Reyneke Reflects on Series Win Ahead of the World Cup
FRANSCHOEK: The SA U19 Women have concluded their three-match T20 series against USA U19 Women, winning the series 2-1 after a...
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Major Milestones for ABB Electrification in 2024
The Electrification Products division of ABB achieved numerous milestones across different business areas in 2024, reports Graham Abrahams, Senior Vice President. A highlight was securing the first OneFit order manufactured locally at ABB South Africa, which was successfully installed at a customer site. ABB’s OneFit is a retrofit solution designed for medium voltage switchgear. It …
Bühler Western Cape Hosts Customer Day to Celebrate Expansion, Innovation, and Sustainability
The location in Cape Town has brought Bühler’s services closer to its coastal clients, enhancing response times and reducing the need for customers to rely on support from Johannesburg or even Bühler’s headquarters in Switzerland. “Our customers have expressed immense appreciation for the improved efficiency and reduced costs,” notes David Austin, Bühler’s Western Cape Customer …
Overnight Bridge Demolition Highlights Impressive Precision and Planning
In an impressive feat of precision and planning, Jet Demolition recently carried out the overnight controlled demolition of the Rockdale Road Bridge, a vital step in the N3 highway and EB Cloete Interchange upgrade. The bridge demolition forms part of a critical large-scale project, undertaken by SANRAL. Running from August 2024 to July 2025, it …
Regular Maintenance of Cutting Fluids Is Essential to Maintain Quality
Regular cleaning and maintenance of cutting fluid systems significantly enhances overall efficiency by extending the life of the cutting fluids, reducing downtime, and improving the quality of the end products. “Regular maintenance is key to optimal performance. Our clients typically undertake thorough machine cleanings around shut down periods to prevent unpleasant odours from bacterial growth …
Latest Additions to the Most Advanced Demolition Equipment Fleet in Africa
Leading specialist Jet Demolition is the first demolition contractor in Africa to implement the OilQuick automatic quick coupler system for its fleet. It allows hydraulic work tools to be connected and disconnected effortlessly from the driver’s cab. In addition, the operator can change seamlessly between various work tools within seconds, from a hydraulic hammer to …
LG Reveals Multifunctional 3-In-1 Projector Combining Lighting and Speaker at Ces 2025
Company Redefines Space Efficiency and Versatility With Innovative Lifestyle Projectors: CES Award-winning 3-in-1 and Most Compact 4K UST Model Yet LG Electronics (LG) is reinforcing its reputation as a top provider of lifestyle projectors with the introduction of two brand-new models at CES 2025. Raising the bar for the lifestyle projector category, LG’s “new-concept” models …
Lawyers in Deep Trouble for Using AI to Draft Court Papers
Surendra Singh and Associates ordered to pay costs out of own coffers and may have to answer to Legal Practice Council
Advanced USB 3.2 Technology Transforms South African Manufacturing Capabilities
Pretoria, South Africa – TRX Electronics, a leading electronic component distributor, highlights how USB 3.2 Type-A Gen 2 Vertical Receptacles are revolutionizing manufacturing capabilities across South Africa’s industrial landscape. These advanced components deliver unprecedented 10Gbps data transfer speeds while maximizing space efficiency through vertical orientation design. This combination of performance and practicality addresses critical needs …
Khumalo names 20-player squad to face Gabon – SAFA.net
8 January 2025 – The South Africa U17 Women’s National Team will begin their quest to qualify for a third FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup this weekend when they face Gabon in the first leg of the qualifiers in Franceville, Gabon. Head Coach Ntombifuthi Khumalo has named 20 players who will travel to the Central […]
The post Khumalo names 20-player squad to face Gabon first appeared on SAFA.net.
Strategic Upgrades Advance World-Class Manufacturing Excellence at Bühler Johannesburg
This year was pivotal for Bühler Johannesburg due to significant upgrades at its manufacturing facility to enhance efficiency, safety, and the overall working environment. These initiatives, aligned with Bühler’s global commitment to excellence, highlight the facility’s dedication to world-class standards. “Our focus this year has been on creating a safer, more efficient, and supportive workspace …
Merck Foundation CEO Announced the Best African Women Researchers and African Young Researchers
- Merck Foundation announced the winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards winners 2024, 5 Researchers from 5 different African Countries recognized under two categories - Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers.
- Merck Foundation also announced the Call for Applications for new edition of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit – MARS Awards 2025 to empower Women and Youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.
Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, announced the Winners of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024, in partnership with International Federation of Fertility Societies -IFFS, Africa Reproductive Care Society - ARCS, Manipal University and African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission to recognize African Researchers for their valuable research work and contribution to empowering women and youth in STEM in Africa with special focus on ‘The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care'.
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Chairperson of Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS expressed, “Since 2016, I have taken immense pride in recognizing the achievements of our MARS Awards winners. This year, we honor Six Winners in two categories: ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best African Young Researchers Awards.'
These awards celebrate their significant contributions to research, particularly highlighting the efforts of African women researchers, who remain underrepresented in this field. Through the MARS Awards, our mission is to empower young researchers in Africa and to specifically encourage and support women researchers by enhancing their research capabilities and promoting their vital roles in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).”
The winners of ‘Best African Women Researchers Awards' and ‘Best Young African Researcher Awards' will be enrolled into research training at a premier research institute in India.
“And I am also very happy to share with you all that as promised, we provided an opportunity to our first-place winner of each category to attend the 11th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary which was recently conducted in Tanzania, however, only Mr. Jules Irenge Mongane was able to attend it”, shared Senator Rasha Kelej.
Merck Foundation is committed to improving the lives of people and has been transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with its partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, by providing 2080 Scholarships for doctors from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.
The MARS 2024 Award Winners are:
Winners of “MARS Best Women African Researchers Awards” 2024
- Dr. Nompumelelo Lebogang Malaza, SOUTH AFRICA (First Position)
TOPIC: Association Between Biochemical And Epigenetic Markers With Glycaemic Control And Neonatal Outcomes In Diabetic Pregnancies
- Dr. Dorotheah Obiri, GHANA (Second Position)
TOPIC: Immune dysregulation in placental malaria and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
Winners of “MARS Best Young African Researchers Awards” 2024
- Dr. Jules Irenge Mongane, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO (First Position)
TOPIC: Association Between Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection And Tubal Factor Infertility In Bukavu, Democratic Republic Of Congo
- Dr. Christian Chassem Lapue, GABON (Second Position)
TOPIC: Epidemiology of helminthiases in women of reproductive age living in Lambaréné and its surroundings, Gabon
- Dr. Gebrhud Berihu Haile, ETHIOPIA (Second Position)
TOPIC: Incidence of neonatal mortality and factors influencing neonate survival in neonatal intensive care unit in Northern Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
“I am also excited to announce the Call for Applications for the new edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards 2024. This year, special focus will be again on “The Role of Scientific Research in Women Health and Reproductive Care,” added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.
Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit - MARS 2025 will have scientific support from African Union Scientific-Technical and Research Commission (AU-STRC); African Reproductive Care Society (ARCS), and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).
Details for MARS AWARDS 2025
Abstracts are invited from final year African PhD students and young investigators involved in research related to either of the following topics:
1) Women's Health
2) Infertility and Reproductive Health
All applicants should be primarily based at African Research Institutes and Universities, although collaboration within Africa as well as outside is also welcome.
Last Date of Submission:
Applications can be submitted till 30th June 2025
How to apply:
Apply by clicking: https://apo-opa.co/406P6N1
Alternatively, the Applications and abstracts can be submitted via email to mars@merck-foundation.com, along with CV (including Name, Gender, Country, University/Hospital Name, Email address, Mobile Number) and the abstract document as an attachment.
Other Details:
- All Abstracts will be peer reviewed.
- Research Awards will be dedicated for two categories of Best African Women Researchers and Best Young Africa Researchers.
- Winners will be eligible for Research Training in a prestigious Research Institute in India.
- Top Winners will be invited to attend the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/422rSKr), X (https://apo-opa.co/425eC7X), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/40ogTKb), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4h62x6H), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3DKxNtP) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4h2Lt1q).
The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.
FUCHS LUBRICANTS Sails Strong Into 2025 Despite Economic Headwinds
The successful completion of its major investment programme has positioned FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA well for 2025 and “has significantly increased our growth potential,” comments MD Paul Deppe. The project saw a significant upgrade of FUCHS’ production facilities. “We have completed an expansion to our lubricants plant that increases our capacity by 40%,” reveals Deppe. …
Expect an “Incredible” South African Summer
The wait is finally over. Betway SA20 Season 3 is finally here. The six team captains along with Commissioner Graeme Smith exuded excitement as they addressed the media in Cape Town ahead of the competition opener between Sunrisers Eastern Cape and MI Cape Town at St George’s Park tomorrow. The feeling that an “Incredible” South …
Welcome, President Ramaphosa, to the ‘One City That Works’
Dear Editor In the wake of the fire at Parliament in January 2022, President Ramaphosa thanked the City of Cape Town for its swift response and support, saying “It does show that there are certain things that do work, even as we may think that the wheels are coming off on everything…that we do have …
Serve Humanity by Addressing Tech-Based Education Challenges
Serve humanity by addressing tech-based education challenges As the embers of 2024 die down, we look forward to a new year and the continued role that tertiary institutions play in shaping the national dialogue of growth and national prosperity, creating a beacon of hope and positioning South Africa as one of the leading economies in …
LG Unveils World’s First Bendable 5k2K Gaming Monitor, Winner of Three Awards at CES 2025
Company Redefines Premium Gaming Monitors with the UltraGear GX9 Series, Offering Unmatched Immersion, Flexibility and Smart Features LG Electronics (LG) is reinforcing its leadership in premium OLED gaming monitors with the LG UltraGear™ GX9 series, set to be unveiled at CES. The new lineup includes the 45GX990A – winner of three CES 2025 Innovation Awards, …
City of Tshwane declares Hammanskraal water safe for consumption
City of Tshwane declares Hammanskraal water safe for consumption
The City of Tshwane Metro Municipality has announced that water supplied from the Magalies Klipdrift Water Treatment Plant to Hammanskraal is safe for consumption.
This comes after the completion of Phase 1 of the water treatment project.
The areas which fall under the first phase and have access to the clean water include Wards 49, 73, 74 and 75, which encompass Mandela Village, Marokolong, Ramotse, Kekana Gardens (also referred to as Steve Bikoville), and Babelegi Industrial.
The completion of Phase 1 of the project follows extensive testing conducted by the Department of Water and Sanitation, City of Tshwane, and Magalies Water, which confirmed that the water is now meeting all the required health standards for consumption.
In a statement posted on social media, X, on Wednesday, Tshwane Municipality Mayor, Dr Nasiphi Moya, explained that “extensive testing” was done before laboratory tests confirmed that “the water now meets all the required health standards for consumption”.
This comes after a process of purging the reticulation system, which was previously supplied by Temba Water Works, using clean water sourced from the new Klipdrift Package Plant.
Moya noted that the purpose of the prolonged purging process and accompanying inspections was to ensure that the system is fully rehabilitated, disinfected and safe.
“The successful delivery of services to Hammanskraal forms part of long-term projects by the city and the national government to ensure that the quality of water provided to this community meets the constitutional obligations enjoyed by many citizens in the country,” Moya said.
Moya said the Magalies Water Klipdrift package project consists of “four phases estimated to be completed in mid-2025”.
“With the completion of each stage, more areas in Hammanskraal will benefit. This will be complemented by upgrades to Rooiwal Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) being conducted by the city. The combination of these two projects will allow communities to benefit from a reliable and clean water supply,” the Mayor said.
Rooiwal WWTP tender first stage of investigation completed
Meanwhile, Moya reported that the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has this week confirmed that the first stage of its investigation into the Rooiwal WWTP tender has been completed.
She said this has resulted in criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Authority and disciplinary referrals to the City of Tshwane.
“The mayoral executive welcomes the news of the completion of the first part of the investigation and is awaiting formal communication from the Special Investigating Unit to the city. We look forward to receiving the report and acting on its recommendations.
“Addressing the injustice of the failure to provide potable water to the residents of Hammanskraal must include consequence management for the failures and corruption of the initial project. The completion of the first part of the investigation by the Special Investigating Unit brings us one step closer to ensuring accountability,” Moya said.
The Mayor also acknowledged the residents of Hammanskraal for their patience and committed to addressing other challenges plaguing the area.
“We thank residents for their patience during the process of ensuring the safety of the water and will continue to work with Magalies Water and the Department of Water and Sanitation, to successfully deliver the future phases of the project,” Moya said.
For more than a decade, the community of Hammanskraal has suffered from a lack of clean, and constant water supply.
This led to the death of 32 people due to an outbreak of cholera in the area in 2023.
This prompted a visit to the area by President Cyril Ramaphosa, where he apologised to the residents. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 12:28
46 views
ABB Highlights Women’s Expertise in STEM Fields
STEM Day 2024 on 8 November was a powerful reminder of the role that Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education plays in driving global innovation, community empowerment, and sustainable development. It underscores the importance of harnessing STEM skills to address complex challenges, from climate change to sustainable energy solutions, while creating pathways for future …
Condolences for families of 18 who died in KZN accident
Condolences for families of 18 who died in KZN accident
The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy and the Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have sent messages of heartfelt condolences and support to the families of the bereaved and injured following a major crash that resulted in the loss of 18 lives and one person sustaining serious injuries.
The crash occurred on Monday at approximately 20:30 on the N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass in KwaZulu-Natal.
“Reports received thus far indicate that a truck, a minibus and a light motor vehicle were involved in a multiple vehicle crash that resulted in 18 fatalities (13 adults and 5 children) and one baby seriously injured. The cause of the crash is unknown at this stage and will be subject to an investigation,” the Department of Transport said on Tuesday.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has dispatched a team of crash reconstruction experts and investigators to the scene to determine the cause of the crash.
The Minister and Deputy Minister have wished the injured a speedy recovery to good health.
"Our hearts and our prayers are with all the families, the loved ones and friends of the deceased and injured during this period of deep grief. We also wish a speedy return to good health to all who sustained injuries during this sad and tragic occurrence,” Creecy said.
The Minister and Deputy Minister have reiterated their call to motorists and all road users for heightened vigilance on the roads, emphasising the call and the appeal that road users must always take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others on the roads.
The Ministry of Transport reminds all road users of the following important road safety tips:
- Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy.
- Buckle up at all times.
- Adhere to the speed limit.
- Exercise extra caution when driving in inclement weather and maintain a safe following distance.
- Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Avoid using cell phones while driving.
- Take regular breaks when driving long distances.
- Pedestrians must cross streets at marked intersections.
- Pedestrians must wear bright clothing when walking in dark areas.
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 08:41
186 views
Starting a New Job? How to Manage Nerves and Stay Healthy
Starting a new job is an important and exciting step in any career. However, feeling nervous or uncertain is normal, especially in a busy and fast-changing work environment. Adjusting to a new role often means facing unknowns, which can naturally lead to some anxiety. It is normal to feel nervous about adapting to a new …
JMPD arrests more than 800 for speeding, driving under the influence
JMPD arrests more than 800 for speeding, driving under the influence
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has arrested more than 800 motorists between 1 December 2024 and 5 January 2025 for driving under the influence (DUI) and excessive speeding.
Of those arrested, 512 were arrested for DUI and 364 were arrested by the department’s high-speed unit for speeding.
In a statement, the JMPD said it was carrying out road safety operations across the city as part of efforts to “combat lawlessness, enhance road safety, and address the alarming rate of serious and fatal accidents”.
“These arrests serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences associated with these offences. Driving under the influence and excessive speeding can lead to the loss of life, severe injuries, and legal repercussions, including fines, imprisonment, and the suspension or revocation of driving licences.
“Additionally, accidents can have devastating emotional and psychological impacts on victims, their families, and the broader community,” the statement read.
The metro police explained the dangers of speeding and driving while intoxicated.
“Driving under the influence of alcohol poses significant dangers not only to the driver but also to other road users. Impaired judgment, slowed reaction times, and diminished coordination greatly increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
“Excessive speeding is equally as dangerous. It drastically reduces a driver’s ability to respond to unforeseen circumstances, such as pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles, significantly increasing the severity of potential crashes,” the statement said.
The JMPD said it is ramping up its operations as the festive season draws to a close.
“The JMPD will continue its intensified operations, focusing on high-visibility patrols, roadblocks, stop-and-searches, and targeted enforcement in high-risk areas, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and the community.
“The JMPD urges all road users to exercise caution, adhere to traffic laws, and prioritise road safety,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 08:56
228 views
Preliminary probe sheds light on Van Reenen’s Pass horror crash
Preliminary probe sheds light on Van Reenen’s Pass horror crash
The preliminary investigation into the horrific accident involving a truck and minibus at the N3 Van Reenen's Pass on Monday has revealed that the minibus taxi lost control and swerved toward the right oncoming traffic lane and collided with a truck head-on.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, said the initial stages of the investigation revealed that the truck driver was driving from Johannesburg towards Durban, whilst the minibus taxi was traveling from Durban towards Johannesburg.
“At the time of the collision, the truck was driving in the [right] lane southbound, whilst the minibus was driving in the [right] lane northbound. From the video footage obtained during this initial stage of the investigation, it is very clear that the minibus lost control and swerved toward the right oncoming traffic lane and collided with the truck head-on,” Duma said.
While the cause of the minibus losing control is unknown at this stage, Duma said they "strongly suspect" that the accident was due to heavy rainfall, speed, vehicle defect, or driver negligence.
He said the second phase of the investigation will focus on speed as the cause of the accident.
Duma also confirmed that a total of 17 people were declared dead on the scene of the accident, not 18 as initially reported. Only one passenger, a baby girl, survived, and is currently being treated in hospital.
“Based on the initial stages of the investigation, a taxi affiliated to Uncedo Taxi Association was travelling from Qumbu in the Eastern Cape to Johannesburg. Seven men, three women, three boys and four girls [were killed in the crash].
“I requested the HoD (Head of Department) and the entire team to visit the brave little girl in hospital. We are comforted by the fact that she is recovering, [and] we thank health professionals for ensuring the provision of quality healthcare,” Duma said.
Duma has extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased.
“At this stage, we wish to indicate that according to the owner of the minibus taxi, the families of the deceased have been identified and notified. Arrangements are being made by the owner and Uncedo Taxi Association for family members to travel to Ladysmith to identify their loved ones,” the MEC said.
Truck driver’s identity uncovered
The investigation has also discovered the identity of the truck driver – a 37-year-old Zimbabwean national.
“The truck belongs to Pangolin Logistics. We remain concerned about the fact that the driver of the trucking company contacted the owner of Pangolin Logistics before disappearing.
“We are asking ourselves many questions, [such as] who assisted him in disappearing from such a remote area at night?” Duma said.
Duma commended the dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate, including Emergency Rescue Services, and other key personnel who responded swiftly, as part of the rescue and cleaning up operation. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 12:45
26 views
Ministerial Vehicles: The Facts, Not the Fantasy
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) notes the misleading statements recently made by ActionSA which have sought to whip up public outrage about the official vehicles used by the Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen. ActionSA’s claims are untrue and damage the credibility of its leaders who have promised South Africa that they will play a …