Over 100 grannies march in Durban to demand better healthcare and housing
This follows a three-day conference that brought together grandmothers from across the country
What Does an Insurance Broker Enact
Insurance is a fundamental part of safeguarding our assets, health, and future. But with a myriad of options available, navigating the insurance landscape can be daunting. This is where an policy broker shines. 1. Acts as Your Personal Insurance Advisor While some may think an insurance broker simply sells policies, their role is far …
Opening of Saudi Arabia e-Visa scheme to South Africans welcomed
Following a recent official visit to Saudi Arabia to strengthen tourism relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Minister Patricia de Lille welcomes the opening of the Saudi Arabia e-Visa system to South Africans.
A few weeks ago, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that it was expanding its visitor e-Visa programme to travellers from eight more countries, taking the total up to 57.
Tourists from South Africa can now easily apply for an e-visa for their travels to Saudi Arabia.
“I am extremely pleased with this development as South Africa also became the first African country to be added to the list. This will certainly bring immense benefits for leisure and Umrah travellers and for our efforts to grow tourism between South Africa and Saudi Arabia,” Minister de Lille said.
The multi-entry eVisa is valid for one year and allows travellers to visit the kingdom for up to 90 days at a time. It costs 535 Saudi riyals, which also includes medical insurance.
In terms of the South African visa system, travellers from Saudi Arabia are part of the visa exempt countries and do not require a visa to travel to South Africa for a period of up to 90 days.
Saudi Arabia is fast becoming an attractive tourist destination and is a key partner in our efforts to grow tourism between South Africa and the rest of the world.
The Department of Tourism also has a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Tourism department which outlines our joint objectives to grow tourism between our countries.
Minister de Lille recently undertook an official visit to Saudi Arabia to attend the International World Tourism Day conference where various engagements took place to strengthen tourism relations and cooperation with Saudi Arabian stakeholders.
Minister de Lille met with a range of Saudi Arabian stakeholders including the Air Connectivity Programme team within the Ministry of Tourism as well as the Saudi Tourism Authority.
Discussions covered actions needed to improve air connectivity between Saudi Arabia and South Africa and a joint marketing strategy to promote both destinations to travelers in both countries.
Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) has also announced the recommencement of a direct flight between Jeddah and Johannesburg starting on 1 December 2023.
During our engagements, we shared research with the Saudi Air Connectivity Team to motivate for a direct flight between Jeddah and Cape Town.
“The e-Visa development is significant for South Africa as many Muslim citizens travel for religious purposes. Along with the direct flights, this will ease travel for many tourists but especially for religious tourism and pilgrimages,” Minister de Lille said.
Through the fast and easy-to-use online portal, South Africans can apply for an e-Visa and discover the warm hospitality of Saudi people the rich heritage, vibrant culture, and diverse and breath-taking landscapes; from the mountains of Abha to the beaches of the Red Sea to the shifting sands of the Empty Quarter.
The eVisa will be a one-year, multiple entry visa, allowing tourists to spend up to 90 days in the country. The tourist visa allows you to take part in tourism-related activities such as, events, family and relatives visits, leisure, and Umrah (excluding Hajj) and excludes other activities such as studying.
We will continue working with our counterparts in Saudi Arabia, through the Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb to look at new and innovative ways to grow tourism between our countries as this key sector is an important part of our countries' economies and a key job creator.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Tourism, Republic of South Africa.
Rugby World Cup Final at Maponya Mall
Join us for an unforgettable rugby final this Saturday, right here at Maponya Mall! The Rugby World Cup final is here, and it’s going to be a battle of epic proportions as the mighty Springboks take on the formidable All Blacks. It’s a clash that will go down in history, and you won’t want to …
Progress made in upgrading Emfuleni critical water infrastructure
Progress made in upgrading Emfuleni critical water infrastructure
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the repairs and upgrade of critical bulk water infrastructure such as pipelines and pump stations in the Emfuleni Local Municipality.
Mchunu, who accompanied President Cyril Ramaphosa on an oversight visit to Emfuleni on Friday, acknowledged that at no stage in the past had government reached this level of cleaning up of sewers and fixing sanitation and water infrastructure.
“It’s the first time we’ve reached this level. Yesterday there was a meeting, first of its kind, convened by our special advisor, bringing in Rand Water, Emfuleni Local Municipality, provincial government and stakeholders; bringing them on board to make sure that whatever we have achieved and all the progress, cannot be reversed, but can only be taken up,” Mchunu said.
In order to prevent reversing, Mchunu said, Emfuleni must appoint a water and sanitation service provider under them, that will to do the job of water and sanitation services for the people of Emfuleni, at a required quality and level.
“They are seeking Rand Water to do that job as a service provider to them, instead of them doing it themselves because they have no capacity [and] I’ve seen them with my eyes. They are trying to catch up, but it is not really doable in the foreseeable future. That’s guaranteed; this report will come to us on 15 November to say we agreed,” Mchunu said.
President Ramaphosa led an oversight visit by government to the Emfuleni Local Municipality in Gauteng.
The municipality incorporates areas including Vereeniging, Vanderbijlpark, Sharpeville, Sebokeng, Boipatong and others.
The economically and socially important Vaal River also flows through this area.
Joined by a number of Ministers, including Mchunu, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and provincial and municipal leadership - the President assessed progress in improvements to service delivery, as well as challenges that remain.
The municipality has faced difficulties in the provision of water services, leading the Department of Water and Sanitation to intervene to upgrade critical bulk pipelines and pump stations infrastructure.
The President’s visit took place in the context of the District Development Model (DDM), which aims to improve cooperative governance through integrated intergovernmental planning and budgeting.
It is also a fulfilment of a commitment made by the President that he would visit all provinces as part of the “Leave No One Behind” District Development Model series of Presidential Izimbizo.
During the oversight, the President visited Sebokeng Waste Water Treatment Plant, Evaton West Pump Station, and later held an engagement with local stakeholders at Vereeniging Community Hall. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 14:28
278 views
Minor Hotels celebrates International Chef’s Day with South African Chefs making their effect globally
International Chef’s Day, celebrated on 20 October, is a day dedicated to honouring and recognising the culinary talents that bring delectable flavours to our tables. Minor Hotels proudly joins in this celebration by introducing you to four of our exceptional chefs, each with a unique culinary journey and passion for their craft. These chefs have …
Archiving services: Safeguarding vital data in an unpredictable world
By Pieter Nienaber (Compliance Africa at Crown Records Management South Africa) Within the dynamic business landscape, records archiving services provide critical advantages. These services fortify data security, streamline organisation, and ensure compliance. This article explores the compelling benefits of off-site records archiving for businesses aiming to safeguard their critical data. Pieter Nienaber from Crown Records …
Rugby World Cup fever mounts
Rugby World Cup fever mounts
South Africans across the country are gripped by the green and gold fever ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup final on Saturday, which will pit South Africa’s Springboks against the All Blacks from New Zealand.
If the semi-final is anything to go by, the final game promises to be a nail-biting encounter that will keep every fan on the edge of their seat as the teams go head-to-head at 9pm sharp.
From schools, companies, and restaurants to social media posts, the Springbok jersey-wearing South Africans are counting down the hours to what will go down in history as one of the most memorable World Cup finals in Stade de France.
If South Africa wins, this will be the first time any country will hold four Rugby World Cup titles.
Even President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to be cheering in the crowd as he will be travelling to Paris to support the Springboks in their quest to defend the Webb Ellis trophy.
“The President is really looking forward to being invited onto the pitch for a second time by captain Siya Kolisi to help lift the cup for the world champions,” said the President’s Office.
Meanwhile, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa on Friday joined the Springbok captain’s run to send well wishes to the Bokke.
“The Springboks are ready for the final. This is your team, fellow South Africans. Let’s get behind our pride and joy! Yivale maBhokobhoko,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
According to SA Rugby, Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber predicts a powerful onslaught from the All Blacks and said they posed threats in every aspect of the game.
“Matches between the Springboks and All Blacks are always special and hard-fought, and with this being a World Cup final, the rivalry is expected to be more intense. They have an experienced squad with a physical pack and a backline that can create magic from nothing, so we’ll have to be at our best on attack and defence to get the result.”
For Springbok fans, SuperSport, the home of the Rugby World Cup 2023, will broadcast the final match live.
The South African game will be also shown on SABC.
And for those who prefer big screens and a bit of a crowd, provinces across South Africa are gearing up for the showdown and bringing on the heat to support the Bokke by having dedicated fan parks.
Some of these, of which most entrance is free, fans can also enjoy some live music in the build-up to the game.
Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation in Mpumalanga, said it has identified three sites for public viewing, one in each district of the province.
“These public viewing areas will be located in previously disadvantaged communities, which over the years have shown growing interest in the sport of rugby.”
Where to watch the Rugby World Cup across the country.
Eastern Cape
Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (free entry, gates open at 7pm).
Sisa Dukashe Stadium (Mdantsane).
Police Park (East London).
Baby Swag (Zwelitsha).
Macelegusha.
Northern Cape
AR Abass Stadium in Kimberley (gates open at 4pm to enjoy some live musical entertainment in the build-up to the game).
Limpopo
Civic Centre Park in Polokwane (free entry).
Mpumalanga
Nkangala District (Siyabuswa Retail Centre, Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality).
Gert Sibande District (Loft Lounge Corner Ennis and Oosthuise Street, Ermelo, Msukaligwa Local Municipality).
Ehlanzeni District (Praxos Butchery, Schoemansdal, Nkomazi Local Municipality).
Gauteng
Soweto Theatre in Johannesburg (gates to open from 7pm). Fans can also expect to be entertained by Jozi FM DJs in the lead-up to the game.
Pretoria’s Loftus Park (gates open at 6pm). R 120 per person for general admission includes a free parking ticket and can be purchased electronically.
North West
Hoërskool Rustenburg (Bojanala) and Maseru Park (Mahikeng).
Free State
SaamTrek Fan Park – Phakisa Raceway.
Western Cape
Bree Street (between Church and Hout Street, Cape Town CBD). There will be soft road closures from Wale to Strand Street and Loop to Buitengracht, including all side roads leading to the venue.
Monwabisi Sport and Recreation Centre (Langa).
Westridge Civic Centre (Mitchells Plain).
KwaZulu-Natal
Durban ICC (gates swing open at 7pm). Fans can expect the big screen, refreshing drinks and delectable food, drink specials and secure and hassle-free parking facilities.
Pietermaritzburg’s Woodburn Rugby Stadium (gate to open at 3pm). Children below 12 years free and there will be food stalls live music and secured parking. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 15:28
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Nurturing 21st Century Graduates for a Changing World
By Brandon Govender – Enrolment Manager at Regent Business School The recent Regent Business School graduation ceremonies which took place on Saturday, 7 October 2023 at Durban ICC and Saturday, 14 October at Gallagher Convention Centre sparked Regent Business School’s Enrolment Manager, Brandon Govender to share some insights on the role of a business school …
Eskom wants a new logo, Really?
Editor: Putting lipstick on a pig doesn’t make it into a pussy cat! Dear Editor The DA rejects, with the contempt that it deserves, a tender issued recently by Eskom in which they are asking suppliers to provide services for the design of a new logo and the development of a new corporate identity. This …
OUTA to partner with PMG and OpenUp in Enhancing Accountability Programme
The programme aims to improve transparency, combat corruption and strengthen accountability, and fosters collaboration between civil society, government and the private sector. The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) is thrilled to announce that we have been selected as a recipient of the second tranche of the European Union-funded “Enhancing Accountability Programme”. This exciting opportunity allows …
Local SEO Revolution: Optimising Google My Business in 2023
Are you looking to revolutionise your local SEO? Google My Business is essential in 2023, and this article will show you how to optimise it. We’ll cover market analysis, keyword research, GMB optimisation, photos and videos, reviews and ratings, SEO strategies, branding guidelines, reporting and analytics, and automation tools. Get ready to revolutionise your local …
Tracking PRASA’s pace
Tracking PRASA’s progress
Many of us will recall seeing family members rushing off to catch the train to work or school thanks to it being largely an affordable means of getting around.
“Passenger rail plays a pivotal role in driving economic activity by transporting millions of people to and from their workplaces daily,” says Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) Group CEO Hishaam Emeran.
This as PRASA, which is responsible for 2 228 kilometres rail tracks countrywide, has been in the process of rebuilding the passenger rail infrastructure and refurbishing vandalised stations across the country.
According to Emeran, the rebuilding and reopening of the corridors is transporting some 19 million passengers to and from places of work and economic opportunities.
In the 2020 State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa committed government to fixing commuter rail “which is vital to the economy and to the quality of life of our people.”
At the time he said government was modernising the agency’s rail network. He added that work that would be conducted on the lines included station upgrades, parkway replacements, new signalling systems and overhead electrical traction upgrades.
“The positive impact of resuming passenger rail services on the livelihoods of commuters who spend over 40% of their income on transport cannot be overstated. We have saved commuters thousands of rands in travel costs, as a train ticket costs less than a litre of petrol.
“For example, a trip from Germiston to Johannesburg now costs just R7.50, easing the financial burden on commuters. These efforts underscore our commitment to stimulating local economies and long-term prosperity,” Emeran told SAnews.
The agency is making significant progress in rebuilding the passenger rail infrastructure and refurbishing vandalised stations. The rebuilding efforts have had a positive impact on the health of the economy.
“Through our rebuilding efforts, we've injected over R3.6 billion into the economy, creating over 6,000 job opportunities, with 211 small, medium, and micro-sized Enterprises (SMMEs) appointed. Among these job opportunities, 856 were for women, and 4,061 were youth employment opportunities,” he said.
He adds that the commitment and determination of PRASA employees who worked tirelessly to restore passenger rail services, has helped the agency in the repair of the country’s passenger rail corridors.
“A multidisciplinary war room was set up led by engineers and corridor project leaders and other senior PRASA senior managers to manage the rebuilding project effectively and efficiently. To expedite the recovery of services, an Acceleration Programme was developed to make sure targets and deadlines were met consistently.”
The end of September saw the commuter rail service from Pretoria to Kempton Park resume its commercial service, bringing the number of recovered lines by the agency to 20.
At a recent Southern African Railway Association conference in Johannesburg, the Group CEO said significant strides are being made in recovering the passenger rail network.
“To date, 26 of the 40 corridors have been recovered, with over 19 million passengers using the services to date. Just on the corridor recovery we have spent R3.6 billion to date in this financial year, with more than 6 000 jobs created,” he said at the gathering.
Asked about the public’s response to the restoration of services, Emeran said that the PRASA services have brought much-needed financial relief to commuters who on average were spending 40% of their income on transport costs.
“PRASA has restored corridors across the country to the relief of 19 million commuters that are now using the trains. We are bringing a modern travel experience for commuters and the commuters and communities love the new trains. We have introduced new high-tech electric trains on some of the corridors,” he said.
Modernisation
The new Isitimela Sabantu trains sport automated doors, built-in safety features, CCTV cameras, and they don’t move when the doors are open for the safety of commuters. The air-conditioned cars are designed for the comfort of commuters.
Meanwhile, PRASA is set to increase its capital spending over the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) with a budget of over R50 billion for rolling stock and infrastructure investments. The increased capital spending is due to the reopening of some of the key corridors.
“Now we plan on spending R50 billion from this financial year and over the next three years to support the modernisation of the passenger rail network and the implementation of our turnaround plans," he said.
Progress made in rehabilitating the lines includes that of the Leralla-Germiston line, which cost under R600 million in rebuilding and rehabilitating. The rehabilitation included the six stations the train stops at, the overhead electrical cables that power the trains and the substations that feed power to the network. The train stops at Leralla, Limindlela, Tembisa, Kempton Park, Rhodesfield and Germiston stations.
Security
In the fight against theft and vandalism, in August the agency announced that its Protection Services Officers had been declared Peace Officers as per Section 334 of the Criminal Procedures Act, giving them law enforcement powers similar to those of police officers.
The Peace Officer status gives them the powers to make arrests, issue written notices in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act, complete dockets, and powers to detain.
“They have been deployed to key corridors to safeguard the rail infrastructure and ensure the protection and safety of our commuters.”
The group CEO added that there are plans to train more PRASA Protection Officers to be Peace Officer across the country.
The agency has also developed an integrated security plan, collaborating with law enforcement agencies.
“Part of the strategy is to increase boots on the ground, in our trains, stations and platforms. Since implementing this comprehensive security plan, we have seen a 70% reduction in security-related incidents, an achievement that we commend,” he said.
Festive season
While the country continues to mark Transport Month, it is also inching closer to the busy festive season and the agency has plans in place to transport commuters to their various holiday destinations.
“The festive season is our busiest period for our long-distance transport services. Plans are in place for the long-distance traveling for the holiday season – whether by bus or train. Shosholoza Meyl and our Autopax bus services – Translux and Transnet, will be moving people to their various destinations during the holiday period,” said Emeran.
No doubt PRASA is on track to deliver services. –SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 14:28
208 views
Bring it home boys! Go Bokke!
Dear Editor The DA wishes the Springboks success in the 2023 World Cup final in Paris, France tomorrow. Despite a challenging tournament and attempts to derail their focus, they have shown true South African spirit, overcame adversity and are on the cusp of making history. Your journey has already made us proud. Coach Jacques Nienaber …
Government put to terms over cost of living crisis
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Gabriel Burns from Treverton College Enduro placed 2nd in youth category in South African Cycling Champs
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Welkom municipal workers react angrily after learning they won’t be paid
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Starbucks takes Sea Point
Starbucks takes Sea Point Starbucks South Africa is delighted to announce the opening of a new double-story store in the picturesque neighbourhood of Sea Point, Cape Town. Situated along the stunning Atlantic coastline, Sea Point is a community like no other — a blend of scenic beauty, diverse population, enjoying an array of lifestyle choices. …
SAA officially relaunched
SAA officially relaunched
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan says despite all the challenges it has faced, South African Airways (SAA) has a “tremendously bright future" if its current expansion is properly managed.
The Minister officially relaunched SAA on Thursday at an event that also marked the restart of the State-owned airliner’s direct flights to São Paulo, Brazil.
“Notwithstanding State capture, notwithstanding the COVID pandemic, SAA is where it is today. What we can see ahead of ourselves, as part of the recovery of SAA, is a tremendously bright future, if we manage the current expansion properly but also conclude the deal with the equity partner, which should be concluded either late this year or early next year.
“That will add a lot more money... to SAA to expand and will multiply its capacity to fly South Africans out of South Africa and also bring tourists into South Africa from all parts of the world as it once did, but now in a financially sustainable way,” Gordhan said.
The State-owned airline has endured challenges for several years.
SAA was racked by allegations of fraud and corruption during the State capture years and was also put under business rescue and grounded.
The Minister explained the turnaround for the airline.
“What we have been able to do is to firstly establish that there’s no more money that’s going to come from taxes that’s going to go into SAA, like the R40 billion that went in over a 10-year period. SAA must survive on its own strength... [and] on the capital that is actually provided by the strategic equity partner and it must grow organically. Through the business rescue process, its balance sheet is not encumbered in any kind of way.
“It took three and a half years of very hard work…to ensure that we steer this process. It’s a signal to investors and the investing community in South Africa that reforms are possible in South Africa. That we can execute, just with South African talent, these very complex deals and complex reform processes in State owned entities,” he said.
Gordhan hailed SAA’s new offering to fly to Brazil as just the start for the airline.
“This flight to São Paulo… is an important event because it signifies an important gesture to all those who critically watch what we’re doing with SAA at the moment. There are many naysayers around and many people in the industry - and sometimes outside the industry - who wish it wouldn’t work. But…we are South African and South Africans are known…for resilience, and a sense of vision. We have our pitfalls every now and again.
“But SAA…is going to be a success. This is a sign that the intercontinental flights – not only through code shares, but SAA in its own right – should be around the corner. São Paulo is just the start. We need to see how we can expand the network because…the beneficiary will be South Africans at the end of the day,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 10:38
415 views
SARS apologises to taxpayers
SARS apologises to taxpayers
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has put on hold the SMSs that were sent out earlier this week, referring to possible prosecution of taxpayers for their failure to file their returns, as they are legally obligated to do.
“The SMS that was sent out earlier this week, in relation to outstanding returns fell short of the high professional standard we seek to uphold. SARS therefore sincerely apologises for the manner in which this matter was handled, the frustration it may have caused honest taxpayers, and any inconvenience caused,” SARS said on Thursday.
SARS said the intended message was meant as a genuine and helpful reminder to taxpayers to file tax returns due and fulfil their legal filing obligation.
“While SARS is empowered by law to remind all taxpayers that are still registered with SARS of their legal obligation to file their relevant returns by the due date, SARS does not commence legal action before engaging with taxpayers.”
SARS said that a company is expected to file a return if it meets the following conditions:
- Derived gross income of more than R1 000;
- Held assets with a cost of more than R1 000 or had liabilities of more than R1 000, at any time;
- Derived any capital gain or capital loss of more than R1 000 from the disposal of an asset to which the Eighth Schedule of the Income Tax Act applies; and/or
- Had taxable income, taxable turnover, an assessed loss or an assessed capital loss.
Taxpayers who meet the above conditions must file their returns.
“Unfortunately, SARS’ reminders are ignored by some taxpayers, which means that their situation escalates to levels where legal action may be required. Even then, they are reminded about their obligation to file the outstanding returns,” SARS said.
SARS has reminded taxpayers that it remains their legal obligation to ensure that their tax affairs are regularised, where these are not in order.
“SARS will engage with taxpayers with respect to outstanding returns at the appropriate time. We need to be clear that taxpayers who continue to ignore reminders and fail to regularise their tax matters, in accordance with the law, will eventually have to answer for their continued non-compliance.
“Lastly, SARS appreciates the effort of honest taxpayers who diligently comply and fulfil their obligations. We value your valuable contribution to the important work incumbent on us.” –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 11:58
97 views
Gateway welcomes Santa Shoeboxes in a bid to spread more fancy this festive season
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The Benefits of Prepaid Electricity Meters
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Women in engineering increasing in SA
Women in engineering increasing in SA
While there is still a need to invest in the profession to develop women, South Africa has noticed a growth in females registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), Deputy President Paul Mashatile has said.
“We are now seeing an average of 35% year-on-year growth among registered female engineers in the database of the council,” the Deputy President told the National Council of Provinces on Thursday.
He said there are 7 000 women engineers who are currently registered with the ECSA.
“We agreed that there is a need to ensure that we deliberately target women to consider entering the engineering profession and encourage those who are not registered to register.”
The country’s second-in-command was answering a question about whether the state has any measures to address the dire shortage of women in the engineering profession.
“In our work leading the Human Resource Development Council, we have made a long-term commitment to invest in the skills revolution, especially among women, youth, and persons with disabilities, to build a productive and globally competitive society.”
He also told Parliament that he interacted with the ECSA President Refilwe Buthelezi, CEO Dr Bridget Samula and many engineers in August this year at the UNESCO Africa Engineering gathering.
“We agreed that there is a need to ensure that we deliberately target women to consider entering the engineering profession and encourage those who are not registered to register.
“Empowering female engineers is paramount in achieving sustained development and global competitiveness.”
He said government is championing the implementation of several women empowerment programmes like the Women Economic Assembly (WECONA) launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2021.
WECONA, he explained, is a catalyst platform for women-owned enterprises anchored on collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society.
“This is an ongoing initiative to encourage women to be economically active to bring together the private sector, government and civil society to drive change in the economic landscape.”
Meanwhile, he said the AgriSETA has identified several priority interventions from the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan that speak to empowering women in agricultural engineering and agricultural scientists in the sector.
Together with the Sector Education Training Authorities (SETAs), he said government aims to simplify funding application processes to avoid delays in processing funding for third parties.
This, he noted, slows the government’s efforts to address challenges plaguing women in the sector.
“While government continues to implement programmes to empower women in the engineering sector, there is a need to address the structural challenges of social and gender inequalities hindering their progress.
“As government, we provide social, political, and economic conditions for women to thrive, especially in critical engineering sectors, with our social partners and businesses.”
Agricultural economy
The Deputy President also noted the report issued by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) on the agriculture, forestry and fishing industry, which highlighted an increase of 4.2% in the second quarter of 2023, contributing 0.1 of a percentage point to gross domestic product (GDP) growth.
“Increases in the production of field crops and horticulture products mainly drove this rise in output. Favourable weather conditions, increased cultivation, and increased export demand provided further support,” he explained.
Port of Mossel Bay, he said, has been identified as one of the key strategic points in the market-oriented agricultural economy.
“The improvement of the operational capacity of Mossel Bay Harbour also forms part of the implementation of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, which is aimed at, among other things, modernising and reforming network industries and associated state-owned enterprises.”
He announced there are also plans to boost exports, create employment opportunities, and improve innovation.
“According to the Ministry of Public Enterprises, the improvement of the operational capacity of Mossel Bay Harbour is a long-term project. Therefore, concepts and designs are continuously being refined.”
The first phase, he said, is planned for completion by the end of the 2026/27 financial year, while the final step is scheduled for completion by the 2029/30 financial year.
The country’s second-in-command was responding to the question about the role in leading government efforts to fast-track land reform and the coordination of programmes to accelerate agricultural support to farmers to access international markets and concrete steps in place to improve the operational capacity of Mossel Bay Harbour. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 10:51
62 views
Authorities must take immediate steps to protect persons with albinism against discrimination and advocacy of hatred constituting incitement
Ahead of the court appearance tomorrow of South African traditional healer Bongolethu “Dr Khehlelezi” Mzozo, over a video shared on YouTube in April 2023 spreading misinformation about persons with albinism, Amnesty International and the National Albinism Task Force are calling on the South African government to protect persons with albinism in the country against discrimination, hostility and violence.
Following the release of the video, in line with Section 20 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act 2000 (PEPUDA) (No 4, 2000), the Thembisilemadlala Albinism Foundation supported by The National Albinism Task Force lodged a case with the Equality Court against Khehlelezi, arguing that the video was discriminatory and amounts to “hate speech” against persons with albinism.
Amnesty International's Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah said;
“Persons with albinism are no different from anyone else. They have the right to enjoy all human rights, including the right to be free from discrimination and protected against advocacy of hatred. It is deeply concerning that those with influence in society continue to marginalise and discriminate against persons with albinism. Perpetuating hate and discrimination puts them at serious risk of being harmed.
“The National Albinism Task Force in South Africa and Amnesty International call on the South African government to take immediate steps to respect, promote, and fulfil all the rights of persons with albinism and ensure that all those who violate such rights are held to account. The government must take measures to eradicate discrimination and counter misinformation and stereotypes about persons with albinism.
Chairperson of the National Albinism Task Force in South Africa Patrick Wadula said;
“We call on everyone in South Africa to stand in solidarity with people with albinism by condemning and reporting any behaviour that amounts to advocacy of hatred that constitutes incitement to discriminate against persons with albinism.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Amnesty International.