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News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
© Luke Patterson Willards Beach, Ballito, KZN – On the opening days of the Ballito Open Presented by Flojos QS1,000 contest, we witnessed a fun contest-within-a-contest, the Sea Harvest KZN Surfing Outreach Initiative Tag Team contest, a Surfing South Africa event. © Luke Patterson The teams competed in a tag format in fun …
The Blue Drop Report released in 2023 highlights the fact that at least 46% of drinking systems don’t comply with microbiological standards. According to the regulations under the Water Services Act, it is mandatory for a municipality to inform users if it repeatedly finds water quality does not meet basic standards. “We are not seeing …
How Kerina Ramasar has overcome obstacles: A day in the life of an EduPower learner At just 21, Kerina Ramasar is a force to be reckoned with. Her severe vision impairment is no obstacle but rather a catalyst for her resilience and ambition. Her unwavering determination has earned her the role of mentor among her …
Saluting former Minister Naledi Pandor
Praises from around the world are rolling in for Dr Naledi Pandor as she steps down from her government position after serving as a Member of Parliament (MP) since 1994.
Pandor is one of the Ministers who is not returning to Parliament to serve in the seventh administration.
In February this year, the outgoing International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Minister alluded to her retirement during an African National Congress (ANC) event in Cape Town.
She stated that she would “in any case not hold public office” after serving in the position since 2019.
On Sunday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet, appointing Ronald Lamola to replace Pandor. Lamola had previously served as the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development.
Since then, warm wishes and tributes commemorating Pandor’s work continue to pour in.
DIRCO Director-General, Zane Dangor, described Pandor as one of the most principled and dynamic Ministers he has ever worked with and someone with an “unrivalled” intellect.
Pandor, a former teacher and lecturer, has numerous qualifications under her belt.
In interviews, Pandor credits her love for books and education to her anti-apartheid activist parents, Joe and Fikile Matthews, during the years they spent with her in exile.
Born in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, she grew up in exile. She completed her education in Botswana and London in the United Kingdom, achieving a professional qualification in teaching and a Master’s Degree in Education.
She holds a PhD from the University of Pretoria, a Master’s Degree in General Linguistics from the University of Stellenbosch, and a Diploma in Leadership and Development from the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.
She received honorary doctorates from Cape Peninsula University of Technology, University of Stellenbosch, University of Lisbon, and University College Dublin.
Dangor said Pandor made her mark in all areas she worked in.
“In the last five years, she emerged as one of the world’s leading and valued diplomats,” he added.
Adoration of a daughter
Pandor’s daughter, Dr Aisha Pandor, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to also honour her mother.
She shared that her mom has been a member of the ANC and an activist for as long as she can remember.
“I share a birthday with the ANC, and for most of my life, I proudly spent January 8th with other family or friends, while my parents served the party," she said.
After being elected as an MP in 1994, Naledi Pandor quickly rose to the position of Deputy Chief Whip of the ANC caucus in 1995. Subsequently, she was elected Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces in 1998 and then became chairperson in 1999.
“Since I was almost nine years old, she has served as a member of South Africa’s democratic government. During those three decades, she has led with dedication, integrity, intelligence, wisdom, a love for her country, and a focus on principles, those held high by her religion, upbringing, country and party,” Pandor’s daughter said.
Aisha mentioned that she admired her mother and was excited about the next phase of her life.
“Yesterday, I told her countless times how much I love her; how much she inspires me, and how proud I am of her. I’m also hoping that as by far the most hardworking person I’ve ever met, she finally takes a bit of well-deserved time for rest.”
Gaza
Pandor is celebrated for her fearless advocacy for her country’s stance on Gaza. She has persistently called for increased action against Israel’s invasion of Palestine.
Under her leadership, the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to take measures to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza, as well as to provide more assistance to Palestinian civilians. This comes as Israel continues to engage in a conflict with Hamas militants.
The SKA and other ministerial appointments
During her time as Minister of Science and Technology, Pandor and her team successfully secured a competitive bid in 2012 to host part of the future Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope in South Africa.
She has also served as the Minister in the Department of Home Affairs and Department of Education.
Serving with integrity
In 2022, she received a Lifetime Achievement award at the Standard Bank Top Women Awards for the role she played in government.
Former Minister and World Bank Group Executive Director, Ayanda Dlodlo, stated that Pandor’s integrity was unparalleled and that her work ethic was exceptional, demonstrating servant leadership.
“What a woman. What a leader… Hope the next chapter of her life is even more fulfilling with more time with her family and many moments of love and laughter.”
The German Ambassador to South Africa, Andreas Peschke, also expressed his thoughts on the matter.
“We would like to thank Dr Naledi Pandor, outgoing Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, for her tireless diplomatic work. For Germany, it was a privilege to work with you. Re a leboga, Mme [Thank you, Mother],” the Ambassador said.
Founder of the Kenya Climate Directory, Reuben Wambui, expressed his disappointment at Pandor’s departure from the Cabinet.
“Naledi is the true embodiment of diplomatic genius, and we will really miss seeing her conduct international affairs on the world stage. Thank you Naledi for your excellent service.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 07/02/2024 - 13:14
Men urged to prioritise their health
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has encouraged men to prioritise their health as the province observes Men's Health Month.
Ntuli made the call during the launch of Men’s Health Month, which included a law enforcement parade held in Durban on Monday.
Men’s Health Month seeks to engage men on issues they face. The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government also uses the month to create awareness on the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
READ | KZN Premier lays down the law on GBV
“Let us use this Men’s Health Month as an opportunity to prioritise our health, break down barriers, and foster a culture of well-being,” the Premier urged men.
Ntuli said Men’s Health Month will see health screenings taking place across the province, which will cover essential aspects of men’s health.
Outlining the programmes and initiatives that KwaZulu-Natal has earmarked to commemorate during Men’s Health Month, Ntuli said the initiative holds a significant relevance for the province, as it focuses on raising awareness about the health challenges confronting men, and advocates for early detection and treatment of diseases.
Ntuli said throughout July, the province will organise health screenings, which will cover essential aspects of men’s health, including blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, and prostate health.
“We will collaborate with local clinics, community centres, and workplaces to ensure that men have easy access to these screenings. The awareness campaigns will emphasise the importance of regular check-ups and early intervention,” Ntuli said.
The month will also include awareness campaigns, including mental health support, physical fitness and active lifestyle, nutrition and healthy eating, and fatherhood and family support.
Ntuli said mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, noting that men often face unique challenges in seeking help for mental health issues.
Ntuli said during the month, targeted campaigns will be launched to destigmatise the discussions on mental health.
He said counselling services, including helplines and support groups specifically tailored for men, will be expanded.
The Premier encouraged men to reach out and share their struggles and seek professional assistance when needed.
“We will promote physical fitness through community events, sports programmes, and recreational activities. Let us encourage men to engage in regular exercise, whether it is walking, jogging, or participating in team sports.
“We will celebrate responsible fatherhood and encourage positive parenting practices. Workshops, seminars, and parenting classes will equip fathers with essential skills to support their children’s emotional and physical development,” Ntuli said.
He said the province will also collaborate with schools, workplaces, and local markets to raise awareness about balanced diets, and further provide practical guidance on healthy eating, emphasising the importance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 07/02/2024 - 12:02
SA continues work to exit grey list
National Treasury says that whilst South Africa is on track to address all the outstanding Action Items to exit grey listing, it remains a tough challenge to address all 14 of the remaining Action Items by February 2025.
This assertion comes after the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) published the latest update on South Africa’s progress in addressing the Action Items in its Action Plan on 28 June 2024, following the conclusion of the June 2024 FATF Plenary meetings in Singapore.
“All relevant agencies and authorities will need to continue to demonstrate significant improvements, and also that such improvements are being sustained and are effective,” National Treasury said on Tuesday.
When the FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 Plenary meetings, it adopted a jointly agreed Action Plan containing 22 Action Items linked to the eight strategic deficiencies identified in the country’s Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating of the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regime.
South Africa is required to address all 22 Action Items so as to exit the FATF grey list. The Action Items have differing deadlines, falling between January 2024 to January 2025.
“National Treasury is satisfied with the outcomes of the FATF Plenary meetings. Given the FATF process, Treasury does not expect South Africa to exit grey listing before June 2025, as per the Action Plan deadlines,” National Treasury said.
The Minister of Finance has been leading a process within government to ensure that South Africa addresses all Action Items by February 2025, to enable South Africa to exit grey listing by June 2025.
“The FATF Plenary did not discuss the delisting of South Africa from grey listing at this juncture but focused instead on the progress made by South Africa in addressing the 17 outstanding Action Items.
“The FATF Plenary accepted the report of the FATF Africa/ Middle East Joint Group that South Africa has largely addressed three further Action Items, and hence has 14 outstanding items left to address (from the original 22),” National Treasury explained.
The January 2025 deadline serves as a general guide on the earliest time that South Africa can be expected to have addressed all the Action Items in the Action Plan, which is two years after the placement of a country on the FATF grey list.
READ | SA engages US on efforts to exit grey list
FATF Joint Group
“Once all the Action Items have been addressed, the country is required to confirm its progress via an onsite visit by the FATF Joint Group.
“As such, if the FATF Plenary determines in February 2025 that South Africa has addressed or largely addressed all 22 Action Items, it will schedule an onsite visit of the Joint Group in April/May 2025 to confirm that assessment and make a recommendation to the June 2025 FATF Plenary to remove the country from the FATF grey list.
“If any of the Action Items remain unaddressed by the January 2025 deadline, the country will be required to continue reporting to the FATF every four months, until all the deficiencies have been addressed,” National Treasury said.
Deadlines
At the June 2024 meetings, the FATF Plenary adopted a report by the FATF Joint Group for Africa/ Middle East, confirming that eight of the 22 Action Items are now addressed or largely addressed in accordance with the specified deadlines.
The items that are addressed or largely addressed relate to the legal provisions criminalising terrorist financing and underpinning South Africa’s targeted financial sanction regimes, increasing the use of financial intelligence from the Financial Intelligence Centre to support money laundering investigations.
The items that are addressed also introduce risk-based tools to identify higher-risk Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions, the updating of the Terror Financing National Risk Assessment, and increasing the resources and capacity of relevant authorities.
“South Africa is left with two reporting cycles in September 2024 and January 2025 in terms of the Action Plan. Many of the 14 outstanding items are due in the last two reporting cycles because South Africa has to demonstrate that the improvements made are sustained over successive reporting periods.
“In the next reporting cycle, South Africa is required to address (or at least largely address) nine of the outstanding Action Items in the Action Plan that are due in September 2024. The final five Action Items are due in January 2025,” National Treasury said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 07/02/2024 - 10:49
The site is a poor choice and the impact on the community was not considered, say residents
bp South Africa – a subsidiary of global energy major bp – returns to the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energy conference (www.AECWeek.com/) – taking place November 4-8 in Cape Town – as a platinum sponsor. The company's return signals a commitment to engaging with industry and regional counterparts under a common goal of making energy poverty history.
In recent years, bp South Africa has made fresh investments in infrastructure development, local content empowerment and decarbonization initiatives under a broader agenda to expand fuel distribution and access. As Africa maximizes the development and use of its oil and gas resources to meet industrialization targets, improving partnerships with committed investors such as bp South Africa becomes imperative.
AEW: Invest in African Energy is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
bp South Africa has a strong history of providing fuel and related products to South Africa, having invested in importation, refining and distribution for over 100 years.
The company announced a five-year $1 billion investment package to enhance its operations in South Africa, including the modernization of its 50% owned SAPREF refinery in Durban in June 2023. The aim is to enable the 180,000 barrels per day refinery to produce low sulfur diesel, in line with the firm's new low carbon energy specification for environmental sustainability. Additionally, bp South Africa manages the Single Buoy Loading and Offloading Mooring facility, managing up to 85% of South Africa's crude oil imports. bp South Africa is also channeling significant investments into enhancing South Africa's port and storage infrastructure with the firm operating six fuel storage terminals in-country.
Going forward, the company is enhancing fuel distribution to meet the growing demand of petroleum products through the expansion of its retail business in South Africa. The company has over 500 branded service stations across South Africa. bp South Africa is also transforming the country's workforce through investments in local empowerment. In August 2023, the company invested R58 million to stimulate black-owned businesses with a target to have 70% of its service stations operated by black dealers by 2025.
Under the theme, Energy Growth through an Enabling Environment, AEW: Invest in African Energy will feature bp South Africa in high-level panel discussions and exclusive networking sessions, spotlighting the company's investment endeavours, steadfast commitment and strategic vision to propel Africa's energy industry forward.
“To make energy poverty history by 2030, Africa needs new investment in refining and distribution. bp South Africa is making great strides in this area under efforts to accelerate industrialization and fuel access in South Africa,” stated NJ Ayuk, the Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
AEW: Invest in African Energy serves as the largest event of its kind in Africa. Uniting African presidents, government, and national companies with global investors, project developers and technology providers, the event drives investment across the entire value chain. This year's edition takes place in Cape Town. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Operation Shanela nets more than 900 suspects in the Free State
Operation Shanela has nabbed 967 suspects in the Free State last week.
Police in the province say 50 suspects were arrested for possession of drugs, with nine being arrested for rape, four for murder and 14 for attempted murder, while 28 were arrested for possession of dangerous weapons.
Twenty-one suspects were arrested for property crimes; 45 were arrested for malicious damage to property and 107 were arrested for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
In Virginia, on 26 June 2024, members of Crime Intelligence provided information on two suspected vehicles seen around petrol garages.
Three suspects were arrested after an illegal firearm was found in the vehicle in which they were driving. The second vehicle, a VW Golf, was traced and found with three occupants, and a firearm was also found and confiscated.
In another incident, a vehicle was traced and stopped. All three males found in the vehicle were also arrested after a 9mm firearm was found and confiscated.
In Rouxville, one foreign national was arrested after his bakkie was stopped at a roadblock and while the police were searching the vehicle, they found boxes of illicit cigarettes worth an estimated R12 million.
In Springfontein, two males, aged 23 and 25, were arrested after they were stopped by highway patrol on the N1 and dagga worth an estimated R1.7 million was found in the back of their bakkie.
In Batho, an illegal foreign national was arrested after he was found with an unlicensed firearm. This is after police received information that the suspect might have been part of a group that robbed a tuckshop.
Detective tracing operations, as part of Operation Shanela, saw more than 215 suspects, who did not have the legal documents to be in South Africa, being taken to Home Affairs for further handling.
Thirty-three people were arrested for driving under the influence, while 253 drivers were fined for contravention of the Traffic Act.
Operations are continuing throughout the province and community members are urged to continue providing information on crimes taking place, and to work with police to identify possible suspects. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 07/02/2024 - 09:37
CHENNAI: India secured a 10-wicket triumph in the one-off Test against the Proteas Women after the visitors battled to take the...
Retail security has evolved significantly over the years, moving beyond simple surveillance cameras and security personnel. Today, various sophisticated measures are in place to protect both customers and staff. Key components of modern retail security include anti-bandit doors, bulletproof doors, cash drawer trays, pay windows, checkout counters, and shopping trolleys. These elements work together to …
The Battle of The Choirs Golden Walk Shopping Centre Get Ready for the Ultimate Community Showdown at The Battle of The Choirs finale! It’s time to bring the community together for the most thrilling event of the year! Join us for the Battle of the Choirs finale, where our local stars will rock the stage …
Community leader says there were 13 shacks in one yard in Nomzamo township in Cape Town
Durban residents are invited to join the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Team together with sponsors for a rewarding Beach Clean-Up on Saturday, 6 July 2024, from 08:30 to 10:00 at the Suncoast Amphitheatre Area, Promenade, Golden Mile. This initiative aims to create excitement and foster positive change the day before the 7th annual Absa …
Tshwane residents are in for a treat with eight exciting PUMA NITRO™ RUNS heading their way, starting with the PUMA NITRO™ RUN 1 on Tuesday, 9 July 2024, at 17:30 at Joyn Coffee Shop in Lynnwood. These runs are part of the thrilling buildup to the much-anticipated Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K, set to …
MPs to undergo induction
Following their swearing in ceremony last month, new Members of Parliament in the seventh administration are set to undergo an induction programme that will get underway tomorrow.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Parliament said the induction programme will run from Tuesday until Friday at the Century City Conference Centre in the Western Cape.
“The induction will cover various topics, including an introduction to the core business of Parliament, the roles and responsibilities of Members and Office Bearers, ethical standards for members, engaging with civil society, gender-responsive planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation, as well as c introduction to parliamentary structures and support,” said Parliament.
Members of Parliament were sworn in during the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024. Other Members of Parliament were sworn in at a later stage.
This followed the National and Provincial Elections of 29 May 2024. President Cyril Ramaphosa was elected as President and head of government following the elections and since then, he was inaugurated at a ceremony held at the Union Buildings on 19 June 2024.
The President also announced his Cabinet for the seventh administration during an address to the nation on Sunday evening, comprising all members of the Government of National Unity.
READ | Meet SA's new cabinet
Meanwhile, the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) will, on Tuesday at 2pm, convene a plenary sitting at Parliament.
“Among the items on the agenda are the election of the Permanent Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, Programming Whip, House Chairpersons, and the election of members to represent the NCOP at the Pan African Parliament, the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum, the Judicial Services Commission, Members of the Magistrate Commission, Members that will serve as trustees of the Political Office-Bearers Pension Fund, and PARMED Medical Aid Scheme Trustee Members,” said Parliament.
The National Assembly (NA) will also hold a plenary sitting on Tuesday at 2pm to revive the Appropriation Bill, elect House Chairpersons, and elect members to represent the NA at the Pan-African Parliament, Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum, and the JSC.
The plenary sitting will take place at the Century City Conference Centre.
“The committee structures will be constituted in due course. Committees are deemed the engine of Parliament as they oversee and scrutinise the work of government by providing a platform for debate and ensuring accountability,” said Parliament. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Mon, 07/01/2024 - 11:36
The Black Business Council (BBC) would like to applaud H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa for positively considering the BBC’s input (during our consultation) of ensuring that the economic cluster remains mainly in the hands of the governing party. The BBC also congratulates all individuals appointed to the Cabinet (Executive). In particular, the BBC congratulates the new …
Founders Foundation, in collaboration with Outsourced CFO, has wrapped up this year’s premier event for Entrepreneurs, Scale-Up Con 2024. Held at the Crystal Towers in Cape Town, this flagship event brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders, marking a significant milestone in the South African entrepreneurial ecosystem. Scale-Up Con 2024 featured a dynamic line-up of …
Deputy President, Ministers and Deputies to be sworn in
South Africa’s newly announced Deputy President Paul Mashatile and the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers are expected to be sworn into office in the coming days.
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his new Cabinet in a public address on Sunday.
READ | Meet SA's new cabinet
During the address, the President explained that “several factors” were considered in forming the national executive, which is expected to serve for the next five years.
“We have had to ensure that the incoming government will be effective, and that it will have people with the experience, skills and capabilities to deliver on its mandate. It is important that we deploy into positions of responsibility people who are committed, capable and hard-working, and who have integrity
“We have had to ensure that all the parties are able to participate meaningfully in the National Executive and that the diversity of the views of South Africans is properly reflected. We have sought to ensure that the National Executive is representative of the people of South Africa, giving due consideration to gender, youth, demographics and regional distribution,” President Ramaphosa said.
Much like the President did, during his inauguration on 19 June, the new cabinet Ministers and Deputies are expected to take an oath of office or solemn affirmation during the swearing in ceremony.
READ | The oath has been taken, President Ramaphosa is inaugurated
The ceremony is expected to be presided over by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo or another judge designated by the Chief Justice.
“These men and women we have appointed to the executive are drawn from all corners of our country.
“They reflect the diversity of our nation. They have a responsibility to work together to serve the people as a whole,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 07/01/2024 - 12:02
Municipality says supply will be rationed until 2025 when upgrades to a pump station are completed
Hot on the fashionable heels of its Cape Town counterpart, Decorex Joburg is set to sizzle and shine at the Sandton Convention Centre from 1 to 4 August 2024. Always a much-anticipated highlight of the decor and design calendar – and running simultaneously alongside 100% Design Africa – this is the definitive showcase of contemporary …
Every entrepreneur who has put in the time to build their business from an idea to a thriving reality, wants things to run smoothly. From people to financials, process automation is key. We always recommend Fintech solutions as a starting point to a streamlined business that saves time and money where possible and runs like …
Cape Town residents warned of water disconnections scam
The City of Cape Town has urged its residents to be aware of a scam doing the rounds, where money is solicited from the city’s customers to avoid supposed water restrictions/disconnections due to non-payment.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the city said it has been made aware of a new scam where the scammers contact a city customer via telephone or WhatsApp, claiming to be from the city’s Water and Sanitation Directorate.
The scammers then provide the relevant property details, advising that the water to the property will be disconnected immediately due to the municipal account being in arrears.
The customer is then told that to avoid water supply disconnection and the subsequent reconnection fee, a payment more than R2 000 must be made via cash send or e-wallet.
The city’s Member of the Mayoral Committee for Water and Sanitation, Zahid Badroodien, said at least two separate incidents of this nature have been reported to the city, affecting customers in Parklands and Durbanville, whose municipal accounts were both up to date.
“We appeal to residents to be extra vigilant and rather verify any suspicious correspondence that they receive directly with the city. We are particularly concerned about customers who do find themselves in arrears with their municipal accounts, who would easily be lured to make payments to avoid their water from being disconnected or restricted,” Badroodien said.
The city has advised residents to report any suspicious behaviour to the city's law enforcement agencies or the city's fraud hotline on 0800 1100 77, or to the South African Police Service.
“Customers are also encouraged to make use of the various city communication channels to verify any communication they receive from the city,” Badroodien said.
The information can be verified on 0860 103 089; via SMS to 31373 (maximum 160 characters, free SMSs do not apply); WhatsApp 060 018 1505; email water@capetown.gov.za, log a service request (often called a C3 request), or online www.capetown.gov.za/servicerequests. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 07/01/2024 - 12:04
The Gas Motorshow, held earlier this month (15 & 16 June) at Suncoast Casino in Durban went off with a bang, drawing a 30 000-strong crowd of automotive enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. The event showcased performances that kept attendees on the edge of their seats. International stunt sensation DiDi Bizzarro wowed the audience with a …