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17 February 2025: Long Beach, Kommetjie, Cape Town – The long-range format for this weekend’s Rip Curl GromSearch looks promising at this stage, with good swell and favourable winds on the cards. The contest venue is Long Beach, a beachbreak with good left and right-breaking waves. It is an ideal venue for the best young …
Steenhuisen commends signing of Plant Health Bill
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has welcomed the signing of the new Plant Health Bill into law aimed at boosting agricultural trade and biosecurity.
The Plant Health (Phytosanitary) Act, 2024 (Act No. 35 of 2024), which is the repeal of the Agricultural Pests Act, 1983 (Act No. 36 of 1983), was assented to by President Cyril Ramaphosa last Thursday.
The bill provides for phytosanitary measures to prevent the introduction, establishment and spread of regulated pests in South Africa and the control of regulated pests.
It further provides for the regulation of the movement of plants, plant products and other regulated articles, into, within and out of South Africa.
The new Act seeks to address gaps and challenges, including constitutional issues, alignment with the international prescripts and provision of export, in the current phytosanitary system.
This is in view of the requirements of this country’s major trading partners and the requirements under the relevant international agreements and treaties of which South Africa is a signatory member.
Among the notable changes in the new Act is the inclusion of new sections or provisions that will cover. among others, the establishment of the National Plant Protection Organisation of South Africa (NPPOZA), the development of regulations to facilitate exports, in transit and re-export of plants and plant products, establishment of pest free areas, areas of low pest prevalence, the provision of which is an obligation in terms of South Africa’s signatory membership of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC).
Steenhuisen highlighted that the Act also provides for the involvement of all spheres of government to cooperate when managing pests and diseases within the country.
He said the Act will serve as a biosecurity measure to safeguard South African agriculture from plant pests and diseases, to ensure an effective phytosanitary regulatory system that is needed to support trade-driven growth in the sector encompassing market access, regional economic integration, and protection of natural resources.
“It therefore aims to support the South African Government’s objectives and priorities, such as sustainable management and use of natural resources, the provision of effective national regulatory services and risk management systems, as well as increased contribution of the sector to the country’s economic growth and development, job creation and food security.
“Furthermore, it will contribute to our capacity to maintain existing markets and ability to enter into new export markets for plants and plant products and thus have a positive impact on the South African economy,” Steenhuisen said on Monday.
The new Act will also serve to position South Africa as one of the key role players that will provide a more coordinated phytosanitary surveillance programme, preparedness, and quarantine pest prevention systems in order to maintain and expand its competitive position in the global trade arena. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 12:15
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When it comes to looking after one’s skin, many spend thousands of rand each month on serums, balms and creams to achieve flawless, glowing skin. However, skin specialists often recognise the value of natural products that are readily available when it comes to skincare. Enter tea. Tea has a range of different benefits for the …
W Cape unveils key strategies to boost environmental resilience
The Western Cape Government and CapeNature have taken steps to protect the province’s rich biodiversity and critical ecological infrastructure by launching two strategies to boost environmental resilience.
The strategies will support the “Build Back Better” approach by focusing on protecting and restoring important natural areas, making them stronger and more resilient.
Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said while the province cannot rebuild ecosystems like it does with buildings, it can support them so that they recover more effectively from damage and adapt to environmental changes.
Bredell said healthy ecosystems, including wetlands, forests and rivers, help to reduce the impact of natural disasters like floods, fires and droughts.
“By including nature in how we design and build infrastructure, we can create a safer and more sustainable future,” Bredell said in a statement on Friday.
The two crucial strategies for advancing conservation and sustainable land use in the Western Cape include the 2023 Western Cape Biodiversity Spatial Plan (WCBSP) and the Western Cape Protected Areas Expansion Strategy (WCPAES).
The 2023 WCBSP identifies priority areas for conservation and sustainable land use and serves as a blueprint for prioritising the province’s most valuable ecosystems.
Bredell said the plan will form the bedrock of sustainable development in the province.
The second strategy, the WCPAES, outlines a clear approach to expanding protected areas, ensuring that both nature and people can thrive together.
“The 2023 WCBSP identifies and prioritises important areas for conservation, integrating environmental protection with responsible land-use planning. The WCPAES takes this further by mapping out important areas for expansion of the protected area network to secure key ecological infrastructure, strengthen climate resilience, and support sustainable development,” Bredell explained.
The 2023 WCBSP is the first provincial spatial plan, in accordance with the Western Cape Biodiversity Act (Act 6 of 2021).
Bredell emphasised that the economy and the environment are inextricably linked, and all future planning must be implemented with this in mind.
He said environmental protection and expansion of the conservation estate remains a critical priority for the Western Cape Government.
The MEC also emphasised the link between biodiversity conservation and communities.
“Our province’s economy is deeply tied to nature, agriculture and tourism, and rural livelihoods depend on the long-term health of our ecosystems. Investing in conservation means investing in economic stability, food security and sustainable job creation.
“Through providing upfront considerations for spatial planning, we provide key insights to existing and potential investors. Creating a vibrant economy and the jobs created through this remains our focus. Investors can begin their planning processes with the environmental sector considerations already on the table,” Bredell said.
CapeNature CEO Dr Ashley Naidoo said conservation is not just about protecting species but also bolstering the long-term sustainability of the Western Cape.
“A thriving conservation sector drives job creation through the provision of stable ecosystem services like water security for our industrial sectors. Healthy biodiversity and ecosystems also remain the most cost-effective way to improve society’s resilience to extreme weather and climate change impacts.”
The WCPAES has been published for public comment, giving stakeholders an opportunity to shape the future of conservation in the Western Cape.
CapeNature invites all interested parties to review and comment on the Draft WCPAES by visiting https://www.capenature.co.za/western-cape-protected-areas-expansion-strategy.
Written comments on the Draft Strategy must be submitted within 60 days from the date of publication of the Notice in the Provincial Gazette, which was 31 January 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 11:12
193 views
Stillwater Sports, the organisers of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, proudly welcomes PUMA’s renewed commitment as the official footwear and apparel partner of South Africa’s premier road running series. PUMA has confirmed its involvement for another four-year period, extending a remarkable partnership that has been instrumental to the series’ success since its inception. “PUMA …
JOHANNESBURG: The DP World Lions and Fidelity Titans emerged victorious despite inclement weather conditions in Gauteng as the Hollywoodbets Pro Series...
South Africa elected chair of African Regional Labour Administration Centre Governing Council
The Ministry of Employment and Labour has welcomed the election of South Africa as the chair of the African Regional Labour Administration Centre (ARLAC) Governing Council for the 2025-2027 term of office.
The Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, will serve as the chair of the ARLAC Governing Council following the election of South Africa at the 51st Governing Council meeting held in Lusaka, Zambia, from 10 - 14 February 2025.
The Minister was represented at the summit by Deputy Minister Judith Nemadzinga-Tshabalala, who successfully led the South African delegation.
The ARLAC is a regional institution with a mandate to strengthen labour administration systems in Africa through training, research and consultancy advisory services. It was established in 1974 by the International Labour Organisation and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
“We welcome the election of South Africa by member countries and wish to thank the outgoing chair of the Governing Council, Minister E. Moyo from Zimbabwe, and wish him well in his endeavours. We wish to also extend sincere gratitude to the government of Zambia for their warm welcome and hospitality,” Meth said.
Vice-President Mutale Nalumango of the Republic of Zambia was the guest speaker during the meeting of the Governing Council, and she emphasised the importance of fair employment and tackling informal employment.
The Governing Council meeting was preceded by a High-Level Ministerial Symposium on 12 February 2025, which featured a presentation by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) under the theme: “Innovative Approaches to Tackling Informality and Promoting Transition towards Formality to Promote Decent Work”, which is linked to Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG8) on “Decent Work and Economic Growth”.
The meeting focused on the importance of formalising informal work and the need to establish a legislative and policy framework to ensure the realisation of decent work on the African continent.
South Africa will also serve alongside four vice-chairs: Sierra Leone, Malawi, Sudan, and Zimbabwe.
Additionally, South Africa also serves in the Committee of Senior Officials, together with other officials from Zimbabwe, Sudan, Zambia, and Sierra Leone. The Committee is tasked with overseeing governance, policy implementation, and programming, and meets four times a year to report to the Governing Council.
The outcomes of 51st ARLAC Governing Council meeting and High-Level Ministerial Symposium reflect South Africa's continued commitment to promoting decent work, social dialogue, and regional cooperation within the ARLAC community.
The next Governing Council meeting is scheduled to take place on the sidelines of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, in June 2025.
“The Department of Employment and Labour welcomes the election of South Africa as chair of the ARLAC Governing Council, which is an important institution with a mandate to provide training for labour administrators; provision of consultancy and advisory service aimed at strengthening labour administration systems in member countries.
“This is a very proud moment for the country, as Minister Nomakhosazana Meth assumes the chair of the ARLAC Governing Council. Minister Meth thanked Deputy Minister Nemadzinga-Tshabalala for her outstanding work at the recent ARLAC Governing Council meeting,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 11:58
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Warning of heavy showers across SA
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has advised of the return of heavy showers across parts of South Africa this week.
In a statement on Sunday, the weather service advised communities living in low-lying areas and flat plains to be on the lookout for the disruptive rain across the central and eastern regions of South Africa, from 16 February to 19 February 2025.
“Motorists and pedestrians should be extra cautious where roads are slippery and/or visibility is affected. These conditions with cloudy to overcast skies are expected across South Africa along with subregions of ordinary showers and thundershowers.
“The rainfall accumulation is expected to be in the region of 20 to 50 millimetres (mm). Daytime temperatures in these regions are also expected to be cool. The transport of moist tropical air from continental low over Botswana is the main source of the current cloudy and showery conditions,” SAWS said.
Added to which, severe thunderstorms are expected in places across the southern Free State and northern region of the Eastern Cape where damaging winds, excessive lightning, hail and heavy downpours are likely.
“However, potentially strong damaging winds are expected along the west and south-west coasts of the Cape Provinces. Damaging winds are possible due to the tight pressure gradient along the west coast.
“No major changes are anticipated on the rainfall pattern on Monday, 17 February 2025, apart from the extension of widespread showers (80%) across the North West and Gauteng, where additional disruptive rain is expected in places.
“Summer thunderstorms across South Africa ordinarily develop in the afternoon and early evening. As was stated just before the onset of persistent showers in early January, the tropical moisture typically possesses a significant amount of energy,” SAWS said.
In the case of Sunday through Tuesday, 18 February 2025, the tropical airmass is expected to cause disruptive rain during this week, with amounts in the region of 30 to 50 mm daily.
Further, continual showers are also expected on Wednesday and might persist into Thursday morning.
There will still be the likelihood of disruptive rain around the coastal region of the eastern half of the Eastern Cape, as well as the southern coastline of KwaZulu-Natal, before the rainfall return to the more favourable weather in South Africa.
To ensure safety and preparedness, the following precautions are advised:
nosihle
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 12:00
27 views
Suspect found in possession of firearms and ammunition to appear in court
A 48-year-old is due to appear before the Greytown Magistrate’s Court soon after being found in possession of firearms and ammunition.
This a multidisciplinary operation comprising members attached to the Pietermaritzburg Flying Squad, Pietermaritzburg Public Order Policing (POP), and local security companies.
“On Thursday, 13 February 2025, police conducted an informer operation following information regarding unlicensed firearms at a homestead in Ngome.
“Upon arrival, officers searched the premises and found two .303 rifles, two pistols, and ammunition. Further investigation led to the recovery of a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) uniform,” said KwaZulu-Natal police. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 08:53
234 views
He reportedly said that the need to be authentic was greater than his fear of death
Faced with increasingly competitive university placements in South Africa, more students are pursuing higher education opportunities overseas. According to International Education Link (EduLink), which assists African students with applications and funding, demand has surged, driven by local placement challenges and growing interest from township and rural students, often inspired by peers already studying abroad. Christine …
Pretoria, South Africa, 17 February 2025: An excellent recovery drive from Jaguar TCS Racing and Nick Cassidy saw the Kiwi claim his first points of the 2024/25 ABB FIA Formula E season, climbing 12 places to finish fifth, under the lights in Jeddah. Teammate Mitch Evans had also made significant progress, running in eighth with …
Hammaskraal water declared safe for consumption
Drinking water in Hammanskraal has been declared safe for consumption, following concerns over water quality in the area.
In response to the concerns raised in media reports, an urgent meeting was convened by Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, City of Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya, and Magalies Water. The meeting, held last Friday, addressed a temporary water supply disruption that caused brief turbidity in the drinking water.
“The meeting confirmed that the water is now safe to drink. It was agreed that officials from the City and Magalies Water would meet weekly to ensure proper coordination and timeous, and clear communication to the public regarding any water supply disruptions,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said in a statement on Saturday.
The department confirmed that Magalies Water experienced a power failure at its Klipdrift Water Treatment Works on Tuesday, 4 February 2025, following a severe storm that damaged the mini-substation supplying electricity to the facility.
The storm caused severe damage to the substation, necessitating the procurement, installation, and commissioning of a new mini-substation.
Magalies Water successfully completed the installation and commissioning process by Saturday, 8 February 2025.
After the electricity supply was restored, the plant was promptly restarted, ensuring the resumption of normal water treatment operations.
Due to downtime of the water treatment plant caused by the damage to the electricity substation, the department noted that the reservoirs and reticulation system were empty and dry for a considerable amount of time.
The downtown affected a number of areas, including Mandela Village, Marokolong, Ramotse, Kekana Gardens (Steve Bikoville), Kudube Unit 9, Babelegi Industrial and Bridgeview informal settlement.
The department added that when the system was restarted on 8 February 2025, it took time to recover, and the City of Tshwane and Magalies Water had to conduct testing and flushing of the system to get air out of the supply pipelines.
Water quality in the system is monitored continuously.
However, on 11 February 2025, it was discovered that there was some turbidity in the water, which could have been caused by settled sediments due to the system been dry for a period of time.
The department said all other parameters, apart from turbidity, complied with the South African National Standards (SANS) 241:2015 drinking water quality standard.
“Subsequent tests and further flushing of the distribution system were conducted on 13 February, and the results indicated that there was no non-compliance on any water quality parameters. The water in the system continues to be compliant to SANS 241:2015 and safe for human consumption.
“Magalies Water’s highly advanced ISO/IEC [International Organisation for Standardisation and the International Electrotechnical Commission] 17025:2017 accredited Scientific Services Laboratory and its staff continuously monitor water quality in the system. Rigorous monitoring protocols are implemented and informed by a risk-based approach that adheres to regulatory frameworks,” the department explained.
The City of Tshwane and Magalies Water, supported by Water and Sanitation, will continue to take samples and assess water quality in Hammanskraal, and the City of Tshwane will also continue to provide updates to residents accordingly.
“Residents are advised to avoid relying on misinformation from social media, which is often unverified and to make use of official notifications published by the City of Tshwane,” the department said. -SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 10:01
43 views
Minister Ramokgopa engages Free State on electricity challenges
Electricity challenges the development of interventions on municipal management will come to the fore at Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa’s engagement with the Free State provincial government and local municipalities today.
Monday’s meeting outcomes amongst others will develop strategies that will ensure that municipalities are able to meet their obligations to Eskom, thereby ensuring reliable electricity supply for their respective municipalities.
Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae and the Minister will lead an intergovernmental intervention team with all Municipalities in the province.
“The seventh administration’s commitment towards a functional local government that’s able to meet its obligation is displayed by the approach taken by the three spheres of government.
“Majority of our municipalities have been put under section 139 intervention of the Constitution in the stead of the Provincial Executive. This stems from historical municipalities debts of both arrears and current accounts to pay Eskom for electricity distribution,” the provincial government said.
The municipalities inability to collect revenue from debtors and maintain sustainable credit control has been influenced by a myriad of reasons which the intergovernmental dialogue will be vested with among many other areas of concern.
“Over the years the situation has worsened and had adverse effect on service delivery within the communities, impacting on operations of corporates, small businesses within those municipalities.
“The situation needs an integrated approach which will ensure a sustainable intervention plan looking at medium to long term solutions, some of these plans might require financial reconfiguration, particularly given the country’s ongoing fiscal consolidation efforts,” the provincial government said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 09:26
79 views
Women Ministry condemns brutal murder of gay activist Imam
The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has condemned the brutal murder of Imam Muhsin Hendricks who was gunned down on Saturday while attending a wedding in Gqeberha.
Hendricks is a renowned Muslim scholar and an avid advocate for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) rights having served a number of organisations championing the cause for equality along gender lines within the Muslim faith.
Hendricks became the first Imam in the world to come out as gay in 1996 and was since removed from his position for coming out.
He is the founder of the Inner Circle, a global Muslim community advocating for a society free from discrimination based on religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
He also established the LGBTQIA+ inclusive Masjidul Ghurbaah mosque where there is no gender segregation.
Recently, Hendricks led the Al-Ghurbaah Foundation, which provides psycho-spiritual and social support to Muslims marginalised due to sexual orientation, gender identity, and belief.
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Deputy Minister, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, said the murder of Hendricks was a stark reminder that the LGBTQIA+ community in South Africa continues to experience discrimination and hate crimes, despite the nation’s progressive legislation, such as the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act (2023), enshrined in part to protect the rights of the queer community.
Letsike recalled brave words uttered by Hendricks as he advanced the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights in the Muslim faith, as he said: “The need to be authentic was greater than the fear to die.”
“This brutal murder is not just about Imam Hendricks, it is a direct assault on all movements, organisations and persons advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights in South Africa. We call on the South African Police Services and all law enforcement agencies, to strengthen their investigation, and track the persons responsible for justice to prevail.” Letsike said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 02/17/2025 - 08:57
2 views
DURBAN: An unbeaten century by Jordan Hermann helped the Dafabet Warriors make a strong start to their 1 Day Cup campaign with...
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News Release The Zigzag CLUTCH Winner 17 February 2025: That’s a wrap on CLUTCH! The finalists had the judges on edge for weeks to determine who deserved the win. Each round was packed with incredible barrels. All three finalists packed some proper tubes and left the judges puzzled. There was plenty of discussion between the …
A crowd of 23,307 watched the Sharks pull off a remarkable bonus point victory against all the odds at Pretoria’s Loftus Versfeld. League leaders Leinster pushed all the way Relieved Leinster Rugby boss Leo Cullen paid tribute to an “unbelievably dogged” display from the Ospreys following his team’s hard-fought 22-19 victory in Swansea. The league …
My Vote Counts wants all political donations disclosed, no matter how small
When setting up a home cinema, choosing the right seating is one of the most critical aspects. Comfort, durability, and style all play a role in creating a space where you can enjoy movies in the best way possible. Why Seating Matters in a Cinema Room The comfort of your cinema chairs can make …
Comfort and functionality are at the heart of furniture design today. Among the many options available, leather recliners stand out for their ability to blend luxury with utility. Their smooth surfaces and adjustable positions create the perfect setting for unwinding after a busy day. Whether placed in a living room or a home theatre, they …