MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Dear Editor Today’s signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Western Cape Government, the City of Cape Town, and South African Police Service is an important step in addressing the escalating crime crisis. This agreement is an acknowledgment by the national government and SAPS that a combined and collaborative effort is required to …
Ahead of the 2024/25 Arnold Clark Men’s Premiership starting this weekend the senior academy and professional player draft has been confirmed. Edinburgh Rugby and Glasgow Warriors have had their senior academy and professional players assigned to Premiership clubs and can release them for additional game time. Players will become available to the Premiership clubs depending …
The Springbok Women concluded their training camp in Gqeberha on Friday and according to assistant coach Laurian Johannes-Haupt, they made big gains in the build-up to the forthcoming WXV 2 tournament in Cape Town next month. Johannes-Haupt reflected on the hard work where 46 players prepared for two weeks to get ready for the Springbok …
Call to use water wisely
As South Africa enters a new season of spring, the Department of Water and Sanitation has called on the public to use the available water wisely and sparingly, as water levels continue to drop in the watercourses.
The department reiterated that South Africa is a dry and water scarce country where every drop counts, and this makes it critical that the public always practice water conservation and use the available water wisely in everything they do.
South Africans celebrate Spring Day on 1 September annually, and this is considered to be a sign of ushering in a new season.
It is tradition in South Africa that the public, particularly children, engage in all sorts of activities such as spraying each other with water.
“Pouring each other with water in the name of welcoming spring on Spring Day might look cool but it adds to water wastage and contributes to the loss of precious water which we cannot afford.
“Spring is high time that we must strengthen water conservation initiatives as it comes with hot temperatures associated with high evaporation leading to less water availability,” the department said.
With climate change upon us, the department emphasised that it is everyone’s responsibility to prevent water losses and contribute to sustainable water supply.
“Everyone can play a part in water security by using water wisely and sparingly through fixing leaks and reporting bulk pipeline leaks to the relevant authorities, not leaving the tap to run while washing your face or brushing teeth, filling kettles with just enough water for the specific need and using a bucket to wash a car,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 12:19
As the world faces escalating environmental challenges and growing inequalities, the demand for ethical markets has never been more urgent. Fairtrade Africa’s Change Day hosted on Wednesday, 28 August 2024, themed ‘Navigating a Fairer Future: Harnessing Global Market Dynamics for Ethical and Sustainable Growth’, addressed this pressing need head-on. This landmark event held at The …
The T-Cross is the smallest member of Volkswagen’s all-important “T” family of SUVs and the best-selling SUV for the brand in South Africa. Sharing its MQB A0 platform with the sixth-generation Polo hatchback, T-Cross has also been the best selling imported model for Volkswagen in South Africa with over 36 000 units sold. The new …
Dear Editor The City of Tshwane’s residents have been sold out to the EFF and other parties by a now former member of the Tshwane multi-party coalition government, ActionSA. While the City of Tshwane’s performance has been consistently improving, this attack on the bedrock of a well performing government threatens to halt all the progress …
SA Rugby has issued an urgent “buyer warning” to online shoppers who are in danger of being ripped off by crooks passing themselves off as the “official” Springbok store on social media channels. Dozens of fraudsters have sprung up on Instagram, Facebook and other platforms using genuine Springbok imagery and “credible” shop names to cash …
Dear Editor Reports this week show that municipalities collectively owe R22.4 billion to water boards, an increase of R13.4 billion (or 151%) over the past five years. This alarming trend has left various water boards either facing imminent bankruptcy or being in great financial distress. Those facing imminent bankruptcy include Vaal Central Water, which supplies, …
One third of new and used vehicles purchased this year were bought by women. With more and more women owning and driving cars in South Africa its increasingly important to ensure better safety on our roads. Women drivers need to be even more vigilant in order to avoid falling prey to criminals. King Price Client …
SIU to investigate Eskom contracts
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in nine Eskom contracts.
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the corruption busting unit to probe the power utility’s affairs.
The SIU said it will investigate the following contracts:
• The procurement of and contracting for coal from Tegeta Exploration and Resources (Pty) Limited for coal supplied by Optimum Coal Mine (Pty) Limited and the Brakfontein Colliery Mine.
• Procuring and contracting for coal information technology services under a master services agreement concluded with T Systems International GmbH.
• The procurement of and contracting for information technology services related to software licence and support agreements concluded with SAP South Africa (Pty) Limited.
• Procurement of and contracting for coal services concerning Task Order SM008 for “capital scrubbing”
• The procurement of and contracting for coal security services from Combined Private Investigations (Pty) Limited.
• The procurement of and contracting for coal forensic investigation services from Kapditwala Incorporated, trading as Dentons South Africa.
• The procurement of and contracting for information technology services from Cutting Edge Commerce (Pty) Limited (formerly Leonardo Business Consulting).
• Serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of Eskom relating to a pre-payment by Eskom of approximately R1.68 billion for coal from Optimum Coal Mine to Hendrina Power Station, which pre-payment was later changed to a guarantee.
• Serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of Eskom relating to a pre-payment by Eskom of approximately R659 million to Tegeta Exploration and Resources (Pty) Limited.
“Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by Eskom or the State. The investigation will encompass any unlawful or improper conduct by Eskom officials, employees, suppliers, service providers, or any other involved parties.
“The proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 March 2006 and 30 August 2024, as well as any related activities before 1 March 2006 and after the date of the Proclamation that are pertinent to the matters under investigation or involve the same persons, entities, or contracts,” the SIU said.
Meanwhile, the unit said the proclamation authorising it to investigate allegations at the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform has been amended.
“The amendment results from the SIU’s investigations, which revealed that the SIU needs to investigate further areas that the existing proclamations did not cover. The SIU requested a Proclamation amendment in terms of time and focus areas,” the unit said.
The amendment additionally authorises the SIU to investigate the acquisition by the Department or beneficiaries of:
• the Bekendvlei, Nirwanda, Wonderhoek, Mont Piquet, Appelkloof and Rietvlei farms.
• Mike's Chicken (Pty) Limited, immovable assets and animals for Project Harmonie, Project Uitkyk and Project Dipalemo.
• Shares in Bambanani Fruits BEE (Pty) Limited regarding the Department's Proactive Land Acquisition Strategy or the Land Redistribution for Agricultural Development Policy and identifying, selecting and appointing strategic partners and beneficiaries.
“Additionally, the SIU will investigate any unauthorised, irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure incurred by the department or the State.
“The investigation will encompass any unlawful, improper or corrupt conduct by Department Officials, employees, suppliers, service providers, or any other involved parties. Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.
“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority [NPA] for further action,” the SIU concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 13:06
In honour of Women’s Month, an all-female creative team at McCann Joburg, in partnership with L’Oréal Paris South Africa, embarked on an inspiring journey, to create a content series that delves deeper into the concept of self-worth, as viewed through the lens of South African women. The content series features five popular South African female …
Verdant (www.Verdant-Cap.com) has raised ZAR 40 million for Us Plus Limited (“UsPlus”) as a senior unsecured note through UsPlus' JSE-listed social bond. The investment comes from an Africa-focused fund headquartered in Europe and was matched by an equal investment through local funding on the JSE making ZAR 80 million in total through the bond issuance. Furthermore, in parallel UsPlus drew down ZAR 60 million for a bilateral facility previously arranged by Verdant, making a total of ZAR 140 million of new funding this quarter (approx. USD 7 million). This substantial funding injection increases the total capital raised for the business by Verdant to USD 22 million in just over 2 years. It underscores market confidence in UsPlus' mission to drive economic growth and social impact in South Africa.
UsPlus, known for its innovative financial solutions tailored for SMEs, is dedicated to enhancing competitiveness and access to finance for small and medium enterprises. This strategic partnership reinforces UsPlus' commitment to fostering sustainable development and economic inclusion in South Africa.
The fresh capital will empower UsPlus to expand its support, particularly to black-owned, women-owned, and youth-owned MSMEs, particularly in underserved provinces. By focusing on sectors such as food security, waste management, and manufacturing, UsPlus aims to create lasting positive changes in local communities by contributing to employment creation, food security and sustainable production.
This collaboration highlights the vital role of social bonds in mobilising capital for impactful projects, and it reinforces UsPlus' position as a catalyst for financial inclusion and economic empowerment in South Africa. The commitment from this latest funding partner and the continued support from local funders are a testament to the crucial work being done by UsPlus to promote sustainable growth and support the nation's SME sector.
This is the fourth investment into UsPlus arranged by Verdant from international development finance institutions and impact investors.
The transaction further solidifies Verdant as a leading advisor and manager for inclusive financial institutions in Africa.
Terms for the transaction were not disclosed.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Verdant Capital.
Media enquiries:
Orient Mahonisi
orient.mahonisi@verdant-cap.com
About Verdant IMAP:
Verdant IMAP is a leading investment bank operating on a pan-African focus, specialising in M&A and in private capital markets. Verdant IMAP is the IMAP partner firm for its region. IMAP with partner firms in nearly 50 countries, with over 600 M&A professionals, completing over 200 M&A transactions per year, reinforces Verdant IMAP's capability to deliver innovative financial solutions to clients across Africa and around the World. www.Verdant-Cap.com
Source: US Plus Limited, Verdant
South Africa’s local government has hit a new low, with the Auditor-General’s 2022-23 consolidated report exposing an alarming and ongoing decline in municipal audit outcomes. Out of 257 municipalities, only a paltry 34 received a clean bill of health. This stark reality is not just a bureaucratic concern but a damning indictment of a system …
Transnet, NDB sign agreement to improve SA freight logistics
Transnet has signed a R5 billion loan agreement with the New Development Bank (NDB) in support of the public entity’s improvement and modernisation efforts in freight rail.
The agreement was signed during the NDB’s ninth annual meeting held in Cape Town this week.
Transnet Group Chief Executive, Michelle Phillips, said: “This investment is important for Transnet, as we accelerate implementation of the Recovery Plan and economic reforms.
“The modernisation programme will enhance our operational capabilities and contribution to the growth and competitiveness of the economy. We are grateful for NDB’s support and look forward to a successful collaboration”.
NDB President Dilma Rousseff said the bank is “delighted to partner with Transnet in this transformative initiative”.
“This loan underscores NDB’s commitment to supporting sustainable development and economic growth in South Africa. By modernising the freight rail sector, we aim to facilitate more efficient logistics operations that will benefit the entire region and align with our goal of investing in a sustainable future,” Rousseff said.
The freight rail and logistics company explained in a statement that the agreement is aimed an enhancing efficiency and capacity for freight rail systems.
READ | Government working 'urgently' to resolve logistics challenges
“The improvement and modernisation of freight rail sector program includes rail network infrastructure renewal, locomotive overhauls, and wagon fleet renewal.
“This program is expected to restore freight rail volumes in South Africa, improving operational performance and reliability, and contributing to a sustainable future,” Transnet said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 12:24
The area that the government wants to move them to is already occupied
SAPS celebrates its Deputy Minister
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has embarked on a series of profiles to celebrate women in policing and in particular female leaders within its ranks who are playing key leadership roles within the organisation to ensure a safer and secure country for all.
As Women’s Month draws to a close, SAPS celebrates the recently appointed Deputy Minister of Police and Member of Parliament, Polly Boshielo.
Boshielo took up her new role in the Police Ministry in June 2024, following the establishment of South Africa’s seventh democratic administration under the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Section 93(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa stipulates that Deputy Ministers appointed in terms of subsection (1) (b) are accountable to Parliament for the exercise of their powers and the performance of their functions.
As a Deputy Minister in the Police Ministry, Boshielo's role, alongside Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale, is to support the Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu in the execution of his duties.
This is a task Boshielo does not take lightly and says she is “rolling up her sleeves” in the fight against crime.
Boshielo hails from Seshego, a township in Polokwane in the Limpopo province.
Growing up, Boshielo always knew she was destined for a life in the political realm and matriculated at Mmakgabo High school in 1989.
Her political leadership acumen led her to become a respected South African politician and a leader who served the country in various leadership positions, both in public and private sector, said the SAPS.
This year, the country observes Women’s Month under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Year of Democracy Towards Women’s Development”.
Boshielo is a sterling example of a woman in leadership that believes in continuous self-development and obtained the following academic achievements:
• Master’s in Philosophy (MPhil) in Transport Studies (2018), University of Cape Town
• Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) (2007), Turfloop Graduate School of Leadership, University of Limpopo
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) specialisation in Management (2004), University of South Africa
• Diploma in Road Transport (Passenger)(2000), then Rand Afrikaanse Universiteit
Boshielo is currently enrolled and studying towards a Doctorate’s degree in Administration through the University of Limpopo.
Over the years, Boshielo also completed a number of additional qualifications which include a Diploma in Office Administration, a Certificate in Personal and Team Effectiveness and a Certificate in Strategic Planning and Change Management.
The Deputy Minister went on to complete various other post graduate programmes among others, Executive Leadership Programme Certificate with the University of Cape Town (UCT), Senior Management Programme with the University of Pretoria (UP) as well as obtaining a Project and Programme Management certificate with the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).
Boshielo said her political career started as an Administrator in the Office of the Secretariat in the African National Congress (ANC), Northern Province, before her appointment as the Head of the MEC’s Office of Dr Aaron Motsoaledi from 1994 until 2007.
She also served as General Manager in the Department of Roads and Transport responsible for public, freight and air transport.
Her leadership qualities and capabilities were recognised following her deployment to the National Assembly where she was sworn in as a Member of Parliament on 21 May 2014 and served until 5 June 2015.
She was assigned to serve at the Auditor-General for Transport, Status of Women and Public Enterprises committees.
Boshielo was also appointed as the Speaker of the Limpopo Provincial Legislature from October 2015 to May 2019.
Following the inauguration of the provincial government in 2019, she was then appointed an MEC for Education from May 2019 until June 2022 and then re-deployed to the Transport, Safety and Liaison portfolio as MEC until October 2022.
Boshielo was then deployed back to the Limpopo Provincial Legislature where she was appointed Chairperson for Quality of Life and Status of Women, Youth and Disability portfolio from October 2022 until May 2024.
Prior to her political appointments, the Deputy Minister served in various senior positions in both public and private institutions.
“As the Police Ministry our goal is this - to ensure South Africans and visitors to our country are safe and feel safe. Professionalism is key in ensuring services of a high standard are rendered to the communities our members of the South African Police Service serve,” Boshielo said.
The Deputy Minister promised to plough her wealth of knowledge and experience into her new portfolio towards a safer environment for all. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 11:52
The Protection of State Information Bill has been revived by the new Parliament. The Foundation shares president Ramaphosa’s reservations regarding the Bill’s constitutionality.
The post REVIVAL OF INFAMOUS SECRECY BILL appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.
Tolashe condemns brutal killing of Limpopo mother
Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe has strongly condemned the brutal killing of a 45-year-old mother of four, whose body was found by the police together with two other victims at Sebayeng village in Limpopo.
The Minister said the incident happened as the country commemorates Women’s Month under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy Towards Women’s Development”.
“I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the violence and brutal killings of women, particularly, during the month of August where we expect women to be embraced, protected, and celebrated,” Minister Tolashe said.
She said August should be the month when all South Africans celebrate women as active agents of change and social transformation. This should be done by reflecting on the achievements of women over many years, as well as their transformation and development of the past 30 years.
“This month coincides with the country’s commemoration of 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy, making this year’s Women’s Month an important juncture for collective reflection on how we have empowered and advanced the rights of women on our democratic journey.”
The Department of Social Development in Limpopo, through its social workers, conducted a visit to the home of the deceased, Maria Matsobane Makgato, in the village of Kotishing, in Polokwane.
It was discovered that the deceased was unemployed and supported her family through the child support grant which she received for her children.
The three of her children are attending school and the youngest is registered at an early childhood development centre. The eldest is 22 years old and employed as a casual worker at a local farm with her contract ending in December this year.
“Social workers are greatly assisting the family and an assessment of the needs of the family was conducted to determine how best they could be supported. Counselling was provided as part of the basket of psychosocial support services the department provides to victims who have suffered trauma and loss,” the Minister said.
The social worker appointed to the case will continue with psychosocial support and aftercare services.
A report will be compiled to determine a suitable person to care for the children and the family will be provided with a Social Relief of Distress grant while awaiting the post-mortem results so they can finalise the burial service of the deceased.
As the country celebrates 70 years of the Women’s Charter this year, Minister Tolashe said the country was duty bound to work together as a society to defeat the primitive agenda of a patriarchal system that denies women fundamental human rights and seek to promote equality across all genders. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 10:44
Call for stronger social partnerships
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has called for better social partnership involvement in developing medium to long-term responses to disasters and in assisting families in need.
Buthelezi made the call during the handover of a new house to the Jikela family, who lost five members to the devastating Durban floods of 2022.
The construction of the new house was made possible by a non-profit organisation, the Mahlasedi Foundation.
The floods tragically claimed the lives of Princess Bonakele Jikela, her children Yenzokuhle and Elimiyo, as well as the children of Princess Sindisiwe Jikela, Akhile, and Zekhethelo.
In response, the Mahlasedi Foundation, led by Pastor Bert Pretorius, constructed a seven-bedroom home for the surviving family members.
The house was officially handed over this week at the Georgedale site of the Church of the Holy Ghost, which donated the land for this purpose.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Buthelezi commended the foundation for stepping in to provide a lasting solution for a family that had lost everything.
“This clearly indicates the importance of social partners taking up some of the responsibilities often left to the government alone, particularly in finding long-term solutions to the needs that face our communities, especially in the wake of disasters,” Buthelezi said.
The event was also attended by Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, and Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL), Blessed Gwala, who played key roles in coordinating efforts between the family, the foundation, and the church to ensure the success of the project.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Prince Philemon kaTshelendoda kaDinuzulu expressed deep appreciation for the support the family has received.
“The assistance we have received following the tragedy that struck our family is deeply appreciated. We are thankful to all who made this day possible, especially the Mahlasedi Foundation and Pastor Bert Pretorius,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 10:24
The Nellmapius Extension 4 residents say they weren’t consulted about the move and demand that the flood victims be removed in three months
Experts differ strongly on new plan for no-take zone around six African penguin breeding islands
Pesticides which are banned in Europe are still exported to developing countries
The Portfolio Committee on Social Development has resolved to defer the Children's Amendment Bill to the Department of Social Department to allow it to redraft the 126 clauses the previous committee did not process.
That previous committee passed only 12 foster care-related clauses so that Parliament and the department could meet a North Gauteng High Court deadline. The department will redraft these clauses, taking into consideration the substantive submissions and proposals made by stakeholders and the public during the committee's public participation process on the bill.
The previous committee had resolved that the bill be introduced as a committee bill by the 7th Parliament committee. However, after receiving legal advice from the Constitutional and Legal Services Office on the development, drafting and legislative processes of committee bills, as well as the implications of the Constitutional Court's judgement on Section 40 of the Children's Act, the committee resolved that the department is best placed to redraft the bill due to Parliament's capacity constraints to develop policies that will substantiate the bill.
The submissions received contained new proposals that require extensive policy development on issues that include the safe abandonment of children (baby savers), corporal punishment, new proposals in relation to the rights of unmarried fathers (a traditional perspective) and children's right to privacy on digital platforms.
The department's legal advisor informed the committee that since the time the previous committee took a decision not to process the bill, many new issues have emerged in the space of intercountry adoptions, baby savers and the rights and responsibilities of unmarried fathers, which require the department to rethink its position on provisions it made previously on the bill. Even if Parliament had passed the Bill, the department would have to amend it again.
The committee agreed that the timeline of the processing of this Bill would receive priority oversight.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
