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Pretoria, South Africa – Thursday 25 April 2024: New Defender OCTA, the high-performance all-terrain hero from original British adventure brand Defender, will be revealed on 3 July 2024, following a series of exclusive client preview events and the completion of its exhaustive testing and development programme. Ahead of the global reveal, prospective clients for the …
SA commemorates World Malaria Day
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) said it was forging ahead with supporting the national Department of Health to eliminate locally acquired malaria in South Africa through several activities.
According to the NICD, Africa bears more than 90% of the global malaria burden, with one child dying every minute from malaria – a preventable and treatable disease.
Each year on April 25, the NICD joins the global community in recognising World Malaria Day.
This year’s theme will focus on ‘Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world’.
The NICD said that in South Africa, cases of malaria are associated either with local transmission of the malaria parasite in areas of the Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, or exposure to malaria parasites in travellers to other endemic regions returning to South Africa.
According to a report on malaria case trends based on notifications captured through the Notifiable Medical Conditions Surveillance System (NMC-SS) from September 2022 to August 2023, the majority of malaria cases in South Africa came from the malaria-endemic province of Limpopo.
Data reveals that 5 813 cases were recorded of which 2 845 were logged in Limpopo.
Meanwhile, Gauteng reported the second-highest number of cases, all of which were associated with imported malaria.
In contrast, the national public health institute said KwaZulu-Natal reported the lowest number of infections sitting at 424 among the endemic provinces.
“In KwaZulu-Natal, nearly all of the cases reported were imported cases, supporting claims that the province is edging closer to halting local transmission of malaria,” the NICD explained.
As per the NICD, peaks in malaria notifications typically follow periods of increased national and international travel to malaria-endemic regions.
Data also shows that economically active young males, especially those aged between 20 and 39 years, appeared to be the most at risk population group, a trend observed in other low transmission areas.
“These findings emphasise the importance of targeting young males with messaging during major holidays and strengthening malaria test-and-treat activities along shared international borders.”
The NICD’s Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases supports the National Department of Health in eradicating locally acquired malaria through several activities.
These include contributing to malaria surveillance for accurate monitoring of the occurrence of malaria in South Africa and providing technical support to provincial malaria control programmes.
The centre monitors insecticide resistance in malaria mosquitoes, screens for antimalarial drug and diagnostic resistance, teaches and trains on various aspects of malaria, and supports improved quality control for laboratory testing for malaria.
The team also leads innovative research, including investigating novel ways to control malaria mosquitoes and assessing the impact of environmental pollutants on malaria mosquitoes lifecycles and their ability to transmit malaria parasites.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) and further information on malaria prevention is available on the NICD website www.nicd.ac.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:57
We sent questions to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
A dedicated roundtable at the upcoming Invest in Africa Energy (IAE) 2024 forum in Paris will shine a spotlight on Southern Africa, with a focus on South Africa, Mozambique, and Namibia. The region boasts new discoveries in the oil and gas sector, abundant renewable resources, and promising potential for hydrogen prospects. This makes it an attractive destination for investors keen on leveraging these resources for capital growth.
During the two-day forum, delegates will gain insights into Southern Africa's status as a frontier market with first-mover advantages. From South Africa's mineral-rich terrain to Zambia's hydroelectric potential, Mozambique's liquefied natural gas (LNG) prospects and Namibia's untapped offshore reserves, the region offers diverse opportunities poised to fuel development.
Organized by Energy Capital & Power, IAE 2024 (https://apo-opa.co/3UMOOtQ) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 14-15, 2024 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Panelists include Godfrey Moagi, Chief Executive Officer, SANPC; Antoine Berel, Vice President Sub-Saharan Africa (South), Halliburton; Calib Cassim CFO Eskom, Paul Eardley-Taylor, Oil and Gas Coverage Southern Africa, Standard Bank and Dr. Sama Bilbao y León, Director General, World Nuclear Association. The session will be moderated by Olivier Barbeau, Managing Partner, Moore South Africa.
Namibia's recent deepwater discoveries, including Graff-1X, Venus-1X, La Rona-1X, Jonker-1X, Lesedi-1X, Mopane-1X & 2X, Mangetti-1X, and its most recent Enigma-1X, have intensified exploration activities within the Orange Basin. Although significant potential exists, substantial investment is need to fully develop these resources for commercialization. Recently, Namibia's Minister of Finance announced that by the end of 2024, Namibia anticipates a final investment decision from multinational energy companies, TotalEnergies for its Venus-1X discovery and Shell for its Graff-1X discovery. This is a step towards accelerating oil production, set for 2029.
With two major LNG projects underway — TotalEnergies' Mozambique LNG and ExxonMobil's Rovuma LNG — Mozambique has solidified its position as a key player in both the Southern African and global gas markets. Moreover, Mozambique made significant strides by exporting its inaugural LNG cargo to Europe in 2022, facilitated by Eni's Coral Sul floating LNG facility. With robust trade agreements in place and a growing capacity, Mozambique presents a dependable and burgeoning gas market. With over 100 trillion cubic feet of proven reserves, the nation offers ample opportunities for gas exploration, production, transportation, storage, and utilization projects.
Meanwhile, South Africa's Renewable Independent Power Producer Programme (REIPPP) is expanding renewable energy capacity. Bid Window 7, launched in January 2024, aims to acquire 3.2 GW of onshore wind and 1.8 GW of solar photovoltaic projects. Integration into the grid will address power deficits and boost energy security. Private sector developers can seize this opportunity, secure contracts, and establish themselves in South Africa's growing renewable energy market.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Issues in a global supply chain can significantly impact businesses, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which often lack the resources to navigate disruptions as effectively as larger corporations.Pre-Covid 19, the world was moving towards single ports of procurement to take advantage of economies of scale and lower costs that often resulted from using a …
President extends SANDF deployment
President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members in various international obligations in Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the South African Development Community (SADC) Maritime security strategy.
The President has informed the National Assembly and Acting Speaker of the move, which was done in accordance with section 201(2)(C) of the Constitution.
“The President has extended the employment of 1 495 members of the SANDF for service in fulfilment of an international obligation of the Republic of South Africa towards the SADC Region.
“The deployment will help combat acts of terrorism and violent extremists affecting the northern areas of Mozambique under Operation VIKELA,” the Presidency said in a statement.
That deployment will last until the end of the year at an estimated cost of R984 368 057.
“The extended employment of 1 198 members of the SANDF, at the estimate expenditure of R805 057 755, is for service in fulfilment of an international obligation towards the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission [MONUSCO] in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
“Lastly, the 200 members of the SANDF extension of employment is for the fulfilment of an international obligation towards SADC Maritime Security Strategy [SADC MSS]. This deployment will help counter the threat of piracy and other related illegal maritime activities along the Southern African coast of the Indian Ocean. The expenditure estimate to be incurred for this deployment amounts to R35 325 852.
“President Ramaphosa will communicate the report to the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:30
South Africa is challenging the EU's prohibition on the importation of South African citrus fruit affected by the fungus “citrus black spot” (Phyllotactic citricarpa). South Africa claims the EU measure appears to be inconsistent with various provisions of the WTO's Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures.
Further information is available in document WT/DS624/1
This is the second dispute case initiated by South Africa regarding the EU's import measures on citrus fruit. In July 2022, South Africa initiated a case challenging EU phytosanitary requirements for the importation of oranges and other citrus products related to the pest Thaumatotibia leucotreta, known as false codling moth (DS613).
What is a request for consultations?
The request for consultations formally initiates a dispute in the WTO. Consultations give the parties an opportunity to discuss the matter and to find a satisfactory solution without proceeding further with litigation. After 60 days, if consultations have failed to resolve the dispute, the complainant may request adjudication by a panel.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Trade Organization (WTO).
Solar Guru is at the forefront of green, renewable energy solutions, specializing in providing both Low- and High-Pressure Solar Water Heaters. Opting for a Solar Geyser that’s tailored to your needs can lead to substantial savings of up to 90% on your water heating expenses throughout the year. What does this translate to for you? …
The Dekra Institute of Learning (IOL), a leading adult-based education and occupational skills training provider, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by achieving Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) accreditation for First Aid training. Christopher Mörsner, Head of Training and Consulting at DEKRA IOL, highlights the importance of this accreditation: “This is not just a …
Introduction In recent years, fake lashes, https://lashextensions.co.za/collections/diy-lash-extensions, have become a staple in the beauty routines of many seeking to enhance their eyes’ appearance. These cosmetic enhancements promise to add volume, length, and drama to one’s natural lashes, making them a popular choice for both daily wear and special occasions. However, as with any beauty trend …
Dear Editor The South African Police Service (SAPS) has spent over R42,67 million on petrol and diesel over the past six years purely for its VIP Protection fleet. According to the Minister’s response, the National VIP Protection Centre in Gauteng was the biggest spender in 2023/24, filling up their VIP transport fleet with over R2,2 …
Remember the days of watching a cooking show, marveling at the delicious dishes, then facing the harsh reality of a bare kitchen? Those days are over for South Africans as the highly anticipated cooking show, Ready Steady Cook South Africa, in association with Mr D Groceries to transform home cooking. This innovative collaboration throws open …
Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, known simply as Shakira, is a Colombian singer, songwriter, dancer, record producer, choreographer, and model. With her unique blend of Latin, pop, and rock music, she has captivated audiences around the world. Let’s explore Shakira’s formative years, her impressive discography and details about her highly anticipated upcoming 2024 tour: Las Mujeres […]
Lesley-Ann Brandt helped raise money for Levana Primary School
Nestled in the picturesque town of Nqweba, formerly known as Kirkwood, lies the enchanting Kuzuko Lodge. This tranquil retreat offers a unique blend of luxury, wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty. With its rich history and proximity to the renowned Addo Elephant National Park, Kuzuko Lodge is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers… Read More »
Flavour Fest, the much-anticipated culinary event at Capegate Shopping Centre in Cape Town, is set to delight food enthusiasts with a diverse range of flavours, aromas, and experiences. This annual event celebrates the vibrant food culture of the region, showcasing local and international cuisines, artisanal products, and culinary innovations. A Gastronomic Extravaganza Visitors to Flavour […]
Tsegaye Esyas says he was duped into confessing that he was in South Africa illegally
In today’s digital age, purchasing event tickets has become easier than ever. With the advent of ticketing platforms, individuals can conveniently browse, select, and purchase tickets for a wide range of events, from concerts and sports games to theater performances and conferences. These platforms not only provide a seamless ticket-buying experience but also offer valuable […]
100 shacks demolished by JMPD in Rabie Ridge on Saturday
The Presidency announces recipients of National Orders
The Chancellor of the National Orders, Director-General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, has announced the recipients of National Orders.
On Tuesday, Baleni made public the names of South Africans and foreign nationals, who will be awarded National Orders at a prestigious ceremony on 30 April 2024.
The National Orders are the highest awards that South Africa, through the President, bestows on citizens and well-known foreign nationals, who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and who have significantly impacted the lives of South Africans.
The awards also recognise the contributions made by individuals who contributed and continue to contribute to building a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa, as envisaged in the Constitution.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will bestow on deserving recipients the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.
The Order of Mendi
The Order of Mendi for Bravery recognises South African citizens who have performed acts of bravery.
The Order of Mendi in Silver recipients:
Mawilliams Kekana (posthumously): For her generosity and courageous act of sheltering freedom fighters when it was illegal to align with revolutionaries. She offered her house as a haven for liberation stalwarts against the hostile security police.
Ignatius ‘Iggy’ Mthebule (posthumously): For his gallant fight against an unjust system of apartheid. He is among many lost sons and daughters, whose demise in the hands of security police remains unknown, as he disappeared without a trace. This was at the height of political upheaval, where opposition was brutally silenced. Despite his disappearance, he left an indelible mark of courage and leadership.
Makhwezi McDonald Mtulu (posthumously): For his excellent contribution to the liberation of the people of South Africa. He responded to the brave call to join the military wing of the ANC forsaking the safety of his home to the fight for freedom and died in the process of executing the armed struggle.
Robert Anthony Basil Waterwitch (posthumously): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. He ultimately lost his life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.
Coline Denise Williams (posthumously): For courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. She ultimately lost her life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.
The Order of Ikhamanga
The Order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.
The Order of Ikhamanga in Gold recipients:
Nontando ‘Noni’ Helen Jabuva (posthumously): For her excellent contribution to the field of journalism and scholarship on the liberation struggle. Her affinity for history and storytelling through journalism informed and enlightened the nation.
Aggrey Klaaste (posthumously): For his exceptional contribution to quality journalism and as a reporter exposing the cruelties of apartheid and encouraging unity among the people of different political persuasions to fight for liberation. He was a nation-builder with a vision for an equal and thriving society.
Madala Muzwakhe Kunene: For his exceptional contribution to the arts, especially jazz music, using home-brewed sounds that are unique to South Africa. He has collaborated with some of the best talents in our country.
The Order of Ikhamanga in Silver recipients:
Agnus Gibson: For his contribution to filmmaking. He strived to provide a haven for black artists at a time when discrimination was normalised and practised with impunity. His collaborations produced iconic narratives of South African history and youth culture.
Emile Lester Jansen: For his contribution to the field of arts and hip-hop culture in South Africa. His artistry and activism formulated a unique lexicon now firmly known as Afrikaap, explaining the African origins of hip-hop.
Saray Nkusi Khumalo: For being an inspiring way-maker for many women through her quest of summiting seven mountains while raising funds. She inspires every African child to pursue what may seem to be impossible dreams.
Sophie Msoziswa Mahlangu: For her excellent contribution to the development of indigenous Ndebele arts. Her commitment to passing on knowledge to younger generations is commendable; she has become a bridge connecting generations.
Madosini Latozi Mphahleni (posthumously): For her exceptional service in preserving and elevating indigenous South African musical traditions. In a rapidly changing world, she stood as a guardian of these ancient sounds, ensuring they were not forgotten. Her commitment to passing on her knowledge to younger generations was unmatched, safeguarding the nation's identity and cultural heritage.
Trevor Dundas Mweli Skota (posthumously): For his contribution to the promotion of black African knowledge through his trailblazing work, including a biographical dictionary of notable black figures on the continent.
The Order of the Baobab
The Order of the Baobab recognises South African citizens who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine and technological innovation.
The Order of the Baobab in Gold recipients:
Blanche Valeria La Guma (posthumously): For her courageous fight for social justice and equality for all South Africans. She lived by the courage of her convictions and fought for the rights of workers and the liberation of the oppressed.
Zukiswa Patricia Matolengwe: For her commitment to realising social justice for the homeless and downtrodden using ingenious means of stokvels for financial empowerment. Her tireless work in providing dignified living space for the homeless is laudable.
The Order of Luthuli
The Order of Luthuli recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict.
The Order of Luthuli in Gold recipients:
Mxolisi ‘Dicky’ Jacobs (posthumously): For his ultimate sacrifice to the struggle for liberation. His life ended by defending the principles of a just and equal society. Although his life was cut short, he remains a towering stalwart of the struggle who laid down his life for the liberation of his people.
Peter Cyril Jones (posthumously): For his courageous contribution in mobilising communities across the length and breadth of South Africa. He was one of the leading lights advocating for the Black Consciousness message of self-reliance, pride and self-affirmation for the oppressed people.
Benjamin Langa (posthumously): For his ultimate sacrifice for equality and social justice in South Africa. He endured unimaginable pain and remained loyal to the cause until the end. His legacy remains a beacon of light and inspiration to many.
Thobekile ‘Tobsy’ Madaka (posthumously): For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. He fearlessly spoke truth to power and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.
Siphiwo Mthimkhulu (posthumously): For his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. His fearlessness and leadership belied his age as he boldly confronted the forces of oppression and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.
Prof Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu: For his gallant fight for the liberation of the people of South Africa. He has straddled academia and political activism with the goal of a free South Africa always in his mind and has served as a source of inspiration for many Black Consciousness activists and others.
Kenneth Rachidi (posthumously): For his courage to face a repressive government and resist its unjust laws that promoted inequality. He lived by the ethics of Black Consciousness. His activism and vocal opposition to oppression remain a legacy and inspiration to South Africans.
Annie Silinga (posthumously): For her commitment to the liberation struggle. She played a leading role in some of the liberation campaigns. She continued to campaign against passes at national and local events.
Nokuthula Simelane (posthumously): For her incredible bravery in the face of brutal security operatives. She lived by the courage of her convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime. Her ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of all South Africans will remain in the annals of our nation’s history.
The Order of Mapungubwe
The Order of Mapungubwe recognises South Africans who have accomplished excellence and exceptional achievement to the benefit of South Africa and beyond.
The Order of Mapungubwe in Silver:
Prof Mulalo Doyoyo (posthumously): For his enormous contribution to academia and research in the field of aerospace. His outstanding work continues to open doors. The sciences have been enhanced by his participation and young aspirant scientists looked up to him as a mentor.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals and other foreign dignitaries for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recipients:
Huub Bammens from the Netherlands: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom. His technical skills were used to build studios for the liberation movement.
Donna Katzin from the United States: For her innovative thinking in assisting post-apartheid South African businesses get ethical investments by promoting networking between South African businesses and American investors.
Ken Luckhard from Canada: For his selfless service to South Africa through anti-apartheid activism. He organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.
Nicholas Stadlen from the United Kingdom: For his steadfast standing with the South African liberation movement at a time when it was not convenient to do so. He believed in equality and supported exiles as a friend of South Africa.
Fulco van Aurich from the Netherlands: For his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via Radio Freedom. He organised and developed a campaign in the Netherlands to support Radio Freedom.
Brenda Wall from Canada: For her selfless service to South Africa through anti-apartheid activism; she organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.
“We congratulate the recipients and call on all South Africans to join us in celebrating these outstanding South Africans and distinguished friends of South Africa,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 11:31
In today’s digital age, finding the right platform to promote and list your events is crucial for success. Fortunately, there are numerous free calendar event sites available that offer free listings of events. These platforms provide a convenient way to reach a wider audience and increase the visibility of your events. In this article, we […]
Pavilion Home Affairs office hailed as a game-changer
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube says the opening of a Home Affairs office at the Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville, Durban, is a game-changer in how government provides services to the citizens.
Dube-Ncube joined Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, to officially open the new Home Affairs office at the Pavilion Shopping Centre as part of the department’s ongoing efforts to make services easily accessible to the public.
The new office will offer application and collections services for IDs and passports. Clients will have the convenience of applying for these services as they do their shopping at the centre.
Dube-Ncube said the initiative aims to revolutionise citizen services, emphasising convenience, dignity, and efficiency.
“The office will bring services closer to where our people shop, bank, eat, stay, play and work. For us, first and foremost, this office will bring dignity to our people,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier said the strategic location of the office at the shopping centre is expected to alleviate the burden of long queues experienced at other Home Affairs offices in uMngeni, Pinetown and the Durban city centre.
“By integrating government services into everyday spaces that people already frequent, the initiative aims to streamline processes and enhance the overall experience for citizens. Moreover, the presence of a government office within a bustling shopping centre is poised to redefine the public's perception of and interaction with government services.
“To have a government office in a shopping centre will change how people perceive and interact with government and it will bring efficiency and agility. By embracing innovation and adapting to contemporary needs, the initiative seeks to foster a culture of responsiveness and accessibility within the public sector,” Dube-Ncube said.
WATCH | Opening of the Pavilion Shopping Centre Home Affairs office
Motsoaledi reiterated that the department wants to ensure that it brings services to the people where they are.
“We promised Parliament that we are going to expand the platforms where South Africans receive Home Affairs services. One of those platforms is to expand to malls,” Motsoaledi said.
The opening of Home Affairs office follows the launch of offices at Menlyn Shopping Centre at Pretoria East in March 2023, and Cresta in April 2024.
READ | Home Affairs opens three offices this Saturday
In his 2023 Budget Vote Speech, Motsoaledi announced that his department wants to create multiple platforms to assist people with applications for their IDs, passports, and other essential documents. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 12:03
President Ramaphosa sets sights on five million EPWP jobs in next five years
President Cyril Ramaphosa believes that the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) remains a critical policy instrument to tackle unemployment and reduce poverty as government grapples with high levels of joblessness.
The President has since pledged on behalf of government to improve the EPWP and to deliver five million work opportunities in the next five years.
President Ramaphosa was speaking on Tuesday at the 20-Year celebration of the EPWP and launch of Phase 5 of the programme in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape.
The President painted the EPWP as a success story that has empowered communities to address local needs and build resilience.
The country’s commander-in-chief said since 2004, the programme has created more than 14 million work opportunities across the EPWP sectors, with more than 300 public bodies across all spheres of government and non-profit organisations (NGOs) as implementing agents.
WATCH |
“The EPWP is changing lives and transforming communities, and the evidence is there for all to see,” President Ramaphosa told the crowd.
Through the EPWP infrastructure projects, President Ramaphosa said Welisizwe Rural Bridges are constructed and maintained to create better access to markets, schools and clinics.
READ | Zikalala announces construction of over 100 Welisizwe bridges
Beneficiaries include those cleaning streets and beaches, and those involved in Early Childhood Development (ECD), community home-based care, school feeding and community crime prevention.
According to the President, some of the beneficiaries have gone on to be trained as emergency response personnel in the South African Police (SAPS) and even qualified as pilots.
While there are many achievements, President Ramaphosa urged government to use the 20-year milestone as a springboard for even greater achievements in the years to come.
“We must build not only on lessons from the EPWP but also from the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has, over the last few years, demonstrated that public employment can go to significantly greater levels of scale.”
However, he acknowledged that the quality of work experience and service delivered to the communities needed to be improved.
According to the President, government also needs to mobilise the nation behind a revitalised portfolio of public employment programmes.
This, he said, will include urgent service delivery priorities such as road upgrading through pothole patching and block paving, and infrastructure maintenance.
VIEW | Celebration of 20 years of the EPWP
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The President is of the view that public employment can also assist in tackling social challenges, such as gender-based violence (GBV) and substance abuse.
The programme will also support tackling clean energy installation and catchment management to improve water quality and limit the risks of floods.
President Ramaphosa said it could also help in the digitisation of public records and give young people a first step into this growing sector of the economy.
Deepening youth participation
The President believes that the EPWP Phase 5 will rise to the challenge by increasing youth participation and strengthening skills development.
“As we enter this new phase, we must reiterate that there can be no space for corruption, nepotism or favouritism. Effective and fair recruitment practices must be applied.”
He called on social partners and the private sector to work with the State during Phase 5 to lend a hand in creating jobs and work opportunities for South Africa’s youth, women and people with disabilities.
“Working together through public and social employment programmes and by providing support for small enterprises and cooperatives, we can create more jobs at a much faster pace while improving the delivery of basic services.”
The President has vowed to continue to expand public employment through the EPWP, the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Youth Service, and others.
In addition, he stated that government will assist civil society organisations that are creating work opportunities.
The Head of State also promised to back entrepreneurship and job creation by increasing support for small enterprises and cooperatives in townships and villages.
“We will continue to prioritise young people in public employment programmes, in work-based learning programmes, in artisan training and entrepreneurship programmes.”
He assured the young South African men and women that government will not leave them behind.
“We are determined to reach you, one and all, to help you and to support you. This is the promise of democracy and freedom,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 14:17
South Africa is known for its rich and diverse musical landscape, where artists from various genres captivate audiences both locally and internationally. Among the plethora of talented musicians that hail from this culturally rich country, several standout artists have made a significant impact on the music industry. In this article, we delve into the lives […]