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Understanding the Need for Accessible Abortion Clinics The journey of reproductive health is a deeply personal one, and access to safe and legal abortion services is a crucial part of this journey. In South Africa, abortion clinics provide essential services, ensuring women have the support and care they need. Why Accessibility Matters Accessibility to …
Ensuring the safety and style of your home involves more than just choosing the right furniture or colour scheme. It also includes the critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of your home’s electrical system. A well-designed and maintained electrical distribution board can enhance both the safety and aesthetics of your living space. What is a …
Progress made in management of foot and mouth disease
Three working groups have been established to improve cooperation between the Department of Agriculture, provincial authorities and industry stakeholders on the recent outbreaks of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Municipalities in the Eastern Cape.
The department said the situation appears to be improving, as the rate of new FMD cases has begun to decline, with the last clinical case reported in mid-July.
“At present, cattle on 30 farms have tested positive for the disease. These farms have been placed under quarantine, and vaccination efforts are underway to control the spread of infection and reduce the severity of clinical symptoms.
“Additionally, pre-emptive vaccination has been carried out on a further 37 farms identified as high risk due to their proximity to infected areas. This measure aims to create a buffer zone around the affected farms to further limit the spread of the disease,” the department said.
In total, over 92 000 cattle and nearly 600 sheep across 67 farms have been vaccinated.
These efforts are a critical part of the department’s strategy to manage and eventually eradicate the disease.
To prevent the further spread of FMD, the Department of Agriculture declared a Disease Management Area (DMA) on 19 July 2024.
“This DMA encompasses parts of the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Municipalities and will facilitate the regulation of animal movements into, out of, and within the affected regions. The primary objectives of the DMA are to prevent the spread of the disease to unaffected areas and to reduce viral load and infection pressure within the current outbreak zone.
“The Director of Animal Health has signed and published the movement protocol for the DMA. The protocol is available on the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD) and the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) websites. Copies can also be requested from AgriEC,” the department said.
Biosecurity and Disease Transmission
The department has noted misleading claims suggesting that FMD is transmitted by birds and rodents, which undermines the importance of biosecurity measures.
“While theoretical transmission via such vectors exists, it is highly unlikely to contribute significantly to the current outbreak. Effective biosecurity -- focused on preventing direct and indirect contact of susceptible animals and rigorous cleaning and disinfection practices -- remains the most reliable method for preventing the introduction and spread of FMD on farms,” the departments said.
The department has reminded livestock owners that health declarations are required for the movement of susceptible animals, regardless of the purpose.
“New arrivals of cattle, sheep, and goats must be isolated from resident herds for at least 28 days. This is in addition to urging livestock owners to only source animals from herds with a known health status. This practice, mandated by law since October 2022, is crucial for maintaining herd health and preventing disease spread,” the department said.
Section 11 of the Animal Diseases Act requires animal owners and managers to take all reasonable steps to prevent disease infection and its spread.
FMD is classified as a controlled animal disease under the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No. 35 of 1984), and specific control measures, such as isolation and movement restrictions, are being enforced by Veterinary Services.
“Farmers are reminded that it is a legal obligation to report any suspicious clinical symptoms, such as salivation, blisters in the mouth, limping, or hoof lesions, to the local State Veterinarian immediately. Affected animals must not be moved.
“The department strongly advises livestock farmers nationwide to limit animal movements to the greatest extent possible. Movement of cloven-hoofed animals should be restricted to essential cases only, allowing time to identify and quarantine potentially affected properties,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 10:53
Introduction In a world where information is power, the services of a private investigator can be invaluable. Whether you’re dealing with a personal matter, a legal issue, or a professional dispute, the right investigator can provide the clarity and evidence needed to navigate complex situations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of …
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Jo-Ane van Dyk earns Team SA’s sixth medal at Olympics
South African athlete Jo-Ane van Dyk has earned Team South Africa’s sixth medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics Games.
Van Dyk won a silver medal during the women's javelin on Saturday at the Stade de France, Paris, on Saturday night.
“At a packed Stade de France on the final night of track and field action at these Games, she produced a third effort of 63.93m, which highlighted the form she’d shown all week, and moved her up into the silver medal, behind Japan’s Haruka Kitaguchi, who had opened with a winning 65.80m.
“It was an emotional evening all round, because Van Dyk is coached by Terseus Liebenberg, who also guided Viljoen to the silver medal at Rio 2016,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.
Van Dyk had attended her first Olympics in Tokyo, and there she was eliminated in qualifying with a best of 57.69m.
“Here, she is three years older, three years wiser and a different athlete entering the prime of her career. The South African’s first throw of 59.72m had been below par by her standards. She upped it by exactly two metres to 61.72m, which still wasn’t enough to get into medal contention on a stacked leaderboard.
“However, her third throw was another two metres further and that 63.93m was to be 25cm better than bronze medallist Nikola Ogrodnikova, and 53cm better than the fourth-placed finisher, Sara Kolak,” SASCOC said.
Meanwhile, high jumper Brian Raats couldn’t better his first jump, where he cleared 2.17m, and ended up in 12th place, with the gold going to New Zealand’s Hamiush Kerr with 2.36m.
“Team SA’s men’s 4x400m took to the track having been reinstated into the final after the referee intervened on Friday following interference and a tumble in their heat. Gardeo Isaacs, in lane one, took the opening, which he covered in 45.67sec, leaving Zakhiti Nene at the back of a nine-country field.
“However, Nene again scorched around the track and has been Team SA’s best 400m athlete at these Games. He made up four places with a lap of 43.81. Lythe Pillay kept the momentum with a 43.97 run and at the changeover, South Africa were still fifth. And that’s where they stayed as Antonie Nortje finished off with a 44.67.
"With the United States winning gold in an Olympic record 2:54.43, South Africa’s quartet set a national record 2:58.12,” SASCOC said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 11:20
Ensuring academic success for children involves more than just regular schooling. Early intervention, particularly through targeted tutoring, can significantly enhance a student’s understanding and performance in various subjects. Proactive Tutoring for Maths Maths is a subject that builds on itself year after year. If a student falls behind, it can be challenging to catch …
Team SA displays fortitude at Paris Olympics
Team South Africa has shown commendable fortitude at the 2024 Paris Olympics Games, having participated in five sporting codes on Saturday.
The team started with five medals but javelin thrower Jo-Ane van Dyk upped it to six with a brilliant effort of 63.93m.
READ | Jo-Ane van Dyk earns Team SA’s sixth medal at Olympics
“Also in finals action at a packed Stade de France on Saturday night were high jumper Brian Raats and the men’s 4x400m relay squad.
“The men’s marathon saw Elroy Galant and Stephen Mokoka take to the Paris roads and hills. Galant finished a fine 11th overall, in 2hr 9min 7sec, while Mokoka crossed the line in 27th position, dipping under 2:11 by one second,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.
Canoeist Hamish Lovemore won his 1000m B-Final, which placed him 9th overall to end his Games on a high.
“Wrestler Nicholas de Lange was always going to be up against it in terms of his draw, and lost his match, while golfers Ashleigh Buhai and Paula Reto wrapped up four days at Le National Golf.
“China, with 38 golds, the United States (with 37), Australia (18), Japan (17) and France (15) took the lead in the medal standings. Team SA are 40th with one gold (Tatjana Smith), three silvers (Smith, men’s 4x100m and Van Dyk) and two bronzes (men’s Sevens rugby and Alan Hatherly),” SASCOC said.
Athletics
• Men’s marathon: Elroy Galant finished 11th in 2hr 9min 7sec, some 2min 41sec behind the gold medallist, Tamarat Tola. The Ethiopian set an Olympic record in winning in 2:06:26. Stephen Mokoka was 27th, with a time of 2:10:59.
• Men’s high jump, final: Brian Raats finished 12th with an opening height of 2.17m.
• Women’s javelin, final: SILVER! Jo-Ane van Dyk threw a distance of 63.93m to take second. position.
• Men’s 4x400m, final: Team SA finished 5th behind the United States in a national record 2:58.12.
Canoeing
• Men’s kayak single 1000m semi-finals: Hamish Lovemore finished 8th in 3:38.39 and qualified for the B-final.
• Men’s kayak single 1000m B-Final: Lovemore won his race in 3:27.94, which would have placed him fourth in the A-final, and he took 9th place overall.
Cycling
• Men’s keiren, first round heats: Jean Spies finished 6th in his heat and advanced to the repechage.
• Men’s keiren, repechage: Jean Spies finished 5th in his heat and didn’t progress to the quarter-finals.
Golf women’s individual, final round
• T13th 285 Ashleigh Buhai 68, 73, 74, 70 (3-under).
• T44th 299 Paula Reto 78, 73, 76, 72 (11-over).
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 11:43
Home entertainment is an essential part of our lives, creating an immersive experience with top-notch audio and visual quality is paramount. Transforming your living space into a personal cinema can be achieved with a few essential components: a 4K projector, a home theatre sound system, wireless speakers, and a surround sound system. The Foundation: …
Dear Editor The DA extends our heartfelt congratulations to each member of Team SA for their achievements and participation at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Their dedication and sacrifices were fruitful with the team bringing home six medals – 1 Gold, 3 Silver and 2 Bronze. Team SA’s triumph showcased on the global stage by our …
Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa
Twenty-eight year-old Mia Le Roux has won the Miss South Africa title at glitzy event held at the Sun Bet Arena in Pretoria.
According to the Miss South Africa website, Le Roux she was born in Sasolburg, Free State and raised in Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape.
“She is a marketing manager, model and part-time B Com Marketing student. She was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and her community rallied behind her to give her the gift of hearing; inspiring her desire to make a positive impact and break barriers. She describes herself as resilient, dedicated, graceful and kind,” the website said.
In a post on Saturday night on the social media platform X, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said: “Congratulations to our South African Queen Mia le Roux. I know you will represent us well at Miss Universe.”
The Miss South Africa pageant describes itself as a leadership platform for ambitious young South African women.
“Through a pageantry process, contestants receive world-renowned coaching in addition to advanced networking, business and life skills. Shaped into brand ambassadors for our country, they become champions of women’s rights, thought leaders and savvy career women who inspire other young South Africans to fulfil their potential, recognise their self-worth and find their place in the world,” the website said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 12:03
Parliament committed to advancing gender equality
As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, Parliament has reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing programme for greater women empowerment, emancipation and development, and continues to fight all forms of violence against women.
“Parliament will continue to enhance its oversight to ensure the effective implementation of legislation and policies to promote and protect the constitutionally enshrined rights of women in society,” Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, said in a joint statement.
The Presiding Officers made these remarks ahead Women’s Day, which was celebrated under the theme: "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development".
This year’s commemoration of Women’s Day marked 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched on the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of pass laws to women.
The women presented a petition against the carrying of passes by women.
The Presiding Officers reflected on the country’s progress over the last 30 years of democracy towards greater gender equity and inclusivity. Parliament has passed laws that have significantly improved the lives of women.
“These legislative efforts have focused on promoting gender equality, protecting women's rights, and ensuring their participation in all aspects of society, from the workplace to the political arena.
“Parliament has also reinforced its commitment to combating gender-based violence by passing laws designed to enhance protection for victims and ensure justice for survivors. These advancements mark significant strides towards a more just and equitable society.
“The democratic dividend has been felt by many, as our women have become makers of history as leaders in government, Parliament and legislatures, the judiciary, and the private sector. Notably, among them is Justice Mandisa Maya, the first woman appointed as Chief Justice in the country. We welcome and applaud this historic milestone,” the Presiding Officers said.
READ | Cabinet congratulates Justice Maya on her appointment as Chief Justice
This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the 1954 Women’s Charter by the founding conference of the Federation of South African Women (FSAW).
The Charter called for, among other things, the enfranchisement of men and women of all races; equal opportunities in employment; equal pay for equal work; equal rights concerning property, marriage and children; and the removal of all laws and customs that denied women such equality.
While the Presiding Officers reflected on the progress made in uplifting women over the last 30 years, they also acknowledged the challenges that persist.
“In celebrating these milestones and advances made in the pursuit of women’s emancipation during the last 30 years of our democracy, we remain conscious that much more needs to be done to achieve a non-sexist, non-racial, democratic and prosperous South Africa.
“We must do more, be more vigilant, and guard against the scourge threatening the gains of progress made for our women. This responsibility is a shared one for government, Parliament and every South African,” the Presiding Officers said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 10:10
An emotional Mia le Roux from Cape Town in the Western Cape was crowned Miss South Africa 2024 at the spectacular 66th pageant finale held at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria on Saturday night. The 28-year-old marketing manager, model and part-time BCom marketing student hails from Rosebank in Cape Town, but was …
Matrics called to apply for Water and Sanitation bursaries
Grade 12 learners, who plan to pursue studies in the water and sanitation field, have until 30 September to apply for bursaries offered by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS).
The DWS offers comprehensive bursaries to Grade 12 learners, who plan to pursue studies in the water and sanitation field for the 2025 academic year.
“The comprehensive bursary application process opened on 1 May 2024 and will close on 30 September 2024 and is targeting the previously disadvantaged and impoverished persons from poverty-stricken and rural communities across the country,” said the department in a statement.
The bursary programme covers full tuition fees, accommodation and food, as per university guidance, books and stationery allowance, and a monthly stipend.
For the 2025 academic year, the department will consider applications only for first year students studying towards the following qualifications:
“Through the bursary programme, the Department of Water and Sanitation will require bursars, who obtained their qualifications, to join the Learning Academy as graduate trainees on a fixed-term contract for a period of maximum of three years,” said the DWS.
The graduate trainees will be exposed to general and soft skill training programmes, orientation and induction into the department. After completion, the trainees will be placed in various functional areas (base stations) within the department and allocated mentors within the various line functions to receive the job training.
“The experience and expertise gained during this time will assist with the professionalisation of scientists and engineers and give workplace exposure and additional training until they are ready to register as professionals with their relevant professional bodies.”
Bursary application forms can be sent by email to bursaries@dws.gov.za. For more information, students are encouraged to visit the department’s website. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 09:50
With a Gritty Victory 21 -13 in a Sportsmans Warehouse Premier Interschools Derby this past Saturday 10 August 2024. On a day where the weather mirrored the intensity on the field, Oakdale emerged victorious against Boland Landbou in a hard-fought derby that had everything: drama, determination, and a few surprises. The match kicked off in …
Introduction In the quest for durable, cost-effective, and versatile products, plastic items such as chairs, wheelie bins, and outdoor furniture have become staples in both homes and businesses. This guide explores the world of plastic products, focusing on their benefits, applications, and tips for selecting the right type for your needs. Understanding the Appeal …
The Beach Palace Ramsgate, a luxurious 5-star guesthouse with stunning views over the Indian Ocean, has been nominated for the prestigious Golden Tree International Travel Award, representing South Africa on the global stage. This nomination is a testament to The Beach Palace’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and unparalleled guest experiences. As a premier guesthouse, The …
President Ramaphosa concludes working visit to Angola
President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded his working visit to the Republic of Angola.
In a st
atement on Thursday, the Presidency said the visit covered three key areas of mutual interest which are namely, the strengthening of the bilateral relationship between South Africa and Angola, sharing perspectives on recent developments in South Africa's political landscape that led to the successful formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU), and reflecting on the security situation in the Great Lakes Region, particularly the developments in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
“Angola continues to be interested in South Africa's political developments just as we are interested in how Angola is progressing because we are two sister countries that continue to share a wonderful relationship,” said President Ramaphosa on South Africa’s recent political developments.
President Ramaphosa was in Luanda, Angola on a one day working visit as a guest of his counterpart President João Lourenço.
On the consolidation of the bilateral relationship between the two countries, President Ramaphosa said the discussions focused on the enhancement of economic and investment ties.
“The two leaders further reflected on the security situation in the Great Lakes Region. President Ramaphosa applauded President Lourenço for his effort in working for peace in the DRC and for achieving a ceasefire between the DRC and the Republic of Rwanda,” said the Presidency.
The ceasefire agreement between the DRC and Rwanda was recently facilitated by Angola.
The signing by the respective foreign ministers, was facilitated by President Lourenço as the mediator of the Luanda Process. Angola will continue to monitor its implementation.
Both South Africa and Angola are signatories to the 2013 Framework Agreement for Peace, Security, and Cooperation in the DRC and the region, along with several other countries.
The two leaders also committed to continue working together and alongside other leaders in the region to ensure that the ceasefire becomes permanent.
President Ramaphosa used the occasion to extend a State visit invitation to President Lourenço, for which President Lourenço accepted.
The State visit will affirm the strong and special bond between the two nations.
President Ramaphosa was supported by Minister Ronald Lamola of International Relations and Cooperation and Minister Angie Motshekga of Defence. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 08:38
Money Smart Week to commence on 26 August
South Africa’s 2024 Money Smart Week SA (MSWSA) is expected to kick off on 26 August and run until 1 September.
This is according to Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who addressed a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday.
She said the week will feature “various consumer-focused financial education programmes and initiatives”.
“MSWSA is an initiative of the National Consumer Financial Education Committee (NCFEC) to motivate, empower and educate South Africans and contribute to a more financially literate citizenry. Activities during the campaign will include free workshops, presentations, mall activations, exhibitions and webinars,” she said.
In July, the National Treasury called for organisations and individuals to be part of MSWSA.
READ | Call to participate in Money Smart Week
“The key objective of the MSWSA is to provide a national collaborative platform and mobilise a wide range of stakeholders to motivate, empower and educate South Africans and contribute to a more financially literate citizenry.
“Participation in MSWSA is open to any organisation or individual, including academic institutions, government departments, regulatory authorities, financial institutions, community groups, companies, Non-Governmental Organisations and Public Benefit Organisations.
“Interested participants are invited to organise their own financial education initiatives and events to host during the week-long campaign,” National Treasury said in a statement.
The online registration process is open for participants to submit a participation application form by no later than 16 August 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:22
Cabinet commends addition of SA sites to UNESCO list
Cabinet has commended the latest addition of the South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in the prestigious list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites.
The sites in the prestigious list include the Union Buildings, Constitution Hill, Liliesleaf farm, Sharpeville memorial, Walter Sisulu Square, 16 June 1976: The Streets of Orlando West, University of Fort Hare and ZK Matthews House, Mqhekezweni, Waaihoek and Ohlange.
The UNESCO World Heritage Committee also inscribed three Middle Stone Age sites in recognition of South Africa’s significant contribution to the understanding of the origins of modern human behaviour.
These include Diepkloof Rock Shelter close to Elands Bay in the Western Cape, Pinnacle Point Site Complex in Mossel Bay also in the Western Cape and Sibhudu Cave in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.
“The sites termed as The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites, not only help preserve South Africa’s unique heritage, but catapults our country to prominence as a major tourist attraction for World Heritage Sites, thereby boosting tourism and the economy,” said Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
The Minister was briefing media at a post-Cabinet briefing held in Pretoria on Thursday.
READ | UNESCO inscribes more World Heritage sites for South Africa
South Africans are living longer
Meanwhile, Cabinet has also welcomed the Mid-Year Population Estimates (MYPE) for 2024, which showed that South Africans are living longer.
The MYPE shows that life expectancy has increased to 66.5 years from 53.6 years in 2005 due to multiple government interventions, including the expanded rollout of antiretroviral therapy - which is one of the largest antiretroviral therapy programme in the world.
The estimates also show the provision of vaccinations and the decrease in the infant mortality rate from an estimated 57 infant deaths per 1000 live births in 2002 to 22.9 per 1000 live births in 2024.
“South Africa’s population now exceeded 63 million, growing 1.33 percent from July 2023 to July 2024. The updated population growth figures will assist government in its planning and resource allocation as we continue to better the life of all South Africans,” Ntshavheni said.
High-tech rail infrastructure
Cabinet has also commended the introduction of new high-tech trains on the Central Line in the City of Cape Town by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). PRASA is an agency of the Department of Transport.
The service has been extended from Nyanga to Mandalay station.
Ntshavheni highlighted that the trains utilise modern signalling system from Langa to Mutual Line, to enhance the safety and reliability of the rail service.
“The modern hi-tech features in these trains include automated doors, and CCTVs for each coach are for improved passenger safety,” the Minister said.
Cabinet has further commended the recovery of more rail lines part of government’s priority of providing safe, reliable and affordable public transport.
READ | PRASA introduces new modern trains in Cape Town
This as Cabinet held its first normal meeting of the seventh administration at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:38
Cabinet welcomes ICJ advisory on Occupied Palestinian Territories
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, says South Africa’s Cabinet has welcomed an advisory by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the “legal consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territories”.
Ntshavheni was addressing a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday.
The ICJ advisory affirmed that Israel’s continued presence in the territories is unlawful under international law.
“The judgement creates an additional legal obligation for all States to end complicity in Israel’s illegal actions and to act to ensure respect for international law.
“South Africa was amongst 49 United Nations (UN) member States that delivered a statement on the matter to the ICJ in February 2024,” Ntshavheni said.
Elsewhere on the continent, the Minister said Cabinet had noted unrest in Kenya and Nigeria.
“Cabinet raised concerns with the continuing unrests in Kenya and Nigeria, and urged all parties to find urgent solutions to the plight of citizens with the high cost of living, which South Africa is not spared from,” she said.
AGOA Forum
On matters relating to the annual African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum held in July, the Minister said Cabinet was “appraised of the successful participation of South Africa’s delegation” at the forum held in the United States of America (USA).
She said this was a positive confirmation of good bilateral relations between South Africa and the USA.
“South Africa continues to advance a case for the renewal of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act, which expires in 14 months, and supports calls by African Trade Ministers for the US government to do away with the annual reviews of AGOA,” she said.
UK elections
Turning to elections in the United Kingdom, Ntshavheni said Cabinet congratulated the United Kingdom on their recent elections.
“Cabinet once more congratulated Prime Minister Sir Keith Starmer of the United Kingdom and the Labour Party in their victory in the recent general elections. South Africa stands ready to work with the government of the United Kingdom to increase trade and partnership.
“Government will continue to monitor developments in other countries that are also holding elections this year,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:38
Government prepares for G20 Presidency and Summit
Preparations are ongoing for South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency and the hosting of the G20 Summit in 2025.
South Africa is expected to take over the presidency of the G20 from December 1 this year.
This is according to Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who briefed members of the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
“An Inter-Ministerial Committee has been assigned the responsibility to organise this event on behalf of government and South Africans.
“South Africa will continue to use opportunities to lead and host international forums such as the G20 to focus global attention to the development challenges confronting Africa and the countries of the global South,” Ntshavheni said on Thursday.
READ | President Ramaphosa, President Biden commit to deepening relations
Furthermore, Cabinet has endorsed the country’s candidature to the following multilateral bodies:
• The candidacy of Yvette van der Merwe for the President of the Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) at elections to be held in France in October 2024. South Africa has a bid for re-election to the Human Rights Council for 2026-2028.
• South Africa seeks the re-election of its candidates, Professor Frans Jacobus Viljoen to the UN Human Rights Advisory Committee for the period 2025-2027, at elections scheduled for October 2024 in New York, USA.
• South Africa is also seeking terms on the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in 2025 and the Commission for Social Development in 2025. Elections for both bodies will take place in April 2025.
• South Africa will seek elections to the UN Security Council for a two-year term for the period 2031-2032, when it will be the turn of Southern Africa. - SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:48
Cabinet commends continued law enforcement agencies successes
As part of the ongoing fight against crime, Cabinet has commended the continued successes of law enforcement agencies in the arrest of members of organised crime syndicates and gangs.
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, highlighted that Operation Shanela of the South African Police Service (SAPS) has ensured the arrest of 766 237 suspects for various crimes, with 161 752 of these were suspects wanted for priority crimes, including murder, cash-in-transit heists, armed robberies, rape and car hijacking, among others.
“Cabinet welcomed the shutting down of an illegal military training camp in White River, Mpumalanga following an intelligence-driven multidisciplinary law enforcement operation which has also resulted in the arrest of 95 Libyan nationals,” Ntshavheni said.
Cabinet reiterated a call to all South Africans to partner with law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime without resorting to vigilantism.
“Cabinet has taken a dim view of actions by some community leaders that amounted to threatening of learners and teachers at their school. The Department of Basic Education will continue to work with the SAPS to ensure schools remain safe spaces for learning and teaching,” Ntshavheni said.
READ | Together, let us 'take back our communities' from criminals – President Ramaphosa
Conviction of former Home Affairs officials welcomed
Cabinet acknowledged the conviction and sentencing of former Home Affairs officials and foreign nationals by the Durban Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, after being found guilty of committing fraud and corruption against the immigration system.
READ | Former DHA official sentenced to 12 years imprisonment
“The successful convictions bolster government’s efforts of building an ethical, professional, and capable developmental state,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 13:06
Call for women ownership in media sector
While government policies have enabled the participation of women in the media sector, Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Director of Media Relations, Tshegofatso Modubu, has called for an in depth look at the ownership and control by women in the media space.
“In terms of shattering the glass ceiling with the 30 years of democracy, we are seeing women get into the operational space and a bit more into the managerial space. We need to think about ownership and control of media in terms of women,” Modubu said on Thursday.
She was speaking at a panel discussion themed “30 Years of Women Excellence in the Community Media Sector” hosted by the GCIS, together with the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in Pretoria.
Reflecting on the 30 Years of Women Excellence in Community Media Sector, Modubu noted that since 1994, freedom of expression has expanded.
“We have done a lot as a country in terms of catching up on freedom of expression, on issues of plurality in the media sector and ensuring that the space is opened [up] to women.
“If you think about the era of apartheid when there was a lot of censorship, and certain voices were not allowed to speak, the media was slightly controlled because there were some newspapers that were aligned to the agenda of the regime.
“Since 1994, the media landscape has expanded, and it has been able to keep up with technological developments. We have a thriving convergent media. We see our media being challenged to move from print into the digital space because of the convergence.”
Modubu highlighted that through the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), government is providing support to for those who want to develop community and small commercial media.
Through interventions such as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the Preferential Procurement Policy, government is also promoting the participation of women in any sector of society.
“We see women being in the forefront of journalism in this country. Growing up, we would see newsreaders, which was what was designated for them. We have seen women go into talk show hosting, we have seen women become political journalists and being at the forefront [of journalism].
“There is a strong move to get women into boards because that is where decisions are made. Media companies have boards and women are not participating in those spaces.
“The chief executive officers … women are not playing in that space. These are some of the things we need to think about while we celebrate the strides that have been made,” she explained.
In addition, Modubu welcomed the move by the South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) to appoint Nwabisa Makunga as Chairperson of the forum.
Makunga is leading a team responsible for representing those who are responsible for telling stories and representing the aspirations and wishes of the population.
“We have women editors in print and broadcast media, SANEF has the second women occupying the position of chairperson. All of this has been enabled by the policies that government has put into place.
“Our responsibility, as people who work in the space of policy making, is to ensure that those policies work, and they work for practitioners within the media space. There are challenges such as the cyberbullying of women, harassment and facilitated technological gender-based violence against women.
“Those are the challenges that we have to think about and how we can create laws and policies to change that,” Modubu said.
READ | Dialogue to assess women’s impact in the community media
- SAnews.gov.za
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Thu, 08/08/2024 - 13:36