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News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The evolution of home lighting has been nothing short of revolutionary. From the humble candle to the electric bulb, and now to intelligent lighting systems, the way we light up our homes has transformed dramatically. Today, we stand at the cusp of another significant shift: the era of Smart Lighting. Let’s delve into this fascinating …
Dear Editor The news that government has dropped the requirements for its COVID-19 Tourism Relief Fund from 51% to 30% Black ownership is nothing more than a veiled admission that BBEEE simply is not working. But for government to “save face” they could not completely scrap this requirement. Although there is no doubt that this …
Calling all budding environmentalists! The Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) is thrilled to announce once again its exhilarating City-funded Climate Change School Holiday Programme, set to ignite the passion for environmental stewardship among local youth. From October 2nd to October 6th, 2023, GTP invites young conservationists aged 14 to 18 from the Greater Tygerberg area and …
Dear Editor The DA welcomes the progress on the processing of the long-awaited Climate Change Bill. Today the portfolio committee on Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment agreed to a motion of desirability on the Climate Change Bill after a series of amendments were considered and agreed to. The Bill, a first of its kind for …
As energy plays a large and very critical role in dairy processing, this sector places a significant emphasis on energy efficiency and cost management, to ensure that essential dairy goods are delivered to consumers as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. Leading South African operations and maintenance service provider to the steam and boiler sector, Associated …
SIU granted order to freeze KZN NLC official’s bank accounts
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has been granted a preservation order by the Special Tribunal to freeze approximately R2.4 million held in four bank accounts linked to a KwaZulu-Natal National Lotteries Commission’s (NLC) official and his wife.
According to the SIU statement, the money was paid into the accounts by non-profit organisations that received funding from the NLC to improve the conditions of ordinary South Africans, but made its way into the bank accounts for self-enrichment.
“An investigation by the SIU into the affairs of the NLC revealed that [Sibonelo] Vilakazi approached daycare centres and football clubs in KZN to apply for grant funding. Immediately after receiving funding, football clubs and care centres would transfer large sums of money into 05 ZZET ENTERPRISES (PTY) LTD’s bank account and those linked to Zuma and Vilakazi.
“A report by the Financial Intelligence Centre states that 05 ZZET Enterprises received multiple electronic fund transfer payments from several care centres and football clubs of approximately R 32 259 707. SIU investigations show that more than 400 care centres and football clubs made payments to accounts linked to Vilakazi and Zuma from money received from the NLC between 2019 and 2023,” SIU spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago said.
In terms of the order dated 13 September 2023, the suspended NLC official Sibonelo Vilakazi, his wife Nosipho Zanele Zuma and 05 ZZET ENTERPRISES (PTY) LTD, solely owned by Zuma, are prohibited from dealing in any manner with funds held in the frozen bank accounts.
“In August 2023, the Tribunal granted a similar order pending the intervention application by the SIU in a matter brought by Zuma against First National Bank (FNB) before the High Court of South Africa: Kwa-Zulu Natal Local Division, Durban, and the subsequent conclusion of the main application to be brought by the SIU in the Special Tribunal.
“The bank had frozen Zuma’s bank accounts through its own processes. The High Court granted the order in favour of Zuma [and] as a result, the SIU approached the Special Tribunal to vary the order so that it was not dependent on any other court process,” Kganyago said.
The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R32 of 2020, authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of NLC and the conduct of NLC officials and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State.
The SIU has been granted a preservation order to freeze approximately R2.4 million, pending the final determination of a civil action to be brought by the Unit within 60 days. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 11:57
The winner of the Algoa FM Cruise to Dubai with XL Bay Travel competition is Lynn Oberem. Speaking after the draw at the Algoa FM studios, Oberem said she would be taking her daughter in law on the cruise. Oberem was the finalist from The Drive with Vinny in East London She who had a …
Cape St Francis – The entries are now open for the final event in the Rip Curl GromSearch series 2023. Entries – Surfing South Africa The tournament will take place from 29 September – 1 October. This year, it’s all eyes on the Premier U16 division, where the winners will not only claim the coveted …
On Wednesday, 13 September, Premier Alan Winde visited Nampo Cape 2023, held in Bredasdorp. Nampo is South Africa’s largest agricultural exhibition. He engaged with exhibitors showcasing all the latest technology being developed in agriculture. “This sector is bursting with innovation!” enthused Premier Winde, adding, “Stakeholders in the agricultural sector are in many ways leading the …
Dear Editor The country is currently in an elevated schedule of load-shedding yet, according to Eskom’s system update released this morning, zero Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGTs) have been utilised in the past 24 hours. This can only mean one thing, either Eskom has run out of diesel, or money or both. If the diesel …
12 September 2023, Johannesburg – The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd (FEM) will be hosting its annual Safetember Conference this month. FEM is a mutual insurer that provides workmen’s compensation cover to the construction industry. The conference is part of a broader “Safetember” campaign that uses the month of September to shine …
Repairs to damaged Etwatwa water infrastructure underway
The City of Ekurhuleni says repairs to the damaged water infrastructure at Etwatwa in Germiston, is estimated to be completed on Saturday.
This follows the vandalism of the Etwatwa Extension 19 reservoir pump station on Tuesday, leaving residents without water.
The city’s spokesman, Zweli Dlamini said the incident was discovered by municipal workers on Wednesday morning.
Dlamini said, technicians are on site conducting repairs to the damaged infrastructure and the estimation is that “repairs will be completed on Saturday, 16 September.”
The areas affected by the incident include, Emaphupheni; Mandela; Citicon; Etwatwa East; and Etwatwa extensions 19 and 36.
“The city condemns such acts of vandalism in the strongest possible terms. Many innocent ratepayers are now feeling the pinch of this senseless act of thuggery. The cables that were cut were discovered at the scene, however, the electrical panel is extremely damaged hence the delay in the repairs.”
Roving water tankers have been provided to the affected areas, and updates on any developments will be communicated through the city’s digital platforms.
The city appeals to members of the public to protect municipal infrastructure and report any suspicious activities to 0860 54 3000.
The city has also urged residents to put an end to illegal dumping and report it on 086 453 000. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 12:29
Africa's boldest and most ambitious cleantech start-ups will take part in the Energy Investment Village (https://apo-opa.info/468SsAw), an exciting deal-pitching event at the Green Energy Africa Summit (https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com), to be held in the heart of South Africa's Cape Town on 10-11 October at the CTICC2.
Held under the theme, “Unlocking Africa's Sustainable Energy Potential,” the Green Energy Africa Summit (GEAS) will provide unrivalled opportunities throughout its two-day programme for the continent's leaders in energy, finance, and social development, to meet with international investors, to find sustainable solutions to Africa's energy needs and a just transition to a green economy.
This highly anticipated event advocates for the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, as well as policy reforms, to help usher in an energy transition that ensures the continent remains competitive and attractive to global finance. With over 1000 delegates from 67 countries, GEAS invites both public and private stakeholders across the energy value chain to collaborate, offer solutions, and build partnerships to help unlock Africa's true socioeconomic potential.
GEAS is thrilled to welcome its strategic industry partners, including The Banking Association of South Africa (https://www.Banking.org.za/) and The African Forum for Utility Regulators (https://AFURnet.org/). This year's agenda features a strong mix of discussions within dedicated content streams, from the Energy Strategy Forum on day one, to the Green Energy and Green Finance Forums on day two. Attendees can look forward to country and regional spotlights on South Africa and West Africa, as well as sessions led by finance and energy heavyweights. Find the full GEAS 2023 agenda here: https://apo-opa.info/3rfJNxm
The Energy Investment Village (EIV) is the GEAS's Lion's Den-style pitching event for cleantech companies, which will be held on 11 October. The finalists will be given an extraordinary opportunity to gain exposure, network with potential clients, and receive vital market validation. Most importantly, they will be given the chance to pitch for funding (https://apo-opa.info/468SsAw) from international investors.
“Africa's traditional, fossil-fuel-based energy cannot keep pace with its swift development. While the continent's abundance of natural resources can enable clean energy innovations, constraints like access to finance impedes the opportunities for local clean-tech innovators. Events such as the EIV open up direct pathways to decision-makers and funders, and are a critical enabler of the clean-tech ecosystem,” says RIIS CEO Davis Cook.
In partnership with Saldanha Bay Innovation Campus (https://www.InnovationCampus.co.za/), RIIS (https://EnablingInnovation.Africa/), and Anza Capital (https://Anza.Holdings/), and supported by Africa Scotland, JSE, Oceanhub-Africa, Savant, Firecracker, CHIETA, and SASOL, the EIV is delighted to introduce the outstanding finalists that have been selected to present their projects, which aim to revolutionise the energy landscape and promote sustainable development in Africa:
Don't miss out on the chance to engage with these visionary entrepreneurs and experts, as they demonstrate how their projects will address the energy challenges across Africa. From scalable solutions for rural communities, to innovative grid technologies, these finalists promise to inspire, educate, and shape a greener future for the continent.
Organised by Hyve Group Plc., the Green Energy Africa Summit is where the world connects with the African Energy sector. Register to attend here https://GreenEnergyAfricaSummit.com/. Attend the Green Energy Africa Summit to be part of the solution and connect with industry leaders, charting the way towards a sustainable clean energy transition for Africa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Green Energy Africa Summit.
Media Contact:
Amie Sparrow
PR Manager
amie.sparrow@hyve.group
About Green Energy Africa Summit:
The Green Energy Africa Summit is a high-level gathering advocating for policy reforms and the harmonisation of Africa's natural resources, to help pave the way for a just energy transition to ensure Africa remains competitive and attractive to global finance. Green Energy Africa Summit takes place in the heart of Cape Town at the Cape Town International Convention Centre 2 (CTICC2) from 10-11 October 2023.
Gain free access to SA's National Parks
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy has urged South Africans to take advantage of the free access granted to the country’s National Parks during SA National Parks Week.
Addressing a media briefing in Pretoria on Friday, the Minister said National Parks Week runs from 16 - 24 September 2023.
“National Parks Week is an ideal opportunity for us to introduce the majesty and beauty of the country’s national parks to the people, especially to communities who seldom get to experience and enjoy these areas of conservation, cultural heritage and biological diversity, right on their doorstep,” Creecy said.
The free access offered through the South African National Parks (SANParks) system is aimed at inspiring people to take pride in the country’s cultural heritage while spending time in and with nature.
She said elderly people who have lived all their lives next to a National Park without ever seeing what is on the other side of the fence must be taken in their thousands to go and visit their neighbouring National Parks.
SANParks will again host pupils, pensioners, persons with disabilities and many others. In order to qualify for free entry, all South Africans are encouraged to carry their identity documents; children below the age of 16 will not be required to provide identification.
“Since the inception of the South African National Parks Week in 2006, more than 619 292 South Africans, who may not otherwise had an opportunity to visit a national park, have participated.
“I am pleased to note that National Parks Week has gripped the imagination of some of our provincial conservation authorities, with the Limpopo Tourism Agency and North West Tourism and Parks Board joining to host Mahala Week where select game reserves in the provinces are offering free access as well,” Creecy said.
The Minister said conservation and the protection of the country’s rich biodiversity is a commitment that must be achieved, especially as government works towards expanding the conservation estate to meet international commitments and work to protect the natural world in a sustainable way for current and future generations.
Under the established theme Know Your National Parks – this year’s SA National Parks Week campaign kicks off in the Kruger National Park.
This world-renowned park is not only South Africa’s first national park but is also the largest spanning 19 458 square kilometres.
The Kruger is the sixth largest national park in Africa and not only boasts the iconic Big Five alongside a wide variety of wildlife and plants but is also home to unique landscapes and biomes.
“SANParks is among our institutions that is reliant on revenue generated from its tourism offerings and other activities. Tourism is an important part of our country’s economy and contributes significantly to Gross Domestic Product and job creation.
“As a preferred tourist destination, we should not lose sight of the importance of continuing to find innovative ways to continue to grow this sector. Key to this remains the partnerships between government, communities and the private sector. It is thus important to acknowledge the much needed assistance from the National Department of Tourism, which has supported several infrastructure projects in our national parks,” the Minister said.
She said R273 million has been spent on 863 Small, Medium and Micro enterprises (SMMEs) through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), creating more than 5 364 full-time equivalent work opportunities in communities where there is little other formal employment.
“Every day, an average of 7 500 individuals employed by the EPWP enter our national parks and do crucial work such as land rehabilitation, cleaning of beaches, support of rangers and infrastructure maintenance,” Creecy said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 11:05
Woodstock residents intend to appeal, saying they support social housing but some green space needed
SA, Vietnam to increase, diversify trade
It is important to increase and diversify South African exports to Vietnam in order to cover more value added items, says Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina.
The Deputy Minister was addressing a roundtable discussion on Vietnam-South Africa Economic Cooperation on the occasion of 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries in Pretoria on Thursday.
The roundtable interrogated economic areas of mutual interest for a shared future and was attended by Vietnamese officials and businesses in various fields such as energy, coal, pharmaceuticals, agriculture products, seafood and logistics, among others.
The session provided an opportunity for South African and Vietnamese business to match up investment and import-export opportunities.
Gina said trade between the two countries was slowly growing and mostly in favour of Vietnam.
Bilateral trade between South Africa and Vietnam was valued at R23.8 billion in 2022, up from R16 billion in 2018.
The trade balance amounted to R13.3 billion in favour of Vietnam.
Against this background, Gina said, it was important to increase and diversify exports to cover more value added items.
South Africa’s major exports product include maize that accounted for 53% of total SA exports to Vietnam.
South Africa has identified products with export potential such as citrus, apples, steel and aluminium, leathers, polypropylene, meat products, among other products.
“South Africa's basket of imports from Vietnam is dominated by manufactured products such as telephone sets (36.6%), footwear (10.9%), printing machinery (3.9%), SA imports from Vietnam are a bit diversified as compared to SA exports to Vietnam,” said the Deputy Minister.
South African exports to Vietnam are mostly primary products like oil and steel, aluminium, sea food, fresh fruits and nuts, in contrary, there is a scope for South Africa to increase exports of manufactured goods such as capital equipment, agro processing, automotive components.
“There is a need to diversify SA’s export basket and shape the massive trade deficit. Both countries need to make concerted efforts to increase South Africa’s value added products to Vietnam,” said Gina.
The Deputy Minister encouraged Vietnamese business people to explore investment opportunities in South Africa.
“With regards to the investment and cooperation on electric vehicle and battery manufacturing, the levels of investment remain low but there is room for improvement. The development of our automotive industry, in particular electric vehicles and their associated components such as batteries is key to our economy,” Gina said.
She mentioned furniture manufacturing as one area of interest and said South Africa would like to cooperate with Vietnam in this sector and receive investment.
She said there was so much that both countries can learn from each other.
Taking into account South Africa's abundant natural resources and Vietnam's position as the world's second-largest furniture exporter, Gina said there was a need to engage more and develop mutually beneficial areas of cooperation.
The roundtable was preceded by a bilateral meeting between Gina and her Vietnamese counterpart, Phan Thi Thang.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss bilateral trade and investment issues including a follow-up on the outcomes of the 5th SA-Vietnam Joint Trade Committee.
Some of the key issues the two discussed include increasing and diversification of exports to Vietnam, expansion of investment by Vietnamese companies in South Africa, cooperation on the Automotive sector (electric vehicles), cooperation on furniture manufacturing and market access for agricultural products. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 09:53
Magalies Water warns of possible water supply interruptions
Magalies Water has warned consumers receiving water supply from the Cullinan Supply Scheme of possible water supply interruptions due to increased water demand.
The entity said the higher-than-normal water consumption patterns have strained the supply.
“This has caused reduced abstraction rates from the Wilge Dam, through which the supply scheme is linked, and will result in water supply interruptions until the scheme subsidises.
“Due to increased water demand and the subsequent strain on the scheme, we urge consumers to use water sparingly, in order to prevent prolonged water supply interruptions. Magalies Water apologises for the inconvenience that this may cause,” said Magalies Water spokesperson David Magae. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 09:33
While we can’t control everything, there are many things within our control – and, one of the most important of these is drawing up a will and ensuring that it is regularly updated. With 11 – 15 September recognised as National Wills Week in South Africa, it is the perfect time to knuckle down and …
Family receives R340,000 payout after death of miner who suffered from silicosis
Heavy-duty indoor logo mats are high-quality floor coverings designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and provide effective dirt and moisture control in indoor settings. These mats are not only functional but also serve as branding tools by featuring custom logos, designs, or messages. They are commonly used in commercial spaces, retail stores, office buildings, hotels, …
Mostly young people stand in line for hours
Law enforcement honing in on illegal mining kingpins
Law enforcement agencies have set their sights on arresting the kingpins which perpetuate illegal mining in South Africa.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who was addressing the media on Thursday the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
“In the first quarter of 2023 the Hawks arrested 611 suspects and seized various items including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R6 112 768 985.
“In addition, law enforcement arrested nine zama zama [illegal mining] kingpins and were granted preservation orders against their assets that include luxury vehicles such as a Lamborghini and precious metals and cash to the value of R34 million.
“This goes against the narrative that says in our fight against zama zamas we are only targeting runners. We are targeting the kingpins,” she said.
Ntshavheni said Cabinet had commended law enforcement agencies on “their fight to dismantle crime syndicates”.
“The successful actions in dealing with a heavily armed gang linked to a series of cash in transit heists in Limpopo is commendable. Cabinet reiterates that law enforcement should leave no stone unturned in dealing with those who seek to undermine South Africa’s national security and the laws of the Republic,” she said.
Turning to issues related to personal protective equipment (PPE) corruption, the Minister explained that although it is taking some time, progress is being made to bring wrongdoers to book.
“Cabinet welcomed the arrest of nine Northern Cape Department of Health officials for PPE corruption. The suspects are accused of fraud, corruption, money laundering and contravening the Public Finance Management Act.
“We know the impatience of our people in terms of the arrests of PPE corrupt officials and their business partners, but we are gradually making progress,” she said.
Regarding Operation Bring Back – which seeks to identify and recover illegally occupied buildings owned by the state – Minister Ntshavheni said Cabinet commended efforts to wrestle back control of hijacked buildings.
“As part of this initiative, the national government is providing support to municipalities to ensure the enforcement of by-laws to eradicate hijacking of buildings, their effective management and utilisation, and ability to account for the utilisation of government’s immovable assets,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 11:06
Draft bills approved for public comment
Cabinet has approved the publication of various draft bills for public comment, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Thursday.
She was addressing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
The draft bills include the Draft Aquaculture Development Bill and the Draft National State Enterprises Bill.
“The purpose of the [Draft Aquaculture Development] Bill is to promote the development of a responsible Aquaculture sector for meaningful contribution to food security and economic development for the country; support greater participation of small businesses, especially those owned by women and youth; and promote the transformation of the aquaculture sector.
“The Draft [National State Enterprises] Bill proposes the consolidation of State’s shareholdings in strategic state-owned enterprises [and the] establishment of the State’s Asset Management SOC Ltd as a holding company for state shareholding of strategic SOEs, with the State as a sole shareholder,” she said.
The Repeal of the South African Airways Bill has also been approved for publication for public comment.
“The Repeal of the SAA Act is aimed at giving effect to the changes of government no longer being a majority stakeholder of SAA. The repeal of the SAA Act does not change the continued corporate existence of the company under Companies Act; and [the] rights attached to government shares in SAA will be exercised by the designated shareholder representative on behalf of the State,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Draft Public Service Commission (PSC) Bill has been approved by Cabinet for submission to Parliament.
“Cabinet approved the submission of the Public Service Commission Bill to Parliament, which amends the PSC Act, no. 46 of 1997. The amendments will enable the PSC to operate as an independent and impartial constitutional body with the view to improve its effectiveness and efficiency within the public service.
“The Bill also extends the mandate of the PSC to municipalities and public entities and provides a legislative framework for the PSC’s oversight role in the implementation of the National Framework on the Professionalisation of the Public Sector,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 12:20
NPO, Philippi Village is elated to announce that their CEO, Bushra Razack, has been awarded a coveted place on the highly esteemed Forty Under 40 list, in recognition of her exceptional achievements and influential leadership in Community Development. On Saturday the 8th of September, at the Forty Under 40 South Africa Awards, Bushra took home …