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MIDLANDS, SOUTH AFRICA — In an unprecedented achievement, Brahman Hills, home of glorious views, breath-taking gardens, an award-winning spa and charming 4- and 5-star accommodation, has been named the Overseas Region Winner in the esteemed Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Partner Garden of the Year Competition. This historic win marks a significant milestone not only for …
Significant strides made in social assistance programme and combating GBV
Government has over the last 30 years made significant strides in improving the social assistance programme, combating gender-based violence (GBV) and providing underprivileged children with opportunities for a better life through grants.
This is according to Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, who was speaking during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) Debate in Cape Town on Tuesday.
She highlighted the gains made over the last 30 years, indicating that government is currently providing regular income support each month without fail to those who are underprivileged.
Zulu said when government signed the Social Assistance Act into law, the nation took a historic step toward fulfilling a fundamental principle of the Freedom Charter and the Constitution, that "social security is a right, not a privilege".
She said the social assistance programme is the most enduring and one of the biggest poverty alleviation and redistribution interventions by the sixth administration.
“We have progressively expanded social protection coverage from 2.4 million in 1994 to 28 million [today] to support those who cannot support themselves due to no fault of their own.
“We are currently providing regular income support each month without fail to more than four million older persons, about one million adults with disabilities and 160 000 children with disabilities. More than 13 million children from poor households receive the Child Support Grant, while a further 237 000 children are supported through our Foster Care Grant,” Zulu said.
She said there has been improved access to sustainable livelihoods and entrepreneurial opportunities through grant funding and capacity building of civil society organisations by the National Development Agency (NDA).
The department has also provided financial support to the tune of R8.2 billion to non-profit organisations that render the much-need community development and statutory services in communities.
The achievements include an increase in the number of children benefitting from Early Childhood Development, living up to the mantra, 'From inception to the grave'.
“We have restored the dignity of our older persons and increased life expectancy through, amongst others, the provision of the Old Age Grant. We created over 500 000 employment opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme, and addressed the disproportionate impact of poverty on women through women empowerment initiatives,” she said.
The Minister further highlighted that government has passed progressive pieces of legislation, such as the Children’s Act, to ensure the protection of children, providing universal access to social welfare services, including adoption, foster care and psychosocial support services.
There has also been intensified international collaboration with development and UN agencies such as UNICEF, United Nations Development Programme, and International Labour Organisation on best practice,s focusing on poverty eradication initiatives.
Turning to gender-based violence and femicide, Zulu said that there has been expanded access to care and support services for victims/survivors through the implementation of Pillar 4 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (specific focus on GBV hotspots).
“We have capacitated the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre and the National Emergency Response Team (NERT) to render psychosocial, trauma counselling and referral services. We are currently expanding shelters and the Khuseleka One-Stop Centre Model to all provinces,” she said.
The Minister told Parliament that with a total budget of R266 billion this year, over R22 billion is directly injected into the economy every month and into the hands of those who need it most to facilitate their participation in the economy and the labour market.
“This in turn stimulates key sectors of our economy, what in economic terms is referred to as the multiplier effect. The positive spin-offs of this investment are reflected in numerous local reports and international studies. This is no small achievement by any measure,” she said.
Guided by the developmental philosophy of 'Leave no one Behind', Zulu said government is now finalising policy proposals for the introduction of the Basic Income Grant.
“As we stride into the third decade of freedom and democracy, we do so with great confidence that our goal for social and economic transformation is well on course,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 11:15
Abortion is a complex and highly sensitive subject that involves personal, medical, and ethical considerations. It’s a topic that sparks passionate debates and discussions worldwide. In this blog, we will explore abortion clinics, their role in women’s healthcare, and the critical factors to consider when seeking their services. Understanding Abortion Clinics An abortion clinic is a medical facility …
Introduction In the ever-evolving landscape of furniture, plastic chairs have emerged as a versatile and practical choice for various settings. From outdoor gatherings to indoor events, and even office spaces, the right plastic chair can make all the difference. Let’s explore the diverse range of plastic chairs and homeware products that cater to every need, combining comfort, …
SIU updates Parliament on NLC corruption investigation
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has completed 90% of the second phase in its three-phased National Lotteries Commission (NLC) investigation.
The unit said in a statement on Wednesday the investigation in its totality is worth approximately R1.4 billion which the state and the NLC have allegedly lost due to corruption at the organisation.
The value of each phase is:
• Phase 1 - R279 710 409.
• Phase 2 -R246 659 310.
• Phase 3 - R905 901.910.04
The SIU appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry on Wednesday to give an update on the investigation. In the presentation, SIU revealed new investigation findings.
One of the findings is related to award-winning actress, Moiteri Pheto, who unduly benefitted once again from the NLC grant funding.
The NLC approved grant funding of R5 million to Zibisibix Non-Profit Company for a chicken farm in December 2018. After receiving the R5 million, money moved from the account and the following payments were made:
• Black Planet Trading (Director: Thula Sindi) of an amount of R140 000.00
• Tsoseletso (Director: Moitheri Pheto) - R253 000.00
• Pheto Safe and Cleaning (Director: Dimakatso Pheto) - R124 000.00
• Sunguti projects (Director: Moitheri Pheto) - R2 800 000.00
• Moitheri Pheto’s personal bank account - R182 000.00
• Dimakatso Pheto (Moitheri’s sister) - R315 500.00
• Vehicle dealership- R252 400
• Agricultural Supplies- R209 500
The farm was purchased for R850 000, and the SIU found that the former chairperson of the NLC board Professor Alfred Nevhutanda signed the offer to purchase the farm in the Vaal area.
“Furthermore, the evidence that SIU gathered revealed that the farm was purchased for the benefit of Dimakatso Pheto. The case has been referred for civil litigation for recovery and criminal referrals are being prepared,” it said.
The SIU also presented to Parliament how the South African Youth Movement (SAYM) applied for grant funding on behalf of the Presley Chweneyagae Foundation, which belong to award winning actor, Presley Chweneyagae.
The main purpose of the application was for the Take Back the Future Musical, Documentary and Poetry Arts programme. The NLC approved a grant funding of an amount of R15 million.
From the R15 million, R2 999 967.00 was transferred to Iron Bridge Travelling Agency and Events in August 2016. Iron Bridge Travelling Agency and Events is owned by the former NLC Chief Operating Officer, Phillemon Letwaba’s wife, Rebotile Malomane.
In May 2017, a further R950 190.00 was transferred to VNMM Consulting Engineers CC. VNMM Consulting Engineers is owned by Prof Nevhutanda’s son-in-law, Meshack Makhubela. On 25 May 2017, an amount of R500 000 with a reference plot purchase was transferred to conveyancing attorneys.
From the balance of R 450 190, Prof Nevhutanda received R100 000 for a bus purchase and a further R60 000 for a funeral and debit orders for a car finance account.
The SIU investigation revealed how a non-profit organisation (NPO) was hijacked and funds that were meant to uplift poor women in Marikana and the surrounding areas in the North West province on a chicken farming project were misused.
The application was adjudicated and the grant funding for the value of R13 million was awarded to an NPO and was to be paid in two tranches of R7 million and R6 million. In November 2020, the hijacked NPO made an application for additional funding and received a further R3.5 million.
The SIU’s investigation revealed that a shelf company named Silverlite Trading bought the land in Marikana for this project for R400 000. Advocate William Huma, a former NLC board member is the current sole director of Silverlight.
The SIU went on a site visit and found that the farm was well-built and completed. The chicken farm contains a workers' house, guard house, egg packaging and storehouse and chicken egg production house and there is a borehole.
However, since the chicken farm is not in operation. It is being vandalised, and some of the electric cables and solar panels were stolen from the farm.
The SIU has so far made eight criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Unit and 11 disciplinary referrals to NLC officials.
The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R32 of 2020, authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of NLC and the conduct of NLC officials and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State.
In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 13:22
A Valentine’s dinner without the perfect cocktail is like a love story missing its plot twist – which is why we are taking a look behind the bar at some of our favourite local experts’ go-to V-day sips. Matthew Cox from Queen’s Bar keeps it simple with an effortlessly elegant Champagne Cocktail – easy to …
Sunrisers Eastern Cape and Durban’s Super Giants most represented teams Wednesday, 14 February 2024: Betway SA20 has announced the...
Taps have been dry since Friday because of a damaged main pipe
With Valentine’s Day falling on the 14th, February is the month of love. No doubt there’ll be the usual fuss, with hearts and flowers very much to the fore and fine-dining experiences galore on offer. It all indicates how essential relationships are to our happiness and well-being. But when they go wrong, the fallout can …
'The end of load shedding is indeed in sight' - Ramakgopa
Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says despite “obstacles, uncertainties and temporary setbacks”, the end of load shedding is in sight.
He was addressing the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate held at the Cape Town City Hall on Tuesday.
“[The] path to achieving a stable and sustainable energy landscape has been fraught with obstacles, uncertainties, and temporary setbacks and yet, with each passing day, we continue to register progress as we chart the path to energy security.
“The end of load shedding is indeed in sight; the future is bright,” he said.
Eskom power stations
The Minister explained the steps government, in cooperation with Eskom, has taken to urgently address the energy challenge in the country including returning units to service on time or earlier and bolstering new generation capacity.
“Units 1 to 3 of Kusile [Power Station], which had been out of service since October of 2022, were successfully returned ahead of schedule. As planned, Unit 5 was synchronised to the grid in December 2023, contributing 800MW. The four Kusile Units collectively injected 3200MW of capacity into the grid.
“Medupi [Power Station] Unit 4 will return to service this year in September, a year ahead of schedule. Kusile Unit 6 will be synchronised in late November 2024. These units will add 1600MW to the grid. In addition, Unit 2 of Koeberg [Power Station] will return to service in September 2024, giving us 980MW following a planned outage. These interventions will collectively add 2580MW to the grid in 2024. The end of load shedding is indeed within sight,” he said.
Added to this, Eskom’s rigorous maintenance plan for power stations has been implemented, which Ramokgopa said is expected to ensure that “going into the winter of 2024, the fleet’s reliability will have been significantly strengthened”.
“This also means that heading into the winter peak demand period, we can claw back up to 2 000MW by tapering planned maintenance and strengthening available capacity.
“From March of 2024, we will begin reducing planned maintenance from the current 6 000MW to 5 000MW in April 2024 and to around 3 500MW in May 2024, a threshold that will be sustained during the winter demand period,” he said.
New generation capacity
Ramokgopa revealed that to further bolster future energy security, Eskom is in the process of appointing a team which is expected to “undertake a procurement process for partners to develop the Richards Bay Closed Cycle Gas Turbine”.
This is a plan to yield a further 3 000MW for the grid.
Furthermore, the procurement of nuclear energy is also on the table.
“Gas will increasingly feature prominently in our short- to medium-term base load requirements. Eskom is working on converting Gourikwa and Ankerlig [power stations] to gas from diesel on the Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) technology. This initiative is anticipated to yield an additional 2 000MW, with a further 1 000MW expected from the conversion to Closed Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGT).
“[Government] will commence the procurement process of an additional 2 500MW of new nuclear capacity this year on an affordable scale and pace basis, as well as 1 500MW of pump storage facility at Tubatse in Limpopo,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:42
Introduction: Garage doors play a crucial role in providing security, convenience, and curb appeal to homes. However, like any mechanical system, they require regular maintenance and occasional repairs to ensure smooth operation and longevity. In recent years, the advent of automation technology has revolutionised the way we interact with our garage doors, offering unparalleled convenience …
Pretoria, South Africa – Is your fridge freezing food instead of maintaining a proper temperature? It’s a frustrating experience that many homeowners face. But fear not, as Appliance Repairs Centre, a trusted appliance repair company serving Pretoria, Centurion, and Midrand, is here to provide expert guidance on identifying underlying refrigerator problems and their solutions. Incorrect …
Gauteng receives CCTV cameras to fight crime
Efforts to fight crime in Gauteng have received a much-needed boost through a partnership with Vuma Cam, which will allow the province to have access to an additional 6 000 CCTV cameras to keep an eye on the province’s streets.
CCTV cameras are part of the Gauteng Provincial Government’s strategy to utilise technology in the fight against crime. The CCTV cameras are being placed in townships, business districts, areas with high crime, roads, schools and other public places.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lusufi said at the launch event held on Tuesday that this was a big milestone for the campaign and that the cameras will go a long way to realising a crime-free Gauteng.
“I am excited that this partnership finally took place. It has been a long time coming. I am tired of crime. We cannot be held hostage by criminals. We cannot be scared and be scared even of our own shadows because of criminals.
“Crime is a big problem and it is even halting investment interests in our province. We are signing this agreement to protect our people,” he said.
The campaign to fight crime using technology is an intergovernmental collaboration between the Department of e-Government, Community Safety and the South African Police Services (SAPS).
The collaboration is meant to boost all other available crime-fighting initiatives, through providing CCTV cameras, high-quality drones for surveillance, issuing of panic buttons to improve access to help from law enforcement officers during distress, and installation of tracking devises on cars.
The MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) and e-Government, Mzi Khumalo, said government collaboration with the policing, security and technology sectors resulted in this agreement coming to fruition.
“Today’s occasion also marks the coming to fruition of a partnership with Vuma Cam to building safer communities. This partnership strengthens the collaboration between the private and public sector, using technology to fight crime and build safer communities.
“The signing of this agreement is a demonstration of commitment by Vuma Cam,” he said.
Vuma Cam have committed to extending camera coverage to underserved areas, particularly within the TISH (townships, informal settlements and hostels) areas.
Vuma Cam CEO Ricky Croock said through the agreement, Vuma Cam is also offering an additional 5 000 partner cameras across South Africa, which would ensure that any known vehicle, involved in a criminal activity in another province, would trigger an immediate alert if seen by the cameras within Gauteng.
“We believe that the alerts from our extensive network, delivered through our world-class software platform and verified by expertly trained operators, will result in a 'new normal' in the fight against crime in South Africa’s economic heartland,” Crook said.
“The launch of our partnership with the Gauteng Provincial Government builds on the success of Vuma Cam’s partnerships with public entities, as we deploy our advanced technology to make the people of Gauteng safer,” he said.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Gauteng, Major General Tommy Mthombeni, said that this programme is a step closer to the realisation of e-policing, and it is important to also look after this infrastructure.
“We are collaborating with the Department of Community Safety on several initiatives, one of which includes the involvement of our communities. They will also be critical in this campaign as they will ensure that these cameras are safe,” Mthombeni said.”
In continuing with its mission of combatting crime using technology, the Gauteng Provincial Government will be launching 6 000 additional CCTV cameras in due course. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:53
The current property investment trends for retirees show a shift towards coastal living in small towns, with sustainability, natural surroundings, and conservation areas in high demand. The exquisite KZN South Coast, with its nature reserves, highest number of Blue Flag beaches, and world-class dive sites is fast meeting this demand through the establishment of eco-focused …
As we celebrate the achievements of the 2023 matriculants, the shadow of unemployment and financial barriers to education cast a daunting cloud over many of our promising youth. Despite having career aspirations across diverse industries, bright minds find themselves lacking the much-needed education, connections, experience, or skills necessary to pursue their dreams. Shaun Lamont, the …
PERTH: Ahead of the Proteas Women’s inaugural Test match against Australia at the prestigious Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) Ground...
Eastern Cape welcomes newly appointed Deputy Provincial Commissioner
Eastern Cape Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Zithulele Dladla, on Tuesday welcomed the newly appointed Deputy Provincial Commissioner: Support Services, Major General Nolitha Tito, to the provincial police service.
Tito is the newest addition to the province’s leadership team. She is a seasoned public servant since 2002, with a career spanning over 20 years in the public service in strategic senior management positions in different provinces across the country.
She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the support environment, with many internal courses and qualifications obtained from different academic institutions.
Her qualifications include a National Diploma in Human Resources Management, a B-Tech in Human Resource Management, a Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management and a Master of Philosophy in People Management.
Prior to assuming her current role as the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Support Services, she served as the Provincial Head for Human Resource Management in the Free State.
Dladla has congratulated Tito on her new appointment.
“We are honoured to have Major General Tito join our ranks and we look forward to her guidance and insight, as we continue to strive for excellence in this Province.
“We welcome you with all our blessings and heartfelt enthusiasm, and we look forward to the positive impact that you will undoubtedly bring to management and members in the province," said Dladla.
In response, Tito urged the team to roll up their sleeves and strive for excellence.
“I am bringing my experience to the environment and with your support, we will conquer and strive towards better and improved standards,” she said.
She appreciated the warm welcome and committed herself to participating in the realisation of the Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner’s vision: Operation Sikhona, which aims to curb crime in the province. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:09
Heading into 2024, sustainability emerges as the new frontier of luxury in real estate trends, transcending its status as that ‘cherry on top’ for potential homeowners and holiday seekers. It has transformed into a critical consideration. Bluegrass Developers, a company committed to sustainable development in the Greater Kruger Area. Their environmentally conscious developments – Shawu’s …
Having come into the 100m backstroke final as the second fastest qualifier in the field, there was disappointment for Pieter Coetzé as he finished out of medal contention in fifth place at the World Aquatics Championships in Doha on Tuesday. Coetzé, who is the current Commonwealth Games champion in the event, turned in fifth place …
Cape Town, 13 February, 2024—Founders Foundation today announced that it has partnered with the Silulo Foundation and global technology company, Zoho to train and equip township entrepreneurs enrolled in the Silulo Foundation entrepreneurship programme throughout the greater Cape Town area. As part of this collaboration, a group of entrepreneurs attended specialised training at the Zoho …
Dear Editor The DA notes the South African Post Office’s (SAPO) confirmation that it has started closing cash payment points for social grant recipients across the country. We will submit written parliamentary questions to determine exactly which SAPO payment points will be closed, the date of closure, the number of South African Social Security Agency …
SANRAL notifies motorists about blasting along the N2
The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has advised road users that the N2 will be intermittently closed between Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) and the Fish River Pass due to blasting operations taking place this month.
Blasting operations started on Monday and will end on 26 February 2024.
Motorists are notified of the following dates:
“The road will be closed on these days from 3pm, for a maximum period of three hours, up to 6pm to allow sufficient time for cleaning of the existing N2 and making it safe for the travelling public,” SANRAL said.
“Motorists travelling westwards between East London or Qonce (formerly King William’s Town) and Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) may consider using the following alternative route:
Motorists travelling eastwards between Gqeberha and Qonce or East London may consider using the following alternative route:
“Motorists are requested to plan their trips accordingly, consider alternative routes and use caution when making use of the roads,” SANRAL’s Southern Region Manager Mbulelo Peterson said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 09:44
Eskom has informed the Western Cape Government (WCG) that it is on track to reconnect electricity to the Karoo from 12:00 midday onwards tomorrow, 15 February. This is possible since all the temporary structures needed are in place and the stringing of conductors is progressing and should to be completed later today. The focus will …
Today Jacaranda FM, one of Mzansi’s favourite music radio stations announced it’s official media partnership with the Bulls Daisies – a pioneering South African women’s rugby team based at Loftus Versveld Stadium in Pretoria. “We have a massive footprint in Gauteng where rugby, like music, is part of our culture and meant to be shared …