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“I am pleased to announce that the Official Opening of the second session of the Seventh Parliament of the Western Cape, and the Premier’s State of the Province Address (SOPA), will take place on Wednesday, 26 February 2025, at the NG Church Hall, Church Street, Beaufort West in the Central Karoo. The debate on the …
The second stop for the Betway SA20 caravan is Kingsmead on Friday night when Durban’s Super Giants host Pretoria Capitals. The opening night saw MI Cape Town produce a superb performance to beat defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape by 97 runs at a rousing St George’s Park. The Capitals will look to produce a similar …
Head Coach Claire Cruikshank has named the Edinburgh Rugby women’s side to face the Irish Clovers at Virgin Media Park – the team’s first-ever match in Ireland (Saturday 11 January, kick-off 3pm) – live on Rugby Pass TV. Cruikshank makes two changes to the starting line-up that beat Brython Thunder last time out, with blindside …
Dear Editor The continuation of the historic Buffalo Regatta in East London marks a significant victory for the economy of the Buffalo City Municipality and the Eastern Cape and will prevent the metro from losing millions of rands in tourism income. In October last year, it was revealed that the 136-year-old Buffalo Regatta was at …
Dear Editor In a reply to a DA Parliamentary Question, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau has confirmed that the National Lotteries Commission will compensate whistleblowers who helped expose up to R2 billion of corrupt grants, after they were dismissed from work, suffered great torment and suffered financial losses in the whistleblowing process. …
Dear Editor The DA in North West has today written to the National Minister of Cooperative Governance, Velenkosini Hlabisa, the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, and President Cyril Ramaphosa, requesting them to urgently place the Ditsobotla Local Municipality under Section 139(7) national administration to restore service delivery and good governance. See letter here. Despite about …
Lock JD Schickerling will become the latest player to reach 50 caps for the DHL Stormers in the Investec Champions Cup clash with the Sale Sharks at DHL Stadium on Saturday. The imposing second row forward will join the likes of captain Salmaan Moerat, fullback Warrick Gelant, hookers Joseph Dweba and Andre-Hugo Venter and loose …
As the festive season nears its end, many Western Cape residents and visitors to the province will soon embark on their journeys home after the holidays. With increased travel expected over the coming days, all road users, particularly public transport providers and pedestrians, are urged to be vigilant, patient, and must strictly adhere to road …
Meeting held to resolve Ditsobotla water and electricity challenges
The North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has committed to collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to resolve challenges at the Ditsobotla Local Municipality.
The department made the commitment during a meeting with the Ditsobotla Local Municipality and the Ditsobotla Service Association (DSA) to discuss challenges confronting the municipality.
This follows electricity outages in Lichtenburg and complaints of water shortages for prolonged periods in other areas, leading to protest action by residents.
CoGTA Head of Department (HOD), Dr Ben Bole, convened the meeting on Thursday to address the critical issues and identify lasting solutions to the municipality’s challenges.
Bole said partnerships between the provincial government, municipality and various stakeholders are key to addressing challenges of service delivery across the municipalities in general, particularly in Ditsobotla.
As part of improving good governance and recovering efficient financial systems, Bole said the department will continue its partnership with the Provincial Treasury to intervene and enable Ditsobotla Municipality to function better.
The meeting considered avenues of collaboration between all stakeholders, including the provision of the needed technical expertise to unlock service delivery challenges.
“The department believes collaboration with stakeholders in Ditsobotla may develop a concrete, sustainable and efficient solution to long-standing infrastructure problems faced in the municipality, particularly electricity and water systems.
“We are committed to working together with all relevant stakeholders towards a lasting solution that will transform the service delivery landscape and improve the quality of life for the residents of Ditsobotla,” Bole said.
During the meeting, Ditsobotla Municipal Manager, Olaotse Bojosinyane, urged the residents to remain calm while they resolve the electricity issues.
Bojosinyane reported that the municipality has since managed to restore power to certain parts of Lichtenburg, while some areas are still outstanding and receiving attention.
Bojosinyane said the service provider is still on site and attending to power issues. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 12:32
Johannesburg, Gauteng – A will is more than just a legal document—it’s a profound reflection of your values and priorities, a way to leave behind not only assets but also a lasting legacy of love and care for your family. Eksekuteurs vir Boedels en Testamente, a leading South African provider of wills and estate administration …
Player of the match Potgieter has recorded his career-best figures of 5/10. MI Cape Town got their Betway SA20 Season 3 off to a perfect start with a commanding 97-run bonus-point victory over defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the competition opener at a sold-out St George’s Park on Thursday. The Orange Army came out …
Scotland international tighthead D’arcy Rae has penned a two-year extension after starting the season in impressive form for both club and country. Rae, 30, has featured in 12 games across all competitions with his early season performances earning him a call-up to Scotland’s Autumn Nations Series squad, where he earned his second Test cap in …
SAWS issues heavy rain warning
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of scattered to widespread showers and thundershowers over the central and eastern parts of the country, which may result in heavy downpours and lead to flooding.
In an alert issued on Thursday, the SAWS warned that isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are expected over KwaZulu-Natal on Friday, with damaging winds, excessive lightning, hail and heavy downpours expected over the western parts of the province.
“Severe thunderstorms are expected over the western parts, which may be accompanied by large amounts of small hail, strong damaging winds, excessive lightning, and heavy downpours, which may lead to localised impacts.
“Isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers are [also] expected over the eastern areas, but widespread over the escarpments of Mpumalanga on Saturday. The showers will be isolated along the south coast on Friday,” SAWS explained.
Motorists are encouraged to ensure clear windscreens, as traffic and road markings could be difficult to see during the occurrence of heavy rain, “even for vehicles with properly working wipers, in some instances”.
“Further, it is inevitable that some low-water bridges could overflow, with powerful water currents that could sweep away vehicles and lead to loss of lives and property. It is strongly advised that motorists do not enter flooded low-water bridges or roads,” SAWS said.
To ensure safety and preparedness, the following precautions are advised to:
• Avoid crossing flooded roads or swollen streams.
• Move to higher ground if rising water levels are observed.
• Refrain from travelling on bridges or roads in low-lying areas, which are particularly vulnerable to flooding.
– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 14:00
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Joe McGluwa, has noted with a heavy heart the passing of another artist, Mr Victor Bogopane, better known as Doc Shebeleza. He passed away on Thursday, aged 51.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and the music fraternity on the passing of Doc Shebeleza,” said the Chairperson.
“Ingwazi brought a fresh perspective and entertainment value to the kwaito genre in the early 2000s. The heavens better be organising something big for our artists, or why would they leave us like this.”
Mr McGluwa said this sad loss was made worse by the fact that Afro-pop sensation Ms Winnie Khumalo is yet to be buried. “Doc Shebeleza's passing is painful as he was destined for so much more than he realised in his young life.”
He was instrumental in kwaito circles and founded and mentored groups like Amasgumfete. “He was a typical musician and entertainer who easily connected with his audiences by melody and dance moves. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Mr McGluwa said.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Deputy President delivers eulogy at former Minister's funeral
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has described the late democratic South Africa’s first Minister of Education, Professor Sibusiso Bengu, as a “distinguished educator, diplomat and a servant of the people”.
The Deputy President was delivering the eulogy at Bengu’s funeral service held at the University of Zululand in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday.
Bengu passed away in December at the age of 90 and was afforded a Special Official Funeral Category 2.
“Today we gather to pay tribute to a remarkable individual, Professor Sibusiso Bengu, a renowned revolutionary, an intellectual of his time. As a country, we have lost a distinguished educator, diplomat and a servant of the people.
“Professor Bengu has played a key role in shaping education and other social policies contributing to the transformation of the sector and most importantly, reversing the legacy of Apartheid education,” Deputy President Mashatile said.
Bengu played a key role in the transformation of South Africa’s education sector following the attainment of democracy and played a role in the transition of higher education in the country.
The Deputy President highlighted this as part of Bengu’s legacy.
“His skills, knowledge and contribution to various sectors of educations showed that he possessed the capacity to revolutionise education by dismantling the dreadful legacies of Apartheid.
“Thirty years later, our education outcomes are still improving – a testament to the profound impact of this icon. As part of President [Nelson] Mandela’s cabinet, he introduced many key pieces of legislation that shaped our education system.
“Among these are the South African Schools Act of 1996 and the policy recommendations of the National Commission on Higher Education which served as a guide for the government’s efforts to reconstruct and transform the apartheid higher education system,” Deputy President Mashatile explained.
The former Minister advocated for understanding the “connection between education and development”.
“We must continue to address challenges related to access to better education. An educated society has better prospects for a better future and breaking the shackles of poverty and injustices.
“Educated populations correspond with national economic growth and both directly and indirectly increase economic productivity.”
Beyond 30 years of freedom
The Deputy President said that as the country now moves beyond 30 years since the attainment of freedom and democracy, government was “going to invest in the speed of policy execution and implementation”.
“This is to ensure that the critical transformation policy contributions made by Professor Bengu are not undermined and that we continue to drive the change that we are pursuing in this sector.
“Our task is to ensure that the state, institutions of higher education, and the private sector will expand the ten growth sectors, which include finance, manufacturing, agriculture, business, and services, amongst others.
“Our goal is to create much-needed employment while also ensuring that many young people, women, and the most disadvantaged individuals have meaningful participation in the economy. We have also agreed that emerging from the 2024 elections, we are going to focus on growing an inclusive economy and reducing the cost of living,” he said.
Furthermore, Mashatile added, government is actively “investing in the building of a developmental, capable, and ethical state that has the capacity to transform society and redirect development to resolve the challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality”.
The Deputy President passed his final condolences to the Bengu family on behalf of the government of South Africa.
“As we accompany our leader and brother to his final resting place, may we always remember how Professor Sibusiso Bengu's political efforts have been vital in furthering our democratic values and socio-economic development.
“His passion to promote equality and fairness has had a long-lasting influence on our society, and this should inspire us. To this day many South Africans, are still benefiting from his immense contribution, and for this we are grateful.
“Once more, on behalf of the government, let me extend our deepest condolences to Mama Funeka, his children and grandchildren, and the entire Bengu family.”
The Deputy President called on society to follow Bengu’s example and “strive for excellence in everything we do”.
“Let his example guide us and his spirit, inspire us to make a positive impact in our country,” he said.
Proceedings at the funeral included ceremonial elements rendered by the South African Police Service. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 13:11
Call for justice following alleged rape of initiate
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa has called for swift justice following the alleged rape of an 18-year-old male customary initiate in Centani, in the Eastern Cape.
The incident comes in the wake of a rise in initiate deaths, with the toll now at 28, predominantly reported in the Amathole, Chris Hani, and Alfred Nzo districts.
“This heinous incident shines a light on the scourge of gender-based violence that continues to destroy our communities,” Hlabisa said.
In a statement on Thursday, the Minister called on parents and community members to take an active role in the customary initiation process, emphasising the need to protect children and preserve the sanctity of this traditional practice.
READ | Hlabisa commends Matatiele communities for safe return of initiates
In December 2024, Minister Hlabisa conducted an emergency oversight visit to the Eastern Cape, expressing grave concern over the management of initiation schools.
During the visit, he urged all stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring the safety and well-being of initiates and improving the operational management of initiation schools.
Against this backdrop, the Minister has called on the justice system to expedite the trial and ensure that the suspect faces the full consequences of his actions.
“Any form of abuse against initiates is intolerable. Perpetrators must be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” he said.
Further stakeholder engagements on initiation processes are planned for early 2025 as part of ongoing efforts to achieve “zero deaths” during upcoming initiation seasons.
“The Ministry of COGTA [Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs] remains committed to safeguarding the cultural heritage of initiation while ensuring the safety and dignity of all initiates. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 12:50
In today’s fast-paced digital world, cyber threats are advancing at an alarming rate, creating significant risks for businesses everywhere. As a front-runner in digital adoption on the African continent, South Africa is no stranger to these challenges. The country is among the global hotspots for cybercrime, with phishing attacks, ransomware, and data breaches targeting organisations …
North West on high alert amid heavy rains
The North West Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PMDC), working together with Municipal Disaster Centres, remains on high alert for incidents of disaster across the province.
This follows heavy rainfall that affected many parts of the province and damaged infrastructure and properties.
North West MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Gaoage Oageng Molapisi, said the disaster management teams are on the ground conducting a needs and impact assessment.
The province experienced heavy rainfall in the past few days and largely affecting district municipalities, including Bojanala Platinum and Ngaka Modiri Molema.
Molapisi said formal and informal houses were damaged by the heavy rains, as well as municipal infrastructure such as culverts, roads and bridges.
“Kromkuil bridge in Moretele has collapsed and scores of houses in the Moretele, Rustenburg, JB Marks, Ditsobotla, Ratlou and Mahikeng Local Municipalities were flooded. Roofs of houses at Mokgola in Ramotshere Moiloa and Ledig in Moses Kotane were blown away.
“Mud houses in Moshwaneng in the Ratlou Local Municipality were affected and face the possibility of collapsing. Public amenities such as hospitals, clinics and schools were also not spared. Lehurutshe Hospital and Moses Kotane Hospital in Ledig and General Delarey in Lichtenburg are some of the hospitals which were affected,” Molapisi said.
The Bogosi Clinic and Primary School in Moretele were water-logged and mop-up operations are underway to bring all affected facilities back to full operation.
Upon receiving reports on disaster incidents, Molapisi directed coordination on the ground to assist affected residents and communities across the province.
“The provincial preparedness and response contingency plan have been developed and are being implemented. Various sector departments and municipalities have been briefed and activated in line with their roles and responsibilities, and they use their own resources to respond to emergencies/disasters incidents.
“The National Department of Human Settlement provided Temporary Residential Units (TRU’s) for damaged houses in the province. The affected departments will reprioritise their budget to address the pressure created by the flood disaster incidents” Molapisi explained.
The MEC added that the Department of Social Development and the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has profiled affected families and Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grants were provided.
The Al-IMAAD and Gift of the Givers organisations have provided humanitarian relief in some affected areas, including Ditsobotla.
The humanitarian relief includes hygiene packs, blankets, food parcels and mattresses. The Red Cross donated 100 blankets to the Bojanala District Disaster Management Centre.
Molapisi said the blocked drainage system caused flooding in most of the areas in the province.
The MEC has since directed sector departments and municipalities to budget for proactive disaster management activities to avert some of the disaster incidents.
“As part of the long-term intervention, municipalities must on an on-going basis maintain road infrastructures and storm water drainage systems to reduce flooding. The Department of Public Works and Roads, in collaboration with municipalities will repair damaged roads, bridges and culverts, and the Department of Human Settlements will repair all affected RDP houses.
“Municipalities must incorporate disaster risk reduction into development planning, and they must also develop bylaws and their enforcement strategy thereof,” Molapisi said.
The MEC reassured that the department and PDMC will continue to coordinate sectors to ensure safer and disaster-resilient communities in the province.
“The department is also working with South African Weather Service (SAWS) for issuance of severe weather early warnings to role-players and communities. SAWS predicts that the province will still experience above-normal rainfall throughout the autumn season,” Molapisi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 10:46
The challenging pool draw for the HSBC SVNS Perth at the end of the month completed the circle of motivation for the Springbok Sevens squad, who returned to their base in Stellenbosch last week already. That is according to Blitzbok head coach Philip Snyman, after the pool draw for the Australian leg of the world …
Tributes continue for artists Doc Shebeleza and Winnie Khumalo
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Gayton McKenzie has described the passing of legendary Kwaito artist Victor “Doc Shebeleza” Bogopane as a “significant loss for South Africa and the entire music industry”.
Bogopane passed away on Thursday at the age of 51.
“On behalf of the Ministry, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends and countless fans whose lives he touched. South Africa has lost not only a music legend but a compassionate soul whose contributions to our cultural heritage and community upliftment will not be forgotten.
“His music, laughter and legacy will continue to resonate in our hearts. Rest in power, Victor "Doc Shebeleza" Bogopane,” the Minister said in a statement on Thursday.
Born in 1973 in Soweto, Doc Shebeleza grew up in a family that valued cultural expression. From an early age, he was exposed to diverse musical influences, from kwaito to traditional South African music, which would later shape his artistic journey.
In 1995, he released his debut album, Shebeleza, which featured the iconic hit “Ghets Ghetsa”. This success was followed by the album “S'kumfete”, which included another hit track of the same name.
According to the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture Bogopane cemented his legacy with three more albums: Tiger (1997), Ebumnandini (2000), and Jiva Yoyo (2001).
“In recognition of his contributions to the genre, he was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Mzansi Kwaito and House Music Awards. His influence extended beyond his own work, as illustrated by rapper Cassper Nyovest’s tribute song Doc Shebeleza, which celebrated his lifestyle and impact.
“Doc Shebeleza later collaborated with Cassper on the song ‘Monate’ showcasing mutual respect and admiration between generations of artists,” said the Ministry.
Following his retirement from the music industry, Doc Shebeleza dedicated himself to philanthropy and founded the non-profit organisation AMAHA (African Musicians Against HIV/AIDS), which focused on social initiatives for the underprivileged.
“Through AMAHA, he contributed to building hundreds of homes for those in need, distributed wheelchairs, and worked tirelessly alongside other legendary artists to uplift communities. His passion for helping others remained central to his life’s work until his untimely passing. In recent years, Doc Shebeleza faced health challenges, having been hospitalised twice last year until his tragic passing on Thursday 9 January.”
READ | Condolences for family of Kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza
Winnie Khumalo
Bogopane’s passing follows the death of Afropop musician, Winnie Khumalo.
Earlier in the week, the Minister expressed sadness at the passing of Khumalo also at the age of 51.
“It is with profound sadness to learn of the passing of the legendary Winnie Khumalo, who tragically left us on 7 January 2025 at the age of 51. Her untimely death marks a great loss for South Africa and the music industry,” said the Minister at the time.
Born on 20 July 1973 in Soweto, Khumalo was raised by her grandmother in a time of vibrant cultural life.
At the tender age of 15, Winnie released her debut album, “Hey Laitie, Tshina Tshina”, produced by the renowned Sello Chicco Twala. She followed this with another album, “Dlamini”, setting the stage for a prolific music career that spanned decades.
In the 1990s, she recorded the gospel album “Izono Zami”, produced by Pastor Langa Dube, and collaborated with iconic artists and groups such as the late Brenda Fassie, Brothers of Peace, Bongo Maffin, DJ Cleo, and Zonke Dikana.
The Minister described her “not only a talented lead vocalist but a formidable backing vocalist, enriching the work of those she collaborated with”.
After a seven-year hiatus, she returned with the electrifying album “Live My Life”, which became an instant classic. The title track, “I Just Wanna Live My Life”, dominated music charts, earning gold certification with over 25 000 copies sold and 50 000 mobile downloads.
“The song’s success saw her nominated for prestigious awards such as the Channel O Music Awards and the South African Music Awards, cementing her place as a trailblazer in the industry.”
Her later albums reflected her personal growth and resilience. Tracks like “Woman” and “Impilo” showcased her ability to channel life’s challenges into powerful and relatable music, said the Ministry. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 10:02
NICD calls for calm amidst reported HMPV cases in China
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has issued a statement assuring the public that there is no need to panic about the reported cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV).
“This commonly occurring virus causes respiratory illness and is in the same family of viruses as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). HMPV is detected all year round in South Africa as one of the regular seasonal respiratory viruses,” said the NICD, a division of the National Laboratory Service.
The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets, much like RSV and influenza.
HMPV is mostly associated with mild upper respiratory tract symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache and possibly a fever. In most cases, these symptoms resolve within a few days.
In some instances, HMPV may also cause infection in the lower respiratory tract (bronchitis/bronchiolitis or pneumonia).
“HMPV is typically detected less commonly among patients presenting for care with respiratory illness compared to influenza or RSV, but this can vary depending on the time of year.
“People who are at risk of the virus are infants who are under six months of age (specifically those who are born prematurely), older people, people with comorbidities such as chronic lung and heart disease, those with conditions that affect the immune system (such as HIV), and people with diabetes are at increased risk of developing severe illness,” said the NICD.
It said, as with most respiratory viral illnesses, there was no specific treatment for HMPV.
Treatment of mild illness would include symptomatic relief, such as rest, medicines for pain and fever. People should also remain at home while ill to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.
Should symptoms not resolve within 3 to 5 days or become severe (difficulty breathing, fever not settling), people should seek care at a clinic or general practitioner.
More severe illnesses would be managed supportively with admission to the hospital for monitoring, supplementary oxygen and fluids as needed.
The NICD said vaccines for HMPV are in the late stages of development.
“There is also a combination vaccine (for HMPV and RSV) in development. These will likely be available in the next few years.”
The NICD has robust surveillance systems across South Africa, which will be able to detect an increase in respiratory pathogen circulation, and their laboratory has the capability to test for HMPV and other respiratory viruses.
“Many private laboratories in South Africa can also test for HMPV and other respiratory viruses. In addition, in August 2024, multidisciplinary and multilevel stakeholders convened in Johannesburg, South Africa, to participate in a tabletop simulation exercise to test and refine the draft National Respiratory Pathogen Pandemic Plan.
“Simulation exercises are essential for countries to test and validate their preparedness and response mechanisms for public health emergencies, including epidemics and pandemics,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 10:06
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) can confirm receiving correspondence from British Member of Parliament Lord Peter Hain urging South Africa to...
Condolences for family of Kwaito legend, Doc Shebeleza
Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, has expressed “deep sadness” at the passing of Kwaito legend and pioneer Victor ‘Doc Shebeleza’ Bogopane.
The beloved musician passed away at the age of 51 on Thursday.
“Gauteng is deeply saddened by the passing of Doc Shebeleza, especially as his death follows closely after that of fellow artist, Winnie Khumalo. Shebeleza’s influence on the Kwaito genre was profound and will continue to inspire both emerging and seasoned artists.
“We will also remember him for his charitable work in supporting and assisting artists through his organization, AMAHA. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bogopane family, friends, and all those who enjoyed his music. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Chiloane said.
Bogopane rose to fame in the 1990s following the release of his debut album “S’kumfete” which included hit songs including Ebumnandini.
He was also part of the Kwaito group, Amaskumfete. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 09:31
Efficient distribution of frozen food plays a crucial role in ensuring that products remain fresh and safe for consumers. With the rise in demand for convenient and readily available food options, the need for dependable Frozen Food Distributors has become more important than ever. These distributors ensure that frozen goods are transported under strict temperature-controlled …