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As the festive season gets into full swing, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across South Africa face one of the busiest and most financially critical periods of the year. With increased consumer spending, the opportunity to grow revenue is immense, but so are the challenges such as managing cash flow, ensuring secure payment options and …
Rebecca Meder finished sixth in her second final of the World Short Course Championships in Budapest on Thursday before breaking her second African record of the day just a few races later. The 22-year-old produced a personal best time of 1:03.93 for sixth place in the 100m breaststroke final, just four hundredths of a second …
South Africa is gearing up to make a return to the Formula 1 calendar, with plans to host a Grand Prix as early as 2027. This ambitious goal was recently confirmed by officials, signaling a renewed effort to bring top-tier motorsport back to the African continent. The potential venue for the race is the iconic …
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) commenced the licensing process for crypto asset service providers (CASPs) under the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services (FAIS) Act, No. 37 of 2002 on 1 June 2023. As at 10 December 2024, the FSCA has received a total of 420 CASP licence applications, of which 248 have been approved …
Years after the City of Cape Town was ordered to clean it up, the estuary is still polluted
Thursday, 12 December 2024: This afternoon, at approximately 5:00 PM, a transformer explosion occurred at Matla Power Station in Mpumalanga, affecting Unit 6. As a precautionary measure, Unit 5 was taken offline to ensure the safety of all employees and contractors on-site. Initial reports indicate that 9 employees were injured with one in critical condition....
Suspect to appear in court for dealing in drugs
A suspect is due to appear in the Durban Magistrate’s Court in KwaZulu-Natal, after being arrested for dealing in drugs.
“On Wednesday 11 December 2024, the Hawks members from Durban's Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) conducted a successful sting operation, leading to the arrest of a 30-year-old suspect for dealing in drugs,” the Hawks said in statement on Thursday.
The operation commenced on 19 November 2024, when the undercover SOCI team bought approximately 20 grams of cocaine powder valued at an estimated R5 000 from the suspect.
“Based on this initial purchase, the Hawks obtained authorisation under Section 252A of the Criminal Procedure Act, to conduct a second buy and bust operation on 11 December 2024.
“The suspect was arrested in possession of an additional 20 grams of cocaine powder, valued at an estimated R5 000, during the transaction on Old North Coast Road in Durban.”
The seized cocaine powder with a total value of R10 000 was confiscated.
“The suspect now faces two counts of dealing in drugs and will appear in the Durban Magistrate’s court on 12 December 2024.
“The KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head, Major General (Dr) Lesetja Senona, applauded the team’s efforts and underscored the ongoing efforts of the Hawks to tackle the scourge of drug dealing in Durban and its surrounding areas.” -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 11:10
Get ready for the ultimate showdown as Tropika Island of Treasure Zanzibar Season 11 reaches its thrilling conclusion! After weeks of intense competition, excitement, unforgettable moments and heaps of drama, it all comes down to one final battle for the coveted grand prize. Team Zanzibar Sunrise’s Ndavi Nokeri and Tristen Naidoo face off against Team …
Machinery removed from “minstrel museum”
Gauteng motorists urged to exercise caution during festive season
Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has appealed to all motorists and road users in the province to exercise caution and understanding on the roads, to reduce accidents and fatalities during the festive season.
Diale-Tlabela’s call follows the launch of this year’s national festive season road safety campaign, under the theme: “Every day without a Road Death – South Africa 2024”.
This primarily places driver behaviour as the focus of this year’s road safety campaign.
The campaign strategy is based on four pillars, including responsible driving; pedestrian safety; enforcement and education.
Diale-Tlabela said the festive period brings increased risks to public safety on the roads due to high traffic volumes, as people travel to various destinations within the province and across the country.
“As we enter the 2024 festive season, the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport wishes to remind all public transport operators, commuters and all road users to play their part by being safe, considerate, and exercising caution while on the roads. We wish to remind all who will be travelling that road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Diale-Tlabela said.
The MEC urged all road users, including drivers, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians, to practice mutual respect and strict adherence to all warnings, rules and regulations.
She further condemned the acts of violence across all modes of public transport, including protests, strikes, shutdowns or any actions that will result in disruption of services that has a potential to adversely affect operators and commuters during this period.
“Traffic and law enforcement officials will be out in force throughout the province to ensure reckless and drunk driving is dealt with, and culprits face the full might of the law.
"Road safety is a collective responsibility that requires all of us to play our part in appreciating that the road is a shared space, and take responsibility for our actions. Think and drive to stay alive,” Diale-Tlabela said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 11:46
Hosting this holiday season? Shake up your cocktail game with a dash or a few of ANGOSTURA® magic! Brighten up your spritzers with the zesty kick of ANGOSTURA® orange bitters, or add a rich, velvety depth to creamy cocktails with ANGOSTURA® cocoa bitters. Here are a few festive cocktail hacks with ANGOSTURA® orange and cocoa …
𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝟴 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰.
In 2019, Shamila Batohi returned from The Hague to lead our National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). During the Zuma presidency, the once-proud NPA had been hollowed out by state capture; Batohi was a welcome appointment who promised to restore the organisation and ensure speedy convictions of state capture perpetrators. The same year, former prosecutor Hermione Cronje returned to head up the NPA's sharp end: the Investigating Directorate (ID) which would investigate, arrest and prosecute state capture and complex financial crimes. Batohi and Cronje: two powerful women with the same aim. But within two years, Cronje left for a second time. Since then, the NPA has made several high-profile arrests, but the progress on state capture cases is dismal, and crucial ones have been struck from the roll. Is the NPA still in crisis, despite angry denials from current leadership? Carte Blanche, in association with amaBhungane, looks at what has gone wrong at the National Prosecuting Authority.
FULL DOCUMENTARY: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2HakW03sLQ
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Tears of joy as flood-damaged Kariega bridge reopened
Kariega residents could not hold back tears of joy when Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Babalwa Lobishe, unveiled the newly refurbished Cuyler Bridge, which was damaged during the October floods that hit the Eastern Cape Province.
Unveiled this week, the R3.8 million refurbished bridge promises to bring relief to Kariega residents as an early Christmas gift, revitalising local economic activity, enhancing transportation, and reconnecting the communities which have been isolated by the disaster.
Speaking at the unveiling of the newly refurbished bridge, Lobishe said the successful reconstruction of Cuyler Bridge marks the triumphant completion of Phase 1 of the project.
Lobishe said the project has transitioned to Phase 2, focusing on enhancing the surrounding water management system, including clearing of the riverbank to restore natural flow, and cleaning the canal and drainage system to mitigate flood risks.
"We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the first project, as the closure of the bridge was negatively affecting the economic zone of the area. We wouldn’t want businesses to be affected any further. As part of my 100 Days [in office] priorities, we are driving impactful, agile and quality infrastructural development to boost Kariega’s growth,” Lobishe said.
Lobishe announced that several key projects are underway, including the rebuilding of the Jubilee Canal and Gibbon Bridge in Kariega, all valued at approximately R6.2 million.
Lobishe said efforts to rebuild Kariega are accelerating rapidly. She highlighted the municipality’s commitment to revitalising infrastructure in Kariega.
“The infrastructure projects underway are racing ahead of schedule, with the Jubilee Canal project significantly exceeding expectations. Moreover, the Matanzima Bridge, initially set to be completed in 24 months, is now scheduled for completion in just less than 10 months,” Lobishe said.
The Mayor also warned residents against littering in rivers, storm water drains and canals, emphasising how littering negatively affects river overflows and contributes to floods during heavy rains.
Acting Director of Project Management, Sisanda Njanjula said the city is racing to complete the project before the festive season begins.
“Following regular site inspections, we noted that the canal is closer to the community, posing a safety risk, particularly for children playing in the area. To mitigate this, contractors are working diligently, including on weekends,” Njanjula said.
Kariega community member, Belinda Snam, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the municipality, especially the Mayor, for prioritising Kariega’s development within her 100 Days initiative.
“We are thrilled to see our roads open. We will definitely enjoy our festive season,” Snam said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 12:51
Department advances R5 million to SAFA
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) has decided to advance R5 million to the cash-strapped South African Football Association (SAFA) to pay players' salaries ahead of the festive season.
“We cannot allow players to go into this festive season without payment, especially since they have done the country proud,” Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, explained in a statement on Thursday.
The Minister wrote to the organisation to offer the advance, with the understanding that it will be subtracted from the grant paid in the 2025 financial year.
This comes with the condition that SAFA's leadership would need to provide reasons for why their financial affairs are so troubled, together with a viable turnaround plan to avoid such a situation in the future.
SAFA has agreed to the conditions and thanked the Minister for the intervention.
“The men's team recently qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations, and we need them to focus on preparing for this challenge, as well as making sure we get to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
“Banyana Banyana have also led the way, winning the African Women's Championship in 2022 and going deep at the FIFA World Cup last year,” the Minister said.
In their correspondence to the Minister, the CEO explained that sponsorship revenues have been insufficient, while they have also been dealing with delayed payments from various partners.
SAFA has been working on a financial turnaround strategy to increase revenues and cut costs, which will be presented to the Minister following the federation's upcoming National Executive Committee meeting. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 13:13
Pretoria, South Africa — Cylinder head problems are one of the most critical issues that can affect a vehicle’s engine, often leading to expensive repairs or even total engine failure if left unchecked. Moreleta Service Centre, a trusted name in automotive care with over 25 years of experience, is helping car owners identify the warning …
South Africa-Angola elevate bilateral relations
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that increasing trade and investment between South Africa and Angola remains a top priority.
“Increasing trade and investment between the two countries remains our foremost objective. South Africa must become the destination of choice for Angolan goods, products and services, and vice versa,” he said.
The President was delivering opening remarks during official talks with Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, on Thursday.
President Lourenço of the Republic of Angola is in South Africa on a State Visit at the invitation of President Ramaphosa.
The Heads of State are using the occasion to solidify relations between the two countries who share deep historical ties.
WATCH | Official Talks between HE President Cyril Ramaphosa and HE President João Lourenço
President Ramaphosa highlighted the decision to elevate the structured bilateral mechanism between South Africa and Angola from a Joint Commission of Cooperation to a Bi-National Commission (BNC), reflecting a deepening commitment to collaboration.
The inaugural BNC session will take place in Angola next year, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Angolan independence.
“Co-chairing this first session with you will be an honour, especially given that it will be during the 50th anniversary celebrations of Angolan independence.”
The President underscored the strong economic ties between the two nations, noting the presence of 20 South African companies in Angola and their diversification into sectors beyond oil.
South African foreign direct investment (FDI) into Angola has been in a range of sectors such as financial services, IT, food and beverage, transportation, warehousing and tourism.
South Africa’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) also has investment projects in Angola, namely in the Cabinda Oil Refinery and the Cabinda phosphate project.
“We want to see more Angolan companies in South Africa. Opportunities exist in infrastructure development, agriculture, construction, mining, financial services, telecoms and manufacturing, to name but a few,” the President explained.
Collaboration in Economic Growth
The leaders discussed leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to drive industrialisation and trade.
President Ramaphosa also emphasised the potential for joint strategies in mineral beneficiation, particularly as global demand grows for critical minerals essential to the energy transition.
He highlighted Angola’s Lobito Trans-Africa Corridor as a promising development for regional integration and trade.
“We see the African Continental Trade Agreement as a catalyst for inclusive economic growth, and we must take advantage of the system of preferential terms provided to signatories.
“As both Angola and South Africa strive to accelerate the pace of industrialisation, we need to build mutually complementary capabilities in manufacturing and value-addition of products,” he said.
Commitment to Peace and Multilateralism
The leaders’ discussions extended to shared efforts in promoting peace and security across the continent.
Angola’s contributions to peacebuilding, particularly its role in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and initiatives like the Luanda Process were praised.
“We must continue to deepen our collaboration towards resolving the conflict in the Eastern DRC, the civil war in Sudan and the post-electoral crisis in Mozambique.
“Silencing the Guns across Africa is a necessary precondition for stability, economic growth and development. As African countries, we must be at the forefront of promoting the peaceful resolution of conflict, particularly at a time when the future of multilateralism is at stake,” he said.
On the global stage, President Ramaphosa advocated for reforming international institutions, including the UN Security Council, to better represent the Global South. He reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism, calling for respect for the United Nations Charter and international law.
Africa at the forefront
With South Africa having assumed the G20 Presidency, President Ramaphosa pledged to prioritise Africa’s developmental goals, particularly those outlined in Agenda 2063.
According to the African Union, Agenda 2063 is Africa's development blueprint to achieve inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development over a 50-year period.
The President highlighted that South Africa will host the first G20 Summit on African soil in 2025, signalling a historic moment for the continent.
“Working with the African Union and fellow African countries will ensure that the issues of strategic importance to Africa and the Global South are highlighted.”
The President further extended a warm welcome to President Lourenço and his delegation saying his visit marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.
“Your presence here testifies to the strong ties of solidarity and friendship between our two countries.” – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 13:52
With the festive season moving up a gear, roads across our country will be bustling with additional traffic. While a festive mood lingers, drivers take on the increased pressure of navigating the roads responsibly. For this period, Dunlop Tyres SA urges all drivers to practice “planning, preparation, patience and performance” while on the roads. “There …
KZN police commended for arresting one of their own
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has commended police diligence in apprehending those found on the wrong side of the law, even within police ranks.
Ntuli’s remarks come after the Port Shepstone Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit (Hawks) arrested Sergeant Ntokozo Mngqithi (34) for corruption and defeating the ends of justice.
Mngqithi, who was already detained for the murder of his fiancée, Sergeant Ntombi Mbanjwa, has been charged with corruption, which was committed in November 2022, when he was investigating a case of culpable homicide, after a truck collided with a light motor vehicle and seven passengers died.
It is alleged that Mngqithi approached the truck driver and demanded R60 000 gratification in order to squash the docket.
However, certain crucial evidence was not submitted before the court despite numerous instructions on the docket. Mngqithi allegedly lied about that evidence and the case was provisionally withdrawn.
The case docket was then allocated to another investigating officer and Mngqithi’s foul play was discovered.
During the Hawks investigation, it was discovered that Mngqithi was paid more than R30 000 to his bank account.
Reacting to the new developments in the case, Ntuli said Mngqithi’s arrest is proof that lawlessness has no place in the province, “even within the South African Police Service.”
“No one is above the law, as demonstrated by the arrest of one of their own. I [also] commend the work of the police, especially the TRT (Tactical Response Team) members and the police force in Umzinyathi District, for their swift actions in arresting three individuals involved in illegal firearms and ammunition possession during two separate incidents.”
The Premier also expressed satisfaction with the police's response to criminal elements in KwaZulu-Natal, and praised the leadership of KZN Police Commissioner, Lieutenant -General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for setting a high standard for his team.
The Premier further encouraged the public to support the police by exposing corrupt individuals within both the community and law enforcement, emphasising "together, we can ensure that the law takes its course."
Mngqithi made a brief appearance in the Umzimkhulu Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where he was remanded in custody.
His case has been postponed to 19 December 2024 for bail application. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 13:52
For the past 12 years, the KZN South Coast has played host to the illustrious Ugu International Film Festival (UGUIFF) which attracts local and international stakeholders from the film industry, with local talent given a platform to shine. Expanding the opportunities within this sector to other industries, the 2024 UGUIFF strategy included a ‘Film and …
While the Hollywoodbets Sharks and Toyota Cheetahs will look to build on their encouraging starts to the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup last week, the Vodacom Bulls, DHL Stormers, and Emirates Lions will target a strong comeback after suffering defeats in the opening round of the European showpieces respectively last week. The Vodacom …
LookSee’s new Savings Guarantee provides households with minimum savings expectations and a R2 000 cashback if the savings are not met. Families considering investing in a home solar installation will now be able to make the decision with confidence, following the launch of LookSee’s new Savings Guarantee. This guarantee is the first of its kind in …
As the festive season gains momentum, the Western Cape Government calls on all road users to prioritise safety. Between 25 November and 8 December 2024, 114 arrests were made for driving under the influence of alcohol, and tragically, 33 pedestrians lost their lives on the province’s roads. These numbers are a stark reminder of the …
SA, Angola deepen ties
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to strengthening its partnership with Angola, focusing on shared economic growth, continental integration and sustainable development.
Addressing a media briefing during the Angola State Visit on Thursday, President Ramaphosa said South Africa is keen to see more Angolan investors enter the South African economy.
“South Africa looks forward to deepening its ties with Angola in the cause of mutually beneficial growth, continental economic integration and sustainable development,” the President said.
President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of the Republic of Angola is in South Africa for a State Visit at the Union Buildings in Tshwane.
President Ramaphosa conferred the Order of South Africa on President Lourenço, meaning he shall henceforth be honored as an esteemed member of the country’s National Orders.
“The people of South Africa collectively salute President Lourenço on being conferred with this very high honor of the order of South Africa. I congratulate you for being honored in this manner by South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.
The two Heads of State will address a Business Forum later today. President Ramaphosa said this serves as a chance to connect Angolan and South African businesses and they look forward to participating.
“For our part as governments, we will be expanding on the structural economic reforms underway in both countries to improve the investment climate and business operating environment,” President Ramaphosa said.
With respect to bilateral cooperation, President Ramaphosa said the two countries agreed on an audit of existing agreements and Memoranda of Understanding.
“Since formal diplomatic relations were established between Angola and South Africa, we have signed more than 44 agreements. They are at varying stages of implementation. This stock-take is necessary in the interests of strengthening the strategic partnership going forward,” the President said.
With respect to collaboration on peace and security in the region and across Africa, President Ramaphosa commended President Lourenço for his efforts in mediating between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, as President of the International Conference on the Great Lakes, and as Facilitator of the Luanda Process.
The President said that South Africa and Angola are deeply troubled by the deteriorating situation in Sudan and the ensuing humanitarian crisis.
President Lourenço serves on the AU Presidential Ad-Hoc Committee for the Republic of Sudan.
“South Africa pledges its full support for all efforts to bring about an end to the conflict in Sudan. We are equally concerned at the post-electoral crisis in Mozambique and have agreed to work together to enable our region to better respond to peace and security challenges in Africa,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa further congratulated President Lourenço on his re-election, highlighting that this has been a year of major elections across the continent, including in Angola and South Africa.
“We have a shared sense of optimism regarding the state of multiparty democracy in Africa, which has proven to be robust and in good health.
“We have commended SADC for supporting these democratic processes through election observer missions, as well as for providing valuable recommendations on electoral processes going forward,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 15:27
The festive season is a time of family fun, connection, and delicious food – but it’s also a season where it’s easy to overindulge. With South Africans particularly susceptible to heart disease, Laager Rooibos partner dietitian Mbali Mapholi is sharing some tips to follow for a heart-healthy festive season. “The festive season is often a …
