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As thousands of swimmers put the finishing touch to their preparations for the aQuellé MIdmar Mile, one man on the other side of the world is wishing he was headed back to the shores of the KwaZulu-Natal dam next weekend. That’s two-time defending men’s champion Connor Buck, who since his second straight victory last year …
80-year-old Sarah Govender has lived in the Actonville flats since the 1980s
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) notes the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF), downward revision of South Africa’s economic growth forecast, as outlined in its January 2024 Global Outlook Report. In the report the IMF adjusted its 2024 growth expectation for South Africa from 1.8% to 1%. At 3.1%, global growth is projected at more than …
Lindani L Thango, known professionally as Warten Weg, is a South African graphic designer driven by a passion for crafting impactful visuals. Hailing from the vibrant heart of South Africa, his work reflects the nation’s multifaceted energy and his own deep connection to his heritage. Warten Weg navigates the creative landscape with a fluidity honed …
In some areas of Phillipi East rubbish has not been collected for nine months
On 31 January 2024 in the U19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Bangladesh beat Nepal by five wickets in Bloemfontein. Nepal 169 (49.5 overs) v Bangladesh 170/5 (25.2 overs). At Mangaung Oval, Nepal struggled to post a competitive total after choosing to bat first against Bangladesh. Rohanat Doullah Borson and Sheikh Paevez Jibon combined …
Residents of the City’s emergency housing development face unemployment, extreme heat, and overcrowding. But “we have achieved a lot” says a community member
SIU to probe Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency affairs
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is expected to investigate allegations of serious maladministration at the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA).
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the unit to delve into the affairs of the agency.
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said the unit will also look to recover any financial losses that the state may have incurred.
“Proclamation R147 of 2024 authorises the SIU to probe the procurement and/or contracting for goods, works or services concerning a tender for the planning and design of the Marine Tilapia Industry Incubator Project within the Mbhashe Local Municipality, by or on behalf of the ECRDA.
“The SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by ECRDA or the State. The scope of the investigation also covers any unlawful or improper conduct by officials or employees of ECRDA, the applicable suppliers or service providers or any other person or entity,” he explained.
The proclamation allows the unit to probe allegations over the period between February 2020 and 26 January 2024.
“In addition to investigating maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses.
“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,” Kganyago said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 11:30
The 2023 SA matric class and higher education-graduates face a challenging job market and the reality of joining over 3.3 million past graduates struggling to find employment. Amid soaring unemployment rates, which are one of the highest on the continent and globe, and facing economic challenges, the youth’s confidence in our nation is plummeting. In …
In the world of landscaping, brushcutters and trimmers are generally seen as essential tools for maintaining lawns and managing vegetation. However, beyond their practical applications, these tools can also be used as artistic instruments, offering several creative possibilities in outdoor spaces. This is according to Wynand Lombaard, Product & Pricing Specialist at Husqvarna South Africa. …
The internet is brought to tears as 6-month-old elephant orphan, Phabeni, is taken under the protective wing of Lundi – finding not only a mother, but a herd. Phabeni’s story begins on November 14, 2023, on Shawu’s Hills Wildlife Estate, bordering the southern section of the renowned Kruger National Park. One morning, the Shawu team …
SIU authorised to investigate ECRDA
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed Proclamation R147 of 2024 authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of serious maladministration in the affairs of the Eastern Cape Rural Development Agency (ECRDA).
The SIU is also authorised to recover any financial losses suffered by the State and ECDRA.
“Proclamation R147 of 2024 authorises the SIU to probe the procurement and/or contracting for goods, works or services concerning a tender for the planning and design of the Marine Tilapia Industry Incubator Project within the Mbhashe Local Municipality, by or on behalf of the ECRDA,” said the SIU in a statement.
It will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by ECRDA or the State.
The scope of the investigation also covers any unlawful or improper conduct by officials or employees of ECRDA, the applicable suppliers or service providers or any other person or entity.
The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that took place between 1 February 2020 and 26 January 2024, the date of the publication of the Proclamation or before 1 February 2020 and after the date of the Proclamation that are relevant to, connected with, incidental to the matters or involves the same persons, entities or contracts investigated.
In addition to investigating maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud, the SIU said it would identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses.
“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,” it said.
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
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 11:59
Because financial technology (fintech) is relatively new and has developed faster than legislative processes, and because the nuances of blockchain applications are varied, Fintech and Crypto Law covers a broad range of regulations, many of which were formulated before its existence. As such, it covers laws and regulations in the fields of financial services, ITC, …
01 February 2024: New vehicle sales started 2024 where they left 2023 off: with the choke on waiting for conditions and performance to improve. According to figures released by naamsa | the Automotive Business Council, new vehicle sales started on a weak footing, albeit with bigger volumes than December. January sales registered 41,636 new vehicles, …
GAC Motor and Salvador Caetano Auto have come to an agreement regarding the distribution of vehicles, spare parts and services, in South Africa. GAC Motor, a subsidiary of GAC Group, is committed to bringing quality products and services to customers around the world. GAC Group, founded in 1997, is one of the country’s major vehicle …
Drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres offer various services to support recovery. The 12-step program is a well-established approach in treating addiction. For individualised care, individual therapy and group therapy are key components. Inpatient treatment provides a structured and supportive environment, while medically assisted detox ensures safe withdrawal from substances. Holistic approaches, such as holistic therapy and …
SA to advance the African agenda with focus on AfCFTA
South Africa places great importance on the African Union (AU) Summits, as the country forges ahead with its foreign policy of the advancement of the African agenda.
This is according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who was briefing the media on Wednesday on developments in her department.
The summit, which will take place on 17 and 18 February in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, will focus on education.
Last year, the AU finalised a 10-year review of Agenda 2063.
A key recommendation, Pandor explained, is that the AU Member States must accelerate the implementation of the Agenda 2063 flagship projects that are aimed specifically at fast-tracking continental integration.
The project particularly focuses on trade and market integration, free movement of people and infrastructure development.
However, top of the agenda is the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), in which South Africa is playing a leading role.
“We are especially pleased that President [Cyril] Ramaphosa will officially witness the launch of South Africa’s first shipment and preferential trading under the AfCFTA on 31 January 2024, at the Port of Durban,” she said.
President Ramaphosa is expected to attend and participate in several high-level committee meetings of the Assembly.
These include the meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), which will be held to reaffirm Africa’s position on climate change as advocated during the Conference of the Parties (COP28) held in the United Arab Emirates last year.
In his capacity as the Chairperson of the Presidential Infrastructure Championing Initiative, the country’s First Citizen annually hosts a meeting on the margins of the AU Summit to provide a progress report on infrastructure projects.
The initiative aims to enhance infrastructure development in sectors such as transport, information communication and technology, water and sanitation, and energy in South Africa and throughout the region and continent.
These areas, she said, are critical to the implementation of the AfCFTA.
The President is also expected to chair a high-level meeting of the Committee of Five (C5) on South Sudan to review and provide political guidance on the progress made in the implementation of the revitalised agreement on the resolution of conflict in South Sudan.
BRICS
She also announced that Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have confirmed they are joining the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) bloc after being invited to last year.
“However, you’d be aware that Argentina has written to indicate that they will not act on this successful application by the previous administration to become full members of BRICS. And we accept their decision, particularly given that 30 countries have now written to Russia, expressing interest in becoming members.”
NAM Summit
The Minister also touched on the recent summits of the Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the Group of 77 and China, convened in Uganda, last month.
She told journalists that the NAM Summit identified five priority areas.
These include regional and international peace and security; the fight against terrorism; migration and humanitarian crises; human trafficking; and the Sustainable Developmental Goals.
“In his statement to the NAM, President Ramaphosa confirmed that South Africa will remain steadfast in advancing its non-aligned approach to the maintenance of international peace and security by advocating for the peaceful political settlement of disputes and inclusive dialogue.”
Following the NAM meeting, Pandor led the South African delegation to the G77 and China Summit.
The G77 and China Summit is the largest negotiating bloc in the United Nations (UN) representing most developing countries and over 80% of the world’s population.
“The focus of the summit was on South-South cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, sustainable development, climate change, poverty eradication, and the digital economy,” she explained. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 12:52
The Legal Practice Council will now have to reconsider GroundUp’s complaint against Lesley Ramulifho
Mashatile engages business leaders
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has held an interactive session with more than 50 business leaders at a Sandton event organised by The European House – Ambrosetti, a leading global think tank.
According to the Deputy President’s Office, Wednesday’s event was convened to strengthen the strategic relationships between industry and governments and promote growth through a multi-stakeholder approach.
Discussions touched on various topics, including economic priorities and reforms, tackling unemployment and poverty, building investor confidence in South Africa, and driving foreign direct investment into the country.
“The closed session provided a platform for business leaders to engage with the Deputy President, who has been instrumental in courting investment to boost SA's economy, as part of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s ongoing investment drive,” the statement read.
Despite the challenges facing the country, the Deputy President expressed his optimism about the government's willingness to change its fortunes for the better.
He emphasised the need for public-private partnerships, such as those facilitated by the Southern Africa CEO Community – African Chapter, to help address the country’s challenges and provide support for businesses, and rural and township communities.
The forum also offered an opportunity for the Deputy President to listen to and collaborate with business leaders on key areas that the government defines as critical for the future of the country and the community.
“It also served as a means to strengthen ties between the government and private sectors based on principles of mutual respect and shared interests and values.”
The Deputy President agreed with business leaders that there is a need to accelerate the resolution of challenges impacting key economic enablers, namely energy, transport and logistics, crime, and corruption.
“We should work together to solve our economic difficulties while promoting greater social inclusion and sustainability. Through collaboration, we will be able to make South Africa a better and more prosperous nation,” the Deputy President said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 13:04
Port Shepstone Civic Centre under Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipality was a hive of activity on Tuesday, 30 January 2024 as local SMEs attended the Investor Workshop on the new Ugu District One Stop Shop. Hosted by South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) in partnership with Trade & Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN), the workshop showcased investment …
New houses for Ekurhuleni senior citizens
The Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, along with Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Sivuyile Ngodwana and Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Lebohang Maile, have distributed houses to first time homeowners in Clayville in Tembisa.
In a statement released by the office of the Executive Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni on Wednesday, the project in Clayville will see just under 500 houses handed over to new owners in the future.
According to the statement, five houses were handed over to senior citizens with the oldest recipient being 91 years old.
“This is the best day of my life. At my age I was even beginning to think that I would die without having had to own a proper house,” said one of the beneficiaries, Christina Ndou.
The leadership later moved to Palm Ridge in Katlehong where 100 title deeds were handed over giving first time homeowners security of tenure.
Minister Kubayi expressed delight at the rate at which the government was delivering houses around the country.
“We have been crisscrossing the country inspecting and handing out houses, and yes the progress is quite impressive,” the Minister said.
Meanwhile, Mayor Ngodwana said that it was ‘very progressive’ that all three spheres of government work together to provide a better life for the people of the Republic. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 15:11
The road to the playoffs intensifies with only one spot remaining Thursday, 01 February 2024: With only one Betway SA20...
NSFAS financial aid application deadline extended
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) board has extended the deadline for applications for student financial aid to 15 February 2023.
The decision was taken during a meeting between the NSFAS board and the South African Union of Students (SAUS).
The NSFAS board, led by Acting Board Chairperson Professor Laurens Van Staden, met with the South African Union of Students (SAUS) Executive, led by President Yandisa Ndzoyiya, to discuss NSFAS’s state of readiness for the beginning of the academic year, where the parties agreed on the extension of the 2024 bursary application period.
The meeting also agreed that the NSFAS Loan Scheme will be opened on 2 February 2024 and close on 15 February 2024.
The new Comprehensive Student Funding Model aims to support students including those currently not supported by NSFAS bursary and funding policy.
This category includes students who come from families who have a total income of more than R350 000, but not more than R600 000 per annum.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the parties agreed that students who have already applied for the NSFAS bursary scheme need not submit a new application for the student loan scheme.
“All students who did not meet the bursary scheme eligibility criteria, however, meet the loan scheme eligibility criteria, will be automatically offered a loan for their consideration,” the statement said.
Prospective loan scheme applicants can apply through an online application form, where they create a profile, apply, and submit the application.
The application form can be accessed on the NSFAS website on www.nsfas.org.za.
In order to qualify for the loan, students should meet the following criteria:
• Students whose annual household income is between R350 000-R600 000;
• TVET and university (public) students;
• Undergraduate or postgraduate students;
• 70% Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programmes (which
may be adjusted to include commercial programmes that are in demand in the labour
market or entrepreneurial programmes);
• 30% Social Sciences programmes; and
• Students willing to sign a loan agreement.
NSFAS reminded all applicants for both the bursary scheme and the loan scheme to submit a consent form to verify relevant information from third parties.
“The information is required to verify the employment status and income level of the parents, guardians, or spouses of the applicant. It is mandatory for applicants to download and upload a completed Consent form on the NSFAS website, portal, or mobile app,” Van Staden said.
1 745 applications received
Meanwhile, NSFAS has received 1 745 226 applications, as of 30 January 2024.
The scheme said of the 1 745 226 applications, 940 682 are provisionally funded, 269 915 are awaiting evaluations, while 48 643 have been withdrawn by the student; 232 559 are in in progress, and 136 531 applications on the not-started status, as applicants only created profiles and did not submit applications.
“NSFAS has rejected 102 201 applications;1 093 appeals have been lodged so far,” Van Staden said.
The meeting agreed that funding decisions will continue to be communicated, as and when applications are processed, and that the application portal will continue to be updated upon confirmation of the funding decision.
Institutions have been encouraged to continuously check the updates on the NSFAS applications portal on funding decisions, which will also cover allowance types that students have qualified for.
“NSFAS will upon making the funding decisions commence with the appeals process in order to ensure that appeals decisions are communicated to students and the institutions on time.” – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 02/01/2024 - 15:34
Metrorail’s return to service remains extremely limited