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Stay ahead of the game using PPI to maximise savings this Black Friday Even though there is a continuous narrative that South African consumers are facing a tough economic environment, and that discretionary spending is under pressure, annual Black Friday sales are steadily increasing. First National Bank’s (FNB) statistics show that its cardholders spent nearly …
Some of the world’s wealthiest individuals founded their empires on property investment. Craig Mott, Business Development Manager for the Rawson Property Group, shares the top 4 techniques used to build these high-performance portfolios that deliver mogul-worthy returns. Don’t overlook an opportunity “The best property investors keep a constant finger on the pulse of the property …
The Walt Disney Company marked its 100th anniversary on October 16th, 2023, and throughout the year, has been celebrating the fans and storytellers who have sparked the joy and magic that is Disney over the last 100 years. This December, families will be able to continue the celebrations as the Disney100 Outdoor Cinema Experience lands …
The criminal case against Sasol for allegedly discharging water contaminated with chemicals including vanadium into a tributary of the Vaal River was postponed on Monday 20 November to 5 July 2024. The postponement was agreed between the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and Sasol, at the NPA’s request to allow it time to prepare the very …
Embracing the Power of Pink: Rosebank Mall’s Pink Run raises R50,000 for CANSA In a heartwarming display of unity and compassion, Rosebank Mall’s 5KM Pink Run, held in partnership with the CANSA Organisation, left a trail of inspiration and hope as it unfolded on a beautiful morning in the heart of Rosebank. Muhammad Varachia, General …
Asset Forfeiture Unit scores R1.5bn seizure order
The National Prosecuting Authority's Asset Forfeiture Unit, in collaboration with a special illegal mining unit in the South African Police Service, has obtained a provisional preservation of property order for the seizure of assets to the estimated value of more than R1.5 billion.
The frozen assets include a farm in Carolina, coal, cars and heavy duty machinery used at an alleged illegal mine in Mpumalanga.
National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Monica Nyuswa said an estimated 270 000 tons of coal was allegedly mined illegally at on two portions of the farm over a two year period by a company named GNJ Mining.
“At a minimum estimated market value price of R980 per ton, the estimated 270 000 tons that were illegally mined amounted to about R264 million worth of coal, that was illegally mined at the farm during the 2 years.
“GNJ Mining never had lawful authorisation/permit from the DMRE [Department of Mineral Resources] and/or the DARDLEA [Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs] to mine coal at the farm. The illicit coal that was mined at the farm was taken to Droogvalley Barrel Plant (Droogvalley) in the Carolina area, where the coal was processed and “washed” to prepare it for sale to GNJ Mining’s coal-using clients,” she said.
Nyuswa explained that the seizure comes after a man was arrested following a raid on a farm.
“Following credible information, the SAPS held an operation at the farm on Tuesday 19 September 2023, where they saw the magnitude of the illegal coal mining operation at the farm and Droogvalley. On the day, the SAPS arrested the illegal Mine Manager Paul Boshoff (Boshoff) and seized most of the mentioned assets at the farm and Droogvalley.
“Boshoff was arrested on 19 September 2023 and appeared in court the following day,” she said.
The criminal case is expected to be heard on 16 February 2024 in the Carolina Magistrates’ Court. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 11/21/2023 - 10:09
Following the global celebration of World Kindness Day, Amazon Web Services staff embraced the ethos of kindness in a vibrant culinary collaboration alongside the V&A Waterfront, Makers Landing and SA Harvest, the food rescue and hunger relief organisation that has delivered almost 50 million meals in the four years since its launch. This heartwarming partnership …
This is the latest in a series of attacks on this group of land occupiers since August
Details are still sketchy and the plan will not be publicly circulated
Photographic exhibition shows access to sanitation from the perspective of people living in informal settlements
Government committed to rooting out illegal mining
The deployment of some 3 300 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) personnel in the fight against illegal mining is an indication of government’s seriousness of rooting out the scourge.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.
“Cabinet welcomed the deployment of 3 300 members of the [SANDF] from 28 October 2023 until 28 April 2024, to support the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to deal with illegal mining in the country.
“This deployment affirms government’s commitment to put an end to illegal mining and create conditions for inclusive growth and transformation of the economy,” the Minister said at a post-Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria on Monday.
Turning to crime and corruption, Ntshavheni said Ministers forming part of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster have made “progress with work underway to fight against crime” with Police Minister Bheki Cele having already provided an update to the nation on quarterly crime statistics.
Furthermore, Cabinet has welcomed the “successful hosting” of the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council’s (NACAC) National Dialogue.
The dialogue was held last week and deliberated on progress in implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy and recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture.
“The progress includes 8 out of 16 recommended pieces of legislative reforms to address specific recommendations of the State Capture Commission that are now before Parliament. These Bills cover areas such as public procurement, administrative reform, conduct of public servants, reform of intelligence services, money laundering and electoral reform.
“The Asset Forfeiture Unit has been granted freezing orders worth R14 billion for state capture related cases and recouped R5.4 billion of the ill-gotten gains. In addition, the Investigating Directorate has taken 34 state capture and corruption cases to court, involving 205 accused persons,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:06
Cabinet reiterates call for an end to Gaza conflict
Cabinet has reiterated the call made by African leaders for an end to the conflict in Gaza, during the African-Saudi Summit in Riyadh hosted by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.
The summit condemned the targeting of civilians, and the violations of international law by the Israeli government.
“The world cannot simply standby and watch. The global community needs to rise to stop this genocide now,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said during a media briefing on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting, on Monday.
Ntshavheni said Cabinet continues to be concerned by the atrocities of the Israeli government against the people of Palestine, including the deliberate attacks on the United Nations School in Gaza, and the massacre of hundreds of children who had sought refuge at the school. This is in addition to the continued attacks on hospital staff, patients and hospital infrastructure.
Ntshavheni noted that it is because of these continued atrocities that are being committed with impunity by the Israeli government with the support and protection of powerful countries that on 17 November 2023, South Africa, together with the Comoros, Djibouti, Bolivia and Bangladesh, jointly referred the situation in Palestine and Israel to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
While the Palestinian Authority did ask the ICC to investigate crimes under the court’s jurisdiction in 2018, the Minister said South Africa believes the current atrocities, particularly in Gaza needs renewed attention with the full backing of state parties.
“Our ambassador in the Hague delivered the referral in person, which asked the ICC to investigate the commission of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide with a view to holding those most responsible accountable. Given that much of the global community are witnessing the commission of these crimes in real time, including statements of genocidal intent by many Israeli leaders, we expect that warrants of arrest for these leaders including Prime Minister Netanyahu will be issued shortly.
“The ICC has been able to investigate the situation in Palestine since 2021 when the issue of territorial jurisdiction was settled, however, we have noted that the office of the prosecutor has continued to drag its feet despite the gravity of the situation. The current atrocities may not have occurred if these investigations took place as soon as the Palestinian Authorities first made its referral.”
Ntshavheni said South Africa now expects that other state parties also add their voices for an end to the impunity by Israel, and the significant levels of evidence available, that international warrants of arrest will be issued by the time the Conference of Parties meet in mid-December in New York.
“Failure to do so will be indicative of a lack of will to act by the ICC and a strong signal to the total failure of the global system of good governance and the need to establish a new system.”
The Minister also noted that more children have been killed over the last month than those killed per annum in all conflicts combined for the last three years. This include more United Nations (UN) staff members who have been killed in Gaza since the founding of the United Nations.
“The numbers of journalists killed have been staggering. These are all people killed by the actions of the Israeli government, not to defend itself, but evinced by the statements of its leaders to clear most of Gaza of Palestinians and to occupy it,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:16
Triumph over pit latrines near yet far
South Africa is poised to turn the corner in eradicating pit latrines in educational facilities before the UN-designated year of 2030, writes Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga.
On World Toilet Day, 19 November 2023, it is imperative to reflect on the critical role of sanitation in educational and social development to restore dignity while ensuring the safety of learners and educators.
The Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), represents a significant undertaking. It transcends the mere elimination of pit latrines, addressing broader issues at the core of adequate educational infrastructure and well-being.
This reflection comes when we’re emerging from the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted all aspects of life, including the progress of essential sanitary projects in schools.
Sanitation, fundamentally linked to human dignity, is critical to global health and well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) underscores that safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are not only essential for health but also contribute significantly to livelihoods, school attendance, and the dignity of individuals, fostering resilient communities in healthy environments. Human Rights Watch amplifies this, stating that the right to sanitation, a derivative of the right to an adequate standard of living, ensures everyone is entitled to sanitation services that provide privacy and uphold dignity.
The World Bank emphasises the necessity of investing in sanitation to prevent needless deaths, improve lives and livelihoods, and uphold human dignity. This is particularly poignant considering that around 4.2 billion people live without access to safely managed sanitation, with women and girls often bearing the brunt of this deprivation. The Hunger Project further highlights that a lack of access to sanitation is not only a health issue but also a matter of safety and human dignity. Sanitation is now a global priority, and efforts are being made to educate communities about its importance and to provide sustainable solutions like eco-toilets.
Additionally, improvements in sanitation, as part of the broader WASH framework, are fundamental to enhancing people’s living standards. These improvements yield numerous benefits, including better physical health, environmental protection, improved educational outcomes, time savings, and the assurance of a life of dignity, ensuring equal treatment for all genders.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of hygiene and sanitation, which the DBE had been addressing through its emergency water programme and the SAFE initiative. The latter, albeit delayed by the pandemic, has been a pivotal project to transform the sanitation facilities in South African ordinary public schools.
SAFE’s objective is not just a replacement of outdated pit latrines but a complete overhaul of the sanitation infrastructure in line with the Norms and Standards for school infrastructure. This overhaul is not merely about installing new toilet seats, which are determined by learner enrolment and include age-appropriate facilities for primary schools and those catering to the disabled. The scope of SAFE is extensive, encompassing the assessment of existing sanitation facilities, de-sludging and demolition of old pit toilets, construction of new, appropriate toilets, provision of rainwater harvesting systems, and the construction of accessible walkways.
This initiative, launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in August 2018, underscores the power of collaboration for social change. It brought together an array of partners from both the public and private sectors, including Amalooloo, Assupol, AVBOB, Norcros, and international actors like the embassies of the Republic of Korea and the United States of America. This collective effort has resulted in the delivery of 126 projects out of a pledged 184. The diversity and innovation seen in these partnerships have been crucial in tailoring solutions to meet various needs, embodying the ‘stronger together’ ethos.
Alongside SAFE, the Accelerated Schools Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI) targeted 1087 sanitation projects, all of which have been completed. This achievement signifies not just a quantitative success but a qualitative shift in the educational experience for millions of previously disadvantaged school children. The inclusion of children at the Grade R level in the education system underscored the need for age-appropriate sanitation facilities, a demand that SAFE has been addressing.
To date, 2978 out of 3898 SAFE projects have been completed since the program’s intensification in 2019. This progress is significant, considering the interruptions caused by the pandemic. More than just constructing facilities, SAFE emphasises the importance of hygiene education, ensuring that schools are equipped with better sanitation and the knowledge to maintain these standards.
The urgency of this mission aligns with the United Nations’ UN Water directive, which starkly reminds us that to meet the sanitation target of SDG 6 – safe toilets and water for all by 2030 – the world needs to accelerate its efforts. The DBE, with an expenditure of nearly R 3.7 billion, is confident in meeting these goals within the next two financial years, showcasing a commitment to transforming the landscape of school sanitation in South Africa.
In conclusion, the SAFE initiative is a testament to the power of collaborative effort in addressing critical social challenges. It goes beyond mere infrastructure development, encompassing a holistic approach that includes partnership, innovation, and education.
On this World Toilet Day, as we reflect on the strides made, we are reminded of the ongoing journey towards ensuring that every child has access to safe and dignified sanitation. This fundamental right underpins their health, educational success, and future prospects. It is about our people’s inherent right to dignity. We dare shall not fail.
*Angie Motshekga is the longest-serving Minister of Basic Education in South Africa, post 1994.
Matona
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:27
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SA Connect project forges ahead
The government-driven SA Connect broadband connectivity project is going full steam ahead, with a report on Phase two of the project considered by Cabinet.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni who was addressing the media on the outcomes of the recently held Cabinet meeting.
“On progress with Phase 2 of the project, Cabinet was pleased that 1 000 households were connected with broadband and that 1 000 community Wi-Fi hotspots are planned to be installed by December 2023.
“In addition, the project has rolled out infrastructure for internet connectivity that allows households to access internet at cheaper rates. For R249 per month, a subscribing household has unlimited access to robust internet, with cheaper data costs as low as R5 for one gig per day,” she said.
Ntshavheni explained that the SA Connect project aims to “to bridge the digital divide by connecting households and government institutions and provide Wi-Fi access to communities across the country”.
“It is estimated that the project will also contribute to economic participation through provision of 4 505 semi-skilled and 169 skilled employment opportunities, and will support over 75 small to medium-sized companies.
“In addition, high demand spectrum will be provided to more than 18 000 schools, 943 libraries, 5 731 health facilities and 8 241 Tribal authorities over the next months through the social obligations to telecommunications companies.
“It is anticipated that the project will deliver connectivity to more than five million households and 32 000 community Wi-Fi hotspots across the country over the next 36 months,” Ntshavheni said.
On broadcasting digital migration, Ntshavheni said Cabinet noted the progress made in migrating from analogue to digital.
“As of 23 July 2023, all 123 analogue transmitters above 694 MHz were switched off in the remaining four provinces namely; the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape and Gauteng. This will free up the spectrum needed for mobile broadband, and other information and communications technology related needs.
“Cabinet was briefed that the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies had determined December 2024 as the final date for switch off of all analogue broadcasting services, and that progress is on to meet the set target date,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:47
The realm of private investigation is a fascinating and crucial element of modern society, offering a wide range of services that cater to both individuals and businesses. These services are designed to provide discreet, reliable, and professional investigative solutions, addressing various complex and sensitive issues. Diverse Range of Investigation Services Criminal Investigations: Specialising …
In a statement it also called for “the release of hostages and unlawfully held prisoners”
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Progress recorded at Dinokana water project in N West
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu has committed to ensure that Operation Bulela Metsi meets its obligations to the people of Dinokana, North West, and ultimately the whole province.
The Minister said this during the sod-turning of the R106 million Dinokana Water Supply Intervention Project, implemented by Magalies Water, in Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality.
The Dinokana project is one of the 27 water and sanitation projects under Operation Bulela Metsi that were unlocked and reprioritised after intergovernmental interventions led by Mchunu and the North West government earlier this year.
Mchunu conducted an oversight visit to the construction sites of the water project ahead of a meeting with the community of Dinokana.
During the visit, the delegation was taken through the ‘sacred’ Dinokana eye, a natural spring where the water source and pump station is located. The delegation also conducted a walkabout at the site, where a 15-kilometre bulk pipeline is being laid.
Mchunu said through intergovernmental structures set up in the province and the constitutional mandate of each institution, the programme will ensure that every household has access to water through a standpipe, and that people need to be patient as the project is being implemented in phases.
The project scope entails the refurbishment and upgrade of the Dinokana rural water supply infrastructure, which includes high lift pump refurbishment and upgrade from 2 Ml/day to 4 Ml/day; refurbishment of boreholes; upgrading of the spring water pump station and pipeline; refurbishment of the distribution system up to the bulk water reservoirs, and constructing an additional 2 Ml reservoir to provide additional gravity pressure.
Mchunu commended the progress made, saying that water will eventually reach everyone who needs to benefit from the project.
“We are now here to point to the work that is currently being carried out. Refurbishing the pump station is critical so that all the pumps are working optimally in order to pump the required quantities, and be able to meet the demand of these communities in the four wards,” Mchunu said.
Over 1 000 metres of bulk pipeline has already been laid, including the commencement of work on the refurbishment and the bulk distribution network, which has also commenced.
Mchunu was accompanied by his deputy Judith Tshabalala, North West Premier Bushy Maape, Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality Mayor Khumalo Molefe, Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipal Mayor Dinah Pitso, Magalies Water Board Chairperson, Dr Lydia Sebego, and local chiefs.
Addressing Ramotshere Moiloa residents, Mchunu said 27 water and sanitation projects under Operation Bulela Metsi are currently underway throughout the North West province, and the Dinokana project is among them.
Dinokana Water Supply Intervention project is being implemented in four phases including:
Phase 1 - Bulk pipeline distribution construction, including reservoir and refurbishment to existing transmission lines.
Phase - 2 Refurbishment of boreholes and additional drilling and equipping of boreholes.
Phase 3 - Reticulation and standpipe at 200m radial distance within village boundary.
Phase 4 - Upgrading pump station and pumping line to allow both reservoirs to be fed by pump station. The objective is to provide an additional 35 000 residents with standpipes.
Mchunu said with the current 17 local people benefiting through the Dinokana water supply intervention project, five more job opportunities will in future be added to benefit 25 locals per ward.
The Dinokana project, which commenced on 30 September 2023, is expected to be completed on 30 September 2024.
The Minister encouraged locals with illegal water connections to report to the local mayor to be legally connected for free, so that they won’t face the wrath of the law.
He further called on the community to safeguard the infrastructure, warning that connecting water illegally damages the pipes.
Operation Bulela Metsi is a water and sanitation intervention programme, which was introduced by Mchunu and the North West provincial government in July this year.
The programme is a culmination of a series of intergovernmental engagements among the three spheres of government, including business, traditional leaders and community structures on the water and sanitation challenges faced by the province. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 14:43
The Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development will from tomorrow, 21 November 2023, conduct three public hearings on the National Small Enterprise Amendment (NSEA) Bill [B16-2023] in Gauteng.
The first public hearings will be held at the Fochville Civic Centre in West Rand District from 10 am to 2 pm. The second public hearing will be held at the South Rand Recreation Centre in the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality and third will be conducted at the Boksburg City Hall in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality.
The committee has already covered eight other provinces. These public hearings are conducted in line with section 59(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, which requires the National Assembly to facilitate public involvement in the legislative and other processes of the Assembly and its committees.
The NSEA Bill seeks to, amongst other things, provide for the establishment of the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency and the Office of the Small Enterprise Ombud Service.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
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