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Dear Editor The DA will request that the Vuthlari Old Age and Disability Centre appear before the parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Social Development as a matter of urgency regarding allegations of severe human rights abuses reported in the media. According to reports, residents of the Centre are subjected to sleeping on the floor with only …
Dear Editor Premier Oscar Mabuyane must come clean about the details surrounding his research proposal to obtain a master’s and PhD in Public Administration as the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) expands its probe into academic fraud at the University of Fort Hare (UFH). The expanded mandate again places his alleged fraudulent admission to the master’s …
Premier Alan Winde notes the serious concerns raised by trade unions who marched on the Western Cape Provincial Parliament (WCPP) and national Parliament today, 7 October 2024, as part of a one-day strike. “As the Western Cape Government (WCG) we share many of COSATU’s concerns. Weak and devastatingly low economic growth, South Africa’s high unemployment …
In the News Today: The handover of the memorandum calling for South Africa to isolate Israel through the enactment of sanctions and boycotts was the culmination of the march led by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC). Mahumapelo assured the protesters that National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza would receive the memorandum and give feedback on its demands. …
Elijah Matlombe, or Elijah The Prophet as he is better known, grew up in and around Johannesburg. Now living in Observatory with his parents, the 22-year-old Matlombe, after graduating from the Academy of Sound Engineering, was recently awarded a six-month mentorship contract with Universal Music Publishing, on the basis of his excellent musicality and work …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) strongly condemns the horrific and senseless ambush that claimed the lives of six community patrollers and left four others wounded at Lugongozo Junior Secondary School near Qumbu on Sunday night. These dedicated individuals, who were selflessly working to protect their communities, became the latest victims of the unrelenting violence …
Dear Editor For over two years, more than 1 300 residents of Misgund in the Koukamma Municipality have endured a relentless water supply crisis. This struggle continues despite recent assurances from the Minister of Water and Sanitation that their suffering would end over two months ago. Oversight inspections in the past unveiled the harsh reality …
Dear Editor A recent written parliamentary question has revealed that the OR Tambo District Office of the Eastern Cape Department of Health (EC DoH) has been footing the bill to accommodate the CEO of Zithulele Hospital, Nolubabalo Fatyela, at three different hotels in Mthatha for nearly two years, at a cost of R 574 026,55. …
Meet the prestigious line-up of international chefs who will crown the best young chef in the world. Cape Town, South Africa, 07 October 2024 – S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy is proud to announce the Global Jury who will be judging the Grand Finale of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2024-25. Seven of the most …
Steven Msimanga trains 25 youths in his backyard in Orlando East
SA, Botswana strengthen economic ties
South Africa and Botswana have committed to strengthening economic ties between the two countries and reducing the barriers that currently impede the free flow of goods.
The commitment was made during a meeting between the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Zuko Godlimpi and the Botswana Minister of Trade and Industry Mmusi Kgafela in Pretoria recently.
The two discussed the promotion of trade and investment and committed to addressing key challenges hindering the full potential of economic cooperation between the two countries.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen economic ties, deepening communication on trade relations, and fostering mutually beneficial investment opportunities that contribute to sustainable industrial development and employment creation for both countries.
Deputy Minister Godlimpi and Minister Kgafela emphasised the importance of simplifying trade processes and reducing the barriers that currently impede the free flow of goods.
The two also discussed possible cooperation in areas of mutual interest where investment cooperation can be expanded such as manufacturing, agriculture, transport, and other services sectors.
A central part of the discussions focused on addressing existing challenges, including non-tariff barriers, regulatory obstacles, and market access issues that have hindered trade growth.
Both countries agreed to establish a bilateral working group to identify and resolve these challenges to ensure a fair and open trading environment.
Both delegations expressed optimism about the future of their economic partnership and agreed to hold and sustain regular consultations to monitor progress and explore new areas of cooperation. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 11:28
Mzi Kaka, Corporate Liaison at the Academy of Sound Engineering The entertainment industry is booming in Africa. In fact, South Africa is one of the largest markets in the sub-Saharan music industry, contributing almost 80% of revenues. The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) has listed sound engineering as an in-demand skill, as an example reflecting …
In the News Today: Taine Havemann scored an unbeaten half-century as he shepherded Durban High School to a 1-wicket win over Hilton College in their 50-over match contested at DHS on Saturday. Hilton was bowled out for 205 runs in 50 overs after electing to bat first. DHS needed 49.2 overs and nine wickets to …
In the News Today: Metrorail Western Cape has partnered with the South African Navy (SA Navy) to offer a unique train travel experience to the SA Navy Festival 2024 in Simonstown. Customers will travel in style on the #PeoplesTrain from Cape Town to Simonstown, enjoying breathtaking views along the scenic route. This year’s festival promises …
Agriculture dept oversees surveillance programme for African citrus greening disease
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has announced a planned surveillance programme for African citrus greening disease in and around Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape.
The surveillance programme is an official process conducted to determine pest presence or absence in an area.
The planned surveillance programme follows the African strain of the disease, which was recently detected in the residential areas of Gqeberha.
African citrus greening disease is a bacterial disease of citrus trees, which is primarily spread or transmitted by the insect vector African citrus psyllid (Trioza erytreae).
The most characteristic symptoms on leaves of affected trees include blotchy mottling and yellowing of leaf veins.
The disease reduces the quality of fruit, making it unsuitable for sale as fresh fruit or for processing.
The department said during the planned surveillance programme, a delimiting survey will be administered to determine the geographic distribution of citrus greening (African strain) in the area as a basis for further consideration of whether the pest is widely distributed or not.
This is to enable the implementation of effective and efficient phytosanitary measures.
“For this survey, DALRRD will collaborate with Citrus Research International (CRI) to survey citrus trees for suspicious symptoms, and samples might be taken for laboratory analysis,” the department said in a statement.
The department has since informed nursery owners, including citrus growers and community members in and around Gqeberha, about the planned surveillance programme.
The department has urged the residents of Gqeberha and surrounding areas to cooperate with DALRRD and CRI officials, who will be working in and around their areas for surveillance activities.
Residents are also urged not to tamper with any of the department’s yellow sticky traps, as they collect valuable information.
Citrus greening is under official control in terms of the Control Measures R.110 of 27 January 1984 of the Agricultural Pests Act (APA), 1983 (Act No. 36 of 1983).
The intra-provincial movement of citrus propagation materials from infested areas to non-infested areas in the Eastern Cape is prohibited.
Infested areas include the districts of Alfred Nzo, OR Tambo, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (Wards 1-10, 15, 16, 18, 19, 27-29, 31, 46, 47 and 50), Great Kei (Ward 1), and Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (Wards 1-15, 32 and 39).
Some of the non-infested areas include the districts of Ukhahlamba, Amathole, Chris Hani, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (wards 16-31; 33-38; 40-60) and Cacadu.
“It is against this background that nursery owners, informal traders, citrus growers and community members are encouraged not to move plants and plant propagation material from infested areas to non-infested areas, unless such movement is authorised by means of a removal permit, in terms of the Agricultural Pests Act,” the department said.
Steenhuisen to launch national food survey launch
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen will on Wednesday launch the findings of the National Food and Nutrition Security Survey (NFNSS) in Pretoria.
This after the DALRRD commissioned the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) to conduct the NFNSS between 2021 and 2023.
The survey was conducted in all nine provinces, with 10 reports produced, including one for each province and one national report.
The department said the survey’s findings offer insights into the current state of food and nutrition security in the country at the district sphere.
“The aim of the survey was to generate baseline data that government will utilise to provide targeted support interventions to households. Support to households is aimed at providing access to adequate food and nutrition towards food security,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 11:25
continue reading HERE. Pietermaritzburg stands as a city rich in history and culture, with a diverse population contributing to its vibrant community. The blend of natural beauty, educational institutions, economic activities, and cultural heritage makes it a noteworthy location in KwaZulu-Natal. Understanding these facts provides a deeper appreciation of Pietermaritzburg’s role within the broader …
Hair loss can be a challenging experience for both men and women. It affects not only the physical appearance but also the confidence of those experiencing it. Thankfully, advances in medical science and hair restoration techniques have made it easier to combat this issue. With several effective options available, including various alopecia treatments, individuals have …
Massive budget increase for TERS
In a bid to cushion companies in distress and prevent job losses, the Department of Employment and Labour has significantly increased its Temporary Employer-Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) budget from R400 million to R2.4 billion for the current financial year.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the department said this significant boost aims to assist companies in distress and prevent employee layoffs amid unstable economic conditions, as revealed by Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth.
TERS is an intervention by the department that provides financial assistance to companies in distress for up to 12 months. The scheme enables employers to retain employees by covering their salaries while the company focuses on implementing a turnaround strategy to remain operational.
During this period, employers are only required to cover employee social costs such as provident fund and medical aid contributions.
Productivity SA, an entity under the department, offers turnaround strategy solutions to companies in distress.
Minister Meth urged companies experiencing financial challenges to participate in the scheme as soon as they notice signs of distress.
"The nature and degree of distress will be objectively measured through indicators including but not limited to a decline in revenue. The application process for TERS begins at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) and is entirely free of charge. There are no application, initiation, or administration fees required," said Meth.
A single adjudication committee administered by the CCMA evaluates all TERS applications for eligibility using a combination of indicators.
Rationale for the budget increase
The expanded budget comes in response to the country’s ongoing economic challenges, which have resulted in significant job losses across various sectors.
Recent reports from the CCMA reveal that while 14 887 jobs were saved through interventions during the 2023/2024 financial year, over 22 500 employees were still retrenched.
The number of job losses, particularly in key industries, necessitated an adjustment in the budget to enhance TERS.
“The increase in the TERS budget is a proactive response to volatile economic trends that threaten the livelihoods of impoverished workers and the sustainability of businesses. Our goal is to preserve jobs and support companies facing financial difficulties.
“Furthermore, the increase in the scheme's capacity, aims to reduce the risk of further retrenchments and support economic stability,” Meth said.
The highest number of job losses were recorded in the following sectors:
• Mining: 5 153 job losses.
• Manufacturing: 2 125 job losses.
• Telecommunications: 1 680 job losses.
Since its inception, TERS has been instrumental in supporting a wide range of industries severely impacted by economic challenges.
The following sectors have notably benefited from the scheme:
• Hospitality and tourism: hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies affected by decreased tourism.
• Manufacturing: factories experiencing reduced demand and supply chain disruptions.
• Retail: non-essential retail businesses facing reduced consumer spending.
• Transportation: bus services, and logistics companies dealing with decreased operations.
TERS has facilitated the retention of hundreds of thousands of jobs by providing salary support to employees who might otherwise have been laid off. It continues to play a significant role in stabilising the economy during turbulent times, ensuring a quicker path to recovery by alleviating the financial burden on companies.
Application requirements
Employers seeking to participate in the TERS scheme will be required to provide documentary evidence for evaluation:
• Audited Annual Financial Statements for the past two financial years.
• Independently Reviewed Annual Financial Statements for companies not legally required to be audited, covering the past two financial years.
• Independently Reviewed Management Accounts with comparative figures if the latest financial statements are older than three months.
• Termination of Contract and Bank Statement for individual applicants.
• Business Case outlining the triggers for distress and proposed remedial actions.
With the expanded budget, the department said it hopes that more businesses will participate in the scheme, preventing further job losses and helping to build resilience within South Africa's economic landscape. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 11:01
SevenC, a leading managed service provider in South Africa, looks at how managed IT services support remote work, hybrid workspaces, and AI-driven workforce management. Remote Work and Hybrid Work Models Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, working remotely was considered more of a luxury than a popular working practice. During quarantines and social distancing, businesses were …
In the News Today: Collaboration between CapeNature, the police’s Kuils River Stock Theft Unit, the Environment Department and the US Fish and Wildlife Service culminated in a raid at a house in the Cape Town suburb of Durbanville where cages of extremely dangerous snakes, spiders and birds were found. Most of the creatures were species …
5 Quick Fire Protein Packed Vegan Recipes Vegans Skip The Middle ‘Man’ And Go Direct Why Your Vegan Smells Good We all know that beans provide goodly amounts of protein but there are many other forms of protein available to Vegans and Carnivores alike. Speaking of beans here is a quick joke: Why did the …
Another drug mule nabbed
Every week in the last month, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested at least one drug mule at OR Tambo International Airport, with the 14th drug mule to be arrested in recent weeks, nabbed on Sunday.
“Every week in the last month, SAPS has arrested at least one drug mule at OR Tambo International Airport. This week alone, police arrested three drug mules, including two Dutch traffickers, who were found with 80kg of Khat. Today’s (Sunday's) arrest is the 14th drug mule to be arrested in recent weeks,” the police said in a statement released at the weekend.
In Sunday’s arrest, the SAPS in collaboration with officials from the South African Revenue Service (SARS), arrested a 43-year-old drug mule from Paraguay who had landed from São Paulo when he was arrested by police officials at the airport.
“A medical examination confirmed that he had swallowed multiple foreign objects and has so far released more than 20 bullets suspected to contain cocaine. This brings the total number of drug mules arrested at this airport in the last couple of weeks to fourteen,” said the SAPS.
Last month, a 21-year-old South African woman became the eleventh person arrested for drug trafficking at the OR Tambo International (ORTIA) Airport.
At the time, the police said she was intercepted as she was arriving on a flight from São Paulo, Brazil.
She was taken to a local hospital where an X-ray confirmed that she had foreign objects in her stomach.
In that arrest, the National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, commended the vigilance of members of SARS and SAPS at the airport.
On Sunday, 22 September 2024, a 30-year-old Namibian drug mule was arrested after arriving from São Paulo.
READ | South African woman arrested for drug trafficking at OR Tambo
On Friday, 13 September 2024, a Nigerian drug mule was arrested after he was found in possession of cocaine that was concealed in aircraft head phones. He had just landed from São Paulo. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 09:53
In the News Today: With the matric exams less than two weeks away, concern has been raised about the “poor state” of some Durban schools which have been impacted by vandalism, theft and lack of parental involvement. Parents and opposition parties said that visits to some schools in the city had revealed facilities that were …
Effective contract management plays a crucial role in the success of any business, helping organizations streamline processes, reduce risks, and ensure compliance. As companies grow and deal with an increasing number of contracts, managing them manually becomes inefficient and prone to errors. This is where contract management lifecycle software becomes invaluable, offering comprehensive solutions to …