MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The FW de Klerk Foundation notes Dr Hlophe’s resignation from the Judicial Services Commission and its continuation of its work, despite Dr Hlophe’s resignation.
The post FW DE KLERK FOUNDATION SUPPORTS JSC CONTINUING ITS WORK – JUDICIARY SHOULD NOT BE HELD HOSTAGE TO POLITICAL POWER PLAY appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.
SOEs urged to provide opportunities to young engineers
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy says State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) have a critical role to play in providing economic opportunities to young people, which will enable them to gain practical work experience in the construction sector.
Addressing media on Tuesday after inspecting the Germiston to Katlehong commuter rail line, the Minister said historically, SOEs played an important role in helping small enterprises to gain experience so that they can move up the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) register.
Contractors, who wish to work in the public sector, must register with the CIDB. The Register of Contractors (RoC) supports clients in infrastructure procurement, and categorises and grades contractors from 1-9, according to financial and works capability.
“In order to be able to do major construction, you must demonstrate that you have become accredited. This is an important role that SOEs have played historically, and it’s a role we want to ensure that these enterprises are once again being supported [to play].
“With regard to the training that we are offering young engineers, it’s really important that we give practical experience to young professionals. One of the major reasons we have so many unemployed graduates in our country is young engineers, particularly, struggle to complete the practical training that is required to become fully fledged and independent professionals.
“We really want to play our role in that regard because we believe that we have incredible talent in our country and we want to make sure that the talent is properly used for all the important infrastructure projects that we need to happen in our country,” the Minister said.
Work to upgrade the Germiston to Katlehong commuter rail line cost about R400 million. The upgrade will ensure that commuters have access to affordable public transport, as a ticket costs R14.50 while a monthly season ticket costs R169.
The upgrade included the rebuilding of a number of stations and rebuilding a substation to ensure a reliable source of electricity.
“In the course of this work, we have created 500 jobs for the local community. We have also been able to involve 34 small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), and overall, throughout the whole country, we have 33 young engineers that are assisting us on our recovery programme,” the Minister said.
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) recovery programme includes recovering passenger rail services, improving safety and security, protecting assets, providing sound leadership as well as executing its capital programme.
“Our vision is that rail must form the backbone of our transport system for both passengers and freight. [We seek] to achieve 250 million tonnes of freight per annum through our freight corridors and 600 million passenger trips per annum by 2030.
“This will not only ensure that we are creating an affordable public transport system for working people and other commuters, but it will also ensure that we have a sustainable and reliable revenue stream for PRASA, so that we can continue to do the maintenance work that this whole system requires,” Creecy said.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, 20% of the working population walk to work due to being unable to afford other forms of transport that are available.
“This is a great inconvenience, time waster and decreases the productivity of those individuals who have to walk between 5kms and 10kms every day. It’s very important that we make this form of transport available for working people again.
“We still have nine priority lines that we must conclude, and we are close to having repaired 300 stations, but there are many more to be repaired. We are taking preventative measures to ensure the safety of our rail infrastructure.
“Seventy-five percent of the copper has been removed from this cabling and we have put in aluminium cabling, which is of less interest to the scrap dealers,” the Minister said.
Moreover, security guards have been deployed to ensure the safety of these lines.
“We are introducing technology, drone technology and technology that will alert us if there is consistent tampering with the line, and that will be helpful to the security guards because they will know where to look for intruders. We hope that these measures will ensure that rail transport is safer,” she said.
The Minister’s inspection took place as part of the department’s flagship October Transport Month campaign, which is now in its 19th instalment. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 12:41
Urology Hospital, South Africa’s premier specialised urology centre and the only hospital of its kind on the continent, has announced a pivotal leadership change. Starting 1 October 2024, the hospital will be led by André Meiring, the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of Urolocare Hospitals. André, a qualified chartered accountant and an alumnus of the …
In the News Today: Board-approved accumulation facility that costs R3bn is part of bigger project of upgrading Durban-Johannesburg pipeline Transnet Pipelines chief executive Sibongiseni Khathi announced interventions to prevent SA from running out of natural gas, including the development of a new oil pipeline between Durban and Johannesburg and security improvements to protect oil transported through …
Law enforcement urged to act on shops selling expired food
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has called on law enforcement to clamp down on the selling of expired food in local spaza shops.
This follows the deaths of five children due to food poisoning after they consumed food from a local spaza shop.
Last month, the Gauteng Health Department revealed that some 207 incidents of food poisoning affecting children had been reported since February this year – resulting in the deaths of at least 10 children.
“The [committee] is deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of five school children. This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of bylaws to prevent the sale of expired and harmful goods, particularly in township areas, where many spaza shops, including those owned by illegal foreign nationals operate with little or no monitoring by Metro Police Officers and relevant authorities.
“The committee strongly condemns the continued sale of expired and fake goods which pose a serious threat to the health and safety of our communities, especially vulnerable children. The irresponsible behaviour of some spaza shop owners who put profits above the well being of the community is intolerable,” the committee said in a statement.
Furthermore, the committee called on authorities, including the Department of Health, to “take immediate and decisive actions to prevent further loss of life”.
“The committee calls on Metro Police Departments in various municipalities to enforce bylaws rigorously and ensure that all spaza shops are operating within the law, particularly in relation to the sale of consumable goods.
“It is essential that law enforcement agencies conduct regular inspections to monitor compliance and that immediate actions are taken against those found violating these laws.
“The committee further calls on the Department of Health to intensify its health inspections to ensure that all food products sold in these shops are safe for consumption and have not exceeded their expiry dates,” the statement read.
The committee said it would engage relevant stakeholders in a bid to stem the tide of food poisonings.
“The committee is concerned that the continued loss of life is partly due to the failures of Law Enforcement Agencies to fulfil their responsibility of conducting regular inspections and ensuring compliance by spaza shops. This lack of monitoring puts communities at risk and undermines the very fabric of public health and safety.
“We urge community members to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the sale of expired or fake goods. Together we must act to protect our communities, especially our children from such senseless tragedies.
“The committee will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders to ensure that swift action is taken and that necessary measures are implemented to project the health and safety of the people of Gauteng,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:44
MPUMALANGA – Elijah Mahlangu and Jabu Mokoena both (32), appeared before the Emakhazeni Magistrates court on Tuesday, 08 October 2024 for fraud.Th eir appearance follows their arrest by the Hawks Middelburg and Secunda based Serious Commercial Crime Investigation. It is alleged that during October 2021, the complainant, Mr Sizolethu Richard Sindane, was a regular customer …
NORTH WEST – Caroline Diana Sserufusa (37) and her company have on Wednesday, 09 October 2024, appeared at the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in Klerksdorp on charges of fraud and money laundering. In June 2023, a 47-year-old woman, who is a complainant on the case, allegedly met and dated a Nigerian man known to …
When considering storage options, it’s essential to understand the various choices available to suit specific needs. These options typically vary depending on the duration of storage, the size of the items to be stored, and whether the storage is for personal or business use. Residential Storage This is a popular option for individuals looking …
In the News Today: After a search, Ithuba has confirmed that the winner of the R8.5m Lotto plus 1 jackpot, an elderly man, has claimed his payout. An R8.5m lottery jackpot winner from Nomathamsanqa, near Addo in the Eastern Cape, says he will consult his ancestors to guide and inform the decisions he makes with …
Phaahla to lead National Nutrition Week event on Thursday
The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, will on Thursday, 10 October 2024, lead the National Nutrition Week commemorative event in Cape Town.
National Nutrition Week is part of continued efforts to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition, healthy eating habits and active lifestyle to improve overall health.
The National Nutrition Week is commemorated annually in October to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition to promote better health, and to educate individuals and communities about healthy eating and making informed nutritional choices.
The theme for this year’s campaign is ‘Eat right for a better life!’, which serves as a clarion call for people to prioritise healthy eating, balanced nutrition, and make informed food choices for improved health outcomes.
“Healthy eating does not necessarily mean buying expensive food from big brands retailers but can include homegrown vegetables,” the Health Department said.
The event is organised in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) and other stakeholders in the sector.
“The focus of this year is on young people to teach them about the benefits of adopting health eating to invest in their future health to lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and other health conditions.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:19
With over 14 years' experience in sales and management across Africa, Prosper Shoniwa has built a reputation for driving business growth and operational excellence. As the Export Sales and Operations Manager at RS South Africa (www.za.RS-online.com/web), Prosper combines his in-depth knowledge of international trade with a nuanced understanding of African market dynamics, positioning him as a key figure in the company's expansion efforts across the continent.
Prosper is an accomplished professional with a proven track record in export management and sales, having successfully navigated the complexities of diverse African markets throughout his career. His expertise spans multiple industries, where he has consistently demonstrated the ability to develop and execute strategies that achieve significant growth. His formal qualifications, including a Diploma in International Trade Management from the International Trade Institute of Southern Africa (ITRISA) and a Diploma in Marketing from the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), form the foundation of his business acumen.
Currently pursuing a BCom in International Business at MANCOSA, Prosper continues to enhance his skills to stay ahead in Africa's rapidly evolving business landscape. Fluent in English and French, Prosper has cultivated strong relationships across Sub-Saharan Africa, working with stakeholders ranging from corporate clients and distributors to EPCs and water utilities. He also has extensive experience consulting with engineers and working at the highest level with governments, making him a versatile leader in cross-border partnerships. His multilingual proficiency and deep cultural understanding have been instrumental in bridging gaps and fostering collaborations that transcend borders.
At RS South Africa, Prosper leads the company's export operations with a focus on delivering Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) solutions tailored to the unique needs of the African market. His leadership approach goes beyond delivering products; he is committed to building long-term partnerships that drive operational efficiencies and provide value-driven, sustainable solutions. Prosper's ability to anticipate market trends, negotiate deals, and implement innovative strategies ensures that RS South Africa's clients gain a competitive edge.
Prosper's vision for RS South Africa is one of transformation, where MRO solutions are not only efficient and value-driven but also innovative and responsive to the changing demands of African industries. His focus on client satisfaction, coupled with his strategic insight, positions RS South Africa as a preferred partner across Southern, East, and West Africa. Under Prosper's leadership, the company is set to redefine how businesses across Africa approach their operational needs, delivering customised solutions that enable seamless operations and continuous improvement.
With a commitment to operational excellence and a passion for driving growth in challenging markets, Prosper Shoniwa is at the forefront of RS South Africa's mission to expand its influence and deliver impactful MRO solutions across the continent.
For more information about RS Africa export solutions, visit their website (www.Africa.RSdelivers.com) and follow them on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4gQsIiq) for regular updates on their impactful work.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.
PR Contact Person -
RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
RS South Africa
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366
Media Contact Person –
NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763
RS:
RS is a trading brand of RS Group plc, providing product and service solutions that help our customers design, build, maintain, repair, and operate industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 750,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to 1.1 million customers.
We support customers across the product lifecycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance, repair, and operation phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.
RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2023 reported revenue of £2,982 million.
Further information is available via these links:
ART TRADER along with RED GALLERY is thrilled to invite you to an exclusive art auction on 24 October 2024, from 18:00 PM to 21:00 PM, featuring original works by Cape Town’s top local artists. This event offers a rare opportunity to own unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that highlight the rich creativity of the community. The …
EASTERN CAPE – The swift and a tactical response by police officers resulted in the death of a murder suspect, following a shootout with the police in Ngqeleni this afternoon. On Wednesday, 9 October at about 12:15, one of the suspects, who is believed was involved in the murder of a policeman in Ngqeleni last …
School where reservoir was being built blocks construction
South Africa boosted their hopes of reaching the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 semi-finals with a convincing 80-run victory over Scotland in Dubai. Tazmin Brits (43), Marizanne Kapp (43) and Laura Wolvaardt (40) led the way with the bat as the Proteas posted 166 for five, the highest score of the competition so far. …
LTA Autecon, formerly known as Grinaker-LTA Mechanical & Electrical, has recently redefined its distinct identity and strategic positioning as a market leader in the structural, mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, piping and plate work (SMEIPP) construction sectors. With over 40 years of experience, LTA Autecon specialises in delivering an array of construction solutions tailored to the oil …
The value of the Junior Springbok Women playing three tough matches in the R10 African U20 Women’s Series will be realised in coming seasons when the top U20 players progress to the senior ranks, both at provincial and national levels. The U20 series, comprised of South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda and the San Clemente Rhinos, was …
SA, Norway Ministers to drive talks on climate change mitigation
South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, and his counterpart from Norway, Minister of Climate and Environment Tore Onshuus Sandvik, have been appointed to steer informal consultations on mitigation before and during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29).
The Ministerial Pair was appointed by COP29 President-designate and Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources in the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mukhtar Babayev.
Minister George said he was honoured to accept the important and challenging assignment from the President-designate for COP29.
“The designation of South Africa as a ministerial co-facilitator recognises the country’s long-standing leadership role at the international multi-lateral climate negotiations in ensuring the voices of developing countries are well reflected in the multilateral deliberations, and our national level leadership to implement Just Transitions,” George said.
In their consultations, Ministers George and Sandvik will be engaging with parties and all negotiating groups to conduct informal consultations on concrete issues related to the content on mitigation and linkages to the process at large.
It is anticipated that the pair’s consultations will foster a comprehensive understanding among ministers and their delegations regarding the priorities, perspectives, and areas in need of political guidance in the lead up to and during COP29.
“This is the challenge of our time, and I am honoured to continue South Africa’s leadership,” George said.
The appointment comes as the Minister prepares to participate in this year’s Pre-COP event, taking place from 10-11 October 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Pre-COP29 brings together ministers to discuss the key political aspects of the negotiations, find solutions to outstanding issues, and set the tone for the upcoming COP29.
Minister Babayev will open Pre-COP proceedings on Thursday alongside COP28 President and United Arab Emirates Special Envoy for Climate Change, Dr Sultan A. Al Jaber, among others.
The opening will be followed by a Plenary discussion on the Road to COP29 and various Climate Change Labs. The second day of Pre-COP will consist of plenary discussions on “Unlocking the potential of Article 6” and “Taking forward the outcomes of the first Global Stocktake (GST)”, before proceedings are concluded. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:52
Premier Winde welcomes the gazetting of the Remote Work Visa. This critical milestone will go a long way in boosting our economy and creating more jobs. “We must collectively explore ways to unlock the potential of the Western Cape and the country’s economy. Our province has long been seen as a prime investment destination. This …
The Western Cape Government is pleased to announce that it will offer free vehicle inspections for all scholar transport operators in Cape Town and Malmesbury on Thursday, 10 October 2024. This initiative is part of our continued efforts to ensure that all vehicles transporting learners are roadworthy and meet the highest safety standards. Vehicle inspections …
Alun Lawrence is proof that a lot can happen in 12 months in the life of a professional rugby player. When he helped Cardiff Rugby secure a BKT URC victory over the Scarlets a fortnight ago, it coincided with a telling anniversary. “That was a year exactly from when Jersey went into liquidation,” he explains. …
The following remarks were made by Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, to the Standing Committee on Infrastructure – 2024/25 Annual Performance on 9 October 2024: Good morning, Chairperson of the Committee; Honourable Members; HOD; Officials from the department; and Members of the public It is my distinct honour to present to you today …
Finding the right self-storage in Johannesburg is crucial to ensuring your items are safe, accessible, and stored under appropriate conditions. Several key factors can guide you in selecting the best storage option for your needs. Key Factors to Consider The most important aspects to consider when choosing a storage facility are location, security, accessibility, …
The pipeline of gas projects being developed in Africa has never been stronger. However, if the continent is to be competitive in an extremely dynamic international gas market, it must ensure that it offers value.
This means shaping an offer that meets the financial and environmental sustainability needs of stakeholders. Africa's gas investment proposition must be relevant and future-proof, if it is to continue to attract global capital.
This was the consensus at a panel discussion on Day 1 of AOW: Investing in African Energy – Africa's leading oil, gas and energy event.
Over the past few years, gas development ambitions have grown – in the public and private sector – supported by renewed exploration and production activity and pragmatic energy transition plans. This is especially true now, with gas increasingly accepted as the ideal bridging fuel, balancing the continent's growing energy needs with its decarbonisation commitments.
“Natural gas is at the centre of what we are doing in Africa,” said Mario Bello, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa Region at Eni. “It's the cleanest fossil fuel, producing fewer emissions than coal, so it plays an important role as we transition to renewables.”
Eni enables this through its Floating Liquified Natural Gas (FLNG) projects, particularly in Mozambique and the Republic of Congo. Bello emphasised the technology's ability to unlock stranded offshore gas resources, accelerate project timelines, and contribute to both domestic energy security and export revenue. “Floating LNG is the key to unlocking the region's gas potential, making it easier and faster to develop offshore resources,” Bello explained.
However, financing these ambitious projects remains a significant hurdle. Paul Eardley-Taylor, Head of Oil & Gas, Southern Africa, at Standard Bank, emphasised the need for bankable projects that address investor concerns, particularly around sovereign risk. He highlighted the transformative potential of both large-scale LNG projects and smaller, domestically focused gas ventures.
“The impact of these projects in African markets is incalculable,” Eardley-Taylor said, citing the potential for job creation, economic growth, and improved energy access. He further emphasised the importance of small-scale LNG and helium projects, particularly in markets like South Africa and Namibia.
Equinor's Senior Vice President for Africa, Nina Birgitte Koch, stressed the importance of a stable investment climate to attract international capital. She highlighted the need for competitive projects with strong environmental credentials, particularly in reducing carbon emissions. “CO2 is the key criteria,” Koch said. “It's not just a ‘nice to have' any more. I don't think it's possible to get capital to a big LNG project unless it's highly competitive when it comes to CO2."
The panel also discussed the critical role of technology and regional cooperation in maximising the benefits of Africa's gas resources. Gianluca Ciricugno, Africa Director, Enterprise Customer Solution at Baker Hughes, emphasised the need for a long-term vision and collaboration between governments, investors, and technology providers.
“It requires a broader vision, probably government and all the people around the table, with a long-term approach… and not just four-year terms,” Ciricugno urged, highlighting the need for stable regulatory frameworks and a commitment to infrastructure development.
Dr Tshepo Mokoka, Group COO of South Africa's Central Energy Fund (CEF), echoed the call for government intervention to address market failures and unlock investment. He outlined CEF's role in enabling critical gas infrastructure projects, such as the Romp pipeline and LNG import terminals. “We need to solve the market failure,” Dr Mokoka said, highlighting the need for government-backed gas offtake agreements and risk-sharing mechanisms to attract private capital.
ExxonMobil's Executive Director Global, LNG Marketing, Deri Irawan, emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to project development, considering not just the technical and economic aspects but also the social and political landscape. He highlighted the need for strong partnerships and stakeholder engagement to ensure long-term project success. “It is insufficient to just bring a commodity to the doorstep,” Irawan explained. “You also need to unlock that value chain.”
With Africa on the cusp of a gas revolution, the panel's message was clear: the continent has the resources, the ambition, and the opportunity to become a major player in the global gas market.
However, success hinges on creating a stable and attractive investment climate, embracing technological innovation, and fostering regional collaboration to ensure that Africa's gas resources benefit both its people and the planet.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AOW: Investing in African Energy.
Owned by Sankofa Events, AOW (https://apo-opa.co/3ZVcWNe): Investing in African Energy is Africa's leading oil, gas & energy event, uniting industry leaders to develop policy, share discoveries, secure investment, and shape Africa's energy future. The event runs from 7 – 10 October 2024 at the CTICC 2, Cape Town.