Hundreds of Drug Users Stranded After Gauteng Government Closes Rehabs
Life Nkanyisa’s drug rehabs, formerly known as Life Esidimeni, had capacity for 750 people
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Penis, Head and Body Parts Found at Durban Dump Site
In the News Today: A murder investigation is under way after human body parts – including a penis – were found at a dump site in the Lusaka area at Amaoti, in Inanda, on Friday morning. KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda said a case has been opened at the Inanda police station. “A human …
Fresh Hope for Teaching Oautistic Children
In the News Today: EDUCATION FOR ALL: Nelson Mandela University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Muki Moeng, Faculty of Education Associate Professor Nokhanyo Mdzanga, and Professor Heloise Sathorar, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, spoke at the launch of the University’s Autism Niche Area on 30 September Professor Heloise Sathorar, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, …
Container Search Conrinues, MV MSC Apollo Released After Oil Spill
Pretoria: 04 October 2024 The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) says it has embarked on yet another search for a set of containers lost overboard by an international cargo vessel while sailing along the country’s oceans earlier this week. However, the set of containers lost overboard by a Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) vessel, the MV … Continue reading Search on for more containers fallen off a cargo vessel sailing past South Africa this week: SAMSA
Many Cape Town Stations Are Closed to Wheelchair Users
And the “People’s Train” is inaccessible to many people
Panday’s Bail Appeal Outcome to Be Heard on Monday
In the News Today: Durban businessman Thoshan Panday will on Monday find out in the Durban high court about the outcome of his appeal against the refusal of bail in his tax fraud case. Last month the Durban magistrate’s court denied Panday, 52, bail when he made a court appearance to face 27 counts of fraud, …
Zimbabwean Truck Driver Dies in Fatal Accident
In the News Today: A Durban-based driver Leon Munhukwaye has tragically died after the truck he was driving was involved in an accident 30km to Colensburg, N1 road from Capetown. An eyewitness said Munhukwaye was forced off the road by an overtaking truck and he crashed. The accident happened at approximately 1700 hours, Wednesday. The …
Durban Residents Without Water for Eight Years Picket at City Hall
Standpipes in ward 105 have been dry since 2016
Basic Education top brass visit Gauteng
Basic Education top brass visit Gauteng
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule will today visit Gauteng as part of the ongoing National Listening and Learning Tour.
This tour aims to directly engage with provincial education stakeholders, school leadership and the broader community to address challenges in the province's education sector.
“This provincial visit will focus on critical issues such as the annual influx of learners to the province, school safety, literacy and numeracy levels, teacher training, as well as budget constraints...
“The purpose of these engagements is to identify areas for improvement, share best practices, and collaboratively develop solutions to the unique challenges within the province's educational landscape,” the Department of Basic Education said in a statement.
Gwarube and Mhaule will address the media following their engagements with provincial education stakeholders, providing updates on the outcomes of the visit and plans to strengthen the education system in Gauteng.
WATCH | National Listening & Learning Tour has arrived in Gauteng
The media briefing will be held at Olympia Park School in Springs, Ekurhuleni.
The National Listening and Learning Tour commenced in the Eastern Cape on 2 September, with a visit to Limpopo on 16 September. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 09:53
548 views
Mining’s potential remains high: Mantashe
Mining’s potential remains high: Mantashe
Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has told an indaba that there is evidence to suggest that mining is “the bedrock of our economy” and that the country is an attractive investment destination for mining.
According to the Minerals Council of South Africa, the industry contributed some 6.3% to South Africa’s nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) last year.
“There is a strong case emerging out of the study on ‘The State of Mining’ that the South African mining industry not only remains the bedrock of our economy, but an attractive investment destination for mining.
“Coupled with the draft South Africa’s ‘Critical Minerals Strategy’, the study points to the reality that the South African mining industry is diversifying from the gold mining era to an industry with wide-ranging mineral resources, including the world’s largest known deposits of platinum group metals (PGMs), manganese, chrome, coal, gold, copper, vanadium, and other natural resources that are considered critical for the just transition,” the Minister said at the Annual Joburg Indaba in Sandton on Thursday.
He added that with the diversification of the industry, its potential to continue growing remains high.
“Notwithstanding the challenges faced by the gold mining sector, including deep level mines and heightened safety concerns, the 2023 gold production statistics positioned South Africa as the world’s thirteenth and Africa’s fourth largest gold producer.
“Despite the fluctuating prices of palladium and rhodium, of which South Africa supplies 38% and 81%, respectively, to the global commodities market, the PGMs sector is poised to play a catalytic role in sustaining the South African mining industry, and in the growth of our economy.
“Considering South Africa’s reserves of known manganese and chrome deposits, as well as being the largest producer and exporter of manganese and chrome ore, the South African manganese and chrome sectors are poised to continue playing a significant role globally driven by their use in the automotive and construction industries,” Mantashe said.
Addressing challenges
He acknowledged that during last year’s Joburg Indaba, industry players raised issues that “we needed to resolve for the sector to thrive, including the need to ensure the necessary policy and regulatory certainty for investment”.
“Although the South African mining industry’s regulatory framework is stable and predictable, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources is drafting amendments to the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA).
“This is so as to address its shortcomings and ensure that areas that have been challenged legally are strengthened against international best practice. The amendments will further improve the business environment while keeping in sync with our socioeconomic fabric.
“The completion of the migration process to the new efficient and transparent mining licensing system, in June next year, is poised to modernise our licensing system, ensure regulatory certainty, and the sustainability of the South African mining industry.
“Having completed the first phase of the project, which included the assessment of the current environment to establish the baseline and its readiness, and the requirements with respect to system hosting, software integration, and the enhancement of cybersecurity, the development of the new system is therefore progressing very well,” the Minister explained.
READ | Presidency transfers Department of Mineral Resources and Energy legislation
Furthermore, the Minister told the industry leaders that between April 2023 and March this year, the department has processed and finalised 127 mining rights, 1 527 prospecting rights, and 2 313 mining permits and ancillaries.
There are no backlogs in the Western Cape and the Free State while backlogs in the Northern Cape, Limpopo, North West, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal have been significantly reduced. Mpumalanga is the only province with a significant backlog.
“As we come to the end of this year’s Indaba, we wish to encourage the South African mining industry to continue sharing insights about the realities of this industry, advance beneficiation at source, and support our exploration initiatives.
“We further encourage junior miners to take up the opportunities presented to them in order to transform the industry and ensure that the people of South Africa derive value from their country’s mineral endowment,” Mantashe concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:09
547 views
Deputy President confident his working visit will attract international investors
Deputy President confident his working visit will attract international investors
Deputy President Paul Mashatile says he is confident that his working visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland will improve trade and investment relations, which have been stagnant for years.
The Deputy President spoke during an engagement with the South African Chamber of Commerce (SACC) in London on Thursday. The SACC is an umbrella organisation and conduit for trade, community and investment into and out of South Africa.
The country’s second-in-command is in the United Kingdom for the second leg of his working visit to improve trade and investment relations between the nations and to woo investors following his travels to Ireland.
READ | SA, Ireland eye improved trade
His interactions were centred on various issues, including the Government of National Unity (GNU), energy, infrastructure, and the measures to foster a favourable environment for trade and investment.
The country’s second-in-command reiterated that the political environment in South Africa is stable for investment because of the newly established GNU, which has been operational for less than 100 days and is already yielding results.
“Our numerous meetings with potential investors have revealed a shift in their attitudes and perceptions towards South Africa, indicating an optimistic outlook.
“Our alliance, based not on personal sentiments but on the aspiration to enhance South Africa and, consequently, the lives of our citizens, will undoubtedly sustain the GNU administration for five years.”
However, he said they will measure the GNU’s success based on the number of employment and entrepreneurs they assist in establishing sustainable enterprises.
“Businesses hope to continue working with the government in the public-private partnership that has reduced load shedding, improved transport and logistics infrastructure, and strengthened national capacity to combat crime and corruption,” the Deputy President said.
Shifting his focus to energy, he stated that investors have demonstrated that ending the load shedding that began in 2007 is the most positive news.
“They confirmed that it allows them to conduct business without uncertainty. The elimination of power outages was largely due to a series of measures implemented by the State-owned power utility, Eskom and government over the past two years.”
He also told the SACC that government was addressing the obstacles in the freight logistics system that continue to impede competitiveness and undermine economic growth.
“We are on a mission to create and sustain a bankable investment pipeline of priority, credible, quality and high-impact projects that span the country through Infrastructure South Africa, the primary driver of the National Infrastructure Plan 2050,” he explained.
Mashatile believes that the SACC plays an essential role in engaging with businesses to promote bilateral trade and investment links between the United Kingdom and South Africa.
“It is our responsibility as leaders in our respective regions to foster an atmosphere that encourages entrepreneurship, fosters innovation, and drives inclusive growth.”
In addition, he expressed his desire to increase South Africa’s exports of valuable goods and services to the United Kingdom.
“It is excellent that the two countries already exchange food and beverages. It is critical that we collaborate to create strategies to accelerate international trade and investment.”
Mashatile announced that the State was simplifying regulatory procedures through the Red Tape Task Team, making it easier for businesses to operate and invest locally.
READ | Govt determined to deal with SA's mounting challenges - Mashatile
He concluded his address with South Africa’s stance on peace and stability in Africa and globally, stressing that the nation is anti-war and pro-peace.
“We reaffirm our commitment to the inviolability of sovereignty and the importance of national security.
“More immediately, we support [silencing the guns]. We want to see peaceful and mutual coexistence between Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Sudan, and the rest of the globe, because war is terrible for business.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:16
674 views
Access to finance remains a challenge for SMMEs
Access to finance remains a challenge for SMMEs
While government is fully cognisant that access to finance remains the most significant barrier to entry for new venture creation, small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and entrepreneurship, steps are being taken to address this.
This is according to the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, who was during the Financial Inclusion Week session in Johannesburg.
“The consequences of government inability to increase the pace of transformation after 30 years are evidenced by the lack of economic growth, unsustainably high levels of unemployment, widening inequality and market concentration,” Godlimpi said.
“Though government policies have worked to dismantle many structures of the apartheid state and increase living standards, these efforts have not translated into the creation of job opportunities for many South Africans,” he said.
Godlimpi pointed out that the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and its agencies, which include the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the National Empowerment Fund (NEF), have managed to attract new business projects in which they will be investing R78 billion.
“We have also agreed to push the dtic and its entities to go beyond the Treasury standards to pay SMMEs. This ensures that we, as an institution of nine branches and 18 entities, do not contribute to the barriers that constrain our SMMEs.”
Glodlimpi explained that on the policy front, government is aware that SMMEs find it difficult to access different forms of finance, including debt.
He said when SMMEs approach debt markets, they are often faced with onerous credit checks and, at times, fall victim to negative reinforcement tools such as credit bureaus due to a lack of access to patient capital.
“When a small business owner misses debt repayment due to delayed payments from clients and, in many instances, the government, they are blacklisted. According to [the] Small Enterprise Development Agency's SMME Quarterly and Stats SA, SMMEs contribute about 59% of total employment in the country,” he said.
Godlimpi said this picture demonstrates the unsustainable structure of credit market in South Africa, which is embedded in a consumption logic rather than a developmental and investment orientation.
“As part of the Minister Parks Tau's new wall-to-wall approach, we have begun to look at sharing important economic data within the dtic to enhance our understanding of the economy and achieve complementarity in deploying the various tools to achieve our industrial policy objectives,” said Godlimpi. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:36
405 views
Broos’ Final Squad for AFCON Qualifiers Against Congo Brazzavile in Gqeberha
In the News Today: Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named his final 23-member squad for this month’s two 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Congo Brazzavile. The South African senior men’s national team face the Congolese in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, on Friday, 11 October 2024 (7pm), and then they travel to Congo to …
191 Days of No Loadshedding Continues
Friday, 04 October 2024: The Generation Operational Recovery Plan has successfully kept loadshedding suspended, achieving 191 consecutive days of uninterrupted power supply since 26 March 2024. Operational efficiency has met summer expectations, with unplanned outages averaging 11 181MW over the past week, compared to 14 743MW during the same period last year, marking an improvement...
Citizens urged to take part in International Fire Safety and Prevention Week
Citizens urged to take part in International Fire Safety and Prevention Week
The National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has called on all South Africans to participate in this year’s International Fire Safety and Prevention Week, which will be observed from 6 to 12 October 2024.
This global event aims to raise awareness of fire prevention and safety practices, encouraging individuals, communities and businesses to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of fires and protect lives.
According to the organisation, South Africans can pledge their support by learning more about fire safety, practising safe fire prevention measures at home and in the workplace, and backing local fire services.
During the International Fire Safety and Prevention Week, fire services across the country will host a variety of awareness campaigns and community outreach activities to educate the public about fire safety.
“These efforts will include school visits, fire drills, safety demonstrations, and information sessions designed to help communities better understand how they can prevent fires and respond effectively in an emergency,” the NDMC said.
Meanwhile, the NDMC has also taken the time to recognise the heroic work done by the brave men and women of fire services across the country, both public and designated services, who are at the forefront of fire prevention and emergency response.
“Their dedication to protecting lives and property, often in dangerous and challenging conditions, deserves the highest praise.”
The organisation has been working closely with all provinces and local municipalities to strengthen fire safety and prevention measures across the country.
Since 2016, according to NDMC statistics, more than 118 municipalities have been assessed, with more than 500 fire safety practitioners trained in fire risk assessment and safety strategies through partnership with the Fire Protection Association of South Africa (FPASA).
“In line with the Fire Services White Paper, fire services are encouraged to pursue the implementation of an integrated fire risk management strategy, as it is critical that collectively we, as a nation, focus on fire prevention and preparedness together,” the statement read.
Fire is preventable, and the NDMC urges everyone to take simple steps, such as:
• Educating communities to build their informal dwellings with a minimum gap of three meters between them to reduce the risk of fire spreading quickly.
• Ensuring that the spaces between these buildings are kept clear of debris and always maintain open and accessible roads leading to the homes, so that emergency vehicles can reach them without delay.
• Ensuring that homes are equipped with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
• Creating and practising fire escape plans.
• Being mindful of potential fire hazards, such as unattended cooking or faulty electrical wiring.
• Educating children, family members, and the frail and elderly about fire safety measures. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:38
307 views
Axe’s Multi-Sensory Experience at Comic Con Africa 2024 a Resounding Success – Featuring Showstopping Performance by Robot Boii
Johannesburg, South Africa – Comic Con Africa 2024 wrapped up on a high note, and AXE, South Africa’s leading male fragrance brand, delivered a show-stopping experience that left fans buzzing with excitement. The AXE activation, which ran from Thursday, 26 September to Sunday, 29 September at the Joburg Expo Centre (NASREC), proved to be a …
Government mourns passing of Siphiwe Sibisi
Government mourns passing of Siphiwe Sibisi
Government has extended its condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Siphiwe Sibisi, affectionately known as General GTZ, who passed away at the weekend.
Sibisi was a beloved figure in the music industry, widely recognised for his role in the iconic kwaito group Chiskop.
He passed away on Sunday after a long battle with cancer.
“As a country, we sadly mourn the loss of Siphiwe Sibisi, a talented artist whose work will forever be remembered. His contribution to the music industry is immeasurable, and we send our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones during this time of grief. May his soul rest in peace,” Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said.
Formed in 1998, Chiskop featured Sibisi alongside the late Mduduzi Tshabalala (Mandoza), Sizwe Motaung (Lollipop) and Sibusiso Thanjekwayo (SB Bless).
The group played a pivotal role in shaping South Africa’s music, culture, and entertainment industry through their dynamic contribution to the kwaito genre.
Their music became a cultural force, resonating with millions and leaving a lasting legacy that transcended generations.
Sibisi’s passing marks the end of an era for many South Africans who grew up listening to Chiskop’s groundbreaking sound, which helped define the kwaito genre and shape the nation’s cultural identity. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:04
316 views
Wolvaardt and Brits Guide South Africa to 10-Wicket Victory Over West Indies
Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits both hit unbeaten half centuries to guide South Africa to a 10-wicket victory over West Indies in their opening match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. Chasing 119, the opening pair of Wolvaardt (59) and Brits (57) both looked in complete control to seal victory with 13 balls …
Bold Initiative to Empower Millions Through Broadband Access
Dear Editor Today, I am thrilled to welcome Minister Solly Malatsi’s bold initiative aimed at expanding broadband connectivity across South Africa. This is more than just a policy announcement; it’s a beacon of hope for millions of our fellow citizens who have long been left behind in the digital age. The stark reality is that …
Court Dismisses ANC’s Cadre Deployment Contempt Appeal
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes today’s ruling by the Johannesburg High Court dismissing the ANC’s desperate attempt to appeal the court’s finding of civil contempt in relation to the ongoing cadre deployment corruption case. In a victory for transparency and accountability, Judge Wanless reaffirmed that the ANC, alongside Fikile Mbalula and Thapelo Masilela, …
Moonsamy and Ferreira Pound Dolphins’ Attack
In the News Today: Rivaldo Moonsamy and Donovan Ferreira pounded a weak Hollywoodbets Dolphins’ attack for 95 in just 42 balls as the Momentum Multiply Titans smacked 210 for three in their CSA T20 Challenge match at Kingsmead in Durban on Friday. The visitors, who crushed the DP World Lions in their opening match, maintained …
100 Years of Automotive Industry
WesBank is proud to announce its continued sponsorship of SA Auto Week for the third consecutive year, reinforcing its commitment to South Africa’s automotive industry. This year’s event, organised by naamsa | The Automotive Business Council and scheduled to take place from 15 to 18 October at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), coincides …
Dixon Starts for DHL Stormers
Springbok loose forward Ben-Jason Dixon comes into the DHL Stormers starting line-up for their Vodacom United Rugby Championship encounter with Zebre Parma on Saturday. Dixon will start at blindside flank for the clash with the Italian side, which kicks off at 20h35 on Saturday at the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi. Prop Sazi Sandi, scrumhalf Dewaldt Duvenage …
Springbok Women Ready for “Total Onslaught”
Expect the unexpected, but be sure that the Springbok Women will have their minds firmly on the job at hand and executing their opponent-specific gameplan when they take on Australia’s Wallaroos in their second round WXV 2 clash at Athlone Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday. According to South Africa’s captain Lusanda Dumke, they have …