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Paul Bevis, NSRI Durban duty commander, said: At 16h56, Tuesday, 2 January, an NSRI Durban swift water rescue team was activated to assist Police Search and Rescue at an incident on the Umgeni River, KwaDabeka, at the Midway Crossing Bridge, near to F Section, where 2 locals, a male and a female, were trapped inside …
Condolences for Japan following quake tragedy
South Africa has offered its deepest condolences to the government and people of Japan following a series of deadly earthquakes that struck the country's west coast region.
“The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor has, on behalf of the government and people of South Africa, offered South Africa’s sincere condolences to the government and people of Japan following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake that hit the country’s west coast on 1 January 2024 at 16h00,” said the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement on Wednesday.
It said that the 7.6 magnitude earthquake has led to extensive loss of life and rising numbers of severe injuries in its aftermath.
“In the ensuing five hours following the earthquake, a swarm of approximately 30 earthquakes were reported throughout Japan.”
Pandor said that the government and people of South Africa's prayers are with Japan, particularly the families who have lost their loved ones in the wake of the tragedy.
She further commended the tireless efforts of the rescue and emergency personnel participating in the ongoing rescue operation. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 10:47
At 17h00, Monday, 1 January, NSRI Shelly Beach duty crew were activated following reports of a drowning in progress at Shelly Beach, near to Shelly Beach Sunny Evans Ski-boat Club. NSRI Shelly Beach crew, KwaZulu private ambulance services, the SA Police Services and Police Search and Rescue responded. On arrival on the scene bystander Cardiopulmonary …
MEC commends Gauteng EMS festive season response
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has expressed satisfaction with how the Gauteng Emergency Medical Service (EMS) responded to emergencies during the festive period.
The MEC joined EMS personnel on the ground on New Year’s Eve, as they responded to emergency calls as part of the Safer Festive Season campaign.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said the work done by the Gauteng EMS, who are also known as the Green Angels, during the festive period demonstrated that the resources the Gauteng Department of Health has invested both in personnel and equipment are being put to good use.
The operation kicked off at the EMS Communication Centre in Midrand, where MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko joined the dedicated team of call centre operators to respond to incoming emergency calls to ensure prompt and efficient responses to save the lives of those in distress.
During the critical period between 6:00 AM on Sunday, 31 December 2023, and 6:00 AM on 1 January 2024, the Gauteng Emergency Communication Centre recorded a total of 1 914 calls. These calls included various incidents such as accidents, medical emergencies, suicide, trauma cases, and others,” said the Gauteng Department of Health in a statement on Tuesday.
The breakdown of calls is as follows:
- Accidents (motor vehicle, motor bike, pedestrians, etc.): 102 calls.
- Medical emergencies (maternity, asthma attack, epilepsy, heart attack, collapse, etc.): 898 calls.
- Suicide-related (poisoning, hanging, overdose, etc.): 42 calls.
- Trauma cases (assault, gunshot, burns, etc.): 468 calls.
“Comparing this data to the previous year, we have observed a minimal decline in call volumes. Around the same period in 2022/23, the Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 929 calls (105 accidents, 862 medical, 53 suicide/attempts and 482 trauma cases).
“The statistics of emergency cases attended to between 15 December to 1 January in 2022/23 and 2023/24 cycles show that most of the calls were medical related, followed by trauma cases, accidents and suicide related calls.”
There has been a decline in medical related cases from 18 121 to 16 876, while trauma related cases have increased from 5 795 to 6 000.
There is also a slightly positive decline in suicide-related cases from 771 to 702. There was a slight increase in accident-related cases from 1 676 to 1 682.
The Gauteng Emergency Medical Services remains committed to its mission of saving lives and providing quality emergency medical care to the people of Gauteng.
“I want to commend our dedicated healthcare workers across the Gauteng health system, who have been working tirelessly during this busy period. Their dedication and professionalism is commendable,” said the MEC.
Nkomo-Ralehoko further expressed appreciation to the residents of Gauteng and those visiting the province for their continued cooperation and patience. She pleaded with them to make use of primary health facilities and only call the Emergency Communication Centre for actual medical and trauma emergencies, as this will greatly improve responses to those in distress.
“The statistics could be improved upon drastically if people were to act more responsibly and with consideration of others,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 11:14
Embracing the Power of C-Bus, EcoXpert and Beyond In a world where energy conservation is becoming increasingly important, building management and automation systems have emerged as superheroes, ready to save the day (and the planet!). These systems, like the renowned C-Bus, offer a range of benefits that go beyond mere convenience. They have the power to …
Kodwa to visit Magubane family
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, is expected to visit the family of legendary photographer and anti-apartheid activist, Dr Peter Magubane, to pay his respects.
Wednesday’s visit follows the passing of Magubane on Monday.
The Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture said the Minister will be joined by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Morakane Mosupyoe.
The Minister, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Mosupyoe are among those who have expressed their condolences following the passing of the 91-year-old icon.
“I have learned with great sadness of the passing of… Peter Magubane. On behalf of government and the nation, I offer my deep condolences to the Magubane family, our veteran’s friends and his countless associates around the country and globally,” said President Ramaphosa.
The President said Magubane created “iconic visual records of our struggle for freedom and of the full range of life in our country".
Kodwa wrote on social media: “South Africa has lost a freedom fighter, a masterful storyteller and lensman. Recognised in the ‘Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series’, Dr Peter Magubane fearlessly documented apartheid’s injustices. My thoughts and prayers are with Dr Magubane’s family.”
Meanwhile, Lesufi mourned the passing of the acclaimed photographer and anti-apartheid activist, saying Magubane documented the raw images of the horrific Sharpeville massacre and other crimes committed by the apartheid regime, which helped to change public sentiment against the system throughout the world.
“Dr Magubane was a gift to South Africa. With his camera lens, he shaped and changed South Africa’s destiny. He was a national treasure who will be remembered for his contribution to the field of photography and respected for his courage in the face of oppression.
“He never wavered in his resolve to record the truth, even in the face of attempts by the apartheid regime to intimidate and silence him. He leaves behind a rich legacy of having changed South Africa for the better,” said the Premier in a statement on Tuesday.
The life and times of an icon
Magubane was born on 18 January 1932 Vrededorp (now Pageview, a suburb of Johannesburg), and grew up in Sophiatown. He began taking photographs as a schoolboy.
In 1954, he read a copy of Drum magazine, which detailed the effects of apartheid. He decided he wanted to be part of the magazine.
Magubane started employment at Drum as a driver. After six months of odd jobs, he was given a photography assignment under the mentorship of Jürgen Schadeberg, the chief photographer. He covered the 1955 African National Congress (ANC) convention.
Magubane photographed most of South Africa's historic moments, such as Sharpeville in 1960 and Nelson Mandela's Rivonia trial in 1964.
He was arrested in June 1969 while photographing protesters outside Pretoria Central Prison, where Winnie Madikizela Mandela was jailed. Magubane was later held in solitary confinement for 586 days.
Magubane has worked for Rand Daily Mail and has worked on assignments for Time magazine, the United Nations and Sports Illustrated photographing a series about the South African teenage runner, Zola Budd.
Following Mandela’s release from prison, Magubane became his official photographer in 1990, until he became the country’s President.
Magubane received several prestigious awards and honours throughout his illustrious career. Some of the notable recognitions he received include the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Press Photographers' Association (NPPA).
In 2017, Magubane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver.
Other notable achievements include:
1958 – First black South African to win a photographic prize in the country – first and third prizes were awarded to him for Best Press pictures of the year.
1985 – Robert Capa Gold Medal.
1986 – Dr. Erich Salomon Award.
1992 – Special Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.
1995 – Martin Luther King Luthuli Award.
1997 – Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mother Jones Foundation and Leica Cameras.
1997 – Fellowship by the Tom Hopkinson School of Journalism and Cultural Studies, University of Wales, Cardiff
1999 – Order for Meritorious Service Class II from President Mandela.
2003 – Honorary Doctorate degree from the University of South Africa.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Fort Hare.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Technology from the Tshwane University of Technology.
2006 – Doctor of Law (honoris causa) Rhodes University.
2008 – Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, UK.
2010 – Cornell Capa Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography.
2010 – Honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College (Chicago).
2015 – Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity.
He published a total of 17 books, two of which were banned by the apartheid regime. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 11:53
South Africa’s favourite school shoe brand since 1954, Toughees, is aiming to brighten the start of the academic year for kids and parents alike through its “Made Tough”. Up for grabs is a share of R200 000 towards school fees. Having been a key part of the lives of generations of families going on 70 …
1 000 arrested during Operation Shanela in Free State
Over 1 000 people were arrested in one week for various crimes in the Free State as part of Operation Shanela.
Operation Shanela consists of regular stop and searches, roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints; high visibility patrols, including foot patrols; the tracing of wanted suspects, with a focus on murder and rape suspects, and compliance inspections at liquor outlets and second-hand good dealers.
“The period starting 25 - 31 December 2023 saw police arrest 1 073 suspects for different crimes throughout the province. This includes detection and tracking operations.
“Operation Shanela is the SAPS [South African Police Service] crime-combating high density operations incepted in May 2023.
“During patrols [in the] last week of the festive season, seven unlicensed illegal liquor premises were closed. Ninety-seven illegal firework traders were closed and their stock was confiscated.
“Through stop and searches, 33 knives were confiscated, while 32 people were arrested for possession of dangerous weapons. Dangerous weapons such as knives and pangas were confiscated,” SAPS said on Tuesday.
Fifty-three motorists were arrested for driving while under the influence of liquor at roadblocks.
The fight against drugs also produced positive results, as 105 suspects were arrested for drug related crimes, which included the possession of drugs such as mandrax, cocaine, crystal meth and methcathinone (CAT).
Progress was also made in the fight against illegal mining.
“The Illicit Mining Task Team is hard on duty in the area of Lejweleputswa and 26 suspects were arrested for illicit mining after others were found in possession of gold dust and illegal mining equipment. With that operation, 46 suspects were also brought to book after they were found to be contravening the Immigration Act.
“A multidisciplinary roadblock also ensured that 32 people [were] issued or received fines, as per traffic related services offences. This also saw police confiscate three unlicensed firearms and ammunition, and three people were arrested as a result thereof. Robberies, murder and attempted murder saw 15 suspects being arrested,” SAPS said.
The public is urged to report any suspicious and criminal activities to Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS app. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 09:35
The Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Mr Gwede Mantashe, announces the adjustment of fuel prices based on current local and international factors with effect from the 3rd of January 2024.
South Africa's fuel prices are adjusted monthly, informed by international and local factors. International factors include the fact that South Africa imports both crude oil and finished products at a price set at the international level, including importation costs, e.g., shipping costs.
The main reasons for the fuel price adjustments are due to:
1. Crude oil prices
The average Brent Crude oil price decreased from 82.62 US Dollars (USD) to 77.35 USD during the period under review, mainly due to, increased production by the United States of America, Venezuela, Guyana, and other non-OPEC countries despite the announcement by OPEC to cut production.
2. International petroleum product prices
The average international product prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin decreased in line with the lower crude oil prices. LPG prices increased due to higher freight cost. These factors led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 50.83 c/l, 105.81 c/l and 99.00 c/l, respectively.
3. Rand/US Dollar exchange rate
The Rand depreciated slightly on average, against the US Dollar (from 18.57 to 18.66 Rand per USD) during the period under review when compared to the previous one. This led to higher contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 5.30 c/l, 5.83 c/l and 6.00 c/l, respectively.
4. Implementation of the Slate Levy
The cumulative slate balance on petrol and Diesel at the end of November 2023 had a positive balance of R1.8 billion. Therefore, a slate levy of zero c/l will be implemented in the price structure of petrol and diesel with effect from the 3rd of January 2024. This means that the motorists will benefit by 26.32 cents per litre since the slate levy will decrease from 26.32 to zero cents per litre.
5. Octane differential between 95 and 93 petrol grades
In line with the Working Rules to determine the Basic Fuels Prices (BFP), the 95 octane (unleaded) grade is the price-marker grade and the BFP-differential between 95 and 93 octanes is adjusted on the first Wednesday of each quarter. The BFP Octane differential has changed during the previous quarter and therefore the retail prices of 95 and 93 petrol octanes will be different in each fuel- pricing zone with effect from the 3rd of January 2024.
Based on current local and international factors, the fuel prices for January 2024 will be adjusted as follows:
The fuel prices schedule for the different zones will be published on Tuesday, the 2nd of January 2024.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Mineral Resources and Energy: Republic of South Africa.
Load shedding returns
Eskom has implemented Stage 2 load shedding with effect from 5am after several generating units did not come back online as anticipated.
“With the current intensified maintenance aimed at improving fleet performance, we had a setback of three generating units (2 148MW) not coming back online as anticipated. This, coupled with a loss of six generating units (3 113MW) and projected increase in electricity demand, requires Stage 2 load shedding to be implemented from 5am on Tuesday until 4pm, followed by Stage 3 load shedding until 5 am on Wednesday.
Load shedding returns follows a reprieve over the festive season.
In a statement, Eskom said the pattern of Stage 2 load shedding in the morning and Stage 3 load shedding in the evening will be repeated daily until further notice.
In addition, the power utility said it will closely monitor the power system and communicate any changes should it be required.
“Eskom teams are working tirelessly to ensure that 4 921MW of generating capacity is returned to service before the end of the week.” - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 09:59
Kusile Unit 5 synchronised to the grid
Eskom has synchronised Unit 5 of the Kusile Power Station project to the national grid.
“Eskom is delighted to announce that Unit 5 of the Kusile Power Station project was synchronised to the national grid for the first time on 31 December 2023 at 17h22. The unit will contribute an additional 800MW to the country’s power system, which was never part of the Eskom grid capacity,” said the power utility.
The unit will supply electricity intermittently during the testing and optimisation phase over the next six months before being transferred into commercial operation and the capacity officially added to the current Eskom fleet.
“As part of the Generation Recovery Plan, the synchronisation of Kusile Unit 5 marks another significant milestone of sustainably improving our generation performance. This will contribute the much-needed power to the grid,” said Bheki Nxumalo, Eskom’s Group Executive for Generation.
“We are encouraged that this achievement of our recovery plan immediately follows the return of the three units that were brought online from end September 2023, bringing a total of 3 200MW onto the grid, which will further improve the energy availability factor (EAF) and help strengthen South Africa’s electricity capacity.
“I am grateful for the commitment displayed by the Kusile project team. Their relentless efforts in ensuring that the project is completed is highly commendable. I have confidence that they will continue to work with determination to successfully deliver Unit 5 to commercial operation,” explained Nxumalo.
Eskom’s Acting Group Chief Executive, Calib Cassim, said Unit 5 brings hope to the people of South Africa as it helps power the nation and its economy.
“There is enormous effort made to continue the remarkable progress on the new build programme and the Generation Recovery Plan.
“We remain focused on improving the performance of the generation fleet to reduce the impact of load shedding felt countrywide, and to lessen the costs on supplementing capacity using the diesel-powered plant,” said Cassim.
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has welcomed the developments at Kusile.
The Minister has emphasised that “more work and efforts will continue towards adding more generation capacity to the grid to reduce and ultimately end load shedding”.
The Minister congratulated Eskom’s generation team for the continued work towards stabilising the country’s generation capacity.
Progress made in construction
Progress is being made on the remaining construction and commissioning activities at Unit 6 and at completion, the station will consist of six units, which will produce a maximum 4 800MW.
This will make Kusile South Africa’s largest construction project and will be the world’s fourth largest coal plant.
“In addition, the power station is fitted with wet flue gas desulphurisation (WFGD) emissions abatement technology, in line with current international practice to ensure compliance with air quality standards. This makes Kusile the first power station in South Africa and Africa to use WFGD technology, which is used to remove sulphur dioxide from the flue gas prior discharge to the atmosphere,” Eskom said.
Also on a positive note, repair works to the permanent stack for units 1, 2 and 3 are progressing well.
Intensified efforts are also being made to return Medupi Unit 4 to service by end July 2024.
This, together with the successful completion of Kusile Unit 5 and the return of the three Kusile units will further improve the energy availability and give impetus to Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 11:04
Relief at the pumps
With just two days into the new year, motorists will breathe a sigh of relief at the pumps on Wednesday as the price of petrol is set to come down by between 62 and 76 cents a litre.
According to the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe, 93 (ULP & LRP) will decrease by 62 cents a litre, while the price of 95 (ULP & LRP) will decrease by 76 cents a litre.
This means that a litre of 95, which currently costs R23.25 in Gauteng, will come down to R22.49.
The price of Diesel (0.05% sulphur) will come down by 118.32 cents a litre.
The price of Diesel (0.005% sulphur) will come down by 126.32 cents a litre and the price of Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale) will decrease by 93 cents per litre and the Single Maximum National Retail Price (SMNRP) for illuminating paraffin will come down by R1.24 per litre.
The fuel price adjustments were due to crude oil prices, international petroleum product prices; the Rand/US Dollar exchange rate; the implementation of the Slate Levy, and the octane differential between 95 and 93 petrol grades.
The average brent crude oil price decreased from 82.62 US Dollars (USD) to 77.35 USD during the period under review, mainly due to, increased production by the United States of America, Venezuela, Guyana, and other non-OPEC countries despite the announcement by OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) to cut production.
“The average international product prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin decreased in line with the lower crude oil prices. LPG prices increased due to higher freight cost. These factors led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 50.83 cents a litre, 105.81 cents a litre and 99 cents a litre, respectively,”
In addition, the Rand depreciated slightly on average, against the US Dollar (from 18.57 to 18.66 Rand per USD) during the period under review when compared to the previous one.
This led to higher contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of petrol, diesel and illuminating paraffin by 5.30 c/l, 5.83 c/l and 6.00 c/l, respectively.
On the implementation of the slate levy, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy said the cumulative slate balance on petrol and diesel at the end of November 2023 had a positive balance of R1.8 billion.
“Therefore, a slate levy of zero cents a litre will be implemented in the price structure of petrol and diesel with effect from the 3rd of January 2024. This means that the motorists will benefit by 26.32 cents per litre since the slate levy will decrease from 26.32 to zero cents per litre.”
In line with the Working Rules to determine the Basic Fuels Prices (BFP), the 95 octane (unleaded) grade is the price-marker grade and the BFP-differential between 95 and 93 octanes is adjusted on the first Wednesday of each quarter.
The BFP octane differential has changed during the previous quarter and therefore the retail prices of 95 and 93 petrol octanes will be different in each fuel-pricing zone with effect from the 3rd of January 2024. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 12:12
President congratulates DRC President-Elect
President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated the President-elect of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) , on his re-election as President of the central African country.
On 20 December 2023, millions of voters in the DRC participated in the synchronised general elections to choose national, provincial and local public representatives.
The outcome of these elections was announced by the Independent Electoral Commission (CENI) on 31 December.
Accordingly, President Ramaphosa strongly commended the people of the DRC for exhibiting maturity, a sense of calm and unity during the period of elections.
“The people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo have taken a solid step towards consolidating democracy in their country, and have expressed their desire for a peaceful, secure and prosperous future,” said the President in a statement.
The President has called for calm should any of the participants dispute the elections results and urges all parties to follow legal channels as set out in the constitution of the DRC.
South Africa is committed to enhancing bilateral relations with the DRC, and peace and security in the region. President Ramaphosa concluded a successful visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo in July 2023, where, together with President Félix Tshisekedi, co-chaired the Heads of State and Government segment of the 12th session of the DRC–South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC). The BNC is aimed at enhancing and nurturing the existing bilateral trade and political relations. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 12:50
Special Provincial Official Funeral for Dr Ngema
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has expressed her gratitude to President Cyril Ramaphosa for granting the legendary and internationally acclaimed playwright, composer, director and theatre producer, Dr Mbongeni Ngema, a Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2.
In a statement on Monday, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government said the Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2, which includes elements of police ceremonial honours, is reserved for distinguished persons specifically designated by the President of South Africa on request by the Premier of a province.
Dube-Ncube said Ngema distinguished himself as a true South African legend, who used creative art and theatre to contribute to the fight for freedom the country is enjoying today.
“We made the request to the President to declare Dr Ngema’s send-off a Special Provincial Official Funeral primarily to recognise his contribution to our long and painful journey to freedom.”
The Premier said while Ngema has passed away, this noble gesture by the President will give the family and many South Africans some comfort that he received a send-off befitting his stature.
“We welcome the respect bestowed upon Dr Ngema by the President. This is indeed a befitting honour to Madlokovu, who worked tirelessly for many decades to put South Africa on the global pedestal through art.
“Armed only with his creativity and theatre, he confronted the brutal apartheid regime, in the process conscientising the world about the ruthless and dehumanising nature of apartheid. Madlokovu used his vast networks abroad to focus the attention of the world to the suffering of our people in this country under apartheid. He pencilled an indelible mark on our journey towards freedom,” said the Premier.
Ngema was killed in a car crash on Wednesday, 27 December on his way to KwaZulu-Natal after attending a funeral in the Eastern Cape.
“Madlokovu was a passionate and true ambassador of the theatre and music art form. He worked hard to unearth, develop and nurture talent from our townships and rural areas. Many practitioners today owe their success to Madlokovu.
“As we mourn his passing and send our condolences to his family, we expressed our gratitude that he lived during our lifetime,” said Dube-Ncube.
The provincial government, together with the family, will in due course communicate further details with regards to the funeral service.
In his tribute to Ngema last month, President Ramaphosa said his “masterfully creative narration of our liberation struggle honoured the humanity of oppressed South Africans and exposed the inhumanity of an oppressive regime”.
“The many productions he created or to which he contributed inspired resilience and pride among us as fellow South Africans, and took South Africa and our continent into the theatres, homes and consciousness of millions of people around the world. May his soul rest in peace,” said President Ramaphosa at the time. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 13:25
SA approaches ICJ
South Africa has approached the International Court of Justice, under the Genocide Convention, with respect to acts committed by Israel in the context of its attacks on Gaza.
In a statement, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said South Africa was “gravely concerned with the plight of civilians caught in the present Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip due to the indiscriminate use of force and forcible removal of inhabitants”.
It said that as a State Party to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, South Africa is under a treaty obligation to prevent genocide from occurring.
“Therefore, at a special meeting held on 8 December 2023, Cabinet directed that the International Court of Justice in The Hague be approached to obtain an order directing Israel, which is also a State Party, to refrain from any acts that may constitute genocide or related crimes under the Convention.
“An application in this regard was filed before the Court on 29 December 2023 in which the Court is requested to declare on an urgent basis that Israel is in breach of its obligations in terms of the Genocide Convention, should immediately cease all acts and measures in breach of those obligations and take a number of related actions,” said DIRCO.
It added that there are ongoing reports of international crimes, such as crimes against humanity and war crimes being committed, as well as reports that acts meeting the threshold of genocide or related crimes, as defined in the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide, have been and may still be committed in the context of the ongoing massacres in Gaza.
“South Africa has repeatedly stated that it condemns all violence and attacks against all civilians, including Israelis. Moreover, South Africa has continuously called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the resumption of talks that will end the violence arising from the continued belligerent occupation of Palestine.” - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 14:27
Tributes pour in for legendary photographer, Peter Magubane
President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to veteran photographer and activist Peter Magubane, who passed away at the age of 91 on Monday.
“I have learned with great sadness of the passing of… Peter Magubane. On behalf of government and the nation, I offer my deep condolences to the Magubane family, our veteran’s friends and his countless associates around the country and globally.
“For most of his life, Peter Magubane created iconic visual records of our struggle for freedom and of the full range of life in our country.
“He documented our nation and the early years of freedom of President Nelson Mandela with a prosaic passion that was powered as much by what he felt from the heart as what he saw through his lens.
“He has sadly left us at the start of the year in which we are marking 30 years of freedom. As we revisit our journey to freedom and the progression of our democratic dispensation, Peter Magubane’s imagery will be an important part of our reflections.
“May his soul rest in peace,” said President Ramaphosa.
The life and times of an icon
Magubane was born on 18 January 1932 Vrededorp (now Pageview, a suburb of Johannesburg), and grew up in Sophiatown. He began taking photographs as a schoolboy.
In 1954, he read a copy of Drum magazine, which detailed the effects of apartheid. He decided he wanted to be part of the magazine.
Magubane started employment at Drum as a driver. After six months of odd jobs, he was given a photography assignment under the mentorship of Jürgen Schadeberg, the chief photographer. He covered the 1955 African National Congress (ANC) convention.
Magubane photographed most of South Africa's historic moments, such as Sharpeville in 1960 and Nelson Mandela's Rivonia trial in 1964.
He was arrested in June 1969 while photographing protesters outside Pretoria Central Prison, where Winnie Madikizela Mandela was jailed. Magubane was later held in solitary confinement for 586 days.
Magubane has worked for Rand Daily Mail and has worked on assignments for Time magazine, the United Nations and Sports Illustrated photographing a series about the South African teenage runner, Zola Budd.
Following Mandela’s release from prison, Magubane became his official photographer in 1990, until he became the country’s President.
Magubane received several prestigious awards and honours throughout his illustrious career. Some of the notable recognitions he received include the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Press Photographers' Association (NPPA).
In 2017, Magubane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver.
Other notable achievements include:
1958 – First black South African to win a photographic prize in the country – first and third prizes were awarded to him for Best Press pictures of the year.
1985 – Robert Capa Gold Medal.
1986 – Dr. Erich Salomon Award.
1992 – Special Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.
1995 – Martin Luther King Luthuli Award.
1997 – Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mother Jones Foundation and Leica Cameras.
1997 – Fellowship by the Tom Hopkinson School of Journalism and Cultural Studies, University of Wales, Cardiff
1999 – Order for Meritorious Service Class II from President Mandela.
2003 – Honorary Doctorate degree from the University of South Africa.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Fort Hare.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Technology from the Tshwane University of Technology.
2006 – Doctor of Law (honoris causa) Rhodes University.
2008 – Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, UK.
2010 – Cornell Capa Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography.
2010 – Honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College (Chicago).
2015 – Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity.
He published a total of 17 books, two of which were banned by the apartheid regime.
Tributes
Morakane Mosupyoe, the Gauteng MEC of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation described the passing of Magubane as a heart wrenching loss.
“Magubane's photography became a vital tool in documenting the realities of apartheid and the struggles of black South Africans.
“Peter Magubane was a luminary, a visionary photographer whose lens captured the essence of an era, revealing truths, and telling stories that went beyond mere images. His commitment to documenting the struggles, triumphs and everyday lives of people during apartheid was unparalleled.
“Through his lens, he not only captured moments but also echoed the aspirations and resilience of a nation. The legacy that Peter Magubane leaves behind is not solely within the frames of his photographs but in the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his work.
“His courage, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to his craft serve as an inspiration to generations of storytellers and activists. During this time of mourning, may the memories you shared with Peter bring you comfort and solace.
“His impact on the world will forever be remembered and cherished. Please accept my deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you, the Magubane family, and all those affected by this profound loss,” said Mosupyoe.
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, wrote on social media: “South Africa has lost a freedom fighter, a masterful storyteller and lensman. Recognised in the ‘Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series’, Dr Peter Magubane fearlessly documented apartheid’s injustices. My thoughts and prayers are with Dr Magubane’s family.” – SAnews.gov.za
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NSFAS committed to settling outstanding disbursements
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says it is determined to conclude all outstanding 2023 disbursements by 15 January 2024, in consultation with the affected institutions.
The NSFAS Board held an extraordinary meeting on Sunday, 31 December 2023 to consider reports from NSFAS management on various issues including the final disbursement of the 2023 allowances, the NSFAS budget adjustment and the NSFAS accommodation pilot project.
NSFAS said the commitment made on the outstanding disbursement is to ensure that the 2023 bursary allowances do not affect the returning students for the 2024 academic year.
“Early in January 2024, the NSFAS Board will have further stakeholder engagements with the Universities South Africa (Usaf), the South African Public Colleges Organisation (SAPCO), the South African Union of Students (SAUS) and the South African Technical Vocational Education and Training Student Association (SATVETSA) and labour unions to brief them on the preparations for the 2024 academic year and the NSFAS eligibility criteria and conditions for financial aid,” NSFAS said in a statement.
NSFAS has disbursed about 234 124 students allowances from 5 December 2023, as part of the reconciled final disbursements for the 2023 academic year. This exercise was done in order to disburse the final allowances to students whose allowances where not concluded due to changes in their registration data.
NSFAS said this process ensures that disbursements are paid directly to institutions for tuition and for advancing payments to students.
“The [NSFAS] reconciliation data… is divided into three categories: (1) direct payment – direct allowance to students, (2) allowances on tuition disbursement to institutions, (3) student allowances via institutions.
“NSFAS confirms that there are 20 000 allowances which are yet to be concluded. These unresolved cases of disbursements require further input and consultation with institutions,” read the statement.
At its meeting, the board also discussed the NSFAS 2024 programme of action and the formation of a Rapid Response Team in preparation for the 2024 academic year.
2024 applications
Applications for financial aid for all learners who wish to enter the post-school system and students who do not have financial assistance to continue their studies in the 2024 academic year officially opened on 21 November 2023.
In a statement issued by NSFAS in November, NSFAS said applications for 2024 funding will close on 31 January 2024.
Werksmans Attorneys report
The NSFAS Board said it will further make public announcements on the implementation of the Werksmans Attorneys report in relation to direct payment service providers.
In October 2023, the NSFAS Board adopted the recommendations of the report into allegations surrounding the appointment of direct payment service providers.
The board had appointed Werksmans Attorneys and Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi to conduct an investigation into allegations of irregularities relating to Bid NO. SCMN022/2021.
The investigation followed allegations against former NSFAS CEO Andile Nongogo relating to his conflict of interest in the appointment of service providers.
Despite the challenges, the board reaffirmed its commitment to implement the direct payment solution.
"The board views the direct payment solution as a necessary measure to reduce instances of unauthorised access to beneficiaries’ allowances, payment of ghost students, inconsistencies and delayed payments of allowances.
“The direct payment solution is inline with the Student-Centered Model that NSFAS adopted,” said board chairperson Ernest Khosa at a briefing in October. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 12:11
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