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A starring all-round performance from Puja Mahato set up a seven-wicket victory for Nepal against hosts Malaysia in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025. Already a full senior international, Mahato took four wickets to help restrict the hosts to 45 all out batting first. She then proved just as invaluable with the bat, …
The Joburg Super Kings are pleased to announce the return of their highly anticipated Carnival, which will take place on 31 st January, 2025 at Melrose Arch. Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, the Carnival offers an exclusive opportunity for fans to engage with the team, enjoy a variety of entertainment and create …
New Zealand have ensured a direct entry to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 after Bangladesh lost the last match of their ICC Women’s Championship series against the West Indies in Basseterre on Friday. New Zealand were assured the direct berth as they finished ahead of Bangladesh on the basis of registering more wins …
Puja Mahato arrived at the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup with a huge amount of responsibility as both captain of Nepal and a full international. But when your idol is Jasprit Bumrah and your ambition is to become known as Lady Bumrah, living up to that responsibility is part of the deal. The 18-year-old …
Gauteng property developers were suing environmentalists for alleged costs from delays to their projects caused by objections
The Gqeberha based Sunrisers Cricket Team have raised the roof at St George’s Park with fourth straight win. Sunrisers Eastern Cape are up to 19 points just one below the table-topping Paarl Royals, who have played one game less. The 14-run victory over the Joburg Super Kings was hard earned with the Sunrisers once again …
City says community disputes over recruitment of workers disrupted the service
Mr. Luvuko Nkwenkwe, Employment Relations Coordinator, Coega Human Capital Solutions. In the evolving landscape of South Africa’s construction industry, the Coega DevelopmentCorporation (Coega) is taking significant strides to address skills shortages and enhance project delivery. As articulated by Mr. Luvuko Nkwenkwe, Coega Employment Relations Coordinator at Coega Human Capital Solutions, the organisation supports the Construction […]
24 January 2025 – The South African Football Association (SAFA) held a very successful Ordinary NEC Meeting in Johannesburg on Friday, 24 January 2025. The meeting was a continuation of the adjourned Ordinary NEC Meeting that was held in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, on 12 October 2024 and concluded on Friday night, wrapping up all the […]
The post SAFA hosts successful NEC Meeting in Johannesburg first appeared on SAFA.net.
Rubbish has not been collected for months in some parts of Wallacedene
Gqeberha – Isuzu Motors South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to be recognised as a Top Employer in South Africa for a third year in a row by the internationally recognised Top Employers Institute. This prestigious certification highlights ISUZU’s commitment to excellence in employee wellness and fostering a positive and inclusive workplace centred around the core […]
Friday, 24 January 2025: The focused execution of the Generation Recovery Plan continues to deliver the suspension of loadshedding for 303 consecutive days since 26 March last year. A further substantial milestone of 300 days without loadshedding was reached on Tuesday 21 January and 10 months without loadshedding will be achieved on Sunday 26 January,...
On Friday, Andiswa Mengo completed her testimony on sexual harassment allegations against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge
Daniela Ellerbeck assesses the Expropriation Bill that President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law recently.
The post EXPROPRIATION ACT NOW LAW – THE FW DE KLERK FOUNDATION CALLS ON MPS TO EXERCISE SECTION 80 OPTION appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.
50 bursaries for deserving students
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has announced that government will provide 50 bursaries for deserving students who have been accepted into public institutions of higher learning, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
These bursaries will be offered through the National Skills Fund, which collaborates with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
“The National Skills Fund supports this initiative through the department and aims to bridge the gap in access to education, particularly for the top students we are celebrating today,” Deputy President Mashatile explained.
The country’s second-in-command announced this during his keynote address at the KwaMpumuza 4th Annual Matric Excellence Awards ceremony at Sweetwaters, uMgungundlovu District, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.
The awards ceremony celebrates the academic achievements of the top Matric Class of 2024 from 16 schools within the Mpumuza Traditional Authority.
The Blackburn Sports Ground in Sweetwaters was filled with the Matric Class of 2025, along with 329 primary school learners who received uniforms.
The event honoured high-achieving schools, teachers, and students from 11 schools in the KwaMpumuza area.
“Having a matric certificate means that you have gone through many obstacles since primary school and have worked hard to make the most of your future. You are a great source of pride for your families, schools, and the entire Mpumuza community,” he told those who have passed Grade 12.
He also thanked the educators and parents for their support.
“Your determination and sacrifice are not taken for granted, may you one day, through these children, enjoy the fruits of your labour.
“To those of you who are going to university, remember that you are now in charge of your own life,” he added.
He encouraged those heading to university to do their best to secure a brighter and more prosperous future.
“A university degree or qualification is a treasure that no one can take away from you, and it is a key to many closed doors.
“I encourage you today to dream big dreams. Do not be discouraged by your background, and the challenges that you have gone through. You deserve the best that life has to offer and as a government, we are determined to support you to make your dreams possible.”
Focusing on the current matriculants, he encouraged them to study diligently and resist distractions like peer pressure.
“I urge all of you to stay away from alcohol, drugs, and other harmful behaviours including violence of any form, early entry into sexual behaviours leading to teenage pregnancy, and STDs [sexually transmitted diseases].”
He also took the time to speak to the parents of children who failed and reminded them that every setback is a setup for a stronger comeback.
“Your love and encouragement can make all the difference in helping them find their way forward.
“Whether they pass or not, every learner is part of our shared future, and they all deserve our love, guidance, and unwavering belief in their potential.”
He concluded his speech by referencing former State President Nelson Mandela, who famously stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world“. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 14:57
South African mining reports record low fatalities in 2024
South Africa’s mining sector has recorded the safest year in history in terms of fatalities with the industry reaching a record low in deaths and no disaster-type incidents recorded.
This is according to Minister of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, Gwede Mantashe, who released the 2024 Mine Health and Safety Statistics in Pretoria on Thursday.
“The South African mining industry recorded 42 fatalities in 2024 marking the lowest ever number of fatalities in the history of mining in South Africa. This represents a 24% improvement, year-on-year, compared to 2023 when we had 55 fatalities.
“There were no disaster type accidents reported in 2024 compared to one disaster-type accident in 2023, 13 mine employees lost their lives in a conveyance accident in the platinum sector,” Mantashe said in a written statement.
In the industry, a disaster-type incident is described as one where at least five miners lose their lives in one accident.
The fatalities recorded per commodity in 2024 were as follows:
The Minister emphasised that the improvement was due to work done between labour unions, mining houses, government and the at least 479 000 miners working in the industry.
“This record is as a result of concerted effort by all parties that are involved in providing and maintaining a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health and safety of employees and all those that may be directly affected by the activities of mining.
“The continued collaboration and implementation of the necessary measures on health and safety throughout the year have demonstrated that significant improvements in results can be achieved.
“We, therefore, commend the collective efforts which have gotten us here, and urge all stakeholders to redouble our efforts to reach the goal of Zero Harm,” the Minister said.
Occupational injuries and diseases
Occupational injuries in the sector also reduced from some 2181 reported injuries in 2023 to about 1841 in 2024.
“This translated to a 16% improvement year-on-year. Of great concern to us is that most of these injuries are mainly because of repeat accidents categorised as fall of ground, transportation and mining and general types of accidents.
“We therefore urge the employers and labour to be explicit about their respective roles and programs for the provision and maintenance of a safe working environment that is free of risks,” the Minister said.
Turning to occupation diseases, Mantashe noted that “significant progress has been made in reported occupational diseases”.
These dropped from some 2233 to 1864 cases.
“Much of the progress is attributable to the manganese, iron, chrome, coal, diamond, copper, and platinum sectors. There was also a decrease in silicosis, Pulmonary TB, Coal Workers Pneumoconiosis and other diseases.
“It is, however, regrettable that during the reporting year 2023, the gold sector reported the highest number of occupational diseases for both silicosis and pulmonary tuberculosis cases, whereas the platinum sector reported the highest number of noise induced hearing loss cases,” he said.
The Minister encouraged industry stakeholders to continue working together and “share good practices” to ensure zero harm in the industry.
“All employers and employees are encouraged to work safely and apply zero tolerance on sub-standard work and conditions. All mineworkers and supervisors are reminded that unsafe work practices always lead to undesirable circumstances.
“We, therefore, urge all mineworkers not to risk their lives and, thereby urge them to exercise their right to refuse dangerous workplaces. By so doing, every mineworker will return home unharmed, and our ultimate goal of zero harm will be attained,” Mantashe concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 17:25
R60 billion lost to illegal mining in 2024, says Minister
Illegal mining is waging war on the South African economy, with the illicit trade costing the economy at least R60 billion in 2024.
This is according to the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, who briefed the media on Thursday.
“Our view on illegal mining remains unchanged. Illegal mining is a criminal activity and a war on the economy. There can be no two ways about it.
“The truth of the matter is that those that are involved in illegal mining, both the syndicates and the active illegal miners, have no regard for the health and safety of others, nor are they concerned about the laws that regulate the industry. They are in it for their own selfish gains and have no regard for the country. In 2024 alone, the country lost an estimated R60 billion to illicit precious metal trade,” Mantashe said.
The Minister insisted that the department was working with law enforcement to root out the scourge.
“As government, we will continue our fight against illegal mining through initiatives such as the Operation Vala Umgodi which continues to help us deal decisively with illegal mining in Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Free State, Northern Cape and the North West.
“We wish to assure the nation that the state will not take responsibility for the reckless actions of illegal miners,” he said.
Replying to questions from journalists, the Minister called on mining companies to take responsibility for rehabilitating mines.
“An operational mine must do rehabilitation as they operate. There are big chunks of holes which were left…[these are] what we call derelict and ownerless mines. Those are mines that were operated under Apartheid where there was no legislation enforcing rehabilitation. The state has taken responsibility to attend to that,” he said.
Turning to the situation at Stilfontein where at least 78 illegal miners have died, Mantashe called out the owners of the abandoned gold mine – urging them to take responsibility.
“If you go to…a mine that’s neglected, you go and stay there for three months and you starve yourself to death, how does that become the responsibility of the state? Capital owned mines exploit them, make money and when there’s a risk, that risk must be offloaded to the state…that cannot be correct.
“The Stilfontein goldmine…is not an ownerless and derelict mine. It is owned by an existing company and that company must take responsibility. The state intervened to facilitate the rescue operation as an interim measure. But that owner must take the ultimate responsibility for that disaster, not the state,” he said.
The rescue operation at the abandoned Buffelsfontein gold mine near Stilfontein was recently concluded with at least 246 illegal miners being brought to the surface alive, while 78 bodies were recovered. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 17:29
Government ordered to “progressively increase” the grant and income threshold, and allow in-person applications
Daniela Ellerbeck assesses the Expropriation Bill that President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law recently.
The post THE EXPROPRIATION ACT, WHAT NOW? appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.
SA film earns Oscar nomination
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie says he has received “with great pride and a sense of expectation” news of the Academy Award nomination for the South African film The Last Ranger.
Directed by Cindy Lee, the film has been nominated in the category of Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards, to be held in March 2025.
According to the department, this remarkable isiXhosa film, inspired by true events in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, tells the compelling story of Thandi, a rhino that miraculously survived a poaching attack at the Kariega Game Reserve, and the courageous woman who fought to protect these iconic animals against all odds.
“The Last Ranger is a powerful tribute to the resilience of our wildlife and the unwavering dedication of conservationists who work tirelessly to safeguard our natural heritage. Featuring stellar performances by Avumile Qongqo, Liyabona Mroqoza and Makhaola Ndebele, and written by David Lee, Darwin Shaw and Will Hawks, this production stands as a testament to South Africa’s rich storytelling and cinematic excellence,” said the department.
The film’s ongoing success, having already won Best Short Narrative at the 2024 Pan African Film Festival (PAFF), is a clear indication of its impact and brilliance.
The Minister said he was confident that it would continue to make an impact on the global stage, "and we eagerly await the Oscar ceremony on 2 March 2025, hopeful for yet another triumph".
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire cast and crew of The Last Ranger. Your hard work and dedication have helped to elevate South African cinema to new heights and kept our country in the eye of the world.
“Let us all rally behind this incredible production and showcase our support for local brilliance,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 12:18
DPWI welcomes signing in to law of the Expropriation Bill
Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala has welcomed the signing into law of the Expropriation Bill by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday.
The Deputy Minister has described it as seminal and ground-breaking.
“The legislation affirms the role of the state in unlocking land for socio-economic development and for distributive purposes. The legislation also paves way for expropriation in the public interest and is in full alignment with the Constitution,” said the Deputy Minister in a statement.
The legislation places the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure as the executing authority of expropriation.
All applications for those seeking expropriation for a public purpose and in the public interest must go through the department.
Zikalala, in his capacity as the former Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, accelerated the finalisation of this legislation and oversaw its passing by the National Assembly.
The bill aligns with Section 25 of the Constitution and is modelled on international best practices and it complied with all public consultation processes.
“This is the legislation that will take South Africa in reality on the path of economic transformation and inclusive economic growth” said Zikalala.
“This is a culmination of the long history of struggle waged by the forbearers against the dispossession of the majority of Black people through the 1913 Land Act and the notorious Group Areas Act.
“We will use the newly promulgated legislation to enhance the delivery of infrastructure development programmes, industrialisation and agricultural reform that improves food security,” the Deputy Minister added.
He said that, as the President had indicated, the legislation will be implemented without destabilising the economic and development prospects of the country. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 08:48
President Ramaphosa signs Expropriation Bill into Law
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Expropriation Bill, which sets out how organs of State may expropriate land in the public interest for varied reasons.
In a statement, The Presidency said that the new legislation, which repeals the pre-democratic Expropriation Act of 1975 , aligns expropriation processes with the Constitution and marks the culmination of a five-year process of public consultation and Parliamentary deliberation.
“The Bill assented to by President Ramaphosa outlines how expropriation can be done and on what basis. This law will assist all organs of State - local, provincial and national authorities - to expropriate land in the public interest for varied reasons,” the Presidency said.
Section 25 of the Constitution recognises expropriation as an essential mechanism for the state to acquire someone’s property for a public purpose or in the public interest, subject to just and equitable compensation being paid.
Up to now, expropriation of property has been governed in terms of the Expropriation Act of 1975, which predates the expropriation mechanism provided for in section 25(2) of the Constitution.
“Local, provincial and national authorities will use this legislation to expropriate land in the public interest for varied reasons that seek, among others, to promote inclusivity and access to natural resources,” the statement read.
The Bill repeals the Expropriation Act and to provide a common framework in line with the Constitution to guide the processes and procedures for expropriation of property by organs of state.
“In terms of this law, an expropriating authority may not expropriate property arbitrarily or for a purpose other than a public purpose or in the public interest.
“Expropriation may not be exercised unless the expropriating authority has, without success, attempted to reach an agreement with the owner or holder of a right in property for the acquisition thereof on reasonable terms,” the Presidency said.
The Presidency further explained that an expropriating authority is therefore obliged to enter into negotiations with the owner of a property required for such purposes.
An expropriating authority must also attempt to reach an agreement on the acquisition of the property before resorting to expropriation - except in circumstances where the right to use property temporarily is taken on an urgent basis in terms of a provision in the legislation.
The law provides for disputes to be referred for mediation or to appropriate courts. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 09:13
Financially "stretched" consumers cautioned against using unregistered credit providers
With the start of the year being financially demanding, the Gauteng Department of Economic Development has encouraged consumers, who will be borrowing money from credit providers, to be wise and ensure that credit providers do not violate their rights.
This as some consumers could be facing financial challenges to the extent that they might need to apply for credit to meet their financial obligations such as school fees, school uniforms, transport and rent, among others.
Consumers have been cautioned against using unregistered credit providers such as ‘Abomashonisa’ that overcharge interest, and take consumers’ identity documents and their Social African Security Agency (SASSA) cards to enforce payment.
“This is unfair business practice. Sometimes, when consumers’ credit applications decline, consumers resort to borrowing from Abomashonisa. However, this does not help the consumer because of the exorbitant interest rates that are charged by these unregistered credit providers.
“If your application is declined by all registered credit providers, it means that you have a bigger financial problem than you realise. Rather seek assistance by negotiating for lower instalments with your current credit providers, paying off and closing some accounts than accessing more credit through unregistered credit providers,” Gauteng Department of Economic Development Director for Education, Awareness and Stakeholder Relations Milly Viljoen said.
According to the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), consumers have a right to receive information in plain and understandable language.
“Consumers should read and understand the terms and conditions, and further ask questions if they seek clarity. This will allow them to understand Credit Life Insurance, which can be a lifesaver when they are unable to repay the debt due to loss of income, unemployment, disability, etc,” Viljoen said.
Consumers are urged to consider the following tips:
The Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs works with different stakeholders in consumer protection to ensure that consumer rights are protected.
Thus, consumers should contact the National Credit Regulator on 0860 627 627 or e-mail complaints@ncr.org.za to report unregistered credit providers or any credit provider that violates their consumer rights in the credit industry. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 09:57
KwaZulu-Natal Legislature praises Umkhanyakude District on matric results
Members of the KwaZulu-Natal legislature have praised the Umkhanyakude District for its remarkable turnaround - rising from the worst-performing education district to one of South Africa’s top performing regions in the matric exams.
The Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPLs) urged the district to share best practice on achieving excellent matric results with other districts.
Speaking during the first visit to Umkhanyakude since the district was announced as the top-performing district, the members described the region’s meteoric rise as a remarkable achievement that should be emulated.
UMkhanyakude achieved an overall matric pass rate of 92.8%.
“Not so long ago, this district was number 75 out of 75 districts in the country. Today it is number three in the entire country, and it is also number one in the province. This shows that the district has a well-oiled strategy which is producing handsome dividends,” MPL Celiwe Madlopha said.
She said the legislature had contributed immensely to KwaZulu-Natal’s stellar education performance by providing effective oversight and identifying barriers to effective learning and teaching.
“Members of the legislature are visiting four schools in Umkhanyakude District today and tomorrow as part of the legislature’s School Functionality Monitoring Programme (SFMP). We are, among other things, monitoring infrastructure challenges that our schools face, the delivery of learner support material, the start of lessons, safety and security.
“The SFMP is our flagship programme that has helped to resolve many challenges in our schools. We appreciate the support we continue to receive from the provincial Executive and the schools governing bodies as we play our oversight role,” Madlopha said.
A comprehensive report will be compiled after the school visits and will be presented in the House for adoption and implementation. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 01/24/2025 - 10:28