Flying the kite for mental health
The annual Cape Mental Health kite event was held at Heideveld Sports Field on Tuesday
Homeless people moved to Tshwane hall during Covid lockdown refuse to leave
City says Centurion hall “is becoming a health and safety hazard”
Tracking business banking transactions is now easier with Nedbank’s direct bank feed to Sage
Nedbank Small Business Services clients now enjoy yet another layer of secure banking convenience, thanks to the bank’s implementation of a direct bank feed to Sage Accounting platforms. The solution makes it possible for Nedbank clients with Sage Accounting products to set up a secure, one-way feed easily to export their daily banking transactions from …
USO Medical: Precision and Clarity in Medical Optics
In the world of healthcare and precision medical procedures, clarity and precision are of paramount importance. This is where USO Medical shines, offering a range of optical solutions designed to elevate the standards of medical and dental professionals. Let’s delve into the offerings that set USO Medical apart: Loupes: Precision in Your Line of …
Join The Spooktacular Halloween Costume Contest: Snap, Tag And Win!
Calling all witches, ghouls and creatures of the night! This Halloween, Bay Harbour Market is your hauntingly good destination. Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween with Cape Town’s favourite market. That’s right! Bay Harbour Market has a Halloween Best-Dressed Giveaway coming up. Here’s How to Enter: 1. Dress to Impress: Don your most creative, scary …
Treasury extends Eskom Municipal Debt Relief Support Programme
On 31 March 2023, National Treasury's Intergovernmental Relations unit issued MFMA Circular No. 124 (https://bit.ly/43DcphL) as part of the Eskom Municipal Debt Relief. Government's debt relief package for Eskom is intended to improve the utility's balance sheet and facilitates the proposal for Eskom to write off municipal debt under strict conditions and with the guidance of the National Treasury. The primary problem government wants to solve is Eskom's financial and debt crisis which also requires a solution for non-payment of electricity consumption by municipalities.
Following the issuance of the Municipal Debt Relief MFMA Circular No. 124, the National Treasury's Intergovernmental Relations unit embarked on a national roadshow to engage provincial treasuries and municipalities on the contents of the Circular, and to encourage qualifying municipalities to apply for the debt relief programme. The workshops aimed to eliminate misconceptions, clarify areas municipalities may be unclear on, and unpack the conditions attached to participating in the programme.
Of South Africa's 257 municipalities, 136 municipalities owed Eskom R58.5bn in arrears debt as of 31 March 2023. As of 22 September 2023, 37 municipalities have applied to be part of the Eskom Municipal Debt Relief Support Programme, 28 of the 37 have been approved with 9 of them still being assessed. There are 25 additional applications resting with the respective provincial treasury for submission for approval.
The closing date for the Eskom Municipal Debt Relief Support Programme was set for the 30th of September 2023 and has now been extended to 31 October 2023 to accommodate more municipalities into the programme.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Treasury, Republic of South Africa.
Unica: Where Innovation Meets Everyday Convenience
In the world of modern living, convenience and innovation often go hand in hand. Unica, a name synonymous with quality and innovation, learn more, brings you a range of products designed to enhance your everyday life. Let’s delve into some of Unica’s offerings, each catering to a specific aspect of your daily needs: The …
New online service a milestone for Justice Department
New online service a milestone for Justice Department
The newly launched Masters' Deceased Estate Online Registration System is a milestone for how the Masters' office renders services to the public.
This is according to Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola, who was addressing the launch of the system on Tuesday.
“This system will be a catalyst to changing this environment…. modernising it, digitising it, and making it accessible to members of the public and also all the professional bodies that operate in the space of the Master's [office] services,” he said.
The new online system will, amongst others, allow members of the public to register deceased estates either in the comfort of their homes, offices or anywhere in the world, without having to visit a Master's office (except with the lodgement of original wills). Online registrations will also speed up the registration process and ensure quicker availability of the details/particulars of the beneficiaries and trustees.
With the electronic booking of appointments -- where a client needs to physically visit a Master's office -- the client will be able to choose a suitable date and time slot for their appointment.
Lamola said the system will also protect clients from fraudulent activities.
“We are also aware of the challenges that you as stakeholders have also suffered not only in terms of accessing our services but also in terms of the manipulators of the system… such as fraudulent letters of authority and so forth. Already, the risks have been mitigated and we believe that if we all follow those systems, we’ll be able to guard against further fraudulent activities by unscrupulous players out there.
“We hope that the LPC [Legal Practice Council] will play its role on the unscrupulous attorneys who also sometimes take their chances and also hopefully the accounting profession will do the same with the accountants who also sometimes take… advantage of the unsuspecting members of the public,” he said.
Lamola said that the digitisation of services of the Master’s office is the beginning of a migration of most of the department’s services.
“It has been a long journey for the department to reach this milestone but we are very excited that we have reached it and there is a foundation that has been laid in terms of digitising and modernising the entire justice system.
“So what you see today is part of our vision not only for the Master's office but also in terms of online maintenance, in terms of liquidations… and all the services that the Master’s provide [and] also the courts... We have already seen court online, cases online and the various platforms that the department is trying infuse to modernise the entire administration of the justice system,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 12:52
443 views
TopClick: Your Gateway to Digital Success
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, achieving online visibility and success is a pursuit that requires expertise, dedication, and a strategic approach. This is where TopClick emerges as a beacon of guidance and excellence, offering a dynamic duo of services that can propel your business to new heights: SEO Services and Google Ads. Learn …
Transit camp for fire victims burns down in Durban
60 families left homeless after a fire in Foreman informal settlement on Sunday
Top Care Women’s Clinic: Your Partner in Women’s Wellness
In the journey of life, health and well-being take center stage, and when it comes to women’s health, having a trusted partner by your side can make all the difference. That’s where Top Care Women’s Clinic steps in, offering a range of essential services that prioritize your wellness and empower you to make informed choices …
Programme to assist unemployed people acquire driving licenses
Programme to assist unemployed people get driving licenses
The KwaZulu-Natal Transport Department has called on all unemployed citizens in the province to apply for a programme designed to assist them get drivers' licenses and increase their chances of getting a job.
As part of the provincial Transport Month campaign, Transport, Community Safety and Liaison MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, launched the Thuthuka Driving Skills Programme that will assist more than 3 000 people across all age groups to get free learners and driving licences from Code 08 to Code 14.
“This is part of our ongoing contribution to job creation because we know that when people have licences, they stand a better chance of being employed across all sectors. We have already begun to engage with the driving schools’ executives to bring them on board and work with them in rolling out this programme,” Hlomuka said.
Hlomuka added that through the Thuthuka Driving Skills Programme initiative, the department is working on the eligibility criteria for obtaining a driver licence.
To access the application form for the programme, click on https://bit.ly/3ZNieZ0, alternatively, you may access the form on the department’s website http://www.kzntransport.gov.za then click on Electronic Reading Room on the left-hand sidebar and choose forms from the options, then choose forms again. Click on the Thuthuka Skills Development Programme Application Form in order to download and fill out the form.
Completed forms may be handed in at the nearest Department of Transport Regional Office or Cost Centre office, as well as the department’s Head Office.
Applications for the programme close on 17 October 2023.
Protests by internal contract workers condemned
Meanwhile, Hlomuka has condemned the protests by the department’s internal contract workers, which has seen the attack of department officials and government cars being stoned.
The protests have been taking place at various departmental offices due to grievances surrounding the recruitment process of Road Worker Aides.
Hlomuka said, as part of S’thesha Waya Waya, more than 5 978 posts were advertised for Road Worker Aids and Grader Operators.
The MEC noted that due to the number of posts, the department knew that there would be a huge number of people applying, and in the process “a lot of dissatisfaction to many people seeking employment, even among our own internal contractor workers who are employed through the Vukayibambe Routine Road Maintenance Programme”.
“We have labour laws in the country and if people are unhappy about the recruitment process there are clear channels to follow. Where there are genuine complaints, we have directed the Head of Department to investigate any concerns and call upon our contract workers to not resort to violence,” Hlomuka said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 12:54
1346 views
Harnessing Clean Energy: Exploring Solar Panels for Sale
In an era where environmental consciousness is on the rise, the search for clean and renewable energy sources has gained significant momentum. Among the most accessible and sustainable options available today are solar panels. As the world strives to reduce its carbon footprint and combat climate change, the adoption of solar energy has become more …
Tjhoko Paint: Transforming Surfaces with Ease and Care
In the realm of home improvement and DIY projects, finding a paint that effortlessly transforms surfaces while also being kind to the environment is like discovering a hidden gem. Tjhoko Paint is that gem, contact us. Offering a range of benefits that make it a favourite among DIY enthusiasts and eco-conscious individuals alike. Let’s dive …
Local government called to drive tourism investment
Local government called to drive tourism investment
KwaZulu-Natal Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Siboniso Duma, has challenged local government to drive tourism through investment in socio-economic infrastructure.
“Our view is that local government is where tourism happens, and this is why local government is best placed to create a memorable experience for tourists,” Duma said.
Duma was speaking at the Provincial Tourism and Investment Committee (PTIC) meeting, held at Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre on Tuesday.
The PTIC, which includes representatives of KZN metropolitan, district and local municipalities; CEOs of public entities and private sector organisations, seeks to deliberate on radical industry transformation matters.
The meeting aimed to assess progress in relation to investments in socio-economic infrastructure in various municipalities across the province.
In his opening remarks, Duma said local government aims to ensure that KZN is amongst the top tourist destinations.
“Each one of us here has a special role to play in making this a reality-in one way or another, we have a direct impact on the future of tourism," Duma said.
Duma said the province is lobbying and bidding to host the national and international events, as part of the stimulation of tourism.
“We hosted, successfully, the MTN 8 Finals over the weekend. We will be hosting the South African Music Awards around 17 to 18 November at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre.
“KZN will be put firmly on the map as we host the jewel of the creative industry. We will be doing destination marketing and activations in various parts of the province,” Duma said.
To achieve this, he said all municipalities must play a role and maximise the considerable job creating potential of the tourism sector.
“The tourism sector is a national priority sector with enormous potential to promote economic development, thus requiring of municipalities to promote it and support it. We must pride ourselves on a responsible, sustainable and transforming sector,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 15:22
26 views
Store2Door: Your One-Stop Destination for All Your Needs
In the bustling world of today, convenience is a treasure, and finding a place that caters to a wide array of needs is a boon. Store2Door, a haven for those seeking ease and efficiency, brings a diverse range of products right to your doorstep. Let’s explore the extensive categories that Store2Door offers, learn more. Ensuring …
Afrika Tikkun Bambanani – 444 campaign for Early Childhood Development
Afrika Tikkun Bambanani’s mission revolves around Early Childhood Development (ECD), a critical phase in a child’s life. ECD encompasses those tender years from 2 to 6, often referred to as the Nursery School years. It’s during this period that young minds are like sponges, eager to soak up knowledge and build the foundation for a …
Border Management Authority announces appointment of Spokesperson
The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Mmemme Mogotsi to lead the Communications and Marketing unit of the BMA with effect from 01 October 2023. Ms Mogotsi is appointed as Deputy Assistant Commissioner who also assumes the role of Spokesperson for the BMA.
Ms Mogotsi is a seasoned communicator, having worked in various organisations including Standard Bank, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, the 2010 FIFA World Cup Government Unit and at GCIS responsible for international media relations. She boasts an enviable experience of more than 20 years in the domestic and international communications environment. She also served as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) National Media Coordinator for South Africa as well as Presidential media support for the World Economic Forum events, amongst others.
“I wish to welcome Ms Mogotsi in this important role and confident that she has high capabilities of driving the communication and marketing programme to profile the BMA's efforts in ensuring secure borders for development. She was seconded to the BMA immediately after her appointment and demonstrated multiskilled techniques in promoting the BMA brand. I believe that Ms Mogotsi will add tremendous value to our cross-border communications initiatives”, Commissioner Masiapato said.
Ms Mogotsi has strong, proven management experience with qualifications in Journalism, Marketing and Graphic Design acquired from South African universities and has attended a number of courses abroad.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Border Management Authority, South Africa.
Going under the radar will suit a South Africa team ‘free of baggage’
South Africa’s total against Sri Lanka was the highest in ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup history and caused the cricketing world to sit up and take notice but they will need a few more centuries before people back home start believing the Proteas can win their first World Cup. After all, they have seen it …
Zikalala outlines vision to advance EPWP outcomes
Zikalala outlines vision to advance EPWP outcomes
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Sihle Zikalala has called for the restructuring of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to make it more responsive to the country’s development needs.
The Minister was addressing the two-day EPWP Phase 5 Indaba in Pretoria on Tuesday.
Zikalala emphasised that youth unemployment is still the most pressing issue across the globe, and was worsened by the devastation emanating from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The South African youth is disproportionately affected, constituting a huge portion of the unemployed youth that feels left out,” Zikalala said.
In the same vein, the Minister said the challenges that have compromised the EPWP must be dealt with.
“…The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure cannot afford to relegate its mandate to be limited to merely reporting on targets than being actively involved itself in creating job opportunities,” Zikalala said.
The Minister said ultimately, the EPWP must lead to enhanced future employability, self-employment, and cooperatives or enterprises that can employ more people.
“Our goal goes beyond employment generation. It is about nurturing a skilled, self-reliant populace that contributes constructively to our nation’s socio-economic fabric.
“By integrating NYS [National Youth Service] graduates into these workshops, we aim to foster a culture of continuous learning and hands-on experience, ensuring our youth are not just employable, but are drivers of innovation and change.
“Our initiative to absorb some of the NYS graduates from the EPWP into the DPWI workshops is thus a cornerstone of this vision,” Zikalala said.
Breaking unemployment barriers
The Minister said some young adults, now in their 40s, have never had the opportunity to work.
“Youth unemployment is still the most pressing issue across the globe, and this was worsened by the devastation emanating from the COVID-19 pandemic. The unemployment rate remains stubbornly high at 32.6% in South Africa.
“Last month, the United Nations joined many others to describe our unemployment picture as a ticking time bomb,” the Minister said.
He said the country’s fiscal standing must be used as a “call to arms” for fostering a culture of effective coordination across all spheres of government.
“It is also an invitation to collectively devise funding mechanisms that are not just effective, but sustainable.”
EPWP of the Future
According to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the two-day indaba will be an interactive session aimed at the reconceptualisation and redesigning of the EPWP of the Future.
The indaba has brought together a host of stakeholders from all spheres of government, civil society and the private sector to brainstorm on the formulation of the EPWP Phase 5 business plan, which will be presented to Cabinet before the end of the year.
Last year, the DPWI developed the EPWP Policy and it was approved by Cabinet on 31 August 2022 for public consultation.
The EPWP is one of government’s strategies to alleviate poverty through the creation of work opportunities using labour-intensive methods.
It is implemented in four sectors, namely: infrastructure, social, environment and culture, and non-State. All spheres of government and State-owned entities are expected to implement the programme. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 10/10/2023 - 13:26
117 views
New Journey, New Life – Ride Green Life
Johannesburg, 10 October 2023 – OMODA, a newcomer in automotive avant-garde aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, has announced its upcoming Global User Ecosystem Summit to be held in China, from 15 – 19 October. This exclusive annual gathering, designed for OMODA car owners, will unite OMODERS, key opinion leaders (KOLs), and prominent media figures to co-create …
Trenton Collaborates With Sneaker Shack
The renowned international fashion brand Trenton, teamed up with South Africa’s largest sneaker laundry, Sneaker Shack, to launch their latest campaign. This campaign focusses on refreshing and reviving your UGG sneakers keeping it looking fresh throughout the season. As a token of appreciation to their customers for their loyalty, Trenton is offering customers a free …
Nontsikelelo Biko Honoured At Upcoming Black Nurses Forum Event
6 October 2023, Johannesburg – On 14 October 2023, Nontsikelelo Biko, the wife of the late Steve Biko, will be honoured at an event hosted by the Black Nurses Forum. The Black Nurses Forum was launched in November 2015 as a means to restore the reputation of the nursing profession and to strengthen relations between …