SASSA to Suspend SRD Grants Where Fraud Is Suspected
But the electronic system which allows beneficiaries to prove their identities has also been suspended
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Mashatile calls on Nedlac stakeholders to execute plans to grow the economy
Mashatile calls on Nedlac stakeholders to execute plans to grow the economy
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has acknowledged that the country’s efforts to promote economic growth through investments and infrastructure development have yet to yield satisfactory results due to slow economic growth.
Delivering the keynote address at the annual Nedlac Organised Labour School held at Kievits Kroon in Pretoria on Tuesday, Mashatile cited ArcelorMittal South Africa's recently proposed closures and reduction in production in the steel industry, which is expected to impact thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
The Deputy President noted that some companies in the mining sector have implemented significant employment cuts.
“Through our collective efforts, we have developed collectively-agreed sector plans. However, all stakeholders of Nedlac [National Economic Development and Labour Council] must bear the responsibility of facilitating the speedy execution of these plans so they can live up to our expected outcomes. There is evidence that we can do this,” the Deputy President said.
He believes that a 1.5% economic growth is insufficient to tackle some challenges facing the country.
“We want to see much bigger growth going forward to address the challenges. In a way, the austerity measures are a result of an economy that is not growing as fast as we had envisioned.“
The Nedlac Organised Labour School takes place every year to evaluate the current state of the labour market and the challenges that workers face in the country.
Delegations from various labour federations, guests from the International Labour Organisation, and representatives from government departments filled the conference room.
The Deputy President reviewed policy programmes designed to ensure decent employment for the majority of South Africans in the past three decades.
He emphasised substantial improvements in labour conditions, unemployment rates and social benefits.
“We have also introduced the minimum wage, the two-pot retirement system, as well as other policies that cushioned workers and the poor.”
However, despite progressive interventions, the Deputy President stated that challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, inequality, crime and gender-based violence persist.
He believes that the COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of the labor sector and exposed vulnerabilities within the economic framework.
“It is through the collective efforts of government, unions, and the private sector that we were able to protect millions of workers’ livelihoods, even in the middle of adversity.”
In addition, the State was also instrumental in the introduction of improved retirement packages and social benefits for dependents of labour union members, providing greater financial security for workers and their families.
There is a silver lining amid the challenges, the Deputy President said, as South Africa’s official unemployment rate decreased from 33.5% in the second quarter to 32.1% in the third quarter. This marks the first decline in a year and indicates a positive shift in the labour market.
G20
The country’s second-in-command turned his attention to South Africa hosting the Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders’ Summit this year -- a first for an African country.
Mashatile believes that hosting the G20 will help advance Africa’s development agenda, as well as that of the Global South.
“We, therefore, expect that labour in South Africa, will, through the Civil Society 20 (C20), contribute to discussions that will reshape the global agenda, as we seek to resolve the challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality, but also reframe and reposition global financial institutions towards social justice.”
The G20 aims to ensure that world leaders pay attention to the recommendations and demands of organized civil society.
As the nation forges ahead, Mashatile said it is imperative to harness the collective power of all stakeholders – unions, government and the private sector – to ensure that South Africa’s labour market is inclusive, fair and globally competitive.
“We must address income inequality and improve the quality of life for our workforce. We are not merely fostering economic growth but building a South Africa where every worker feels valued and empowered.”
He called on everyone in the room to recommit themselves to the values of solidarity, equity and justice.
“The labour movement, as the backbone of our nation, holds the power to drive South Africa’s economic transformation. Together, through collaboration and collective action, we can overcome the challenges of the 21st century and create a future of dignity, equality and prosperity for all workers.”
Mashatile noted that the Nedlac Organised Labour School session coincides with the World Economic Forum, where President Cyril Ramaphosa and other government leaders are representing the nation.
The team, led by the President in Davos, Switzerland, will advance South Africa's position on important global issues, particularly those related to economic development, as a key player in the global economy and within the continent. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 12:39
187 views
President Ramaphosa arrives in Davos for the World Economic Forum
President Ramaphosa arrives in Davos for the World Economic Forum
President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, where he is leading the South African delegation at the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF).
The annual meeting is taking place from 20-24 January 2025 under the theme; “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age”.
The meeting brings together global leaders to address key global and regional challenges, which include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth to improve living standards, and stewarding a just and inclusive energy transition.
Supported by his delegation, President Ramaphosa’s programme will begin this afternoon with a bilateral meeting with Founder and Chairman of the World Economic Forum Board of Trustees, Klaus Schwab.
“During the G20 Presidency, South Africa will endeavour to create equitable opportunities for all by addressing systemic disparities and promoting unity and mutual support to address shared global challenges collaboratively,” the Presidency said in a statement.
President Ramaphosa is also set to deliver a Special Address to the forum at 15:50 (CEST), where he will outline South Africa’s economic priorities and advance the country’s G20 Presidency.
South Africa’s G20 agenda, themed “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” aims to promote equitable opportunities, address systemic disparities, and foster global collaboration to tackle shared challenges.
The President’s Special Address will be live streamed on wef.ch/wef25 and PresidencyZA Social media platforms.
Throughout the week, the President will hold numerous bilateral meetings with Heads of State, and Government leaders, and Heads of International Organisations. He will also participate in a variety of sessions and activities in different sectors of the WEF annual meeting.
President Ramaphosa is joined by key Cabinet members, including Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola; Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau; Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa; Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande; Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi; Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment Dion George; Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 13:09
337 views
Mashatile assures unions’ interests protection under GNU
Mashatile assures unions' interests protection under GNU
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged labour union leaders not to fear the Government of National Unity (GNU) formed after the May 2024 elections.
“Don’t be scared of the GNU. I know in the beginning there were many saying this GNU includes those who don’t have the interest of workers at heart, so we might see the reversal of the gains that workers have made over the years. But I said to them, don’t worry we’re there,” Mashatile said.
Mashatile explained that the GNU is made up of a collective in a Cabinet, appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“The Ministers are not allowed to come with their own policies. We agreed on the priorities and statements of intent. Yes, people can talk about their policies in their parties. But in government, we all work in terms of the priorities of government.
“We will make sure that the workers’ rights are protected, so don’t be scared. Workers’ rights will always be protected even in the GNU. Please sleep peacefully at night,” he assured the leaders.
The Deputy President was delivering a keynote address at the annual Nedlac Organised Labour School, held at Kievits Kroon in Pretoria, on Tuesday.
He stated that they have to ensure the achievements made over the past 30 years are preserved, and that they will continue to defend these accomplishments.
Mashatile highlighted the GNU's policy priority areas, which include growing an inclusive economy, reducing the cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental State.
“In realising these priority areas, we believe that we must continue to create a social compact with labour, business, and civil society, as we have done through NEDLAC [National Economic Development and Labour Council].”
The Nedlac Organised Labour School takes place every year to evaluate the current state of the labour market and the challenges that workers face in the country.
Delegations from various labour federations, guests from the International Labour Organisation, and representatives from government departments, filled the conference room.
The union leaders raised key points, including the defence of progressive policies, the importance of local government collaboration, and the challenges of funding and corruption.
This year, the country’s second-in-command, said government will host the National Dialogue aimed at drawing from lessons from the past, to shape the future beyond the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030.
According to the Deputy President, the National Dialogue will take place in a year when South Africa celebrates 70 years of the Freedom Charter, a statement of core principles that have and continue to shape policy in South Africa.
“The task of organised labour in this regard is to provide innovative solutions on how best to strengthen our economy, build social cohesion and improve governance systems, placing the needs of the workers at the forefront.”
He believes that the National Dialogue will shape the country’s outlook towards and beyond 2055, a year when the country will celebrate the centenary of the Freedom Charter.
“Our ultimate objective must be to realise a South Africa that belongs to all who live in it, Black and White, as envisaged in the Freedom Charter. Indeed, this is the only way that we can realise the country of our dreams as charged by those who gathered in 1955 in Kliptown.”
Nedlac is the vehicle by which government, labour, business, and community organisations seek to cooperate, through problem-solving and negotiation, on economic, labour, and development issues and related challenges facing the country.
The Deputy President defined the labour movement as the backbone of the nation, holding the power to drive South Africa’s economic transformation.
"Together, through collaboration and collective action, we can overcome the challenges of the 21st century and create a future of dignity, equality, and prosperity for all workers,” Mashatile said – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 13:45
108 views
GDE places all learners who applied for placement in Gauteng
GDE places all learners who applied for placement in Gauteng
The Gauteng Department of Education has placed all learners who applied for placement in Gauteng for the 2025 academic year.
During the Application Period, the 2025 Online Admissions system registered a total of 344 890 applications for Grade 1 and 8.
About 325 734 (99.97%) of 325 858 applications that qualified as complete applications are placed while the 19 032 incomplete applicants were able to select a school with available space for placement from 11 December 2024.
Speaking to SAnews, Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson, Steve Mabona, said those currently being assisted at the department’s offices fall into categories such a late applications and inner-Grade applicants.
“Inner-Grade Applicants (Grades other than 1 and 8), include learners relocating to Gauteng from other provinces or transferring between districts within the province. The majority of these applicants will be accommodated after the 10-day headcount process, and their details are being captured accordingly,” Mabona said.
He said that Grade 1 and Grade 8 late applicants are being assisted to submit applications and are placed immediately where space is available.
There are also applicants declining allocated schools, which includes parents who applied during the online admissions period, as well as late applicants, who are seeking alternatives to the schools initially allocated to them.
As of 20 January 2025, the GDE has placed the following late applicants:
Grade 1: 16 255 learners
Grade 8: 14 243 learners
Total: 30 498 learners
“Our efforts to address all queries and placements at our offices are progressing efficiently, with noticeable reductions in the length of queues as we continue to assist all parents and guardians,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 14:53
19 views
Sapphire Coast Attractions Draw in Crowds Over the 2024 Festive Season
The sunny skies, warm water, welcoming community, and great events saw holidaymakers flocking to the Sapphire Coast in KZN this festive season. All ages and interests were kept engaged, with the Sapphire Sizzling Summer programme from 27 to 31 December a big hit! “I’d like to thank everyone who was involved in making this another …
NPA Deputy Head, Adv Rodney De Kock, passes away
NPA Deputy Head, Adv Rodney De Kock, passes away
Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Rodney De Kock, has died after he was diagnosed with brain cancer in December last year.
This according to a statement released by the De Kock family on Tuesday morning.
“Advocate De Kock was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of brain cancer in early December last year, resulting in a rapid decline in his health condition.
“He succumbed to the cancer at Morningside Mediclinic in Johannesburg, Gauteng, yesterday evening, 20 January 2025, surrounded by family and friends,” the statement read.
De Kock had been serving as the Deputy NDPP since his appointment by President Cyril Ramaphosa in June 2020 following a distinguished career in private practice and public prosecutions.
Some of his career highlights include:
- Serving as a Presiding Officer in the Electoral Court in 1994.
- Serving as Head of the Legal Aid Board Clinic at the University of Cape Town from 1994 to 1999.
- He was a founding member and served on the executive of the National Association of Democratic Lawyers.
- He was the first black person to be appointed as an Attorney General in the country when he took up the post of Attorney General of the Western Cape from 1999, after which he joined the National Prosecuting Authority as Director of Public Prosecutions for the Western Cape in November 2003.
- He was also asked to act as the National Director of Public Prosecutions in 2019 by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
“After a luminary career, marked by an uncompromising dedication to justice, the democratic order, and to his fellow citizens, his family and friends take great solace in knowing that Rodney served his country with unblemished integrity, dedication, honesty and humility.
“He was a devoted father to his children, Ryan and Samantha, whom he loved and cherished dearly.
“The De Kock family takes much comfort from the fact that their beloved father, brother and elder, passed peacefully after a short but courageous battle. They are grateful for the time they have shared with him. The family wishes to express its appreciation for the support from government, colleagues and friends at this difficult time,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:39
187 views
VFS Global’s new Indonesia e-Visa on Arrival official platform goes live for 97 nationalities, including South Africa
- Dedicated website https://IndonesiaVoA.VFSeVisa.id/ to complete the Indonesia e-VoA application
- Simple to use end-to-end online platform accessible from desktop and mobile
- Significant reduction in wait times at immigration upon arrival in Indonesia
VFS Global (www.VFSGlobal.com), the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions, has launched its new user-friendly and efficient online platform to make Indonesia's Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) application process seamless for travellers, promote inbound tourism, and enhance overall customer experience. The platform is in line with Indonesian government's ongoing efforts to enhance its tourism infrastructure and services to welcome 14 million visitors in 2025.
VFS Global's new e-VoA platform, is available for nationals of all the 97 countries eligible for e-VoA (http://apo-opa.co/40si4qG), including South Africa. Travellers can now enjoy a quicker and smoother visa application journey through VFS Global by completing the entire process online and receiving a pre-approved e-VoA before departure.
Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Business Development, VFS Global, said,
“As a company, we are constantly working towards innovations which provide a seamless visa application submission experience to our customers. The launch of this innovative, secure, and user-friendly digital e-Visa on Arrival platform for Indonesia will undoubtedly streamline the visa application process, making it faster, easier, and more convenient. With Indonesia being a globally sought-after destination, we are honoured to assist visitors from 97 countries by facilitating their entry into this incredible country through this platform.”
Here are the four simple steps to apply for Indonesia e-VoA:
- Visit https://IndonesiaVoA.VFSeVisa.id/
- Submit all the required documents
- Pay the necessary fees
- Receive a pre-approved e-VoA on email before departure
With the payment having been made online, travellers can enjoy a smoother and faster entry experience through E-gates or immigration counters.
VFS Global's new e-VoA platform will ensure all the documents applicants submit are complete and error-free. It also offers OCR technology which will enable applicant details to be auto populated, thereby saving time and effort for applicants. The new platform will also provide group booking facility which could be beneficials for travel trade and conventions.
Travellers applying for Indonesia e-VoA via VFS Global will get a dedicated email and live support in seven languages - English, Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Arabic, German, and French – to help them with their queries. VFS Global will add more language support in due course of time for key markets.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VFS Global.
Media Contact:
George Cherian
Corporate Communications
georgec@vfsglobal.com
communications@vfsglobal.com
About VFS Global:
As the world's leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.
With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 69 client governments. Operating over 3,400 Application Centres in 152 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 303 million applications since 2001.
Headquartered in Zurich and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.
SABS is Imploding
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance can reveal, from multiple sources close to and within the SABS, that critical systems have been inoperable for six weeks, rendering the SABS unable to perform its most basic functions including product testing, issuing certificates, paying salaries or billing customers. The only functioning laboratory is the condoms laboratory while many …
The New Ospreys Boss Who Just Loves Coaching
Mark Jones is a man who simply loves coaching and he has more reason than ever to be relishing the job right now. The former Wales wing is unbeaten at the helm of the Ospreys having taken over from the departing Toby Booth just before Christmas, with his four games in charge having brought three …
RIP Adv. Rodney De Kock
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance has learned with great shock and sadness of the passing away, after a short illness, of Advocate Rodney De Kock, Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions and former Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape. Adv De Kock dedicated his life to serving South Africans as a “people’s lawyer” …
Sri Lanka Make It Two Wins
Sri Lanka put in a superb team performance to beat West Indies by 81 runs and continue their excellent start to the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025. After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Sri Lanka racked up an imposing 166 for five from their 20 overs. It is Sri Lanka’s highest-ever …
Five-year-old repatriated from Mauritius adjusts to new life with family in SA
Five-year-old repatriated from Mauritius adjusts to new life with family in SA
Despite a challenging start to life, a young South African girl repatriated from Mauritius in December last year, is blossoming into what her grandmother describes as a “ball of fun and sunshine”.
The child, who was born in Mauritius, lived in a prison compound on the island, where her mother is awaiting trial for allegedly trafficking drugs. On turning five, the little girl had to leave her mother and the prison and start life anew in South Africa with extended family.
The little girl now lives with her grandmother in the North West province and was earlier this month preparing to start Grade R.
Speaking to the Department of Social Development, the grandmother shared that the transition has had its ups and downs but is ultimately a story of resilience, family support and healing.
A new beginning
On 10 December 2024, the little girl, clutching her favourite doll, landed at OR Tambo International Airport, marking the start of a new chapter.
Her repatriation was facilitated by the Department of Social Development, in partnership with the South African Embassy in Mauritius. Social workers recommended foster care with her maternal grandmother to ensure the child’s best interests were prioritised.
Her grandmother described the reunion as an emotional moment filled with tears of joy and hope.
Now, over a month since her return, the little girl is beginning to settle into her new life surrounded by the love and support of her family.
Her story is one of resilience, healing, and the power of family bonds to overcome even the most difficult circumstances – and of a little girl allowed to be a child.
Challenges and breakthroughs
Adjusting to life outside the prison compound in Mauritius, where she spent her early years, came with challenges. Initially shy and withdrawn, the little girl often asked about her mother and clung to her doll for comfort.
“When she first arrived, she cried a lot, asking about her mother. She clung to me and her doll constantly and was very quiet around her cousins,” the grandmother said.
A turning point came when her 17-year-old brother became a source of reassurance.
“He would hug her, tell her not to cry, and remind her that their mom would come home someday. That connection helped her feel safe,” the grandmother said.
By Christmas, the family began to see the child’s personality emerge. “She’s become a source of joy and laughter, always playing and smiling,” her grandmother said proudly.
Building a stable life
Despite the challenges, the grandmother is determined to provide her granddaughter with the stability and care she needs.
The grandmother is collaborating with the Department of Social Development to access care and protection services, including a foster care grant, to support the child’s education and well-being.
“I plan to use part of the grant for her school fees. We’re getting her ready for Grade R, and I want to make sure she has everything she needs to succeed,” the grandmother said.
The family has also introduced her to South African culture, including traditional foods and local languages. Having spoken French and Creole all her life, the child is now learning English, isiXhosa and Sesotho from her cousins.
“The other day, she asked for a slice of steamed bread during breakfast and to my surprise, she loved it and even asked for a second slice,” her grandmother said with a laugh.
“It’s moments like these that remind me she’s adjusting well. She’s getting used to everyone, and she’s loved very much.”
A message of reflection and the future
As she navigates her granddaughter’s transition, the grandmother reflected on the consequences of her daughter’s choices that led to her incarceration.
“People need to understand the implications of what they put their families through,” she said, a mixture of sadness and determination washing through her voice.
However, her focus remains on the future and building her granddaughter up.
“The past can’t be changed, but we can shape her future. With the help of social workers, the foster care grant, and the love of her family, we’re giving her the home and life she deserves. Time is a healer, and we’re taking it one day at a time,” the grandmother said.
Today, the young girl is thriving in a home filled with love and care. From watching fireworks for the first time on New Year’s Eve to playing with her cousins, she is embracing her new life in South Africa.
“She’s already thriving. Every day, she’s becoming more confident and more comfortable. She’s where she belongs now,” the grandmother said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:41
118 views
Essential Gear and Clothing for Padel Enthusiasts
Padel Shops: Your Go-To for Equipment For anyone looking to get started or upgrade their equipment, padel shops offer a wide range of gear. These shops stock everything from rackets to balls, making it easy for players to find what they need. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, a reliable shop …
Single Mom Has to Walk 5KM to Buy Drinking Water
The only water tank in this Tshwane informal settlement has been stolen
Condolences for family of NPA Deputy Head
Condolences for family of NPA Deputy Head
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has expressed condolences to the De Kock family, following the passing of Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions (DNDPP), Advocate Rodney De Kock.
De Kock passed away on Monday following a brain cancer diagnosis in December.
“The NPA leadership, NPA staff and colleagues in the criminal justice system will miss his passion for justice and the rule of law in this country. DK, as we fondly called him, was a pillar of strength in the NPA.
“Strength to the De Kock family and friends, and his NPA family during this difficult time,” the prosecutorial body said in a statement.
The NDPP, Advocate Shamila Batohi said: “This is a huge loss for the NPA and the country. He was a solid lawyer, a gentleman, and a true warrior for justice. He will be sorely missed.”
De Kock was appointed as Deputy NDPP by President Cyril Ramaphosa in June 2020 – a position he held until his death.
“He joined the NPA ExCo team to contribute to the rebuilding of the NPA after years of state capture. Prior to being appointed DNDPP, he was Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Western Cape— the first black man appointed to the position of DPP in South Africa.
“As DNDPP responsible for the National Prosecutions Service, he led the core function of the NPA which is prosecutions, and supervised DPPs from all the Divisions.
“[He also] led the law enforcement agencies on the FATF, focusing our collective efforts and commitment to get the country to exit grey listing and dedicated his last months to this work,” the NPA said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 11:17
62 views
NSFAS organises resources for higher learning institutions
NSFAS organises resources for higher learning institutions
While institutions are gearing up to welcome dozens of students to their campuses, both new and returning, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is currently preparing for the deployment of resources to institutions across all provinces.
NSFAS said the resources would include servicing administrators, student accommodation officials, as well as graduate interns.
“This is to ensure a smooth start of the 2025 academic year for our beneficiaries. NSFAS Circular 13 of 2024 sent to institutions on 07 January 2025, advised that as part of our student support plans, we will deploy officials to all institutions for a period of two months, from 13 January 2025 until 07 March 2025,” NSFAS said in a statement.
The scheme said it had concluded a graduate recruitment process and appointed graduate interns.
The interns will be deployed alongside the servicing administrators across different institutions to work with financial aid officials on bursary administration daily.
“The deployment and placement of these resources to institutions is aimed at ensuring that for the 2025 academic year, each institution has a resource tasked with assisting students with queries which need NSFAS’ attention. The recruited graduates are currently undergoing formal training,” the scheme said.
Applicants called to submit supporting documents
Meanwhile, NSFAS has called on students who applied for funding to submit supporting documents after receiving communication from the scheme.
“Applicants have 30 days to submit from the day of receiving communication. Applicants must not wait for the deadline, but should submit now,” NSFAS said.
To submit the requested documents, applicants must log into their myNSFAS portal and upload the documents.
“To track their application status, applicants can add NSFAS on WhatsApp 078 519 8006 or use USSD *120*67327# or via email info@nsfas.org.za,” NSFAS said.
The scheme reiterated that qualifying students must not pay any registration fee to the institutions of higher learning, until the process is complete, but “wait for communication from NSFAS on the final decision”.
NSFAS warned applicants against fraudsters who pretend to be NSFAS officials and urged them to report any suspicious messages or calls to the NSFAS ethics and fraud hotline on 0800 007 396.
For more information on NSFAS, applicants can visit https://my.nsfas.org.za/. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 15:30
245 views
Extended Warranties for Popular Car Brands
Toyota Extended Warranty for Long-Term Protection A Toyota extended warranty provides vehicle owners with additional coverage beyond the standard warranty. This coverage ensures that costly repairs on essential parts and systems are handled without financial strain. BMW Extended Warranty for Premium Cars A BMW extended warranty is ideal for keeping luxury vehicles …
South Africa to showcase country’s ‘energy agenda’ at WEF meeting
South Africa to showcase country's 'energy agenda' at WEF meeting
Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has arrived in Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting, where he is expected to spearhead South Africa’s energy agenda.
Ramokgopa is part of the South African delegation, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the 55th World Economic Forum annual meeting, currently underway in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.
“The Minister…has arrived in Davos to join President Cyril Ramaphosa who is leading the South African delegation at the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) from 20-24 January 2025, to share significant strides South Africa has achieved in energy stability, regulatory reforms and future energy plans that will enable inclusive economic growth,” the department said in a statement.
The Minister is supported by Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane and South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA) Group CEO, Loyiso Tyabashe, who are expected to “support in telling the South African energy story”.
“This year, South Africa is poised to showcase progress in energy reform and its commitment to a sustainable energy future and share how it will use the G20 Presidency to further regional and global sustainability goals.
“As the nation embarks on an ambitious energy transition, the focus remains on achieving energy sovereignty, fostering sustainability, and promoting inclusive economic growth. The current positive sentiment South Africa enjoys based on stabilising the energy situation, augers well for its plans to attract investments into the country,” the department said.
The department outlined the key highlights of the country’s energy agenda at the WEF meeting, and these include:
- Energy Reforms and Market Transformation: South Africa has successfully eliminated load shedding since March 2024, a testament to the effectiveness of recent energy sector reforms. The Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill, signed into law in August 2024, has modernized the electricity market, encouraging private sector participation and competition.
- Elevating Private Sector Participation: The government is focused on increasing generation capacity from 48 GW to 78 GW by 2035, with significant investments in renewable energy, natural gas, and nuclear power. The collaboration between government through Eskom and other state-owned companies and private investors is crucial in driving this transition.
- Advancing Renewable Energy Investments: South Africa has procured over 13,422 MW of renewable energy since 2020, with investments exceeding $16 billion. This positions the country as a competitive player in the global renewable energy landscape.
- Global Leadership in Energy Transition: As South Africa prepares to assume the G20 Presidency in 2025, the focus will be on addressing global energy challenges, ensuring energy security and affordability, and promoting equitable energy transitions across Africa.
The department added that South African Energy Family delegation, aims to engage with international partners, to showcase the country's energy market reforms, and explore investment opportunities that will drive South Africa’s energy agenda forward.
“This participation at the World Economic Forum underscores South Africa's commitment to leading the global conversation on sustainable energy transitions and climate action,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 09:23
334 views
Beyond the “I Do’s”: The Magic of Honeymoons
After months of meticulous planning and a wedding day filled with joyous celebrations, a cherished and timeless tradition takes centre stage for newlyweds —their honeymoon. This getaway offers a much-needed opportunity to unwind after the flurry of activity leading up to the big day. It’s a time to connect and bond on a deeper level …
Eskom edges closer to meeting load shedding target
Eskom edges closer to meeting load shedding target
Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, says eyes at the power utility are now firmly fixed on reaching a year without implementing load shedding - a target that is just slightly more than two months away.
This as Eskom reached 300 days without implementing the scheduled rolling black outs today.
“Credit goes to all our 40 000 dedicated and skilled Eskom employees, who are committed to serving South Africa. Our sights are now firmly focused on delivering one year without load shedding at midnight on 26 March 2025.
“These 300 days without load shedding have been characterised by a significant reduction in unplanned outages, which have long been one of the biggest challenges, a notable improvement in the energy availability factor of approximately 7%, and savings in diesel expenditure of R16.42 billion,” Nxumalo said.
The State-owned entity’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, said the performance is putting the power utility on a “path to profitability”.
Eskom’s performance has been on a steady upward trajectory since the implementation of the Energy Action Plan introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2022, as well as the implementation of the power utility’s own Generation Recovery Plan.
“Public sentiment is shifting. Business leaders, who once had to invest precious capex in self-generation, have enquired whether they should revert to investing in Eskom for their power needs.
“The savings we are making in diesel spend are invested in the business to drive efficiencies further and place Eskom on a path to profitability and long-term operational and financial sustainability,” Marokane said.
Eskom said it will continue to focus on implementing plans to further improve performance.
“Eskom expresses gratitude to all stakeholders, including the Minister of Electricity and Energy, the Eskom Board, government and the National Energy Crisis Committee, for the collaborative effort in addressing the country’s electricity challenges.
“Eskom will continue to focus on implementing generation recovery, strengthening governance, and tackling crime and corruption, while future-proofing the organisation to enable energy security, growth and long-term sustainability to the benefit of South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa,” the power utility said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:24
67 views
E Cape leadership on back-to-school drive
E Cape leadership on back-to-school drive
The Eastern Cape Executive Council (EXCO) members, led by Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, will join forces with Cabinet Ministers and Deputy Ministers on a week-long Back-to-School Outreach Programme across the province.
The provincial Back-to-School Outreach Programme is an annual campaign, designed to ensure all learners have opportunities to become productive, responsible and competitive citizens, through an inclusive quality basic education system.
The initiative aims to promote education, support learners, and engage with local communities.
It also seeks to mobilise community and stakeholder support, recognising education as a societal matter.
“Building on previous successes, where school visits led to improved teaching and learning outcomes, this campaign will see EXCO members, Ministers and Deputy Ministers interact with learners, teachers and parents.
“They will provide support through the donation of educational materials, infrastructure development and mentorship programmes. The delegation will also engage with local communities, listening to concerns and suggestions on improving education,” the Eastern Cape Provincial Government said in a statement.
The outreach programme is scheduled to take place from 21 - 24 January 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 09:29
33 views
Government increases fish allocation by 36%
Government increases fish allocation by 36%
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has announced a 36% increase in the allocation of certain key fish species.
This allocation marks a significant step towards empowering small-scale fishers, strengthening local economies and driving sustainable growth in South Africa’s fishing communities.
"This 36% increase in fish allocations for own use is about improving livelihoods, empowering fishing communities, and stimulating economic activity in our coastal regions.
“By supporting small-scale fishers, we’re ensuring that they become central players in driving local development and sustainability,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
He said the increased allocations form part of a broader strategy to promote inclusive economic growth and job creation while preserving South Africa’s rich marine biodiversity.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is working to reinvigorate coastal harbours as hubs of economic activity and it wants to help uplift small-scale fishers so that they can fully capitalise on these expanded opportunities.
“This initiative reaffirms the government’s dedication to addressing socio-economic obstacles in coastal areas while ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources for future generations,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 09:05
60 views
Over a Hundred Disabled and Elderly People Queue Outside Sassa in Khayelitsha
Monday was the first day for disability grant applicants to make medical bookings