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By Thula Mngoma (Academic – Regent Business School) In South Africa, women aspiring to leadership roles encounter a landscape shaped by historical inequalities and persistent socio-economic challenges. Regent Business School Academic, Thula Mngoma, examines the specific hurdles faced by women, particularly black women, as they strive for leadership positions. She highlights the strategies that have …
Sungrow Unveils Latest PowerStack 200CS: A Game-Changer now available in South Africa’s Energy Sector South Africa, Johannesburg 22 August 2024: Sungrow, a global leader in PV inverters and energy storage solutions, has unveiled its latest Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Energy Storage System (ESS), the PowerStack 200CS, at Intersolar Europe. This innovation comes at a crucial …
In today’s digital landscape, photography is not just a hobby but a potential business opportunity. With advanced smartphone cameras, capturing breathtaking images has never been easier. But how do you translate those striking shots into a profitable venture? For photography enthusiasts, there are multiple avenues to explore, from showcasing your work online to selling physical …
Introduction In the bustling world of logistics and warehousing, efficiency and cost-effectiveness are paramount. Forklifts, particularly electric models, are at the forefront of modern material handling solutions, offering versatility and eco-friendliness. This guide provides an in-depth look at forklift rentals, focusing on electric forklifts, understanding rental prices, and the significance of quality forklift batteries. By …
New Development Bank key to progress in developing countries
Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has called for visible thought leadership on how the New Development Bank (NDB) can play a more catalytic role in the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in developing and emerging markets.
The SDGs are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
“The Bank must be unwavering in its commitment to the SDGs as it remains the most relevant benchmark for the development priorities of developing countries. Therefore, as we grow and strengthen the NDB as an institution, we must not lose sight of its developmental mandate.
“There is a need to address global challenges such as geopolitical challenges, which impacts multilateralism, escalating climate stresses, widening economic and social divides, and challenges we face at a national level.
“This includes poverty, inequality, and unemployment that continue to plague our societies,” Godongwana said on Friday. The Minister was addressing the NDB Annual meeting in Cape Town.
The Minister noted the significant progress that has been made by the Bank since being operational.
“[However], we must recognise that there is still much work to be done. As the 2030 Agenda draws near, increased momentum towards achieving the SDGs is imperative. This is a critical time for global development partners to come together and convey a strong message on the broad development agenda,” he said.
The Minister said progress on the SDGs will require targeted investment.
“Access to concessional development finance for developing countries is imperative to ensure accelerated progress in addressing development challenges and achieving inclusive growth that creates economic opportunities for all.
“In addition, there is a need for sizeable increases and greater stability in the flow of private capital investments. The NDB can play an essential role in mobilising private investment and ensuring it flows where it is needed most.
“The Bank must implement innovative financing instruments to crowd-in private sector participation. This should be accompanied by technology transfer and capacity building support as multidimensional enablers to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs, especially in key areas such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, digital access and job creation,” Godongwana said.
He said investment in infrastructure is central to the achievement of the development goals.
“Infrastructure is an enormous economic multiplier, providing dividends for an economy long after the infrastructure has been built. We believe that the NDB’s activities in developing and emerging markets will assist in addressing the large infrastructure financing gap that has been impeding economic growth and development, particularly in Africa.
“In this slow growth environment, where fiscal and monetary policy is limited, public and private role players need to collaborate to support growth.
“To this end, we look to the NDB to provide solutions aimed at de-risking infrastructure projects through its financial instruments to attract private capital,” the Minister said.
This will support infrastructure projects and provide technical assistance in designing innovative funding models and institutional arrangements that could accelerate infrastructure investments at a country-level.
“However, if the Bank is to continue advancing the interests of the developing world and address challenges such as renewable energy, infrastructure development, digital access and job creation then NDB must make a concerted effort to speed-up disbursements of approved projects.
“As more African countries become members of the NDB we believe that the Bank can play a very instrumental role in the provision of infrastructure and addressing its infrastructure deficit,” he said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 11:44
The tranquil town of Somerset is now home to a new hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with the recent opening of a new Hi-Tec outdoor apparel store. This new addition marks a significant milestone for both the brand and the local community, catering to the increasing demand for high-quality, performance-oriented gear for outdoor adventures. Nestled in …
Lamola welcomes Norway’s support to help resolve SA’s triple challenges
South Africa’s triple challenges of unemployment, inequality, and poverty persist, and Norway’s ongoing support and cooperation to enable the country to resolve these pressing development issues is greatly appreciated.
This is according to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister, Ronald Lamola who spoke during the opening remarks on the Working Visit of Norway Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.
Norway is one of the biggest investors in renewable energy in South Africa and is working towards delivering President Cyril Ramaphosa’s request for private-public partnerships to ensure economic growth and job creation through renewable energy.
“Our struggle for a better South Africa is intertwined with our pursuit of a better Africa in a better world. We welcome Norway’s commitment to collaborate with us as we forge ahead with efforts to promote peace and security on the continent and advance regional and continental integration,” the Minister said on Friday.
According to Lamola, South Africa also seeks partners to promote peace and reconstruction on the continent through various cooperation mechanisms, not in the form of aid but in a way that substantively enables Africa to leverage its rich endowment.
“In a manner which helps Africa live up to the aspiration, we sing about the African Union anthem, the clarion call to make Africa the tree of life.”
This morning’s discussions focused on bilateral trade including Norwegian investments in South Africa’s renewable energy sector, multilateral affairs, South Africa’s upcoming Presidency of the G20, and geopolitical developments, including peace and reconciliation efforts in South Sudan, Palestine and Ukraine.
“Our engagement today allows us to review the current state of our bilateral political and economic relations and unlock challenges and opportunities where they may exist.”
He said their talks also afford them valuable opportunities for reflection and an honest exchange of views to deepen common understanding of regional, multilateral, and global issues of mutual concern and interest.
“I do not doubt that today’s meeting’s outcome will revitalise bilateral relations between our two countries and build on the foundation laid in previous engagements.”
The Minister is of the view that Norway stands as a “beacon of unwavering friendship” to South Africans.
“It is among one of the few nations that extended a hand to host missions from the African National Congress during our most trying times under apartheid rule.”
He expressed his appreciation to the Scandinavian country for supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle from apartheid and said both countries were united by shared values of democracy, respect for human rights, and social justice.
“South Africa continues to make significant strides in reversing the historic injustices of apartheid.
“However, this remains a work in progress, as it has only been 30 years since we attained our democracy. We deeply value Norway’s contribution in this regard.”
He labelled multilateralism as being at the heart of the biggest issues facing the world currently.
These include promoting peace and security, trade, and human rights, ending hunger, preventing health epidemics, tackling climate change, and protecting the environment.
“We value our cooperation with Norway in multilateral fora and look forward to continued engagement between our countries.
“Strengthening our engagement on these issues goes beyond individual countries and cultures.”
He told Norway’s Foreign Minister that he hoped their continued collaboration through discussions would enhance and foster the constructive and fruitful relationship that both countries derive from our bilateral relationship. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 12:15
Investing in high-quality winter clothing now will pay off later, stay warm with these jackets from Hi-Tec. Accessibility to the great outdoors shouldn’t be limited because of the weather. Bundle up in everything you need from windbreakers to rain jackets. You can be a trailblazer and retain peak functionality even in the coldest weather with …
SA's crime figures "tell sobering story"
Crime is generally on the increase and crimes that are of concern include murder, rape, hijacking, kidnapping for ransom payments, and extortion.
This is according to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu who released the crime statistics for the fourth quarter of the 2023/2024 financial year and the first quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year in Cape Town on Friday.
“These numbers tell a sobering story, reflecting the severity of the challenges we face. These numbers represent more than just figures on a page; they reflect the lived realities of our citizens—their fears, their losses, and their hopes for a safer tomorrow.
“The data is a stark reminder of the urgent need for action. We are confronted with a crisis that threatens the safety of our communities and undermines the stability of our nation. Contact crimes, in particular, are wreaking havoc and instilling fear,” said the Minister.
South Africa has seen an increase in the number of contact crimes reported at the country’s police stations during this year’s first quarter, from April to June 2024.
Contact crimes increased by 3 831 from 149 806 cases to 153 637 cases reported in the first quarter of 2021-2022 and 2023-2024.
This is followed by assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm with 2 247 cases and common assault with1 339 cases.
Mchunu said the top crime police stations are in four provinces, Western Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.
“It is worth noting that the Limpopo province recorded 3.3% per capita, making it the safest province in as far as murder is concerned,” he said.
The top 30 police stations for murder cases were in four provinces.
“All the top 30 stations for murder were in only four provinces, namely Western Cape [11 stations], KwaZulu-Natal [eight], Eastern Cape [six] and Gauteng [five]
“The leading stations among them were Nyanga [Western Cape], followed by Inanda [KwaZulu-Natal], Umlazi [KwaZulu-Natal], Khayelitsha [Western Cape] and Harare [Western Cape],” the Minister said.
During the previous quarter, 6 228 cases of murder were reported as compared to the current 6 198 cases.
Mchunu said there has been an increase in rape and extortion cases reported.
“We have been reading about kidnappings and extortion cases in the media; 135 cases of kidnapping for ransom were recorded in the first quarter, with Gauteng and KZN accounting for 81 and 15 cases respectively.”
On the list of the top 30 police stations where rape cases were lodged, Inanda in KwaZulu-Natal is first, followed by Mthatha in the Eastern Cape and third is Thohoyandou police station in Limpopo.
Touching on police murders, Mchunu said 21 police officers were killed in the first quarter (16 off duty and five on duty officers), with the largest number of officers being from the Eastern Cape (five), KZN (four) Western Cape (four).
“We will ensure that our personnel receive the support and resources they need to perform their duties safely and effectively,” he said.
The number of cash-in-transit (CIT) heists in KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Gauteng are still a concern.
Police would be meeting with various cash in transit companies to discuss measures aimed at curbing this crime.
He said his department’s priorities for the 7th Administration are clear and resolute.
“Bringing crime levels down is our number one priority, to protect the citizens of South Africa and make them feel safe again,” he said.
The Minister explained that elections had resulted in the delay of the release for the last quarter of the previous financial year and that these would be made available on the police’s website at https://www.saps.gov.za/services/downloads/2024/2024-2025_-_1st_Quarter_WEB.pdf. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 13:54
The striking workers claim they have been paid late two months in a row
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Government places the transfer of land to women under the spotlight
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has committed the department to prioritise the transfer of land, wealth and income earning ability to organised women.
Addressing the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature Women’s Parliament on the Economic and Social Empowerment of Women on Friday, Chikunga said the historic treatment of women as minors who are incapable of owning property, continues to reproduce itself today through landlessness and its related disadvantages.
“Through integrated farming value-chain cooperatives as well as a cooperative banking institution, we are determined to see to it that women take ownership and control of land for productive and commercial purposes.
“We will ensure that women and youth have access to land for agricultural purposes and related economic activities. Land is wealth, wealth that has income earning potential,” Chikunga said.
During the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced massive plans to ramp up a green manufacturing sector over the next five years and mentioned Mpumalanga as a priority.
Chikunga said the department will ensure that women are at the centre and do not remain in the margins of these projects.
Emerging Industrialists Accelerator Programs
The Minister said the department has conceptualised a series of Emerging Industrialists Accelerator Programs and intends to rally all relevant stakeholders, particularly state-owned entities (SOEs), and industry associations behind their implementation.
“These programs will target emerging women industrialists in key sectors, including energy security, the maritime, defence and aerospace industries, and agriculture, among others. The recent Sola Mamas initiative will be scaled up and strengthened to reach more women.
“Participating emerging industrialists will work alongside experienced industry associations, receiving support from ideation through to product development, financing, market access, and commercialization pathways,” she explained.
Emerging Industrialists Fund
To support these initiatives, the Minister said the department will advocate for the establishment of an Emerging Industrialists Fund, dedicated to supporting beneficiation and transforming young people’s ideas into productive economic activities.
The Minister emphasised that while investment must come from both the public and private sectors, the state must take the lead as the investor of first resort.
“For example, the tourism industry in Mpumalanga has limitless potential. We need to channel our young women to this industry, not just as employees but owners and operators of tourism infrastructure.”
Enrolment of National Youth Service recruits
Chikunga also announced that work is underway to ensure that the first round of the National Youth Service (NYS) recruits are enrolled before the end of the financial year.
“A minimum of 50% of the beneficiaries of this program will be women, including unemployed graduates and those who have completed Grade 12 but are currently sitting at home. Here in Mpumalanga, we must make sure that the youth of this province, particularly rural youth and those in farming communities, are not left behind.”
Launched by Deputy President Paul Mashatile in May this year, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF)-led NYS is a special project that will be piloted and implemented in the country’s poorest districts, where most youngsters are unemployed.
READ | Mashatile launches SANDF-led youth initiative to create jobs, entrepreneurship
The project is targeting no less than 125 000 youth in its first year of rollout.
Chikunga said through this programme, the department will be rallying industry associations, including SOEs, universities, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and participating sister departments behind a nationally coordinated and de-siloed effort to combat youth unemployment.
“We will be training emerging industrialists in the design, manufacturing, piloting and applications of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs/drones) from small drones used to inspect borders, to large fixed-wing UAVs applied in mining, construction, oil and gas and related fields,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 14:33
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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, is of the view that the dire first-quarter (1 April to 30 June 2024) crime statistics point to the need to urgently capacitate the detective and crime intelligence services as a tool to reverse the scourge of crime in South Africa.
Today, the Minister of Police released statistics that revealed a worrying general upwards trajectory of crime. The statistics confirm the recently released 2023/24 Governance, Public Safety, and Justice Survey by Statistics South Africa that South Africans are not and do not feel safe. “One of the contributing factors to an unsafe country is the inability to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of crime. With enhanced training and capacitation of detectives, crimes will be effectively investigated and perpetrators will be prosecuted,” Mr Cameron said.
The portfolio committee has previously emphasised its belief that South Africa continues to rely heavily on reactive policing due to inadequate intelligence services. “We will not fight crime effectively with a limping intelligence service that is incapable to gather information and prevent crimes from happening,” Mr Cameron emphasised.
While the committee welcomed the steps to increase personnel within the ranks of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Mr Cameron cautioned that more boots on the ground without investigative capacity will render the increase in police officers pointless.
For the first quarter of 2024, the released statistics indicate a worrying increase in murders, especially in the Western Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape. “The fact that the top 30 stations with the highest murder cases were in the four provinces, which calls for urgent capacity augmentation in those provinces to investigate and convict perpetrators in those provinces. Furthermore, consideration of devolved powers to local governments will assist the SAPS to investigate those incidents of murder, such as in the City of Cape Town which recorded 234 gang related murders for the quarter,” Mr Cameron said.
The 4th quarter also indicated a 3.9% increase in murder and 19.7% increase in attempted murder. Similar to the first-quarter crime statistics, the top 30 stations with high murder rates were in Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. “It is necessary for these provinces to detail how they will turn around this dire state of affairs as it relates to murder,” Mr Cameron maintained. “It is patently unacceptable that on average at least three people are murdered per hour in South Africa and three kids are murdered in the country per day. The 1st quarter stats also highlight that there was a 7.9% increase in murder of women, 16% in attempted murder and 6.9% in assault with grievous bodily harm. Effective prosecution of these crimes is essential to enhance deterrence against murder and contact crime,” Mr Cameron emphasised.
The 15% increase in attempted murder and 6% increase in assault with the intent to inflict grievous bodily harm is also worrying. While the Chairperson welcomes the 10.5% decrease in sexual assault cases reported, the high number of rape cases reported remains a deep concern, with 9 309 cases reported, an increase of 0.6%. Gender-based violence continues to be a scourge and requires society-centred approaches to reverse, Mr Cameron said.
The Chairperson also highlighted concern with the marked increase in contact crimes over the two quarters, with 171 707 crimes reported in the fourth quarter, an increase of 4.6%. SAPS recorded 153 637 contact crimes during the first quarter of this financial year, an increase of 2.6% in comparison to the same period last year.
Furthermore, it is worrying that the prevalence of illegal firearms on South Africa's streets continues unabated. The SAPS must heighten strategies to remove illegal firearms from our streets as a means of eliminating illegal firearms, which continue to be the weapon of choice in carrying out crime.
Mr Cameron remains concerned about the continuing murder of members of the SAPS. The crime statistics highlighted that 21 police officers were killed during the quarter. “We remain concerned that the people in the service of protecting South Africans are maimed on a daily basis. This is a direct affront to the rule of law and measures are needed to urgently resolve this problem,” said Mr Cameron said.
The Chairperson also welcomed the Minister's commitment to deal with the rise in extortion by deploying specialised units. Nonetheless, the Chairperson called for closer collaboration within the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security cluster with the aim of establishing a special court to urgently prosecute perpetrators.
To overturn the scourge of specific crimes, Mr Cameron called for interventions that focus on capacitation of specialised units to ensure that specific areas of concern are addressed systematically.
The Chairperson acknowledged the Minster's assurance that they are revising strategies to intensify the fight against crime by augmenting existing strategies such as Operation Shanela. The committee believes it is important to revitalise collaboration with communities to build the trust necessary to enable information-sharing and reporting of crime.
In line with this, the committee has resolved to ensure that adequate funding is appropriated to enable the SAPS to better capacitate its ranks, especially the detectives and intelligence services.
The committee resolved during its scheduled meeting on Wednesday, 28 August, to schedule an intensive meeting to further interrogate the statistics and find workable short-, medium- and long-term strategies to defeat the scourge of crime.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Criminals will face full might of the law - President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a strong warning that law enforcement agencies are determined to bring justice to those who terrorise communities and businesses.
The President was speaking during the signing ceremony of the Cooperation Agreement to Combat Crime in Cape Town on Friday.
“Today by signing this cooperation agreement, we are saying enough is enough. Genoeg is genoeg. Kwanele. Our mothers and daughters here in the Cape are tired of not being able to walk around…without fear. We want those criminals to be caught and arrested. They must not be seen here in our streets.
“Parents, teachers and learners… are also saying they are tired of thugs causing chaos at schools and bringing weapons and drugs into the classrooms. They are tired as young people that their lives are being wasted by…drugs. The people also no longer want to see these things peddled among them,” he said.
While referencing an incident where four would-be extortionists were killed during a shootout with police, the President said police were pouncing on those terrorising the community.
“We are now taking the war against those who extort money. We are taking the war against the construction mafia. We are taking the war against gangsters. We are now going to take you on and make sure that you are brought to justice,” he asserted.
The President assured residents and businesses that government has heard their cries and is working to address the challenge of crime.
“The gangsters are tearing our communities apart and this is costing lives. Businesses are being forced to pay protection fees and of being under siege from criminals who are destroying their businesses. We are here to show you that we do take your concerns into account and we take them seriously.
“The South African Police Service is at the forefront of the fight against crime. It is making progress in taking our streets back from criminals. Last year…we launched Operation Shanela which brings together various law enforcement agencies to deal effectively with crime.
“Since March 2023, more than 800 000 suspects have been arrested for various offences ranging from murder, rape, kidnapping, gender-based violence and a whole number of other acts of criminality,” he said.
The President added that in the Western Cape, Operation Shanela is also “making its mark”.
“We are clamping down on illicit firearms. During police operations in the Western Cape over a 12 month period more than 3000 firearms were confiscated. Dedicated task teams are disrupting drug operations across the province.
“For example, in July, law enforcement officials intercepted cocaine with an estimated value of R252 million in Stilbaai and arrested a number of suspects,” he said.
Joining hands
Turning to the Cooperation Agreement to Combat Crime itself, the President explained that it will pave the way for “sharing technology and resources, information and best practice to improve the state of public policing”.
“Through this agreement we are sharpening our response to serious and violent crime. The exchange of information on crime activity and suspects will make this province safer. The exchange of information of new crime trends will ensure that we are one step ahead of criminals.
Greater collaboration will make it easier to trace suspects and wanted persons who are evading arrest and prosecution. By drawing on each other’s expertise, we will be able to do much more than if we were each working alone,” he said.
The President called on the residents themselves to not only leave it up to government but to take hands with law enforcement to root out criminality.
“We cannot win the war against crime without you. I want to call on each and every one of you to join national and provincial government, the SAPS and the City of Cape Town to help us take our communities back from those who cause violence, discord and criminality.
“Let us continue to work together to realise a Cape Town, a Western Cape and a South Africa that has no place for criminals and crime,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 14:47
The mining industry is facing significant challenges, from financial pressures leading to reduced margins and demanding stakeholders adding to procurement costs. Success in such an environment requires partnering with a supplier that is collaborative, flexible, and forward-thinking. RS stands as the ideal partner to help businesses in the mining sector achieve their goals while saving …
Western Cape Provincial Minister for Mobility, Isaac Sileku welcomes and supports the decision of President Cyril Ramaphosa to give national ministers the shareholder responsibilities for several state-owned enterprises. ‘The decision that the National Minister of Transport, Ms. Barbara Creecy, will, in terms of the presidential proclamation, now be responsible for Transnet, South African Airways and …
The Western Cape Government (WCG) notes with deep concern the crime statistics for the fourth quarter of the 2023/24 financial year and the first quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, which were released earlier today by the Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu. The figures are disappointing and are a clear indication that fresh approaches to …
The water supply situation will only improve when municipal managers face charges over failed water supply. WaterCAN is deeply concerned about the ongoing water outages affecting the communities of Makhanda and eThekwini. These disruptions have caused significant inconvenience and hardship for residents, impacting daily life and essential services. The water challenges in Makhanda in the …
Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok will make his DHL Western Province debut along with three other players in the Carling Currie Cup encounter with the Airlink Pumas in Stellenbosch on Sunday. Libbok is joined by replacements Joseph Dweba, Brian le Roux and Dave Ewers in pulling on the blue and white hoops for the first time …
Entries for the 52nd aQuellé Midmar Mile are officially open with organisers forecasting another bumper event from 6-9 February 2025. Those swimmers wishing to take advantage of the early bird entry fee can do so via the newly launched www.midmarmile.com website. The reduced entry fee will be available until 1 November 2024. Organisers of the …
Criminals will face might of the law - President Ramaphosa
President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a strong warning that law enforcement agencies are determined to bring justice those who terrorise communities and businesses.
The President was speaking during the signing ceremony of the Cooperation Agreement to Combat Crime in Cape Town on Friday.
“Today by signing this cooperation agreement, we are saying enough is enough. Genoeg is genoeg. Kwanele. Our mothers and daughters here in the Cape, are tired of not being able to walk around…without fear. We want those criminals to be caught and arrested. They must not be seen here in our streets.
“Parents, teachers and learners… are also saying they are tired of thugs causing chaos at schools and bringing weapons and drugs into the classrooms. They are tired as young people that their lives are being wasted by…drugs. The people also no longer want to see these things peddled among them,” he said.
While referencing an incident where four would-be extortionists were killed during a shootout with police, the President said police were pouncing on those terrorising the community.
“We are now taking the war against those who extort money, we are taking war against the construction mafia, we are taking the war against gangsters. We are now going to take you on and make sure that you are brought to justice,” he asserted.
The President assured residents and businesses that government has heard their cries and is working to address the challenge of crime.
“The gangsters are tearing our communities apart and this is costing lives. Businesses are being forced to pay protection fees and of being under siege from criminals who are destroying their businesses. We are here to show you that we do take your concerns into account and we take them seriously.
“The South African Police Service is at the forefront of the fight against crime. It is making progress in taking our streets back from criminals. Last year…we launched Operation Shanela which brings together various law enforcement agencies to deal effectively with crime.
“Since March 2023, more than 800 000 suspects have been arrested for various offences ranging from murder, rape, kidnapping, gender-based violence and a whole number of other acts of criminality,” he said.
The President added that in the Western Cape, Operation Shanela is also “making its mark”.
“We are clamping down on illicit firearms. During police operations in the Western Cape over a 12 month period more than 3000 firearms were confiscated. Dedicated task teams are disrupting drug operations across the province.
“For example, in July, law enforcement officials intercepted cocaine with an estimated value of R252 million in Stilbaai and arrested a number of suspects,” he said.
Joining hands
Turning to the Cooperation Agreement to Combat Crime itself, the President explained that it will pave the way for “sharing technology and resources, information and best practice to improve the state of public policing”.
“Through this agreement we are sharpening our response to serious and violent crime. The exchange of information on crime activity and suspects will make this province safer. The exchange of information of new crime trends will ensure that we are one step ahead of criminals.
Greater collaboration will make it easier to trace suspects and wanted persons who are evading arrest and prosecution. By drawing on each other’s expertise, we will be able to do much more than if we were each working alone,” he said.
The President called on the residents themselves to not only leave it up to government but to take hands with law enforcement to root out criminality.
“We cannot win the war against crime without you. I want to call on each and every one of you to join national and provincial government, the SAPS and the City of Cape Town to help us take our communities back from those who cause violence, discord and criminality.
“Let us continue to work together to realise a Cape Town, a Western Cape and a South Africa that has no place for criminals and crime,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 14:47
In the heart of Durban, amidst the bustling streets and vibrant culture, lies the culinary haven of Chilli Chocolate Chefs (CCC). The brainchild of sisters Zainab and Faatimah Paruk, CCC is not just a catering company; it is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering determination. This is their story, a journey …
Dear Editor Today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Western Cape Government, the City of Cape Town, and South African Police Service is an important step in addressing the escalating crime crisis. This agreement is an acknowledgment by the national government and SAPS that a combined and collaborative effort is required to …