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The National Health Department has called for continued public vigilance after the country recorded one more laboratory-confirmed Mpox case. This follows the discovery of a 38-year-old man from Cape Town who sought medical intervention at a private medical practice last week. The man had typical Mpox lesions on the face, trunk, thorax, and genitals. He …
The organisers of South Africa’s most social 5km run, the Boxer Super Run, are thrilled to announce an impressive R147 200.00 prize purse in 2024. “The Boxer Super Run has redefined the standard for 5km events, and we’re proud to raise the bar even higher this year with an unprecedented R147 200.00 prize purse,” says …
Fresh off a silver medal at the ASA Cross Country Championships, Cacisile Sosibo is now focused on adding another podium finish to her accomplishments, aiming for success at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K on National Heritage Day, Tuesday, 24 September 2024. Sosibo claimed the runner-up position behind Cian Oldknow in the senior women’s …
The rail agency was ordered to restore shelter to people it evicted from Cape Town Foreshore in August
Pretoria, South Africa – Homeowners often rely on their dishwashers to simplify daily chores, so when the appliance leaves standing water at the bottom, it can be both frustrating and inconvenient. Appliance Repairs Centre, with over 38 years of experience in appliance servicing and repairs, has seen it all. The company is now sharing expert …
British Airways (BA) plans to expand its flight services between London Heathrow (LHR) and Cape Town International Airport (CPT) during South Africa’s upcoming summer season, as announced by Cape Town Air Access, a Wesgro-led initiative focused on air route development. Beginning in late October, BA will introduce an extra daily flight to its existing schedule …
Gqeberha: Gqeberha’s Role in Apartheid – Gqeberha played a significant role in the anti-apartheid movement, with various protests and demonstrations taking place in the city
With the plethora of AI tools available – each of them promising to make your life easier, richer and more fun we at MyPR have to say that we are still on the fence as to which one is our favourite. Of course if you show us one that is for free that is the …
Minister Meth attends 2nd BRICS Labour and Employment Ministers meeting in Russia
Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth is today attending the 2nd Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Labour and Employment Ministers Meeting (LEMM) in Sochi, Russia.
The Ministers from different countries will share experiences and good practice on priorities during the two-day meeting which commenced on Monday and concludes today.
International organisations such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the International Social Security Association provide technical support to the LEMM.
Priorities discussed at the gathering, include the development of a system of vocational guidance and lifelong professional education for the entire population; the role in the labour market and the problems of regulating the work of platform workers; ensuring safe work and social security for employees and the development of social support for citizens of the BRICS countries.
“The gathering is important for South Africa, as the main objective is to facilitate cross-collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and monitoring and evaluation, in achieving our goals,” Minister Meth said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 13:55
On the 8th of September 2024, Mall of the South brought together key partners, stakeholders, and government officials for the #Holler event 2024, to stand united against human trafficking. The event supported the Home of Hope for Girls, a non-profit providing a safe haven for children and teenagers who have experienced abuse, particularly in cases …
Labour Minister pleased with bargaining council collective agreement
Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has congratulated all the parties at the South African Local Government Bargaining Council (SALGBC), for concluding a multi-year collective agreement.
The landmark five-year agreement signed by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) which represents 257 municipalities nationwide, the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) as well as the Independent Municipal and Allied Trade Union (IMATU), will see employees receiving a 6% salary increase effective 1 July 2024, and an additional 1.5% from 1 March 2025.
The department also commended the parties for concluding the collective agreement that provides certainty to the labour market and assures service delivery to communities.
The agreement sets a positive precedent for future negotiations and demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative problem-solving.
Furthermore, the department said it underscores the importance of maintaining open communication channels and working towards mutually beneficial solutions.
Such agreements not only enhance trust between employers and employees but also contribute to the overall well-being of the broader community, it said.
Furthermore, the department said the successful resolution of this bargaining process reflects a commitment to sustainable development and social cohesion.
“It is encouraging to see parties using social dialogue to resolve their differences. This affirms the truth that social dialogue remains a crucial vehicle for resolving labour market disputes peacefully. When collective bargaining is free from violence and damage to property, it creates labour market stability, which is crucial for attracting the required investment to combat poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
“By addressing the needs and concerns of both parties through constructive dialogue, the agreement paves the way for a more harmonious and productive working environment. This approach will undoubtedly benefit all stakeholders and foster a more resilient labour market,” Meth said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 14:14
The Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources has expressed its relief at hearing that TotalEnergies remains a major player in the South African energy sector.
The committee expressed this view after it was briefed by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources on the impact of TotalEnergies' withdrawal from Block 11B/12B, off the country's southern coastline, and Block 5/6/7 off the West Coast.
Although regretting the cessation on projects with huge potential economic spinoffs to the country, the committee was encouraged that TotalEnergies is still involved in exploration work in South Africa at Block 3B/4B of the orange basin in the West Coast.
The committee is also comforted to hear that Block 11B/12B and Bock 5/6/7 have sufficient resource reserves still open to be explored by other investors.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Join The Upside this September. Do you have a story to share about how you choose to #JoinTheUpside? We want to hear how you made the most of a hard-luck moment or how you’re inspiring your community… from helping yourself to helping others join the upside! Share it in the comments on our social media …
Justice Minister appears before Parliamentary Committee on State Capture data access
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Thembi Simelane has reiterated the department’s commitment to working with the National Prosecuting Authority Investigative Directorate (NPA ID) on the matter of the data of the State Capture Commission.
In August, reports surfaced claiming that the department was hampering the work of the NPA ID by blocking access to the data centre.
The department is the legal custodian of all the assets of the Commission, including the data centre.
Speaking at a meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development on Tuesday, Simelane said she remains willing to look into the matter.
“I am here because you have called me to account and I’ll always do that. I have not met anyone to block anything. I made a commitment that I am willing to relook into the matter. I can’t block anyone.”
She said she still needed to be taken to the data centre to verify it. “If they say it is sitting in the department, I will say open that room.”
“I have even tried to ascertain with the DG if there are any outstanding requests that have been made by the NPA or any of the state agencies that need any information with regard to State Capture so that at least, I’ll make sure that everything is up to date and try to look into the processes and statements…[that] were agreed,” Simelane said.
NPA National Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Shamila Batohi said the ID requires “unhindered access” in order to fulfil its duties.
“When we talk about access, we talk about unhindered access to the archives but I hasten to add, working within the legal and Constitutional requirements. The ID has been provided levels of access but not the access that it needs,” Batohi said.
In a statement last month, the department said it had responded to requests for data from law enforcement.
It clarified that cooperation between the Ministry and Investigating Directorate of the NPA remain cordial and professional.
“On the 31st of July 2024, the Ministry met with a number of the entities of the department, and it pledged its unwavering commitment to support the work of the NPA and its Investigative Directorate.
“The Commission’s secretariat has consistently supplied the requested data and documents.
“The Secretariat has positively responded to data requests from various law enforcement agencies, including the NPA’s ID, DPCI [Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations], Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU), Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), South African Revenue Service (SARS), Special Investigating Unit (SIU), and some state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
“The remaining staff that is experienced in data science and programming, continue to support ongoing projects,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 14:33
Join The Upside. Do you have a story to share about how you choose to #JoinTheUpside? We want to hear how you made the most of a hard-luck moment or how you’re inspiring your community… from helping yourself to helping others join the upside! Share it in the comments on our social media pages, tag …
Rural food hubs to improve EC food security
The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) plans to establish food hubs in rural areas, which will enable subsistence and home-based vegetable producers to collect, store and process their produce for the local market.
Unpacking the department’s food security plans for this term on Tuesday, Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonceba Kontsiwe, said the department will support communities to grow their own food through home-based gardens and improving food access and income.
“This initiative will focus on sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and youth entrepreneurship in rural areas. Investing in our people will reduce living costs and promote self-sufficiency, thus community resilience,” she said.
Kontsiwe noted that the department is part of a coordinated effort by the provincial government to contribute to eradicating poverty and malnutrition in the province.
She acknowledged that the department alone cannot solve the food security issue, noting that despite having various programs and initiatives, the lack of a unified strategy has led to a fragmented and less effective approach.
The Office of the Premier has coordinated government departments and agencies to develop a Provincial Food and Nutrition Security Plan, and the department’s primary goal is to guarantee food security in the province.
The MEC said the department is committed to support people to cultivate the land, regardless of its size, and produce their own food.
She said the initiative will focus on sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and youth entrepreneurship in rural areas.
According to Kontsiwe, investing in people will reduce living costs and promote self-sufficiency and community resilience.
The department is planning to expand household food production in rural and peri-urban areas on a large scale.
She said the initiative will include establishing small-scale vegetable nurseries to provide high-quality seedlings, which will reduce production costs.
“DRDAR and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) are collaborating to support 42 000 households (30 000 from the Siyazondla Program and 12 000 from PES3) in growing their own food in the 2024/25 financial year.
“We invite all sectors of society to join us in addressing food insecurity and malnutrition in districts, metros, local municipalities, and wards. We are fast-tracking the spring water protection program to ensure villages have access to water for food production,” the MEC said.
For the 2024-25 financial year, the department plans to implement 10 spring water projects in five districts, including two in Alfred Nzo, Amathole, Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, and OR Tambo.
The MEC highlighted that in the previous 2023/24 financial year, the department successfully completed 10 projects, installing 290 taps in 12 villages, benefiting 2 263 households and creating 729 jobs.
Embracing innovation and technology
Kontsiwe emphasised the importance of embracing innovation and technology to reduce production costs and mitigate the impact of climate change.
She said the department will this financial year launch a pilot program, which will see the installation of 14 tunnels with 3 720 climate-smart boxes in all districts and colleges.
The MEC said this initiative will allow vegetable producers to cultivate crops throughout the year in a controlled environment.
“We anticipate that this project will encourage more young people and women to engage in agriculture in our province. We invite people of all ages, including elders, churches, schools, health facilities, and traditional leaders, to support and promote community food production.
“We will collaborate with the private sector to assist households in growing their own food. These initiatives will be carefully planned, organised into projects, and implemented gradually with available resources,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 14:36
Centurion, South Africa – Sports and physical activities play a vital role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, whether you’re an aspiring young athlete or an adult striving for fitness. However, along with the thrill of sports, injuries often occur, ranging from minor sprains and strains to more severe conditions like fractures and tendonitis. Thankfully, chiropractic …
SA-Germany to place trade and investment under the spotlight
The promotion of trade and investment linkages between South Africa and Germany will come under the spotlight at an event that will be held on Thursday.
This as the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), will host a network event in partnership with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Change as well as the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
The Partnering in Business with Germany network event will be held over two days at the Southern Sun Sandton in Gauteng from 12-13 September 2024.
“The global programme is designed to promote trade and investment linkages between Germany and South Africa,” said the dtic.
In April, the dtic and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Change signed a Joint Declaration on Cooperation to formalise a programme to train and mentor emerging exporters from South Africa to access the German market.
In a statement on Tuesday, dtic Deputy Director-General for Exports, Lerato Mataboge, said the programme’s objectives is to capacitate small medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and emerging exporters by allowing them to forge successful business ties with Germany towards securing export orders and investment.
Mataboge pointed out that the programme targets companies to become more resilient through diversification, and also to assist companies that have so far had little experience with foreign markets to internationalise.
“The Partnering in Business with Germany programme focuses on imparting skills required for international business relations and developing companies to be ready for cooperation with German enterprises. In turn the programme also reduces risks and transaction costs for German companies looking at new markets.
“Through the programme participants are prepared to enter the German market and brought into contact with German firms interested in doing business with South Africa. As part of the successful collaboration between the two Ministries an alumni networking event is also held annually. The inaugural event took place in 2023 in Cape Town, attended by 60 past beneficiaries of the programme,” she explained.
The partnership with the German Ministry to mentor South African companies, has resulted in 234 companies traveling to Germany to experience German business culture and engage with potential export partners. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 15:05
Sungrow, a global leader in renewable energy solutions, is pleased to announce the resounding success of its participation in Solar & Storage Live, Cape Town’s premier renewable energy exhibition held last week. The event marked a significant milestone in Sungrow’s commitment to driving the energy transition in South Africa, showcasing the company’s advanced solar and …
There is a pervasive myth that entrepreneurship can’t be taught. If you weren’t lucky enough to be born an entrepreneur, then you’re simply out of luck. And if you are a born entrepreneur, then success presumably just falls in your lap. Both ideas are problematic. If we agree that the definition of entrepreneurship is the …
Pretoria: 10 September 2024 The South Africa Incident Management Organisation (IMOrg) has launched an investigation into an oily substance spillage believed to have come from a vehicle transportation vessel that was anchored in Algoa Bay on Saturday afternoon, reports the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA). The oily substance, and whose exact quantity has yet … Continue reading Oil spill in Algoa Bay under investigation: SAMSA
Standard Bank Group is gearing up to host the fourth instalment of its highly anticipated Climate Summit. The Summit, which will be held in Johannesburg next month, is one of the cornerstones of Standard Bank Group’s sustainability strategy. Standard Bank Group has committed to mobilise a cumulative amount of ZAR 250 billion in sustainable finance …
Around 5.7% of first-time buyers fall behind with their repayments or change to a more affordable car within the first 12 months. Standard Bank says the industry has recorded an increase in these cases in recent years. “It is common for first-time buyers to be caught off guard when interest rates rise. In recent years, …
Work underway to prevent truck congestion in Richards Bay
A team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate will work with municipalities and stakeholders, including Transnet, to prevent truck congestion from the N2 highway leading to the Port of Richards Bay.
This was among the commitments made during a meeting held by the KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements Departments.
Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, recently met with the management and all categories of staff from both departments working in King Cetshwayo, Zululand and UMkhanyakude Districts.
The meeting aimed to ensure that the two departments work collectively to accelerate the construction of roads and human settlements for the benefit of communities.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Duma said the stakeholders have decided to act decisively as the issue of truck congestion is resurfacing. Other stakeholders include the Road Freight Association and Zululand Chamber of Business.
“In addition, we commit to work with Transnet and Richards Bay Bulk Terminal to ensure safe and effective movement of coal destined for exports. Our roads have been damaged and created challenges such as truck related accidents that continue to claim innocent lives.
“There is a special team of traffic officers, uTalagu, that has been assigned to monitor the movements of trucks. Addressing these challenges means that as government we must invest in the development of infrastructure to accommodate the movement of goods and people,” Duma explained.
A need for all stakeholders to work hard to improve the railway networks and tap into aviation and maritime sectors to facilitate the movement of goods, was also emphasised.
He noted that the province is not only a construction site but strategically located along the longest coastline in Africa.
“This means that our economy is driven largely through the transport and logistics sectors based on the two major ports housed in the province, namely the Port of Richards Bay and the Port of Durban.
“Both ports are economically strategic not only to the province of KwaZulu-Natal, but also to the national economy of South Africa since they are linked to the economic heartland of South Africa, Gauteng, via road and rail networks.”
The MEC said the Port of Durban is also a transit point for cross border container traffic for neighbouring countries - a gateway to Southern Africa.
“The Ports of Richards Bay and Durban are important contributors to international trade and a significant enabler for South Africa’s and the province’s economic development. We are working with national government to ensure the expansion of road networks - the N2 and N3, along with our ports,” Duma said.
Apart from speeding up construction of houses for communities, the MEC acknowledged that there will be a growing demand for human settlements and pressure on road networks.
He added that with Richards Bay Industrial Economic Zone being a haven for foreign direct investment and a site for energy infrastructure, the province must be ready to be the host of the 3 000 MW gas-to-power plant to be constructed by power utility Eskom. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 11:28