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Dear Editor The failure by the Development Bank of Southern Africa’s (DBSA) to appear before the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) to give an update over the fire damaged Parliament buildings is both outrageous and deeply disappointing. The DBSA was expected to present critical updates on the restoration of the fire-damaged Old …
Dear Editor The DA today opened a criminal case with the Hawks to investigate alleged tender fraud of R831 100 in the Mamusa Local Municipality, Enquiry Number 05/08/2024. Documents in our possession indicate that the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Mr Vincent Masilo, who also serves as the Acting Municipal Manager, allegedly facilitated the purchase of …
‘Worm mom’ makes waves in farming
If you think of worms, you might imagine slimy tiny creatures but for Snenhlanhla Maduna who has been dubbed ‘worm mom’, her face lights up at the sight of these creepy-crawlies.
“They are harmless, the tickling sensation they create when hand-held made me overcome my initial aversion,” Maduna said.
The 21-year-old from Hilton, Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, is the co-founder of SñP Organic Products, which specialises in vermicomposting, this is a process whereby earthworms convert natural waste into compost.
“We transform organic waste into nutrient-rich worm compost, which enhances soil health and fosters plant growth.”
The idea for SñP Organic Products stemmed from a deep-rooted passion for gardening and sustainable living.
“After the COVID-19 lockdown and the July unrest, we realised the impact of growing our own food. My father, Phumani Zondi and I decided to co-found SñP Organic Products."
After extensive research and training, the father and daughter duo started experimenting with different organic waste materials to turn waste into valuable compost from their backyard,
This is how SñP Organic Products was born.
The entrepreneurs target local gardeners and environmentally conscious consumers who value organic products.
“We currently sell our compost to gardening enthusiasts who appreciate the benefits of nutrient-rich, chemical-free compost.
“We [also] provide worm bait for people who enjoy fishing. Dreaming big, we see ourselves eventually selling to farmers, golf courses and places that use compost to maintain their fields,” Maduna said.
SñP Organic comfrey balm
Apart from producing compost, SñP Organic Products has a comfrey balm product that offers natural therapeutic benefits. The product is made from comfrey plants grown from their home.
Comfrey is renowned for its healing properties, particularly in treating sore muscles, backaches, painful joints, and inflammation.
"Our plantain balm is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it ideal for treating acne, rash, eczema, and irritated skin."
SñP Organic Products currently employs one dedicated worker, who visits twice a week to assist with the operations.
“As we grow, we aim to expand our workforce, particularly targeting young, ambitious individuals aged 18 to 50 who are eager to learn and start their own ventures. Creating job opportunities for these individuals is a core part of our mission."
Maduna said she is hopeful for future collaborations with government that can support the business’s mission.
“Government funding and support would enable us to expand our operations, educate more people, and create job opportunities for disadvantaged communities. Our vision is to establish a large-scale worm farm, producing compost and training individuals in vermiculture and vermicomposting."
Maduna is currently studying towards a Bachelor of Education degree with Stadio Higher Education.
She said the course will equip her with the skills to effectively communicate and teach others about sustainable practices.
“Our journey in vermicomposting and organic product development is a testament to the potential of small efforts making a significant impact. With the right support and education, we aim to transform the agricultural landscape in South Africa, one worm at a time,” she concluded.
Maduna can be reached at kamagubevu@gmail.com.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Witnessing the value of democracy
By Khanyisile Rasmeni and Sinovuyo Mfiki
Tshibiso Morao of Makwane village in Qwa Qwa, Free State, has seen the positive impact of democracy in his community.
“We observed changes resulting in our children attending school for free. The children of our community are also provided with breakfast and lunch at school daily," he said.
He added that after three decades of democracy, there was improvement in the delivery of low cost housing, benefiting those who struggled to access dignified housing.
Moroa spoke recently to the Vuk’uzenzele team which was aboard the Democracy Bus.
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with the South African National Roads Agency, recently launched the Democracy Bus, which travels around the country to drum up citizen participation in celebration of the country's 30 years of democracy.
In the Free State, the Democracy Bus visited Namahadi and Makwane villages and brought government services closer to people.
For Ephraim Mojsoane, who was 14 years old in 1994, democracy means being able to have basic human rights.
“Democracy has greatly benefited South Africa, we now have human rights and the Bill of Rights,” he said.
Mojsoane testified that during the 30 years of freedom and democracy, there has been progress in workplaces, business and the economy.
He added that the government still needed to work hard to better the lives of South Africans.
Magauta Mohobeleli, originally from Bloemfontein, but currently residing in Kgotsong, said she currently has land thanks to the principles of democracy.
“Democracy has brought numerous positive changes, we can easily access all government services. Our children have access to scholarships, and efforts are being made to combat gender-based violence,” she said.
Sibongile Makubo from Namahadi village, expressed gratitude for the positive effects of democracy over the past 30 years.
“Democracy has led to significant changes such as improved access to government services without the need for transportation, and the provision of housing and land,” she concluded.
The Democracy Bus travels to different parts of South Africa and promotes dialogues with communities. The initiative is part of the country's milestones of the 30 years of democracy.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 13:21
The Be the Difference Foundation has received a R123 000 boost from GrandWest which will provide much needed sports apparel and training equipment. The Foundation’s CEO Granthem Abrahams says, “By being the proactive difference within our communities, our hope is that we will enable positive change.” Abrahams explains that the aim of the programme is …
Johannesburg, Gauteng – Ants are often considered harmless intruders, more of an inconvenience than a threat. However, the reality is that these tiny invaders can pose significant health risks if infestations are not properly managed. Pest Control WR, a leading pest control company in Johannesburg, is raising awareness about the potential dangers that ants can …
No Need to evacuate Riverlands residents
The Department of Water and Sanitation has assured residents of Riverlands in the Swartlands Local Municipality that the situation has normalised requiring no need for evacuation.
The department said water started flowing quicker than expected on Saturday through the spillway created to minimize the risk of failure of the fourth dam that was on the verge of failure.
This follows the failure of three farm dams, located in Riverlands, that breached, resulting in flooding that caused severe property and infrastructure damage to the affected area, leading to hundreds of people being provided with humanitarian assistance.
“The department mobilised its personnel located in the Clanwilliam Dam project to open up the spillway on the fourth dam further and allow the water level in the dam to drop by at least 1 m per day."
On Tuesday morning water started flowing quicker than expected.
"As a result there was understandably concern from community members. The department would like to assure community members that the fourth dam is almost empty and water levels in the river should begin to subside. Should there be any further heavy rainfall, the dam would not store water to threaten the stability of the partially failed wall,” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 10:07
Taboola (Nasdaq: TBLA), a global leader in powering recommendations for the open web, today announced an expansion of its operations to serve advertisers and publishers in Africa. Partnering with Aleph Holdings, Taboola’s advanced AI-powered technologies and consumer reach will now be accessible to advertisers and publishers in countries including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt and …
Johannesburg, South Africa – 21 August 2024 – InterSystems, a leading provider of advanced data technology, will exhibit its healthcare solutions at the Hospital Association of South Africa (HASA) Conference on September 2-3, 2024, at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The HASA conference brings together healthcare experts from across South Africa and around the …
The Football Foundation for Africa (FFA) (https://FootballFoundation.Africa/) is proud to announce South African Airways (SAA) as the (official) airline partner for the Africa Football Business Summit 2024, taking place in Nairobi on 24-25 October 2024.
The summit will bring together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and football enthusiasts from across the globe to explore the intersection of football, business, and social impact.
Through SAA's codeshare agreement with Kenyan Airways, participants in the Business Summit are expected to have access to discounted international, regional and domestic airfares when travelling to and from Nairobi.
SAA Regional Manager, East Africa and Middle East, Dr Austin Nyawara, said, “Sustainable and cost-effective air travel is a crucial ingredient in the growth of the sports economy across Africa. As we bring together stakeholders from all corners of the continent for the Summit in Nairobi, we are thrilled to offer delegates up to a 15 per cent discount on SAA's already competitive prices. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to connecting and uniting Africa—an endeavour that SAA has championed through its tagline, “Connecting Africa One Flight at a Time.”
As the proud flag carrier of South Africa, SAA has just celebrated a significant milestone—90 years of service—solidifying its status as one of the oldest and most resilient airlines in the world.
Football, much like air travel, has the power to unite people and communities across Africa. This partnership with SAA aligns perfectly with the broader FFA agenda of fostering connections and driving socio-economic development through football.
SAA's rich history of investing in sports, including its past sponsorship of South Africa's Springboks and its recent partnership with the South African Football Association as the official carrier of the national football teams, makes it an ideal partner for the Africa Football Business Summit.
“We look forward to working closely with SAA not only during the Summit but also in the future as we strive to create a sustainable and thriving sports economy across Africa,” concluded Brian Wesaala, founder and CEO of The Football Foundation for Africa.
Book your flight to the Africa Football Business Summit here. https://apo-opa.co/3YSWfS1
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Football Foundation for Africa.
Note to Editors:
The Africa Football Business Summit 2024 will be held at the Weston Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. It will bring together key stakeholders in football, sports business, and social innovation from across Africa and beyond.
For more information, please contact:
Brian Wesaala
Founder & CEO
afbs@footballfoundation.africa
https://AFBS.FootballFoundation.Africa
About South African Airways (SAA):
South African Airways is the national airline of South Africa, with a rich history of 90 years in aviation. SAA is committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and connecting Africa to the world with safety, reliability, and excellence.
About The Football Foundation for Africa (FFA):
The Football Foundation for Africa is dedicated to unlocking Africa's youth potential through the power of football. Through initiatives like the Africa Football Business Summit, FFA seeks to drive social innovation, economic development, and unity across the continent.
Dear Editor Today’s release by Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) of the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data illustrates the financial strain that South Africans continue to experience and the continued battle to put food on the table. This past month, our rate of inflation stood at 4.6%, down from 5.1% in June. While this is …
Concern over fire incident at Lancea Vale secondary School
Gauteng Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation MEC, Matome Chiloane, has expressed concern about a fire incident at Lancea Vale Secondary School in Eldorado Park.
According to a statement released by the department, the fire resulted in significant damage to three classrooms within the Grade 8 and Grade 9 block.
The incident took place on Tuesday.
“It is indeed concerning that last week Wednesday there was a stabbing incident of a learner by another learner at the same school. We will not tolerate violence or gangsterism perpetuated in around and our schools. In the same breath, we are closely monitoring the situation, and we are certain that learning and teaching will resume accordingly at the school,” MEC Chiloane said.
The department reported that preliminary reports indicate that the fire initially started in Room 81, located on the first floor of Block C.
The fire spread rapidly, completely gutting three classrooms, and the structural safety of the building which is now a concern.
The department said that firefighters will provide a report on the extent of the damage, for a decision to be taken on whether it will be safe to continue with teaching and learning at the affected block of classroom.
The police are also investigating circumstances surrounding the incident. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 11:50
Strategic reputation management powerhouse has appointed Apaphia Lefatle, an award-winning Public Relations maven, as Senior Account Manager. Apaphia’s extensive experience and deep passion for PR promise to significantly impact her new role, especially as she takes the lead on Decode Communications’ major accounts, such as loveLife and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. Her expertise spans …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) has today in Parliament requested that the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation urgently summon Minister Ronald Lamola to outline all actions his department is taking to secure the release of political hostages in Equatorial Guinea. The DA were accompanied in Parliament by the families of the hostages. …
Four Eskom employees, contractor security guard arrested for theft of heavy fuel oil
Eskom has confirmed the arrest of four employees and a contractor security guard, in connection with the theft of heavy fuel oil, valued at R500 000 from the Camden Power Station.
According to an official statement, the accused have been charged and are detained at Ermelo Police Station after they were arrested on Friday, 10 August 2024, at midnight.
This is after two Eskom weighbridge operators were apprehended for their alleged role in colluding to steal heavy fuel oil and defraud the company.
“The investigation began during a routine quality inspection of coal deliveries at Camden Power Station, conducted by Eskom’s Security Investigation team.
“A suspicious truck attempting to leave the station was intercepted, and the driver was asked to park on the side of the road. Upon presenting a weighbridge slip, the driver claimed that 30 610 kilograms of heavy fuel oil had been offloaded at Camden Power Station.
“However, a subsequent inspection revealed that the truck was still fully loaded with the fuel oil. The driver fled the scene, triggering further investigations that led to the arrests,” the State-owned utility explained.
Following further investigations on 16 August 2024, authorities arrested two more Eskom employees, a weighbridge operator and a control room operator as well as a contractor security guard.
According to Eskom, all the accused remain in custody, as the case has been remanded to 27 August 2024 for a formal bail application.
Eskom’s Acting General Manager for Security, Botse Sikhwitshi, said the organisation is committed to safeguarding the security and integrity of its critical infrastructure.
“The ongoing collaboration between Eskom’s internal security investigations team and law enforcement agencies, coordinated by the National Energy Crisis Committee’s (NECOM) Safety and Security Priority Committee, is yielding positive results in our efforts to combat crime and corruption,” she explained.
Sikhwitshi said while most of their employees are hardworking and dedicated to enhancing Eskom’s performance, they are fully committed to eradicating corruption.
“The recent arrests are a positive step in our ongoing efforts to eliminate criminal activities within our organisation, reaffirming Eskom’s zero-tolerance approach to crime and corruption,” Sikhwitshi added.
Eskom is urging the public to report any unlawful activities, such as fraud, illegal electricity sales, theft of coal, fuel oil, and diesel, and crimes targeting critical infrastructure.
“These reports help Eskom eradicate crime and corruption, potentially saving thousands of rands, as demonstrated in this case,” the statement read.
Reports can be made anonymously via the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or through WhatsApp at 081 333 3323. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 11:07
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance wishes Chief Justice Raymond Zondo farewell, as, after 27 years on the Bench, he begins the next chapter of his life. In 2012 Justice Zondo was appointed as a Justice to the Constitutional Court, and later in 2017 the Deputy Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa. In 2018 …
Syndicate closing down businesses and schools
South African women are exiting their businesses at a higher rate than they are starting and running businesses indicating they need more support in growing start-ups to the established stage of more than 3.5 years. This is a key finding of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) South Africa Report 2023/2024 by Stellenbosch Business School, launched …
Eskom removes illegally connected transformers in Gauteng
Eskom, in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, has removed over 35 illegally connected transformers in Gauteng’s Diepsloot Extension 6.
“This joint operation is part of Eskom’s ongoing efforts to reclaim its network and alleviate the strain caused by unauthorised and illegal electricity connections,” the State-owned power utility said of Tuesday’s removal.
In the 2022/23 financial year, Eskom said it suffered non-technical losses of around R5 billion due to illegal connections, meter bypasses, and other electricity-related criminal activities within its supply area.
The utility has lamented that these unauthorised practices undermine its financial health and its ability to provide a reliable electricity supply to lawful customers.
Meanwhile, according to Eskom, illegally connected transformers not only destabilise the network, causing frequent supply interruptions, extended outages and substandard service for paying customers, but it also poses significant safety risks to their technicians working on the system.
Eskom’s Group Executive for Distribution, Monde Bala, expressed deep appreciation for the collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), Joburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Red Ants, Eskom Protective Services, and the private security companies in ensuring the success of this operation.
“These efforts are crucial in safeguarding Eskom’s assets, ensuring public safety, and mitigating the severe energy losses caused by illegal connections, meter bypasses, and acts of theft and vandalism,” Bala added.
While most employees are dedicated and committed to delivering their daily job outputs and striving to enhance Eskom’s performance, the organisation stated that it maintains a clear stance of zero tolerance towards crime and corruption.
“Consequently, we are currently investigating allegations from community leaders that some Eskom employees are allegedly involved in the sale of illegal transformers. We will update community leaders on the outcomes of these investigations once they are concluded.”
Eskom has since called on all communities to refrain from engaging in any illegal activities related to electricity.
Members of the public are encouraged to report illegal connections, meter bypasses, and any suspicious activities to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323.
Additionally, anyone with information regarding the involvement of Eskom employees in illegal activities is urged to report anonymously for further investigation. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 10:44
Pretoria: 06 August 2024 Salvage work on the grounded Panama-registered general cargo vessel, the MV Ultra Galaxy is expected to progress again this week after yet another bout of a stormy wintry weather that engulfed South Africa’s west coast at the weekend. Leadership of a salvage team working on the vessel since early July 2024, … Continue reading Unfavourable inclement weather holds incessant risk to salvage work on grounded cargo vessel on South Africa’s west coast. SALVOS
SAPS celebrates its women in blue
This year, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is observing Women's Month by celebrating its women in blue, who do not only bring inclusivity and empathy to the table, but who also go beyond the call of duty to serve and protect the people of South Africa.
Today, SAPS introduces the nation to Sergeant Silindile Njilo, a crime prevention member attached to the Ntuzuma police station in KwaZulu-Natal.
Njilo and baby “Tholakele” captured the hearts and minds of the nation when a video clip of them trended on social media platforms earlier this year. Loosely translated, the name Tholakele means ‘being found'. The real identity of the toddler is being withheld.
Little did Njilo know how her day shift would unfold when she reported for duty on 05 May 2024 and found an abandoned baby girl at the Client Service Centre (CSC). The baby was brought to the police station during the previous shift by the owner of a local tavern after the biological mother had left the baby at his establishment.
Wasting no time, Njilo went home to get a wash basin and returned back to the police station where she bathed Tholakele, changed her into a new set of clothes and fed her while waiting for social services to arrive.
It was as if the baby instinctively realised that she was safe in the arms of Njilo and a bond immediately formed between them.
Baby Tholakele, a name Njilo gave her, has since been placed at a place of safety. Njilo visits often and says she continues to love and care for Tholakela as if she were one of her own.
Njilo, a devoted wife and mother of two, also says her act of humility that day was merely a reflection of her humble upbringing as she knows how it feels to 'come from nothing'.
Her mother single handedly raised Njilo and her siblings with no steady income. Njilo says she will never forget her late mother's words: "Be a light and take care of those who need help".
She often takes out money from her own pocket to buy basic essentials and food to support poverty-stricken community members.
Joining the Service 14 years ago was a dream come true for Njilo, as she believes there is no greater calling than to be of service to her community.
As a crime prevention member, her duties include dealing with general enquiries and complaints lodged by the public, attend to crime scenes, effecting arrests and detaining suspects as well as carrying out patrol duties.
"I urge our community members to support and stand alongside members of the South African Police Service. Because, together we can achieve more towards a safer country for all," said Njilo.
Nothing short of a heroine, Sergeant Njilo continues to be a shining light in the community she serves. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 10:16
By Dr Daniel Govender (Academic Head- School of Law and Administration at Regent Business School) Local government in South Africa suffers from challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, lack of resources, and widespread corruption, which together often hinder local government’s ability to meet the dire needs of the community effectively. Regent Business School’s Academic Head of …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) has submitted a motion to the Gauteng Legislature to censure Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko for her failure to work with cancer interest groups to ensure speedy treatment to save the lives of cancer patients. This is why there is a court case by Section27, Cancer Alliance …
Durban, South Africa – At the heart of Durban’s thriving culinary landscape, Zai Restaurant has emerged as a beacon of excellence, cultural richness, and top-tier dining experiences. Spearheading this success is 25-year-old Akhona Yedwana Ndlovu, one of Durban’s youngest and most dynamic Managing Directors. Akhona is not only revolutionizing the hospitality industry but is also …
