was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
2023 marked 50 years since Mr Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree which led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders.
President Ramaphosa said: “We have lost an outstanding leader whose unassuming persona belied the depth of intellect, integrity and energy with which he undertook his activism, his duty as a parliamentarian and his roles as a member of Cabinet.
“Pravin Gordhan's personal sacrifices and his endeavours and achievements in various sectors of our society endowed him with the insights, empathy and resilience that fuelled his service to the nation.
“In the latter years of this service to the nation, and as a beacon of our fight against corruption, Pravin Gordhan stood up to derision and threats emanating from some in our nation who were scorched by his insistence that justice be dispensed against those who sought to undermine our democracy and raid our public resources and assets.
“During his decades of revolutionary dedication to making South Africa a better place, Pravin Gordhan and his family were deprived of much needed and deserved time together.
“As we mourn his passing, we remain grateful for his life of sacrifice and service and his sustained striving for the realisation of the vision and dictates of our Constitution.
“We carry his family in our thoughts and prayers at this time.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
President Ramaphosa signs BELA Bill
President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially signed the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill into law, which aims to strengthen governance within South Africa's education sector.
Delivering remarks during the signing ceremony held at the Union Buildings on Friday, President Ramaphosa said the signing of the Bill marked an important step towards resolving the longstanding challenges in the country’s education system.
Since the advent of democracy, the President said government has made notable progress in expanding access to education for the children of the country. However, he acknowledged that barriers to access still remain.
“Despite the progress that has been made, there are challenges in basic education that hinder our progress. We have seen cases of learners being denied admission to schools because of their language policies.
“We have had cases of children not being allowed back to school or to sit exams because their parents cannot pay school fees. We have seen great disparities in norms and standards, in governance and in access to resources,” the President said.
He emphasised that the Bill seeks to address these challenges and is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to build an education system that is more effective and more equitable.
The Bill follows an extensive consultation process that sought to take account of views and suggestions from across society.
“Consultation, engagement and debate are defining features of our democracy. They enrich the policies that are adopted and the laws that are passed. The law that we are signing today further opens the doors of learning.
“It lays a firm foundation for learning from an early age. Grade R, the reception year before Grade 1, will now be compulsory. This will enhance our focus on Early Childhood Development. It will ensure young children are better prepared for formal schooling,” the President said.
He added that the law requires schools to apply the same standards for the admission of learners.
The Bill contains provisions for improving school admissions policies, particularly with respect to vulnerable learners, like children of undocumented migrants.
The legislation promotes greater accountability with respect to the role of parents and caregivers in ensuring children attend school consistently. Home schooling will now be subject to more effective regulation and oversight.
To promote inclusivity, the new law guides schools on the development of codes of conduct that take into account respect for religious and cultural beliefs.
“This is important for fostering a more tolerant learning environment and a more tolerant society.
“As part of advancing diversity and inclusion, the new legislation addresses the issue of language policy. Schools have to consider the broader linguistic needs of the communities in which they are situated,” the President said.
The law also seeks to align the role of the School Governing Body in determining language and admission policies with the responsibility of provincial education departments to ensure the constitutional right to basic education.
It seeks to ensure uniformity and fairness in educational standards across all schools.
To improve safety in the learning environment, the legislation reinforces the ban on corporal punishment. It introduces stronger penalties for those who administer corporal punishment.
The legislation also introduces financial and public accountability frameworks for School Governing Bodies. It guides the oversight of their activities and work.
Implementation of the BELA Bill
In light of the different views expressed about the Bill, President Ramaphosa said he had decided to delay the implementation date for clauses 4 and 5 of the Bill by three months.
“In the last few days, the parties to the Government of National Unity (GNU) have expressed their wish to further engage each other on sections of the Bill that deal with issues of admission and language.
“In the spirit of cooperation and meaningful engagement, I have decided to delay the implementation date for clauses 4 and 5 of the Bill by three months,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said this will give the parties time to deliberate on these issues and make proposals on how the different views may be accommodated.
“Should the parties not be able to agree on an approach, then we will proceed with the implementation of these parts of the Bill,” he said.
He said all agree on the need for a common framework for collaboration as government, as school governing bodies and as parents. “For our education system to work for all, we have to work better, smarter and in a more cooperative manner,” the President said.
He called on everyone to work together to ensure that all children receive good quality education, wherever they are and whatever their circumstances.
The ceremony was attended by Basic Education Deputy Minister Reginah Mhaule, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Gauteng MEC for Education Matome Chiloane, Mpumalanga MEC for Education Cathy Dlamini, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education Sipho Hlomuka and Limpopo MEC for Education Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya, among others. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 13:32
Pretoria: 12 September 2024 Work to identify a vessel responsible for pharmaceutical bottles washing ashore along the South African east coast from Gqeberha through to nearby north eastern towns on the Indian Ocean coastline, is actively being investigated, says the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA). For identification, analysis and safe disposal of the pharmaceutical … Continue reading Mop up underway of containers and pharmaceutical bottles found on the South African eastern coastline: SAMSA
By Tyrone Young, Head of Sales for Information Display and Information Technology from LG Electronics South Africa In recent years, we have witnessed a significant shift in how people consume digital content and manage their work-life balance. This evolution has brought computer monitors into the spotlight, not just as productivity tools, but as versatile display …
Eskom pays tribute to “pivotal figure” former Minister Gordhan
Eskom has joined the rest of South Africa and the global community in mourning the passing of former Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan.
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer, his family announced. He was 75 years old.
Gordhan was Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until he announced his planned retirement in March 2024.
The State-owned power utility described the former Minister as a “pivotal figure in Eskom’s transformation, driving critical reforms that set the foundation for the utility’s future”.
The organisation said he was instrumental in initiating the legal separation of Eskom into Generation, Transmission, and Distribution entities.
According to Eskom, his vision, outlined in the 2019 Department of Public Enterprises Roadmap for Eskom in a reformed Electricity Supply Industry, led to the creation of the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA), which began operations in July this year.
This marked a key milestone in South Africa’s efforts to reform the electricity sector, boost efficiency, and promote transparency.
Eskom Board Chairperson, Mteto Nyati, has offered heartfelt condolences to Gordhan’s family on behalf of the Eskom Board, executives, and all staff.
“His strategic guidance and unwavering support were essential to the current Board’s efforts to restore Eskom’s performance.”
According to Nyathi, he consistently stood by the Board, management, and employees during his time as Minister.
“His legacy will live on through us as we rebuild a high-performance and ethical Eskom,” Nyati added.
Eskom has also sent its deepest sympathies to his loved ones, knowing that his contributions will forever be remembered as a vital part of South Africa’s progress.
“May his soul rest in peace,” the power utility’s statement concluded.
In a statement released on Friday morning, President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his deep condolences to Gordhan’s wife Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, the former Minister’s older brother Manecklal, and sister Shanta Harilal.
President Ramaphosa commended him for his role as a leader in the country’s anti-corruption efforts during his later years of service to the nation.
“Gordhan stood up to derision and threats emanating from some in our nation who were scorched by his insistence that justice be dispensed against those who sought to undermine our democracy and raid our public resources and assets.
“During his decades of revolutionary dedication to making South Africa a better place, Pravin Gordhan and his family were deprived of much-needed and deserved time together.
“As we mourn his passing, we remain grateful for his life of sacrifice and service and his sustained striving for the realisation of the vision and dictates of our Constitution.
“We carry his family in our thoughts and prayers at this time,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said.
READ | President mourns the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan
Meanwhile, the South African Revenue Service(SARS) described the former Minister as “a true patriot, social activist and a steward leader.”
READ | Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan
– SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 12:32
The company’s ThinQ ON platform is set to revolutionise daily life with personalised, intelligent home solutions. LG Electronics (LG) unveiled its pioneering vision for future living at IFA 2024 in Berlin, Germany, showcasing a comprehensive range of AI home solutions under the theme ‘Experience, Affectionate Intelligence (AI) Home.’ The exhibition highlighted how LG’s advanced AI …
Friday, 13 September 2024: Eskom and Maluti-a-Phofung local municipality (MAP) in the Free State are progressing a collaborative venture aimed at restoring the sustainability of electricity provision in the municipality. This unique eight-year agreement aims to restore the municipality’s technical and financial sustainability, enabling MAP to pay for bulk electricity from Eskom and continue providing...
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today announced a 15-player squad to represent CSA Under-19 Emerging Men in a five-match 50-over...
Manufacturers pleased with AllFashion Sourcing Exhibition
Clothing, textile, footwear and leather manufacturers who showcased their proudly South African products at the AllFashion Sourcing Exhibition in Cape Town this week have expressed satisfaction with the quality of meetings they held and leads they acquired during the show.
The group received support from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) to showcase their products at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (ICC) from 10-12 September 2024.
The Sales Manager of Genuine Connection Promotions, Elaine Köhne, described the experience as amazing and beneficial as it offered an opportunity to showcase their clothing line, gather market insight, connect with industry professionals and attract new business.
“We managed to network, interact with visitors and other companies that were showcasing at the show,” Köhne said.
“We had good conversations and exchanged contacts which we will definitely follow up on. We will invite these new contacts to our premises for further engagements that could lead to new business opportunities and partnerships. Importantly, the show gave us an opportunity to also see what is on the international market,” she said.
According to the Project Manager of the South African Retail–Clothing Textile Footwear Leather Master Plan 2030 Master Plan Programme, Courtney Barnes, it was great to see local manufacturers showcasing their capabilities at the show.
She said what stood out from the master plan perspective was the variety of the local capabilities, although there is still a need to upscale and showcase more of the local capabilities with real capacity.
“If we want retailers to localise, we need to show them that we have the supplier capabilities and capacity. The show is the first step and I am excited to see its offerings next year and to bring more local manufacturers to the table and have more international buyers to come and appreciate what South African manufacturers can do,” Barnes said.
Sales Manager of Freudenberg Non-Wovens, a global manufacturer and innovative pioneer in the field of technical textiles, nonwovens and fibre, Heidi Smith, expressed her gratification with the outcomes of the show.
She said the participation was remarkable, as it provided a platform for engagements with retail partners and current partners. According to her, they have started sending emails for the expansion of the engagements.
“It was wonderful to engage with various partners and other designers coming to see what we do. It was more pleasing to engage with smaller designers and manufacturers who came to learn and understand how we are doing our business and what they can learn from us,” Smith said.
She said the panel discussions on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) focusing on boosting intra-African trade through regional value chains in the textile and clothing industry, the journey to sustainability focusing on green manufacturing, ethical sourcing, among others, were beneficial.
The Director of Leather and Footwear at the dtic, Dr Jaywant Irkhede, congratulated the event organiser, Messe Frankfurt SA, for a world class event.
“The dtic and Industrial Development Corporation officials attended to the needs of the international and local exhibitors, and visitors with the aim of developing investment leads. The event offered an opportunity for scaling up, to showcase and promote manufacturing capabilities of South Africa and Africa.
“Parallel events at the show brought together international community of manufacturers, designers, retailers, buyers, educational institutions, associations, investors, financiers and service providers to the textile, apparel, footwear and fashion industry,” Irkhede said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 10:23
Africa, get ready to flex those remote controls! The homegrown hit CN Challengers Go! has already made waves on YouTube, racking up over 1.97 million views – and now, it’s about to set your TV screens ablaze! This proudly South African show is proving that our local talent can hang with the best of them …
Unplanned power outages plague residents and small businesses near Cape Point
Baruch Entertainers, a distinguished troupe in the Cape Town Minstrels community, is thrilled to announce the launch of their new Theme Song for the 2025 carnival competition. This highly anticipated event will take place on Friday, September 27, at Plug Studios in Paarden Eiland, Cape Town. Doors open at 8 pm and feature a lineup …
Dear Editor The DA has instructed its lawyers to continue to prepare for court action on both the process leading to the adoption of the BELA Bill, as well as its substance, on constitutional grounds. We note President Ramaphosa’s statement, at the signing ceremony of the BELA Bill today, that the implementation date of its …
Currently leading the World Rally-Raid rankings, Ross Branch is all-in for his maiden world title. Excellent performances at the first four events of the year; Branch currently leads the rankings but needs to clinch the world title at the last event in Morocco. First of all, what is Rally-Raid? To put it in simple terms, …
Majodina to inspect Lesotho water project tunnel in Free State
Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina will on Saturday conduct an oversight visit to the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel in Clarens in the Free State.
The visit to the project located in the Dihlabeng Local Municipality comes ahead of the project’s shutdown for maintenance.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel is preparing for a six-month closure, as it undergoes planned maintenance, jointly undertaken by the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) and the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), which is an entity under the Department of Water and Sanitation.
The closure of the tunnel, which is scheduled to start from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025, is prompted by a need for extensive maintenance and repair works to ensure optimal water supply.
The tunnel system includes a transfer tunnel, linking Katse Dam with Muela Power Station and Muela Dam, and a delivery tunnel linking Muela Dam with the Ash River Outfall Works between Clarens and Bethlehem.
The work required to be undertaken during the shutdown period includes grit-blasting the steel-lined section around the entire circumference and re-applying corrosion protection on the tunnel lining, and other maintenance and repair work identified during the 2019 maintenance shutdown.
The department said the tunnel shutdown will have implications for water supply to South Africa, particularly on the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS) water users.
“The IVRS and the users along the Liebenbergsvlei River, Mafube, Nketoana and Dihlabeng Local Municipalities in the Free State will be affected as well. The department has engaged with all affected municipalities and stakeholders, including provincial government departments, informing them of the planned tunnel closure,” the department said.
Majodina, who will be accompanied by Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Sello Seitllolo will also hold a meeting with the affected municipalities to assess their state of readiness to continue water supply in their respective communities during the shutdown. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 10:58
Dear editor The Democratic Alliance resolutely supports the independence of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and firmly opposes the EFF’s SARB Amendment Bill. The Bill undermines SARB’s constitutional mandate to operate independently by granting the Minister of Finance the right to appoint the seven non-executive directors who are currently elected by shareholders. By granting …
Die FW de Klerk Stigting betuig sy diepste meegevoel met die familie en geliefdes van die voormalige Minister Pravin Gordhan, wat vanoggend op die ouderdom van 75 oorlede is. Die Stigting erken Pravin Gordhan se onskatbare bydraes tot Suid-Afrika se grondwetlike demokrasie.
The post FW DE KLERK STIGTING BETUIG RESPEK AAN VOORMALIGE MINISTER PRAVIN GORDHAN appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.