MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has once again approved electricity tariff increases for Eskom which are well above inflation. NERSA announced a 12.7% tariff increase which will be introduced for the 2025/26 financial year, followed by 5.36% in 2026 and 6.19% in 2027. This has widened the gap between Eskom’s electricity tariffs …
Known for dominating swimming pools and standing atop Olympic podiums, Chad le Clos is trading his goggles for a spot on the shores of Midmar Dam this February, as he rallies behind a cause close to his heart. Although he’s completed the world’s largest open water event several times in the past, the four-time Olympic …
A replay of last year’s Women’s Premier Division final in Pretoria highlights the second round of the 2025 competition, with the Bulls Daisies welcoming DHL Western Province to Pretoria on Saturday. The three other matches – in Durban, Wellington and East London – also promise to deliver a feast of rugby as the teams hit …
South Africa became the first team to reach the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 Final with a comfortable five-wicket victory over Australia at the Bayuemas Oval. Ashleigh van Wyk was the star of the show, taking four for 17 as she helped restrict Australia to 105 for eight from their 20 overs. It …
NERSA approves Eskom electricity price hike
South African consumers will have to brace for another blow to their cost of living, as the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has approved a 12.74% electricity price hike for Eskom, set to take effect in the next financial year.
The regulator has also approved further hikes of 5.36% for 2026/27 and a further increase of 6.19% for the 2027/28 financial year.
The decision comes as part of Eskom’s Sixth Multi-Year Price Determination (MYPD6) revenue application for the 2025/26, 2026/27, and 2027/28 financial years, which was announced on Thursday afternoon.
Tough balancing act
NERSA Board Chairperson, Thembani Bukula, described the complexity of the decision-making process as a “delicate balancing act” of "conflict" that took into account the needs of all stakeholders.
“We are required to ensure that Eskom is sustainable within the short and the long term. At the same time, we are required to ensure that the electricity services that Eskom provides are affordable.
“This is never an easy task. For inevitably, it is also influenced not just by our methodologies and rules but by the greater economic environment both locally and internationally. We remain guided and directed by the policies and the legislation of this country,” Bukula said.
A question of affordability
Last year, Eskom applied to NERSA for increases of 36% in 2025/26, 11.81% in 2026/27, and 9.1% for the financial year 2027/28.
This proposal sparked significant public and business outcry, with many deeming the increases unaffordable.
Bukula highlighted that the regulator took extensive steps to ensure that public participation inputs from all stakeholders were considered.
Stakeholder meetings and public hearings were held with written submissions also accepted by the regulator.
“During this process, we received various inputs from the stakeholders who came to our presentations as well as inputs that we got from the written comments. Top of the list was the affordability of electricity if the prices applied for by Eskom were approved. This was voiced by domestic customers as well as the business customers.
“Domestic customers stressed the fact that if these prices are approved, they then have to choose between buying food or buying electricity. Businesses on the other side made it clear that if these increases are approved, a lot of them would be forced to close their businesses,” he said.
The first price hike is set to be implemented on 1 April 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 01/31/2025 - 08:09
Winde hands over George building collapse report to the police
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde has officially handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) a report detailing the structural engineering findings of the George building collapse.
Winde handed over the report on Thursday to the province’s Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile, and the lead investigator from SAPS, Captain Johan de Lange.
The Western Cape Government (WCG) commissioned an independent investigation into the building collapse in George on 6 May 2024.
The incident, which occurred while the building was still under construction, resulted in the deaths of 34 people and serious injuries to many others.
Twenty-eight people were rescued alive in a multi-stakeholder disaster operation.
“At the time, the Western Cape Government understood that the event would have repercussions for human lives and livelihoods, and that an investigation into its cause would be essential.
“And so, while the multi-stakeholder operation was underway, the WCG secured the services of an independent structural engineering firm to conduct an investigation of the collapse site, simultaneous with the rescue operation,” the statement read.
The WCG stated that the peer-reviewed final report of this firm was to ensure its integrity.
“This probe is one of several that were launched, with the SAPS being the lead body responsible for investigating an incident of this nature,” Winde said.
This means the report is now under the jurisdiction of the SAPS, which must take into account both the findings of this independent report and all other evidence available during the overall criminal investigation.
The WCG believes the report’s technical findings will greatly aid the SAPS investigation in determining whether charges should be filed.
“Given the nature of the incident and the fact that 34 people tragically lost their lives, it is entirely possible that criminal proceedings may ensue.
“It is for this reason that the findings of the independent probe cannot be made public so that we do not in any way compromise the SAPS investigation and further possible proceedings,” the Premier explained.
The provincial government said the findings of the various agencies’ investigations must be consolidated to ensure an overall understanding of what transpired and to hold those responsible accountable.
Winde has acknowledged the hard work of government staff, who, along with many other partners, worked tirelessly to rescue those trapped on the site.
He thanked the independent team that came on board and concluded the investigation carefully and speedily.
“There must be consequences for those responsible for this horrific tragedy. We have now handed over the report to the SAPS, who we have been assured are working tirelessly on this case, and we will continue to monitor this matter very closely.
“I will never forget being there when our teams recovered Gabriel Guambe alive from the site over 100 hours after its collapse. It is for him, for Delvin Safers, for their peers and friends who made it out alive, and for those who succumbed, and the families of the victims, that justice must be delivered,” Winde said.
The provincial government said the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety Court Watching Brief Unit will closely monitor its progress. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 01/31/2025 - 07:38
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) continues to pave the way for the nation’s future cricketing stars, ensuring that the sport is...
The National Arts Festival congratulates former CEO, Tony Lankester, on the announcement of his appointment as the new CEO of the Edinburgh Fringe. Lankester was CEO of the National Festival from 2007-2019 and has a long association with Makhanda, having read Journalism and Media Studies at Rhodes University before a stint in broadcasting, followed by …
The Joburg Super Kings maintained their challenge for a place in the Betway SA20 playoffs with a seven-wicket victory over the table-topping Paarl Royals at the Wanderers on Thursday evening. The Super Kings remain in fourth place, but are now level on 19 points with the third-placed Sunrisers Eastern Cape. The defending champions are ahead …
South Africa beat Australia in the first Semi-Final. A rematch of the final from two years ago headlines a star-studded semi-final line-up at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025. Reigning champions India, take on 2023 runners-up England in the second of the two last four encounters, which are both taking place at the …
South African performing artist and songwriter Nompendulo Mbhele, popularly known as Pretty Masompisi, continues her musical journey with the release of her highly anticipated second studio single, ‘Ekhaya’. Pretty Masompisi began honing her musical craft at an early age and gained widespread recognition through TikTok, where her singing videos captivated audiences and helped her establish …
The match officials have been announced for the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup 2025 semi-finals in Malaysia. India’s Gayathri Venugopalan and Nitin Bathi of the Netherlands will be in the middle for the first of the semi-finals between South Africa and Australia. Ireland’s Aidan Seaver will serve as the third umpire with Reon King, …
As Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium is about to celebrate its centenary, Scottish Rugby today announced a timely multi-million pounds birthday present. Ahead of the Guinness Six Nations Championship this weekend – when Scotland welcomes Italy to Murrayfield – Scottish Rugby has received an independent evaluation of its overall economic value to Scotland. The valuation covers …
Abi Tierney has announced a new, streamlined, executive team structure at the Welsh Rugby Union, as she kicks-off her second year as CEO. The new Executive Leadership team consists of five roles, where previously there were up to nine individuals, and will include a new Chief Growth Officer, a Chief Operating Officer, the Chief People …
Teachers and principals tell GroundUp how their schools are coping
𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝟯𝟬 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟮𝟬𝟭𝟱.
Exclusive CCTV footage shows the shocking extent to which zama zamas are wreaking havoc in the North West. These illegal miners are better known for descending on abandoned mines to get at any gold remaining underground. But North West police and security forces are no match for hundreds of zamas, armed to the teeth, nightly pillaging local mine infrastructure above ground. Carte Blanche enters the warzone.
For the latest episodes, get DStv Stream Premium: https://bit.ly/DStv-Stream
---
Stream the show live on the DStv Stream app: https://bit.ly/3l92LhH
Visit the Carte Blanche official site: https://mnet.dstv.com/show/carte-blanche
Find us on Catch Up: https://bit.ly/32VvbU5
Watch more series and movies on Showmax, start your 14-day free trial here: https://bit.ly/36PFSr0
Get DStv: https://bit.ly/3edx58V
Like Carte Blanche on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carteblanchetv/
Follow Carte Blanche on Twitter: https://twitter.com/carteblanchetv/
Be a fan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carteblanchetv/
More @mnet101 Magic: https://www.dstv.com/m-net/en-za/home
#carteblanche #southafrica #news #crime #mining #stilfontein #illegalmining #investigation #cctv
Farmers say their livelihoods are threatened by poor road maintenance
City Power officials chased away by angry group
As children head back to school, parents understandably focus on essentials like stationery, uniforms, and backpacks. However, a child’s health must be a priority to ensure they’re benefitting completely from teaching and learning. One area that is often overlooked but requires significant attention is footcare – this not only ensures a child’s comfort at school, …
SIU investigates Defence Department, KwaDukuza Municipality and Mpumalanga Education
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is rolling up its sleeves in preparation to launch three separate investigations into the Department of Defence, the KwaDukuza Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, and the provincial Mpumalanga Department of Education.
The three investigations were given the green light by President Cyril Ramaphosa after he signed proclamations authorising the tender corruption related probes.
Department of Defence
The Department of Defence is under the SIU’s investigative microscope for allegations of “serious maladministration” related to two tenders.
These tenders relate to inventory verification, continuous asset verification, and the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of an asset management system.
“The probe will also examine whether the payments for these contracts adhered to national treasury guidelines and ascertain whether the payments were irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for the department or the state,” the SIU said.
The probe will also hone in on department employees to “establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct” by the employees, officials or agents and any other person or entity to “corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others”.
“The investigation will also look at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the Department or the State, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the Department or any other person or entity,” the corruption busting unit said.
Mpumalanga Department of Education
The SIU has set its sights on probing six contracts related to the “procurement and contracting for the supply of foodstuff for six schools in the province.
Investigations will assess whether the department followed National Treasury guidelines and if any irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses were incurred.
“Furthermore, the SIU will seek to establish if there was unlawful or improper conduct by the department employees, officials, agents, and any other person or entity to corruptly or unduly benefit themselves or others.
“The investigation will also at whether fraudulent conduct occurred, including the causes of such maladministration, any losses, damages, or prejudice actually or potentially suffered by the department or the State, and any irregular, improper, or unlawful conduct by employees or officials of the department or any other person or entity,” the SIU said.
KwaDukuza Municipality
The probe into the KwaZulu-Natal-based municipality will investigate three infrastructure tenders issued by the municipality.
According to the proclamation, the tenders under investigation are:
“The SIU probe will examine whether the procurement and contracting were made in a manner that was not fair, competitive, transparent, equitable, or cost-effective or in violation of applicable legislation, guidelines, or instructions from the National or Provincial Treasury. This includes the municipality or the State’s unauthorised, irregular or wasteful expenditure.
“The probe will also look at any irregular, unlawful, or improper conduct by officials or employees of the municipality, its suppliers or service providers, or any other person or entity implicated,” the SIU said.
Holding wrongdoers to account
The SIU assured that any evidence of alleged criminal acts will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.
“Under the SIU Act, the SIU is also authorised to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” the SIU concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 11:16
Hawks nab suspects for breaking immigration and RICA laws
Twenty-four foreign nationals have been arrested by Hawks members from the Newcastle Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit.
The suspects are Malawian nationals, aged between 18 and 28, and two Chinese nationals.
The arrests were effected in collaboration with the Newcastle Local Criminal Record Centre, the Illicit Mining Unit, DFI KZN and the Immigration Office on Monday.
The joint operation followed a tip-off about potential human trafficking activity at the Northern Truck Stop in Newcastle on 14 January 2025.
The investigating team obtained a search warrant from the Newcastle Magistrate Court and initiated the operation on Monday.
During the search, the law enforcement agencies uncovered 22 Malawian and two Chinese suspects on the premises.
It was established that the suspects were manufacturing SIM cards in violation of the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication–Related Information Act (RICA).
A total of 24 suspects, including the two Chinese nationals, Zhang Shengatao and Liu Gou, were apprehended for contravening the Immigration Act.
On Wednesday, Zhang and Liu appeared before the Newcastle Magistrate Court for violation of the RICA Act. The case was postponed to 6 February 2025 for formal bail application.
The KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head, Major General Dr Lesetja Senona commended the Hawks members for the arrests. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 12:04
Announcement by MEC Tertuis Simmers comes after a decade of battles
Nelson Mandela Bay kicks off service delivery campaign
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, has kicked off a service delivery resuscitation campaign, which aims to ensure all metro communities receive the services they need.
Aligned with the municipality’s 100-day priorities, the campaign named “Siyasebenza Campaign: A Metro at Work”, focuses on accelerating service delivery and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Through the Siyasebenza Campaign, Lobishe is calling on local communities, businesses, and non-governmental organisations to collaborate with the municipality to improve service delivery across the metro.
The inclusive campaign, which was rolled out in Kariega this week, will address immediate concerns, including illegal dumping, street cleaning, grass cutting, pothole repairs, fixing streetlights, and upgrading public spaces.
The campaign aims to deliver visible results, while also committing to long-term interventions to ensure sustainable service delivery improvements.
During the launch of the campaign, teams including Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs), and senior officials, were deployed in various groups to cover areas across Kariega and Dispatch.
The teams attended to different service delivery challenges, including blocked sanitation infrastructure, water leaks, flooding, electricity cable theft, and general vandalism.
Speaking to residents in the affected areas that were identified by ward councillors, Lobishe said the municipality was closely monitoring the service delivery challenges faced by the communities and was working to address them.
For longer-term challenges, she said the municipality was developing sustainable solutions.
The Mayor said they were targeting wards in Kariega that were predominantly affected by the floods last year.
“We must, however, express our extreme concern and disappointment at the high levels of vandalism, currently being experienced in Kariega. We call on our people, and law enforcement to work together with us in apprehending these destructive culprits.
“Vandalism of infrastructure slows down service delivery as money meant for other community needs may be redirected to fix infrastructure that has been intentionally damaged by criminals. This does not only negatively affect our financially constrained municipality but prevents the community from enjoying services they so desperately need,” Lobishe said.
Infrastructure and Engineering Acting Executive Director, Joseph Tsatsire, affirmed the municipality’s commitment to accelerating service delivery.
"We shall be mobilising resources to accelerate the pace of service delivery, more especially in the areas identified under this campaign. Our teams are already at work, dealing with issues ranging from sanitation, water leaks and replacing vandalised infrastructure,” Tsatsire said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 13:44
Dtic to host Mining Indaba Investment Forum
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) will host the Mining Indaba Investment Forum at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town on Tuesday, 4 February.
It will take place as South Africa hosts the Mining Indaba from 3 - 6 February.
The forum will be hosted in partnership with the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.
The forum will be held under the theme: An Integrated Approach to the Development of South Africa’s Critical Minerals.
The purpose of the forum is to showcase the capabilities and supporting infrastructure that South Africa has with regards to beneficiation of critical minerals, as well as efforts that government is putting in place to support investments in the mining sector.
A high-level panel of Ministers and representatives of the private sector will lead engagements on mineral beneficiation and processing.
The seminar will also offer a platform to discuss South Africa’s geological potential, policy interventions and beneficiation strategies to support sustainable, inclusive growth.
It will also feature perspectives from industry leaders on investment potential, exploration opportunities and transformative initiatives within the mining sector. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 01/30/2025 - 14:57
![[FROM THE ARCHIVES] North West zama wars | Carte Blanche | M-Net](/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/from-the-archives-north-west-zama-wars-carte-blanche-m-net.jpg)