Brits, Wolvaardt Record Partnership Inspires Proteas Women To Odi Series Win
BENONI: Records tumbled as Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits notched up match-winning centuries to help guide the Proteas Women to an...
BENONI: Records tumbled as Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits notched up match-winning centuries to help guide the Proteas Women to an...
Motorists urged to be cautious when driving in wet weather
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has advised motorists to exercise extreme caution when driving in rainy conditions.
This as the South African Weather Services has forecast rain in many parts of the country.
Some travellers are expected to start making it back from their holidays and the roads are expected to see a slight increase in traffic volumes from today.
“The RTMC urges motorists to reduce speed, keep a safe following distance, have lights on and avoid crossing flooded bridges. Motorists must also ensure that vehicles are in a roadworthy state.
"Lights, wipers, windscreens, brakes, and tyres must be checked before the start of the journey.”
The RTMC said officers will “not hesitate to discontinue or impound vehicles that are not roadworthy”.
More than 1738 vehicles have been discontinued and 3340 impounded since the start of the festive season in December.
More than 4160 motorists have been arrested. The majority were held for drunken driving while others were detained for producing false documents and driving public transport contrary to operating permits.
Vehicles are generally discontinued or suspended for being unroadworthy and they may not be operated on public roads until all identified defects have been fixed. The act of discontinuing a motor vehicle involves the removal and destruction of its licence disc or roadworthy certificate disc and issuing a notice directing that the motor vehicle shall not be operated on a public road. The notice stipulates conditions in which such a vehicle may be operated on a public road.
“Public transport operators are again reminded that their drivers should have proper documents to drive, and the vehicles are used on permitted routes and are not overloaded.
“Severe consequences will be faced by those found operating contrary to the rules,” said the RTMC. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:01
King’s Children’s Home just outside East London is a safe house that provides a temporary home and place of safety for abused and abandoned babies and young children. Founded in 2008 by Tracy and Jonathan King, who run the local Crossways church in the area, King’s Children’s Home has positively impacted the lives of many …
Durban, a vibrant coastal city in South Africa, offers residents a range of options when it comes to private prepaid meter suppliers for electricity, gas, and water. These suppliers provide convenient solutions for managing utility consumption, promoting fairness in billing, and empowering residents to take control of their usage. In this article, we will explore …
Five nabbed for illegal mining in Limpopo
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has urged members of the public to report illegal mining activities after five undocumented foreign nationals were arrested in Limpopo.
The police arrested the five suspects, aged between 19 and 34 years, on 24 December at Selwane Village (under the Lulekani policing area) for illegal mining.
Members of the Mopani Illegal Mining Task Team arrived at the old mining shaft in Selwane and found a group of people in the act of illegal mining.
“As the police were approaching the suspects, one of them opened fire on the police as he returned underground. Police managed to arrest the four suspects and started searching for the one who went underground. He was eventually arrested but the firearm could not be found,” said SAPS in a statement.
The suspects were found in possession of picks, spades, an iron digging bar, shovels and torches. One bag containing suspected precious minerals was also confiscated.
In addition, members of the Mopani Illegal Mining Task Team have recovered and seized various abandoned mining equipment, groceries, and cooking utensils in the area, which indicated there are other illegal miners in the area.
The Limpopo Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the arrest and hailed the team's endless efforts.
On Sunday, police said the arrested suspects are expected to appear before the Lulekani Magistrate's Court in due course, facing charges of illegal mining, attempted murder and contravention of the Immigration Act.
Members of the community can report illegal mining activities to Crime Stop on 08600 10111, their nearest police station or use the My SAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:14
Johannesburg, the vibrant economic hub of South Africa, is home to a variety of private prepaid meter suppliers. These suppliers offer convenient solutions for managing electricity, gas, and water consumption. By opting for private prepaid meters, residents can take control of their utility usage, promote fairness in billing, and enjoy the convenience of managing their …
Bloemfontein, the judicial capital of South Africa, is a bustling city that requires efficient utility services. To meet the needs of residents, several private prepaid meter suppliers have emerged in Bloemfontein. These suppliers offer private prepaid electricity, gas, and water meters, providing a convenient and hassle-free way to manage and control utility consumption. In this …
Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, is a vibrant city in South Africa. As the demand for efficient and convenient utility services grows, private prepaid meter suppliers have emerged to meet the needs of residents. These suppliers offer private prepaid electricity, gas, and water meters, providing a hassle-free way to manage and control utility consumption. …
Tourism monitors deployed to Table Mountain
The deployment of 40 tourism monitors at the Table Mountain National Park has been welcomed by the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.
The Tourism Monitors Programme is an initiative by the Department of Tourism to supplement safety and security measures by the South African Police Service to enhance the safety of tourists.
“The department has set aside R174.5 million from this year’s budget to deploy around 2 300 tourism monitors at key tourist attractions,” said the department.
The 2 305 tourism monitors will be deployed as follows:
Eastern Cape - 150
Free State - 150
Western Cape - 250
Gauteng - 100
Limpopo - 100
KwaZulu-Natal - 200
Mpumalanga - 220
North West - 100
Northern Cape - 70
iSimangaliso Wetland Park - 200
Ezemvelo nature Reserve - 150
SANBI Gardens - 130
ACSA Airports - 135
SANParks - 350
Out of the 350 monitors deployed to SANParks, 70 were allocated to Table Mountain National Park, of which 40 were deployed last week. The balance will be deployed in the New Year.
“Our national parks are key tourism attractions and remain top of our list for key source markets. The safety of all tourists remains paramount and we are determined to do all we can to ensure that all tourists have a safe and memorable experience.” – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:24
Here are some private prepaid electricity, gas, and water meter suppliers in Cape Town: Prepaid Electricity Meter Suppliers in Cape Town: Straton Electrical: A reputable online supplier of private prepaid electricity and water meters in South Africa and Cape Town. They specialize in the installation of pre-paid meters in properties across Nelson Mandela Bay AND …
Condolences for Ladysmith flood victims
Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Nomusa Dube-Ncube has sent condolences to the families of those affected by the floods in Ladysmith.
Heavy rains on Christmas Eve resulted in the Bellspruit River - which runs under the Mbonothu Bridge – bursting its banks, causing water to overflow onto the N11 road near the Limit Hill robots, in Ladysmith Town.
The provincial government said six people were killed and 10 others are missing.
Search and rescue teams are on the ground searching the area.
“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of victims who lost their lives,'' said the Premier. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:50
Nguni cattle handover boosts commercialisation efforts
Farmers in the Eastern Cape have welcomed the handover of 17 Nguni cattle bulls as part of the Livestock Production Improvement Scheme (LPIS).
The handover was recently officiated by the Eastern Cape MEC of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Nonkqubela Pieters.
The provincial Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) is driving the commercialisation of livestock development in communal and smallholder farming communities in order to increase red meat production in the Eastern Cape.
Through partnerships with the private and public sector, the department continues to support farmers to participate in the agricultural value chain, contribute to the economy and create jobs.
The livestock was handed over to farmers in the Sarah Baartman, Amathole and OR Tambo Districts. The initiative was made possible by the department in partnership with the East Cape Nguni Club and the Dohne Agricultural Development Institute.
“…These cattle [are beautiful] and they are given to [the farmers] so that they can make money. I’m giving [them] a responsibility to guard their money.
“Our aim is to develop farmers to become commercial, hence this programme and we encourage farmers to guard and use these animals wisely for the benefit of their businesses,” Pieters said.
Farmers expressed their gratitude, saying the bulls will improve the quality of their livestock and fetch good prices at the market.
Ntombomzi Qeqe-Lwana, of Die Vlagte farm in Somerset East, hailed the department’s endeavours to ensure communal farmers are given resources and investments that will help them produce quality meat and get profits.
“I thank the department very much for these Nguni bulls because it will assist me to change my flock and my customers will get satisfaction. This handover came at a good time. When we start the new year, we will know we have quality breeds to develop our cattle.
“It’s a good programme as it assists us to venture into markets and get profits so that we can fend for our families and create employment,” Qeqe-Lwana said.
Sicelo Rozani from Libode said he was farming with both cattle and sheep. He applied for assistance from the department and was elated to get two bulls.
“We are very grateful to the department for this gift. It will assist us in growing our enterprises in the rural space,” Rozani said.
In the 2023/24 financial year, the department set aside a budget of R12.8 million to support communal and smallholder farmers with 250 cattle, 500 sheep and 200 goats to enhance red meat and animal fibre development in the province. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 11:09
Black women continue to break barriers across diverse industries, paving the way for future leaders with their resilience, intelligence and determination. The upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS), scheduled for February 27, 2024 in Dubai, is set to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Black women, while connecting movers and shakers from across the global Black community.
Black women play a crucial role in transforming industries, leaving an undeniable impact from entertainment to business, science to politics. In Africa, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – Liberia's first democratically-elected female president – has garnered international acclaim for empowering women, winning the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize and today advocating for female political participation. Meanwhile, Mozambican social scientist Alice Banze boasts a 25-year career in civil society and government and is the Executive Director of the Gender and Sustainable Development Association. Elected to the National Elections Commission in 2020 with support from the Women's Forum, she exemplifies transformative female leadership in Mozambique.
Many women are rising through the ranks across industries by forging their own paths. One example is Linda Mabhena-Olagunju, the founder and CEO of DLO Energy Resources Group, who leads a Black women-owned renewable energy company that focuses on wind power projects in South Africa. Other figures like Oprah Winfrey, who has built a media empire, and Ursula Burns, the first Black woman to head a Fortune 500 company, show the strength and determination of Black female leaders.
Yet despite their notable accomplishments, Black women in leadership often encounter systemic challenges to representation. In the US, Forbes reports that only 4.4% of Black women hold managerial roles, and merely 1.4% occupy executive-level positions, despite comprising 7.4% of the American population. In contrast, in Africa, women are making significant strides in governance roles. According to data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union, four African nations—Rwanda, Namibia, South Africa and Senegal—are among the top 15 countries globally for the highest representation of women in parliament. Rwanda leads with an impressive 61.3% of female parliamentarians, yet the sub-Saharan African average stands at 23.6%.
The intersectionality of race and gender amplifies challenges in the workplace for Black women, necessitating targeted efforts to address and mitigate specific barriers to leadership. Initiatives centered on diversity, equity and inclusion are crucial for dismantling these barriers and creating a more equitable playing field. To achieve this, companies and organizations must implement policies that recognize the unique value and perspectives of Black women in their respective industries, fostering a more inclusive environment that provides equal opportunities for success.
Celebrating Black women in leadership requires creating a supportive environment for future leaders through mentorship programs, educational initiatives and networking opportunities. Investing in the next generation of Black female leaders contributes to a more diverse and dynamic future, which the upcoming GBIS 2024 will facilitate by providing a platform for engagement, inspiration and unity.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About Global Black Impact Summit 2024:
The Global Black Impact Summit is an annual event that seeks to celebrate the achievements of the Black community, promote excellence and explore untapped potential across various fields. This year's summit is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that encourage attendees to reach new heights.
To secure your spot at this prestigious gathering, register promptly at www.GlobalBlackImpact.com.
In South Africa’s rapidly evolving e-commerce sector, the crucial role of last-mile delivery is increasingly prominent. As online shopping becomes more prevalent, efficient and reliable delivery services have become pivotal. The strategic alliance between Cotton On, a prominent fashion retailer, and DPD ZA, a leading logistics provider, particularly in handling over one million parcels and mastering the demands of Black …
International tourist arrivals continue to increase in SA
International tourist arrivals from January to November 2023 totalled 7.6 million, representing a remarkable 51.8% increase when compared with the same period in 2022.
This is according to the latest Statistics South Africa figures on international arrivals, which the Department of Tourism said shows the South African tourism sector’s rising momentum.
While recovery towards pre-COVID-19 numbers is encouraging, the department said this performance is 17.6% lower compared to the same period in 2019.
However, the department believes that South Africa remains an attractive destination for both domestic and international travellers.
“The numbers show that the tourism sector is successfully driving travel to South Africa while shaping cultural exchanges and contributing to inclusive economic growth,” the department said.
Africa
During the first 11 months of 2023, South Africa welcomed 5.8 million visitors from the rest of Africa, marking a significant 75.5% of all arrivals, compared to the same period in 2022.
Zimbabwe and Kenya stood out for their remarkable growth.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe saw an exceptional 77.5% increase in tourist arrivals, totalling 1.9 million, while Kenya recorded a 94.2% surge, reaching 37 414 arrivals for January to November this year compared to the same period last year.
Minister of Tourism, Patricia De Lille, noted Kenya’s remarkable performance, which could be attributed to the strategic decision by government to simplify the visa regime earlier this year as well, as targeted and effective insights-driven marketing campaigns.
“Overall, through focused marketing, various collaborations and leveraging various strategic opportunities by the Department of Tourism, South African Tourism and the broader tourism sector, we have been able to achieve these very impressive results on the continent,” she said.
Americas
Tourist arrivals from the Americas this year registered at 411 254, reflecting a 44.1% growth compared to the same period in 2022.
The United States contributed the most, with 320 948 arrivals, marking a 39.5% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
“The US remains a top international source market for South Africa and has been recording robust steady growth in arrivals in 2023.”
Based on December projections, De Lille said they anticipate recording pre-pandemic arrivals, well ahead of the forecasted recovery mooted for the 2024/2025 financial year.
Europe
With 1.1 million tourist arrivals, Europe contributed to 14.6% of the total arrivals, during the first 11 months of 2023.
The data mark a 43.2% increase when compared to the same period last year.
The United Kingdom remains the top European source market, with 315 054 tourists choosing South Africa marking a 30.4% growth.
Germany experienced a 47.9% increase in arrivals, amounting to 219 971 tourists, followed by the Netherlands, which saw an increase of 48.4% amounting to 117 948 tourist arrivals from this country.
Meanwhile, the Minister said Russia exhibited a “dramatic” growth of 83.9%, contributing 25 116 arrivals.
Asia
In the same period, the Asian markets also showed significant growth, with a total 182 497 arrivals from the region, representing an astounding 72.6% when compared to the same period last year.
In this region, India led the way with 73 037 tourists, a 46.3% growth, closely followed by China, which saw a massive 215.7% surge, amounting to 34 669 arrivals.
“The reopening of the Chinese market and the initiation of direct flight routes have catalysed a resurgence in arrivals, highlighting the vast potential and significance of this market to South African tourism,” the Minister said.
Middle East
The Middle East saw a robust increase, with 51 779 arrivals in the same period - a 37.5% growth when compared to the same period in 2022.
South Africa received 15 507 arrivals from Saudi Arabia, marking an increase of 40.9%.
In addition, the United Arab Emirates showed a remarkable 114.2% growth, accounting for 6 360 arrivals.
“I am committed to working with all partners and government colleagues to unlock barriers such as visa regulations, safety concerns and limited air access and airlift so that we can grow our sector and meaningfully contribute to our country’s economy,” De Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:58
The rise of ransomware attacks has become an alarming trend, causing business leaders to grapple with a difficult question: should they negotiate with ransomware attackers and pay the demanded ransom? This dilemma poses many challenges, and businesses must weigh the potential consequences of their decisions. “Many think that paying the ransom may be the quickest …
Data from the 14,000 communities managed by property management software company WEconnectU, shows that 20-30% of property owners in sectional title schemes and homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are currently behind on their levies – and the resulting cashflow shortage is making it difficult for the HOAs and the sectional title body corporates (BCs) to effectively maintain …
Johannesburg Water says “internal challenges” led to a shortage of trucks
Cricketing punditry royalty set to grace the League as Julia Stuart and Mellissa Reddy return home for a blockbuster season...
Communities urged to engage Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan
The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (CPBMJTT) has encouraged communities to read the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan, as well as the baboon-proof fencing summary report.
This follows the adoption and release to the public of the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan (CPBSMP), which provides a framework for the sustainable management of the Cape Peninsula’s Chacma baboons.
Communities are also encouraged to propose strategies, actions and interventions for discussion.
In a statement on Thursday, the CPBMJTT said the plan will be supported and elaborated upon with area-based solutions developed jointly with affected communities.
The CPBMJTT consists of representatives from the South African National Parks (SANParks), CapeNature and the City of Cape Town.
In the new year, the CPBMJTT will commence with engagements with affected communities to collaborate on area-specific solutions and strategies applicable to an affected community.
“The Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan must be operationalised with specific local strategies that address the different needs, circumstances, resources and geographical concerns of impacted communities. This is to ensure these are best suited and most appropriate to respective areas and supported by residents,” the CPBMJTT said.
Work on the draft plan commenced in June 2022 after roundtable discussions on baboon management within the Cape Peninsula took place at Kirstenbosch.
A draft plan was presented to the public for comment in January 2023 and was followed by a stakeholder engagement meeting that was hosted in Tokai in March 2023.
“The CPBMJTT received and considered more than 800 individual comments emanating from the public participation period. In July 2023, the three spheres of government signed a Memorandum of Agreement that sets the foundation for cooperation between the three parties,” CPBMJTT said.
The Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan is available through the following links:
SANParks – https://bit.ly/3sb9mQJ
CapeNature – https://bit.ly/47c1mOd
City of Cape Town – https://bit.ly/3Qj2j1L and https://bit.ly/3tw3j9I
More information about this process will be made available early in 2024. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 07:58
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today confirmed a 50-over tri-series between South Africa Under-19 (SA U19), Afghanistan U19 and India...
POTCHEFSTROOM: Anneke Bosch produced a career-high score of 65* off 63 balls (7 fours) to help the Proteas Women seal a...
Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated
A total of 985 applications for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) have been initiated by prospective applicants with 131 completed applications submitted that meet all application requirements.
This follows the opening of the TEF application process for businesses on 6 November 2023.
The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, announced the opening of the application process for TEF on 2 November 2023, after Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF implementation in September 2023.
The R1.2 billion fund aims to increase growth, transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Sector Codes.
The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.
According to a Sefa report, the 131 submitted applications represent a combined investment value of just over R2 billion.
Sefa reported that some of the 131 applications formally submitted have already been pre-screened, while pre-screening for the remaining applications will be completed by the end of the year.
Although no specific information is available yet on the type of enterprises, or the nature of projects for which TEF support have been applied for, Sefa’s preliminary report that 45 of the registered applications originated from Gauteng, 21 from KwaZulu-Natal, while between 10 and 14 applications were submitted between Limpopo, North West, Western Cape and Eastern Cape and with only one from the Free State.
Subsequent to basic or pre-screening, Sefa explained that the applications are subjected to a due diligence process, which includes a more detailed assessment of financial viability, Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) compliance and reporting, credit and legal checks before preparation for presentation to the relevant investment committee for final adjudication.
“Depending on the readiness of projects, the applications may potentially be presented at upcoming committee meetings that Sefa has provisionally scheduled in Quarter 4 between January and March 2024,” the agency explained.
Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, said the department is encouraged by the level of interest and applications to the Tourism Equity Fund, which is aimed at driving empowerment and transformation to support the growth of new and emerging enterprises in the tourism sector.
“This is in line with our aims as government to support investment by the private sector to grow an inclusive tourism sector that can continue to contribute to the country’s economy and job creation. We will continue to keep businesses and the public updated on this important project in the coming weeks and months,” de Lille said.
The TEF will be implemented by:
• Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
• Department of Tourism and Sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
• Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses.
The Minister said Sefa will implement, execute, and manage the fund through a fund management agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis.
“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses.
“The fund will focus on tourism enterprises in the accommodation, hospitality and related sectors-, and travel and related services-subsectors. The TEF will consider applications for start-ups, acquisitions, expansion and development projects in line with the Tourism B-BBEE sector codes,” de Lille said.
With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.
For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:12
eThekwini refuse collection to continue through festive season
The eThekwini Municipality says refuse removal in the city will continue as normal during the festive season.
The municipality's Cleansing and Solid Waste (CSW) Unit said residents whose waste collection day falls on a public holiday will still have their refuse collected.
“The Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit’s offices will be closed on 15, 25, and 26 December and on 1 January 2024. Residents are urged to note that orange recycling bags will not be collected on public holidays.
“The last day of the orange bag collection is 22 December, and the collection of recyclables will resume on 2 January 2024. Residents can keep their recycables on their properties until then. Alternatively, they can take them to their nearest drop-off or buy-back centre,” the municipality said in a statement.
While it is the season of giving, the municipality warned that CSW staff are strictly prohibited from touting for gifts, including money, from residents.
The city urged residents, who are approached by CSW staff for gifts during this period, to take the registration number of the vehicle and report the matter for further investigation and consequence management.
“We would also like to advise residents to be wary of impostors posing as CSW workers to solicit gifts. The city would also like to encourage residents and visitors to ensure a litter-free festive season and those who will be visiting beaches are advised to use litter bins that are strategically placed.
“Residents are encouraged to avoid littering and illegal dumping. Those who are found illegally dumping waste in any open spaces will be fined and will be responsible for the removal of that waste,” the municipality said.
The city also appealed to the public to assist in curbing the increase of illegal dumping by reporting all offenders on 031 311 8804/36 or send an email to dsw@durban.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:41
