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And that’s a wrap for Classic Car Friday! The final, all-or-nothing Top 10 Shootout started with only nine cars as Ian Schofield’s March 77B was retired due to the gearbox troubles encountered earlier in the day. Craig Wessels was up next in 1983 Porsche 911 RSR IROC and posted his second-quickest official time of the […]
Mchunu commends progress in addressing KwaXimba water challenges
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has expressed optimism at the work being carried out to address water supply challenges in KwaXimba within the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, in KwaZulu-Natal.
This follows a commitment made by Mchunu in February this year to fast-track the implementation of bulk water projects that are mainly implemented by the department’s entity, uMngeni-uThukela Water, working alongside the provincial and local spheres of government.
Speaking during a community imbizo on Thursday, the Minister noted that since his previous engagement with members of the KwaXimba community, there has been notable progress, despite some delays due to infrastructure vandalism.
“Since my previous interaction with you, we worked alongside the eThekwini Metro to fast-track the implementation of a package plant and associated infrastructure project to provide residents of KwaXimba, specifically the Mvini, Bhobhonono and Nonoti areas, with potable water,” Mchunu said.
The KwaXimba Package Plant and associated infrastructure project include an offtake from Nagle Aqueducts No. 01 and No. 02 with a 35m long 355mm diameter raw water pipeline, construction of a low lift pump station from the Nagle Aqueducts to the Package Plant, and the construction of a concrete slab to accommodate the 2 megalitres per day package plant, among others.
“The project will be completed in two phases, and this will see the supply of potable water to the Mvini area (Phase 1) and the supply of potable water to the Nonoti and Bhobhonono areas (Phase 2).
“Thus far, the decommissioning of the existing package plant from Mpofana (Mooi River) and transportation to the KwaXimba area is complete,” the Minister said.
The installation and commissioning of the package plant is scheduled to be completed by end of this month.
This intervention will ensure supply to the Mvini and Bhobhonono areas by the same month.
The implementation of the KwaXimba Package Plant has had socio-economic benefits resulting in job creation for 10 locals for Phase 1 of the project, with a further 20 anticipated to be appointed.
The Minister announced that Phase 2 of the project is on track and expected to be completed by November 2024. Phase 2 includes the installation of a 5 megalitres per day package plant, the construction of a potable water pump station, and the laying of a 7500m-long pipeline.
Phase 2 of the project will also see a total of 40 local job opportunities created.
“I have come back to assure you that my mandate is … to ensure water for all. Water is a source of life, and as a Minister appointed to ensure the provision of reliable and consistent water for all, politicking is the last thing I could ever do,” Mchunu said.
He warned the community about the impact of infrastructure vandalism, saying that the department will not hesitate to take stringent measures to address the criminality.
This comes after the vandalism of KwaXimba Package Plant, which was discovered on Thursday morning, prior to the Minister’s oversight inspection of the plant.
“Vandalism is a crime and anyone who commits it will be treated like the criminal that they are. uMngeni-uThukela Water has since opened a case with the South African Police Service and this is being investigated,” Mchunu said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 09:39
In the dynamic realm of IT, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) represent a crucial component in the infrastructure of businesses ranging from small enterprises to large corporations. An MSP assumes the responsibility of managing and maintaining company IT systems, offering services that allow businesses to operate more efficiently without the burden of handling all IT issues …
Pretoria, South Africa – In the digital landscape, much like with our cars, there are warning signs that prompt us to take action. Click Results, a leading digital marketing firm based in Pretoria, understands the importance of recognizing these signals, especially when it comes to your website. As businesses evolve and grow, so too should …
Suspect arrested for allegedly transporting cocaine
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga has made a major breakthrough with the apprehending of a 23-year-old man with about R4 583 370 worth of suspected cocaine on the N4 freeway during a minor accident in Valencia near Nelspruit on Thursday afternoon.
According to a police report, a white KIA bakkie pulling a trailer was traveling on the N4 road when the trailer somehow broke from the truck, resulting in a slight accident.
The police from Nelspruit SAPS attended the accident scene and on arrival discovered that the courier vehicle had spilled about eight crates of a white powder.
As members were suspicious, they called their counterparts from the K9 Unit of the police as well as members from Directorate for Priority Crime Investigative (DPCI) Unit.
Substances found, weighing at about 11 kilograms and suspected to be cocaine, became subject to a police investigation.
An inquiry was opened and the confiscated substances will undergo tests while the driver was taken in for further questioning.
Police believe the consignment could have been on its way to places in the Gauteng province, however, investigators will share more light as the probe continues.
Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, commended members for their vigilance and reiterated a call for members of the public to work hand in hand with the police in the fight against crime. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 10:37
In the digital age, cloud computing has become pivotal in reshaping how businesses operate, offering them a plethora of benefits that drive efficiency, innovation, and scalability. South Africa, in particular, has embraced this technology, with local cloud service providers playing a crucial role in facilitating this transformation. The Transformational Benefits of Cloud Computing Cost Efficiency: …
The deadline to update prepaid electricity and water meters before they stop working on 24 November 2024, is now just over 200 days away. “We are making steady progress in the switch over of pre-paid water and electricity meters in the Western Cape, but now is the time to ramp up efforts to complete the …
Dear Editor On 13 March 2024, the Property Practitioners Regulatory Authority (PPRA) declared its intention to deny the issuance of or renew Fidelity Fund certificates for businesses with less than 40 points (level 8) on a BEE scorecard. Since the Property Practitioners Act mandates all “property practitioners” to have a fidelity fund certificate, the PPRA …
Dear Editor This morning, during the National Assembly’s Programming Committee, the DA argued that the secret salary hike of over 70% of the Secretary to Parliament must be investigated. The secret salary hike was approved by the then Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa – Nqakula and NCOP Chairperson, Amos Masondo. The matter was …
Maluti Municipality challenged to use farmers to stimulate local economy
Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, has challenged the Matatiele Local Municipality to partner with the farming sector to kick-start the indigent local economy.
Nxesi made the call during an employers’ breakfast session at the Jobs Fair held at the Council Chambers of the Matatiele Local Municipality on Thursday.
Addressing the municipal officials, Nxesi said the farming community in the area was a resource that had potential.
“They are a resource that you can use and pair them with up-and-coming Black farmers. We need people who are ready to farm [and] people who will deal with production and food security. There are farmers who are ready to do that and up-and-coming farmers are willing to learn,” Nxesi said.
To grow the economy, South Africa needs to enter into a dialogue to find a new way to address unemployment, the Minister said, adding that a partnership is critical to renewal of local economies.
He appealed to the municipality to take charge in the running of the local economy and ensure compliance.
“In a partnership there are certain dos and don’ts [and] if we want to take the country out of this misery of unemployment, we need to build partnerships,” Nxesi said.
Small businesses are a pillar of economic growth and employment creation.
Government launched the Labour Activation Programme (LAP) as an intervention to transition job seekers into employment and entrepreneurship.
He challenged the local municipality to champion and manage at least two new cooperations to uplift local entrepreneurs.
The employer’s breakfast session was held in conjunction with the Jobs and Careers Fair held at Maluti Civic Centre in Matatiele.
The two-day Jobs and Careers Fair, which started on Thursday, is aimed at stimulating employment, particularly among the youth.
It is supported by a number of partners, including government departments, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), employers and community organisations.
Hundreds of job seekers are expected to obtain access to information on available jobs, employment counselling and training opportunities. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 12:33
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a leading cloud platform globally, and in South Africa, AWS partners play a crucial role in enabling businesses to leverage cloud solutions effectively. These partners, integral to the AWS ecosystem, offer specialized services that help organizations integrate AWS technologies seamlessly into their operations. The Strategic Importance of AWS Partners Expertise …
Dear Editor Today the DA conducted oversight inspections at SASSA pay-points across the country to interact with long-suffering residents who have to stand in long queues to collect their Older Persons or Pensioners Grants. Please download photos and videos of these engagements below: Bridget Masango engages with recipients at the SASSA office in Benoni here, …
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, explores the reasons behind loneliness and how it affects health and well-being. “Many of us experience loneliness from time to time. Loneliness is a personal feeling; thus, everyone’s experience will vary,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “Contrary to some belief, loneliness is not synonymous …
Fellow South Africans, It is 26 days until elections. We have some crucial decisions to make as a nation. When we started BOSA, we were driven by a vision to build a South Africa upon which all citizens, regardless of the colour of their skins, could live together and prosper together. We wanted to create …
Strengthen disability-inclusive workplaces
As the country commemorates Workers’ Month, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has encouraged employers to strengthen disability inclusiveness and the economic empowerment of women and youth in workplaces.
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma said that as South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom this year, employers should be reminded of the importance of building disability-inclusive workplaces that protect the rights of persons with disabilities, on an equal basis with others.
“Empowering persons with disabilities is not just a matter of gender equality, it is about dealing with the legacy of apartheid and the transformation of society, particularly the transformation of power relations between persons with disabilities, women, and men to enhance economic growth and resilience.
“Studies have shown that gender diversity in the workplace fosters creativity, innovation, and problem-solving capabilities leading to better decision-making and improved business outcomes. When women are given equal opportunities and support, they contribute significantly to productivity gains, which, in turn, boosts the overall economy,” Dlamini-Zuma said.
She argued that promoting gender equality and advocating for a disability-inclusive workplace is an investment in the future economic growth of South Africa.
As the country celebrates the democratic achievements of government, the Minister emphasised the importance of reflecting on the remarkable contributions of people with disabilities, youth, and women to South Africa.
“Equally so, by continuing to advocate for resolving labour-related challenges faced by persons with disabilities and women in the workplace, we can create an environment where we can thrive and make significant contributions to the economy,” Dlamini-Zuma said.
The Minister noted that the provision of a universally accessible environment and reasonable accommodation are at the core of ensuring equity and equality for people with disabilities to perform their responsibilities effectively.
“To strengthen social cohesion and independent living of disabilities, we all have a responsibility to promote the self-representative voice of persons with disabilities by involving people with disabilities in the planning, decision-making and execution of policies, programs, and service.
“Therefore, we ought to strengthen awareness initiatives to know more about disabilities. We must employ persons with disabilities at all levels as they equally possess the capacity to work and fulfil the responsibilities assigned to them,” Dlamini-Zuma said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 13:16
Community Talent Takes Centre Stage at The Boulders Shopping Centre: Battle of the Choirs Competition Offers R55,000 in Prizes. Get ready for an electrifying showcase of musical talent as The Boulders Shopping Centre in the heart of Midrand, presents The Battle of the Choirs Competition! With up to R55,000 in prizes up for grabs, this …
Community Talent Takes Centre Stage at Golden Walk Shopping: Battle of the Choirs Competition Offers R55,000 in Prizes. Get ready for an electrifying showcase of musical talent as Golden Walk Shopping Centre in the heart of Germiston, presents The Battle of the Choirs Competition! With up to R55,000 in prizes up for grabs, this event …
Community Talent Takes Centre Stage at Sammy Marks Square: Battle of the Choirs Competition Offers R55,000 in Prizes. Get ready for an electrifying showcase of musical talent as Sammy Marks Square in the heart of Pretoria, presents The Battle of the Choirs Competition! With up to R55,000 in prizes up for grabs, this event promises …
Govt committed to upholding the rights of all, regardless of beliefs
Government is committed to engaging in continuous dialogue with inter-faith organisations on any issue affecting society, as it strives to provide equal respect and protection to both believers and non-believers, as well as to different religious denominations.
“As interfaith leaders, you represent the starting point from which acts of kindness and generosity should originate. I greatly esteem you as the leaders of our society, as you are the individuals who regularly interact with communities on a daily basis,” Deputy President Paul Mashatile said on Friday.
He was speaking at an engagement between inter-faith leaders and government in Cape Town.
The Deputy President said through weaving together the threads of different faiths and the tireless work of numerous organisations, the dark cloud of apartheid was finally vanquished, paving the way for a freedom that the country cherishes.
“It is important to always maintain a sense of gratitude for the achievements we have made and not let the pessimistic voices that solely focus on the negative aspects overshadow our progress.
“We built our progress on the unity of diverse faiths, treating every religion with equal respect. In stark contrast, the apartheid era unfairly elevated Christianity as the sole faith, causing division among South Africans.
“Today, it is truly remarkable to see people from diverse backgrounds joining forces to achieve great things, overcoming obstacles, and fostering unity for the betterment of our communities,” the Deputy President said.
Mashatile said government is committed to upholding the rights of all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or religious affiliations.
“We strive to provide equal respect and protection to both believers and non-believers, as well as to different religious denominations. Equally, our commitment to addressing social issues has been unwavering. Over the past 30 years, we have made remarkable strides in enhancing the well-being of South Africans.
“We have transitioned from an authoritarian state apparatus that overlooked the lives and living conditions of millions of our citizens to a democratic nation that guarantees equal protection for every individual,” Mashatile said.
He said a significant number of South Africans, especially those who are less fortunate, now have the opportunity to access education, healthcare and basic services.
“More than ever before, millions of our citizens are shielded from abject poverty by means of among others the redistribution policies that represent progress, such as the Land Reform Programme.
“Today, our churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples serve as cornerstones of society, providing vital education, feeding the poor and needy, and speaking out against injustices in our nation with a consistent and strong approach,” the Deputy President said.
Mashatile commended the work that the inter-faith communities in the Western Cape have done.
“I also appreciate the Western Cape inter-faith leaders for uniting most of these diverse religions and denominations under one umbrella body. We have a shared responsibility to bring all religions together in our efforts to promote national unity and social cohesion.
“This is a task that I began while serving as Minister of Arts and Culture, and it remains important to me even today.
“South Africa, with its widely diversified community, has encountered enormous obstacles to social cohesion and togetherness,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 13:17
In the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, there are few artists who have captured the attention and admiration of fans worldwide quite like Dua Lipa. With her unique blend of pop and disco-inspired sound, Dua Lipa has become a force to be reckoned with in the music scene. This article will delve into her […]
Community Talent Takes Centre Stage at Maponya Mall: Battle of the Choirs Competition Offers R55,000 in Prizes. Get ready for an electrifying showcase of musical talent as Maponya Mall Shopping Centre in the heart of Soweto, presents The Battle of the Choirs Competition! With up to R55,000 in prizes up for grabs, this event promises …
IMC on Early Childhood Development meets to chart the path forward
A multi-disciplinary grouping of national departments has committed to collaborate strategically to ensure universal access for citizens to comprehensive Early Childhood Development (ECD) services, with a focus on prioritising the nation’s most vulnerable children.
President Cyril Ramaphosa convened the inaugural meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on ECD recently, which put the wellbeing and development of children in the spotlight.
The objectives of the inaugural meeting was establishing the IMC through an adopted Terms of Reference, clarify the mandates of each department for ECD delivery, agree on proposed priority areas for ECD programmes, and agree on the development and reporting against a joint outcome-based monitoring and evaluation framework for ECD to track progress against proposed priority areas.
The meeting marked a pivotal moment in government’s commitment to providing comprehensive and inclusive ECD services to all South African children, said the Presidency.
During the meeting, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that ECD is the real revolution for the country’s long-term development.
He said that by investing in children's early years, one is laying the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future for the nation.
“Moreover, equitable access to comprehensive early childhood development opportunities, is the cornerstone of improved educational outcomes and inclusive economic growth. Progress towards expanding these opportunities, and ensuring that no child is left behind, therefore needs to be early and rapid,” President Ramaphosa said.
The members of the IMC include the Ministers of Basic Education; Health; Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs; Social Development; Higher Education and Training; Employment and Labour; Sport, Arts and Culture; Correctional Services; Home Affairs, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation; Police and Finance.
During the meeting, the IMC agreed on a collaborative approach to the delivery of ECD services, with the departments represented at the IMC working together to ensure universal access to comprehensive, quality ECD services, with a focus on prioritising the most vulnerable children.
“Several key points were discussed and agreed upon during the meeting, and these include integrated support for children's potential; collaborative approach; and the priorities of the Inter-Ministerial Committee for the next five years, amongst others,” said the Presidency.
On integrated support for children's potential, the IMC emphasised that for children to reach their full potential, they require a range of interconnected and diverse support delivered by various government departments, as well as social sector partners.
On collaborative approach, the Departments of Basic Education, Health, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Social Development, Higher Education and Training, Labour, Sport, Art and Culture and Correctional Services and Home Affairs will collaborate strategically to ensure universal access to comprehensive ECD services, with a focus on prioritising the most vulnerable children.
The South African Police Service will also play a crucial role by deploying resources and services to ensure the safety and protection of children.
Support from the National Treasury and the Department of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation will be vital in enabling these departments to fulfil their mandates.
The IMC for ECD, supported by a Director-General Committee, agreed on the following five priorities:
• Every child to have access to a flexible package of age appropriate, affordable ECD programmes;
• Improved collaboration between the government departments, provincial departments, and social sector partners;
• Sufficient funding and resourcing to be targeted effectively to the most vulnerable communities;
• A capable ECD workforce to be developed that is well-supported and equipped; and
• To enhance programme quality through appropriate support and monitoring.
The Presidency said the IMC also agreed to the joint development of an outcomes-based framework to track progress on the key outcomes and services that are likely to drive changes in child outcomes, as measured by the Thrive by Five Index – which ensures that learners develop and thrive by the age of five.
The Department of Basic Education will be convening future IMC meetings bi-annually and is committed to working collaboratively with other relevant departments and stakeholders. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/03/2024 - 10:46
Calling all car enthusiasts! Get ready to rev your engines and settle the ultimate debate: Old School vs. New School! Which era of cars gets your heart racing the most? Join us at Kwena Square on the 4th of May from 2pm till late for an adrenaline-fueled event where classic beauties go head-to-head with cutting-edge …
MyPR had a quick look at which OUTGOING URL’s from MyPR were the most clicked on for these first few days on May 2024. It must be noted that these are mostly from Featured Press Release submissions which are allowed to link to their client web sites in order for journalists and readers to gain …