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How to tailor a standout CV to secure a learnership The Class of 2023 is eagerly anticipating the 18th of January for the release of their matric results. For some, their results will provide access to higher learning. For others, it’s their ticket to the working world – but while these youngsters may be keen …
Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Effortless care of your Garden’s Best Friend In 2016, the world of lawn maintenance was redefined with the introduction of the Husqvarna Automower. Seven years later, this robotic marvel continues to delight. Just like we can’t imagine life without our cellphones and laptops, the Husqvarna Automower, affectionately nicknamed ‘Hillary’ by …
Anti-corruption forum welcomes SAPS progress against construction mafia
The Infrastructure Built Anti-Corruption Forum (IBACF) has welcomed the progress made by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies on the progress made to crackdown on the construction mafia.
The IBACF was formed in 2020 and is aimed at monitoring infrastructure projects and putting systems in place to detect and prevent corruption.
The forum comprises civil society, representatives from the built environment and various arms of government, including the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said hundreds of arrests have been made relating to illegal practices in construction.
“There are ongoing investigations in the sector by various law enforcement agencies that have led to consequence management such as asset recovery, disciplinary action, and criminal prosecution.
“It is against this background that the IBACF welcomes and congratulates the SAPS on their progress in addressing the construction sector mafia in South Africa. The SAPS has confirmed that the 712 cases referred for investigation have resulted in 722 arrests and 52 convictions so far,” Kganyago said.
According to Kganyago, at a recent meeting of the IBACF, the National Priority Committee on Extortion and Violence at Economic Sites reported that “the fight against fraud, corruption, and maladministration in the construction sector is gaining significant ground”.
“A notable recent arrest has been that of alleged 28s gang boss Ralph Stanfield and his wife, Nicole Johnson. Several Cape Town construction contractors had to abandon government housing construction sites following alleged acts of intimidation and violence.
“Thereafter, the Western Cape government’s Human Settlements Department awarded Johnson's company, Glomix House Brokers, the contracts for completing these abandoned projects,” the SIU said.
Kganyago explained that the construction mafia refers to groups of extortionists who attempt to forcefully extract protection fees from local construction companies and contractors or extort a portion of the cost of an infrastructure project, including specific individuals affiliated with the mafia being recruited to work on the site.
“The construction sector is one of the most important job-creating sectors in the country. Investment in the sector not only benefits the country through improved infrastructure but creates hundreds of thousands of jobs on construction sites and throughout the construction sector value chain.
“Research documents published during the last two years have revealed the impact of construction sector mafia on construction projects and investment in the sector. In the period leading up to 2022, up to R63 billion worth of projects were reported, and delayed or cancelled as a result of the extortion tactics and disruptions posed by construction mafia,” Kganyago said.
Community involvement
The SIU called on community members to report any illegality on construction sites.
“The IBACF encourages proactive community engagement to inform residents of the projects underway in their areas; of possible opportunities for legitimate sub-contractors and workers, and encourages all South Africans, who are aware of any criminal actions such as threats of violence or extortion that may lead to the loss of such projects and work opportunities, to report these crimes,” the SIU said.
Crimes of this nature can be reported to:
“As the SAPS report back on arrests and convictions, we warn the public that there are consequences for people who engage in illegal activities within the construction sector. The IBACF thanks the whistleblowers and law enforcement agencies for their bravery and tremendous efforts in tackling these criminal matters,” Kganyago said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 09:55
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Police commence Festive Season Inspection Roadshow in Gauteng
The Ministry of Police and South African Police Service (SAPS) management will today kick off the annual countrywide Festive Season Inspection Roadshow.
The roadshow, according to a statement, forms part of efforts by the SAPS to channel resources to areas where they are most needed.
“The festive season policing interventions, running parallel with the high-density Operation Shanela, are enabling the police to decisively deal with crime and any security threats this holiday season and beyond,” said the police.
This year’s theme focuses on combating crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement.
“The Ministry, together with the SAPS management led by National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, will assess the effectiveness of the SAPS’ safer festive season operational plans put in place to ensure the wellbeing and safety of all residents and holidaymakers in the country during the holiday period.”
The first stop of the annual roadshow will commence in Gauteng on Tuesday, 19 December and end in KwaZulu-Natal on 2 January 2024.
The exercise will include visits to centres of entertainment leisure and business, transport hubs taxi ranks, multi-disciplinary roadblocks and targeted operations in high crime areas. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 10:09
President Ramaphosa congratulates Egyptian President on re-election
President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, on his re-election as president of that country.
According to Egypt’s National Elections Authority, El-Sisi won his third term in office after receiving some 89.6% of the votes during the country’s elections held last week.
A Presidency statement said President Ramaphosa congratulated not only El-Sisi but also other candidates.
“The historic elections reflect the will of the people of Egypt in charting their future. The President also commends the other candidates for participating in the elections in a gracious and commendable manner.
“The President further wishes to congratulate the National Election Authority of Egypt and all national stakeholders for their collective efforts in ensuring a conducive environment in which the elections were conducted. The President also takes note of the observations of the AU-COMESA [African Union-Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa] Joint Observer Mission,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the Presidency reiterated government’s willingness to strengthen ties between the two countries.
“The South African government reiterates its commitment to continue working with the government and people of Egypt for the mutual benefit of the two countries, to build strong people-to-people ties, and collaborate together in consolidation of the African Agenda.
“The South African Government looks forward to further strengthening bilateral relations with the Government of Egypt,” the Presidency said.
South Africa and Egypt enjoy cordial bilateral relations underpinned by strong historical and fraternal bonds dating back to the era of the liberation struggle. South Africa considers Egypt a strategic partner that supported the liberation struggle. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 10:22
Dear Editor Victims of traffic accidents face additional trauma when receiving medical care as the Road Accident Fund (RAF) is failing to disburse payments. This issue compounds the extreme financial strain experienced by healthcare providers such as Hospicare, which is comparable to the circumstances faced by Sunshine Hospital in Gauteng. These healthcare facilities play a …
NRF increases funding for postdoctoral fellows
The National Research Foundation (NRF) announced on Tuesday its decision to increase the annual value of grants awarded to postdoctoral fellows.
The new cohort that will start their Freestanding, Innovation and Scarce Skills (FISS) and grant holder-linked postdoctoral fellowships in 2024 will receive increased grants.
The NRF’s postdoctoral fellowship programmes provide funding for young scientists and professionals of the highest calibre to receive postdoctoral research training and international exposure to strengthen their research profiles and career advancement.
These are individuals who have completed their doctoral degree studies and are working towards developing their careers as academic researchers.
Currently, the NRF-funded postdoctoral fellows receive non-taxable stipends ranging between R200 000 and R255 000 annually and an annual R50 000 research grant.
The new adjustments will move non-taxable stipends to R320 000 per annum while keeping research grants at R50 000.
“Continuing postdoctoral fellowships that started in 2023 and are in their second or third year of funding will still utilise the old values and their original conditions of grant will still apply.”
The implementation of the new Department of Science and Innovation-NRF Postgraduate Student Funding policy in 2023 resulted in a significant increase in the funding value of honours, masters and doctoral students to R180 735, R202 004 and R223 273 at the full cost of study, respectively.
“The postdoctoral fellowships grants remained stagnant at the same time. This informed the NRF’s review of its postdoctoral fellowship values. The adjustment of grant values is intended to make postdoctoral fellowships competitive and increase their uptake, particularly by South African citizens.”
NRF CEO, Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, said the agency supports postdoctoral fellowships to promote research and research capacity development in all fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and the Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH).
“The NRF recognises the importance of these fellowships which are aimed at providing a comprehensive training, development and mentorship programme for the establishment of an independent researcher involved in engaged research.
“We trust that the increased values of the FISS postdoctoral fellowships and grant holder-linked will make an added contribution in increasing the number and quality of postdoctoral research fellows in South Africa in all fields of research.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 11:48
Prof Euan Phimister is Head of Research at Stellenbosch Business School Across Africa, the loss of soils due to erosion is one of the most persistent environmental issues, greatly impacting food production and contributing to rising food insecurity. The degradation of soil poses a significant threat to sustainability on the continent and protecting the soil …
Reduce food waste this Christmas
With the holiday season often being a time of abundance and indulgence, the City of Cape Town has urged residents to join in the effort to reduce food waste during the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
Member of Mayoral Committee for Urban Waste Management, Grant Twigg, warned that food waste is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and exacerbates the effects of climate change.
“When food is wasted, not only are valuable resources such as water, energy and land wasted, but when leftovers and scraps end up in landfill, they produce a potent greenhouse gas that can accelerate climate change.
“The city encourages residents to practice careful planning when it comes to their holiday meals. Smart shopping and thoughtful meal preparation can help avoid overstocking and excess consumption,” Twigg said.
Tips to reduce food waste during the holiday season:
• Plan meals and shopping lists: Plan your meals in advance and create a detailed shopping list. This way, you can avoid overbuying and ensure you only purchase what you need.
• Buy locally and seasonally: Support local farmers and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation by choosing locally-grown and seasonal produce.
• Proper storage: Store food correctly to extend its shelf life. Ensure refrigerated items are kept at the appropriate temperature and use the first-in, first-out method when organising your pantry.
• Be mindful of your fridge/freezer capacity, when stocking up on fresh fruit and vegetables, to minimise unnecessary spoiling of unused vegetables,
• Portion control: Be mindful of how much food you cook and serve. Start with smaller portions and allow guests to serve themselves second helpings if desired. This will minimise leftovers and reduce waste.
• Be creative with re-using leftover food: There are options to make leftovers into new and exciting dishes to enjoy, rather than just throwing them out.
• Composting: Consider composting at home. Composting food scraps not only reduces landfill waste but also creates nutrient-rich compost that can be used to nourish plants and gardens.
Twigg reminded businesses to come up with alternative plans to landfill, when disposing of organic waste.
Since the adoption of the amended Integrated Waste Management By-Law in 2009, every business in Cape Town has been required to develop integrated waste management plans (IWMP) to cover all aspects of waste management. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 12:22
Join the Waiting List and Get a 14-Day Free Trial upon Launch Today, we are excited to introduce Intersect, a game-changing compliance management software designed to streamline processes, reduce risks, and enhance client service. As part of our launch, we’re offering the opportunity to join our waiting list and receive an exclusive 14-day free trial …
19 December 2023 – Four South African swimmers achieved qualifying times at the World Aquatics Championships trials held in Durban from 14-18 December. Tatjana Schoenmaker led the way, swimming qualifying times in both the prelims and finals of the 50, 100 and 200m breaststroke – achieving the latter in her fastest time since breaking the …
19 December 2023 – For most people, the festive season is a time of giving, caring, and spreading joy. In this spirit, FNB has ushered in the 2023 festive season with a call to all South Africans to support the pillars of their communities, namely local small and medium-sized businesses. “As the festive decorations go …
The NSRI urgently requests boaters to refrain from attempting to navigate through the water hyacinth mats at Hartbeespoort dam, which currently extend over roughly 30% of the dam. On Saturday night, 16 December, volunteers from the NSRI’s Station 25 at Hartbeespoort dam took 5 hours to extricate 30 recreational boaters from the water hyacinth mats. …
Durban beaches safe for swimming
As thousands of holidaymakers are expected to descend on Durban shores for the festive season, eThekwini Municipality Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda has assured visitors and residents that the city’s beaches are safe for swimming.
Kaunda gave his assurance as he officially reopened the iconic uMhlanga Rocks Whalebone Pier to much fanfare and public applause, just in time for the bumper festive season in Durban.
Kaunda said the results conducted jointly with the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) revealed an improvement of the beach water quality.
“The city’s results sampled on 12 December, as part of its weekly routine testing, have also revealed that of the 23 bathing beaches, 20 beaches are e-coli compliant with acceptable standards for swimming and other water recreational use.
“The safety of residents and visitors remains a priority and with constant testing, we want to assure holidaymakers and residents of their safety. These results confirm an improvement in our beach water quality, as most are compliant with excellent and acceptable standards for swimming and other recreational use,” Kaunda said.
The Mayor said the city has a team of expert scientists that are hard at work testing the water quality at the municipal ISO 17025 accredited laboratory.
Kaunda emphasised that the municipality is transparent with the results, which are shared publicly.
“If there are poor results, the pollution team immediately traces the source so that remedial work is done to stop the pollution,” he said.
The city also conducts re-sampling to ensure the quality of beach water so that an informed decision is made whether or not to close a particular beach.
Kaunda said the city will continue joint sampling with an independent organisation, including the IWWT and Adopt-A-River, whose samples are tested by Talbot.
“The city does daily monitoring of all 23 bathing beaches to make an informed decision. However, for joint sampling, only selected beaches are tested, and some of which are non-bathing.
“Beaches that have poor water quality are closed and the public is informed when the water at beaches has been tested and if they are safe for swimming. This routine weekly testing is continuing and conducted across all the city’s 23 bathing beaches,” Kaunda explained.
The beaches that are open include uShaka, Addington, Point, North, Bay of Plenty, Wedge, Battery, South, Country Club, Thekwini, Laguna, uMhlanga Main, uMdloti Main, Bronze, Westbrook, uMgababa, Toti Main, Reunion, Warner and Brighton.
The beaches that are closed include Pipeline, Winkelespruit and Anstey’s.
Thirty-four swimming pools are open, and these include the Laguna Paddling Swimming Pool, which was reopened recently after it was closed due to infrastructural challenges.
Kaunda also announced that the repairs at the popular Children Amusement Centre swimming pool, which is along the beachfront, are expected to be completed soon.
He said 65 beach guides will be stationed across the various city beaches to aid visitors and an additional 160 seasonal lifeguards have also been deployed to beaches.
“This attests to the fact that the city is ready to host a safe and memorable festive season for the anticipated 792 410 visitors expected to flock to Durban,” Kaunda said.
Increased police visibility
On safety measures, Kaunda said the city has beefed up its staff complement as well as increased police visibility at tourism precincts and along the beachfront.
“Further bolstering these efforts is that all Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras in the inner city are operational. Law enforcement will also be out in full force, with about 168 contract security personnel employed for the duration of the festive season and the 62 new metro police vehicles will patrol the streets,” Kaunda said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 10:30
Closing date for draft SA Petroleum Company Bill public comments extended
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has extended the closing date for comments on the draft South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) Bill.
The draft Bill was published in the Government Gazette in November and comments are expected to now close on 15 January.
According to the DMRE, the Bill is aimed at establishing the SANPC, ensuring proper governance, as well as to “consolidate and transfer assets of the company in line with the relevant legislation, with the Minister [of Mineral Resources and Energy] as the sole shareholder of the company”.
“The SANPC will be the State’s energy champion and facilitator of energy infrastructure across the energy value chain. Its functions will include, but not limited to, managing the State’s exploration and production rights, interest acquired and exercised in terms of the Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Act, and ensure that petroleum resources are developed in a sustainable manner to the best interest of the people of South Africa.
“The Bill outlines various aspects that will ensure proper functioning of the company, which include cooperative governance, functions of the board, and funding of the company, amongst others,” the DMRE said.
The draft SANPC Bill can be accessed online at https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/202311/49711gon4062.pdf.
Comments on the draft bill can be sent electronically to representations@dmre.gov.za or by post to 70 Mentjies Street, Sunnyside, 0001 or Private Bag X59, Arcadia, 0007.
During a post-Cabinet media briefing on 20 November, Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni explained that the SANPC Bill “gives effect to the Cabinet decision to merge PetroSA, the South African Gas Development Company (iGas) and the Strategic Fuel Fund”.
“The Bill makes provisions for the establishment of a State-owned company that will ensure South Africa participates meaningfully in oil and gas development. It will also guarantee the country’s security of energy supply to support economic development and growth.
“The SANPC will oversee strategic planning, coordination and governance of the country’s petroleum resources and this will contribute to development and job creation,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 10:38
South African Wildlife does not only include the Big 5, but also a variety of beautiful species that roam the dense bushveld. Shawu’s Hills Wildlife Estate is home to a variety of reptiles, birdlife, mammals, amphibians, all of which play a crucial role to ecological balance of our precious environment. One such creature is the …
According to Investopedia, a financial gap analysis is “a method companies use to measure their current performance with their future or desired performance.” In short, this means taking a hard, honest look at where you are financially as a company, where you’re falling short, and comparing that to the often optimistic vision of where you …
With the Christmas season upon us and one full year of full time running of our Straton Prepaid online store specialising in prepaid water and electricity meters we have realised that having an online store is something tthat can be very demanding at certain times of the year. One of the items in our Straton …
N West Premier condemns fatal shooting of nine people in Rustenburg
North West Premier Kaobitsa Bushy Maape has condemned the fatal shooting of nine people on Saturday at Popo Molefe informal settlement, near Rustenburg, in the North West.
According to police, a group of individuals were sitting at the house of one of the injured people when a group of assailants opened fire on them.
Eight people died instantly, while the ninth victim was certified dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Meanwhile, the attack left eight people injured.
“We are extremely shocked and outraged at the mass killing of nine people at Popo Molefe informal settlement. We condemn the shooting of these people and send our condolences to the families, relatives and friends of victims of this hideous crime. I would also like to take this opportunity to wish those injured a speedy recovery,” said Maape.
Maape has since applauded the police for moving with speed in assembling a team of experienced and skilled officers to investigate the matter.
“I have all the confidence that the SAPS, under the stewardship of General Sello Kwena, will do everything in their power to follow all leads in investigating this matter. The perpetrators of these repugnant acts must be brought to book,” the Premier said.
Kwena has assured that justice will be served.
“The Provincial Commissioner strongly condemned this horrific and pointless incident and indicated that the police will work around the clock to ensure that justice is served. He also urged the community to remain calm and allow the police to do the investigations,” said provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 12/18/2023 - 09:42
Load shedding suspended until Friday
Eskom has announced that load shedding will remain suspended until 4pm on Friday.
The power utility announced the suspension of the rolling black outs on social media platform X on Sunday.
“Due to consistent improvement in available generating capacity, load shedding will remain suspended until 4pm on Friday. Eskom will closely monitor the power system and communicate should any significant changes occur,” the power utility said.
Meanwhile, Eskom Chief Financial Officer, Calib Cassim, is expected to continue in his job beyond the end of his current term at the end of this year following 21 years of service.
He is currently acting as the power utility’s Group Chief Executive until recently announced CEO Dan Marokane assumes office in 2024.
Cassim called it a privilege to continue serving as the power utility’s CFO.
“I am looking forward to continue contributing to the collective efforts of placing Eskom on a path to sustainability through the implementation of our turnaround plans. I want to thank the Board and Shareholder Ministry for creating an enabling environment for me to contribute to the turnaround of Eskom. Eskom has exceptional talent that look to us to provide leadership. With Dan Marokane joining, we have the best shot at creating the future we want for Eskom.
“I would also like to thank Martin Buys for acting as Eskom’s Chief Financial Officer. He has done an excellent job and has shown leadership and dedication to our business. He will continue acting until I take over the role. Importantly, I am grateful for the support received from EXCO and the employees,” Cassim said.
Eskom board chairperson Mteto Nyati said: “Calib Cassim has done an excellent job in holding the fort. When we announced the appointment of Dan Marokane to the Top 400 senior leaders of Eskom, they gave us two key messages.
“Firstly, they were delighted that Dan Marokane had chosen to re-join Eskom. His appointment was well received. Secondly, they expressed a deep sense of appreciation to Calib Cassim for serving the company well. His interim leadership brought sustainability to the organisation. As the Eskom Board, we are counting on his passion for Eskom and are pleased to have retained him as CFO.” – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 12/18/2023 - 09:54
PIETERMARITZBURG: Emerging talent, Neo Molefe and Fay Cowling played a leading role to lead Lions Cricket to the Cricket South Africa...