MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The design of your business’s cups and straws can significantly influence customer perception and satisfaction. Innovative designs not only serve functional purposes but also contribute to your brand’s identity and customer loyalty. The Importance of Unique Straw Designs Straws are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in the customer experience. Eco-friendly paper …
Peanut butter is a beloved staple in many households, known for its creamy texture, rich flavour, and versatility in the kitchen. From satisfying snacks to gourmet dishes, peanut butter offers endless possibilities. The Essence of Peanut Butter: A Culinary Delight Peanut butter’s popularity is no surprise, given its delicious taste and nutritional benefits. It …
Northern Cape residents emphasise role of women in society
With Women’s Month in full swing, residents of the Northern Cape say that while strides have been made to uplift women, more needs to be done to win the fight against gender-based violence.
“Today as women, government recognises us and listens to our voices, and we are represented in government departments and in Parliament. However, women still suffer at the hands of the perpetrators of gender-based violence, and many have been killed by those who do not understand the role or the importance of women in communities. We wish government can do more to protect women,” Sandra Booi, a resident of Pofadder, told SAnews.
Booi was one of hundreds of citizens who attended the national commemoration of Women’s Day at Denis Nel Stadium in Pofadder, Northen Cape, on Friday.
Lettie Swart, a resident of Upington, told SAnews that the commemoration of Women’s Day demonstrates government’s commitment to the cause of women.
“Women are the pillars of every society. Women played a crucial role during the struggle against the apartheid regime. Women were at the forefront and they deserve to be recognised,” Swart said.
Echoing the same sentiment, Johannes Matsaboge said: “It’s time that women are recognised and occupy senior positions in government. Women are capable of doing what men can do.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the celebrations under the theme: "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development".
The President, joined by Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul and other government officials, signed a pledge for South African men to end gender-based violence and femicide.
The national event marks 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched on the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of the pass laws to women. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 11:05
Introduction Padel, a racket sport that blends the excitement of tennis, squash, and badminton, has seen its popularity skyrocket across continents. As players from diverse backgrounds dive into the sport, the choice of equipment becomes pivotal in enhancing performance and enjoyment on the court. Virgin Active Padel Club proudly offers a wide array of Adidas …
President Ramaphosa pays tribute to women
President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to South Africa’s women, saying that they have played their part in building the country.
“We salute their resilience and their dignity,” he said on Friday.
Addressing the Women’s Day celebration at the Dennis Nel Stadium in Pofadder, Northern Cape, President Ramaphosa said each year on Women’s Day, government commemorates the historic march of more than 20 000 women to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. The women were protesting against the pass laws of the apartheid era.
“Today, as we celebrate 30 years of freedom and democracy, we should take stock. We should reflect on how far we have come, and we should deliberate on the challenges that stand in the way of the emancipation of South Africa’s women.”
President Ramaphosa said to move forward as a country, the nation must understand its past.
“South Africa remains a highly unequal country. Poverty still has the face of a black woman. Black women are more likely to be unemployed, to be poor and to be unskilled.
“Apartheid broke up families. Men were recruited as migrant labourers, leaving women and children behind to fend for themselves. Young girls were brought up for marriage. They did not go to school. They were confined to the home.
“Over 30 years, through the struggles of women, we have done much to improve the status and circumstance of South African women. We have built on the struggles of many decades.”
Rights and freedoms
The President said that women now have the right to vote.
“They have the right to equal work for equal pay. They have the right to equality before the law. We have made great progress in providing for the protection of mother and child. As the Women’s Charter demands, we have worked to provide proper homes for all. But much is still to be done.
“Women in South Africa enjoy rights and freedoms under our Constitution. They benefit from progressive legislation. Women today are significantly represented in Parliament, in government and in the judiciary.
“Women in South Africa enjoy the right to quality healthcare, including reproductive health care. Millions of South African women are supported every month with social grants to enable them to care for their families and support their children,” the President said.
The President also added that South Africa has one of the highest rates of female literacy “in our region.”
“There is parity between girls and boys in primary school enrolment. Female learners achieve more bachelors passes. Young women make up the majority of students in higher education institutions.”
Improving the lives of women
President Ramaphosa said that government has prioritised women and youth in its public employment programmes. This, as around 66% of participants in the Presidential Employment Stimulus are women.
“Yet, we still have much further to go. As the Government of National Unity, we are united across the political spectrum by our common commitment to improve the lives of South African women.
“To grow our economy and accelerate development, women must take their rightful place as active participants in the economy. Women must be business owners, producers, employers and employees.”
To support this effort, in 2021 government launched the Women’s Economic Assembly.
The Assembly aims to secure procurement opportunities for women-owned businesses in different industries.
Through the Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme approximately 8000 women have been trained to establish and manage businesses.
“With funding from government and development finance institutions, we are increasing the support provided to women-owned enterprises,” said President Ramaphosa.
Government is also working to ensure that more women can own land, especially in rural areas.
This is so that they can farm and have assets they can use to build and grow businesses. - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/09/2024 - 13:28
Introduction South Africa, a melting pot of cultures and history, offers a tapestry of enriching experiences that cater to wildlife enthusiasts and cultural buffs alike. From the thrilling encounters at the Rhino and Lion Park to the Soweto tours and insightful cultural tours, this guide promises to navigate you through some of the most captivating …
North West Premier welcomes improved audit outcomes
North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi has welcomed the significant improvement in the 2023/24 audit outcomes for provincial departments, which show a marked progression from the previous year.
In the latest audit cycle ended 31 March 2024, a total of nine out of 12 departments received unqualified audit reports, whereby two of them received clean audits. Only one department received a qualified audit outcome, with a reduction in audit qualification paragraphs.
The provincial government said this positive trend reflects government's ongoing commitment to enhancing financial management, accountability and transparency across all its departments and entities.
“We are particularly encouraged by the increase in clean audits and the overall accuracy of our financial statements. These improvements are aligned to our ongoing efforts to build public trust, enhance service delivery and improve the lives of the people of the North West,” the Premier said.
The provincial government said current year performance reveals that the new techniques that were employed over the previous year, which included working closely with Chief Financial Officers and officials in the financial management sections are yielding the desired results.
“In the previous year, the province managed to obtain seven unqualified audit outcomes, while five departments were qualified, prompting the provincial government to increase its support to these five departments. The expansion in audit coverage bears testimony to the province's comprehensive financial oversight and accountability,” the provincial government said.
Mokgosi said part of building a capable, ethical and developmental State is to see to it that government has sound financial management controls.
The Premier said the collaborative efforts of the Provincial Treasury, Provincial Audit Committee, the Auditor General of South Africa, dedicated members and chairpersons of portfolio committees and other robust governance structures continue to set the province on a positive developmental trajectory.
“We made significant progress in addressing the root causes of the challenges that culminated into Section 100. These key stakeholders have been instrumental in implementing comprehensive reforms, enhancing financial management and strengthening oversight mechanisms,” Mokgosi said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 09:30
In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficient management of documents, tasks, and processes is crucial for organizational success. Companies across various industries are increasingly turning to advanced software solutions to streamline operations and enhance productivity. This comprehensive guide explores the key aspects of document management, practice management, and related systems, highlighting their importance and benefits for …
Attachment of assets of BOSASA accused welcomed
The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development Chairperson Xola Nqola has commended the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for its continued work relating to corrupt activities, with the attachment of assets worth millions from the BOSASA accused and their families.
“South Africa has lost millions of rands due to corrupt activities that could have been used for the many challenges that still exist in the country. We note that this is a temporary attachment of assets and appeal to the NPA to speedily ensure that it follows all processes to ensure it becomes a permanent one,” Nqola said.
According to reports, corruption-accused BOSASA bosses and their families have had a temporary restraint placed on their properties, valuables and cars, all worth more than R53 million.
The court order obtained by the NPA includes two apartments in north-eastern Italy worth an estimated R17 million.
“Our people don’t have houses, yet criminals have properties valued at millions, which were likely obtained with money stolen from government, money that was meant to go to health, education and social grants,” Nqola said.
He said the Zondo commission highlighted the large scale of the corruption perpetrated by BOSASA with officials of the Department of Correctional Services.
READ | Agrizzi to appear in Pretoria High Court next week
“We want all those who benefitted from this corrupt relationship to know that South Africans want their money back. Furthermore, we applaud the NPA for the sterling work and encourage them to go after all corruption accused.
"The committee will fully support [the NPA in its] endeavour to obtain justice for the people of South Africa,” Nqola said.
BOSASA was a South African company specialising in providing services to government, most notably correctional services. The company was liquidated in 2019 after revelations of malfeasance and corrupt activities, which were reported during the Zondo Commission of Enquiry. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Property valuations play a crucial role in the real estate market, guiding buyers, sellers, investors, and even insurance companies in making informed decisions. Understanding the different aspects of valuations can significantly enhance your ability to maximise returns on your investments. Understanding Property Valuations Property valuations are assessments of a property’s market value at a …
Bulls Daisies Head Coach, Hayden Groepes, expressed massive gratitude to the Blue Bulls system and players after their convincing 36-17 win over DHL Western Province at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. The win resulted in back-to-back SA Rugby Women’s Premier Division titles for the Pretoria outfit, something Groepes said was only possible through hard work and …
Water portfolio committee calls for enhanced monitoring to ensure dam safety
The Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation has called on the Department of Water and Sanitation to enhance monitoring in order to ensure adequate safety standards for its dams and private dams, so that the safety of people downstream is not threatened.
This comes after reports of the collapse of retention walls at the Riverlands Dam on Thursday.
Following a meeting held on 1 November 2022, the committee raised concerns with the department about the lack of capacity within the Dam Safety and Management Division.
“The committee highlighted that this lack of capacity negatively impacts on the ability of the department to enforce Chapter 12 in National Water Act, Act 36 of 1998 (s117 – s123). It also increases exponentially the risk factor for communities residing downstream of dams and requires immediate action from the department,” the committee said.
The committee also raised concerns about the cumulative total backlog of 474 dam safety evaluation (DSE) reports from the department.
“It is important that these dam safety evaluation reports are concluded to enhance the safety of communities. The committee will in the near future request the department to provide an update on eradicating the identified backlog of dam safety evaluation reports,” Basson said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 10:33
Understanding the Need for Accessible Abortion Clinics The journey of reproductive health is a deeply personal one, and access to safe and legal abortion services is a crucial part of this journey. In South Africa, abortion clinics provide essential services, ensuring women have the support and care they need. Why Accessibility Matters Accessibility to …
Ensuring the safety and style of your home involves more than just choosing the right furniture or colour scheme. It also includes the critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of your home’s electrical system. A well-designed and maintained electrical distribution board can enhance both the safety and aesthetics of your living space. What is a …
Progress made in management of foot and mouth disease
Three working groups have been established to improve cooperation between the Department of Agriculture, provincial authorities and industry stakeholders on the recent outbreaks of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Municipalities in the Eastern Cape.
The department said the situation appears to be improving, as the rate of new FMD cases has begun to decline, with the last clinical case reported in mid-July.
“At present, cattle on 30 farms have tested positive for the disease. These farms have been placed under quarantine, and vaccination efforts are underway to control the spread of infection and reduce the severity of clinical symptoms.
“Additionally, pre-emptive vaccination has been carried out on a further 37 farms identified as high risk due to their proximity to infected areas. This measure aims to create a buffer zone around the affected farms to further limit the spread of the disease,” the department said.
In total, over 92 000 cattle and nearly 600 sheep across 67 farms have been vaccinated.
These efforts are a critical part of the department’s strategy to manage and eventually eradicate the disease.
To prevent the further spread of FMD, the Department of Agriculture declared a Disease Management Area (DMA) on 19 July 2024.
“This DMA encompasses parts of the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Municipalities and will facilitate the regulation of animal movements into, out of, and within the affected regions. The primary objectives of the DMA are to prevent the spread of the disease to unaffected areas and to reduce viral load and infection pressure within the current outbreak zone.
“The Director of Animal Health has signed and published the movement protocol for the DMA. The protocol is available on the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD) and the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) websites. Copies can also be requested from AgriEC,” the department said.
Biosecurity and Disease Transmission
The department has noted misleading claims suggesting that FMD is transmitted by birds and rodents, which undermines the importance of biosecurity measures.
“While theoretical transmission via such vectors exists, it is highly unlikely to contribute significantly to the current outbreak. Effective biosecurity -- focused on preventing direct and indirect contact of susceptible animals and rigorous cleaning and disinfection practices -- remains the most reliable method for preventing the introduction and spread of FMD on farms,” the departments said.
The department has reminded livestock owners that health declarations are required for the movement of susceptible animals, regardless of the purpose.
“New arrivals of cattle, sheep, and goats must be isolated from resident herds for at least 28 days. This is in addition to urging livestock owners to only source animals from herds with a known health status. This practice, mandated by law since October 2022, is crucial for maintaining herd health and preventing disease spread,” the department said.
Section 11 of the Animal Diseases Act requires animal owners and managers to take all reasonable steps to prevent disease infection and its spread.
FMD is classified as a controlled animal disease under the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No. 35 of 1984), and specific control measures, such as isolation and movement restrictions, are being enforced by Veterinary Services.
“Farmers are reminded that it is a legal obligation to report any suspicious clinical symptoms, such as salivation, blisters in the mouth, limping, or hoof lesions, to the local State Veterinarian immediately. Affected animals must not be moved.
“The department strongly advises livestock farmers nationwide to limit animal movements to the greatest extent possible. Movement of cloven-hoofed animals should be restricted to essential cases only, allowing time to identify and quarantine potentially affected properties,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 10:53
Introduction In a world where information is power, the services of a private investigator can be invaluable. Whether you’re dealing with a personal matter, a legal issue, or a professional dispute, the right investigator can provide the clarity and evidence needed to navigate complex situations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of …
Introduction Navigating the world of diamond selling can be complex, with numerous options available whether you’re looking to sell loose diamonds, diamond jewellery, or explore the diamond exchange process. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of how to sell your diamonds for the best price, what factors determine the value of your diamonds, and where …
Jo-Ane van Dyk earns Team SA’s sixth medal at Olympics
South African athlete Jo-Ane van Dyk has earned Team South Africa’s sixth medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics Games.
Van Dyk won a silver medal during the women's javelin on Saturday at the Stade de France, Paris, on Saturday night.
“At a packed Stade de France on the final night of track and field action at these Games, she produced a third effort of 63.93m, which highlighted the form she’d shown all week, and moved her up into the silver medal, behind Japan’s Haruka Kitaguchi, who had opened with a winning 65.80m.
“It was an emotional evening all round, because Van Dyk is coached by Terseus Liebenberg, who also guided Viljoen to the silver medal at Rio 2016,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.
Van Dyk had attended her first Olympics in Tokyo, and there she was eliminated in qualifying with a best of 57.69m.
“Here, she is three years older, three years wiser and a different athlete entering the prime of her career. The South African’s first throw of 59.72m had been below par by her standards. She upped it by exactly two metres to 61.72m, which still wasn’t enough to get into medal contention on a stacked leaderboard.
“However, her third throw was another two metres further and that 63.93m was to be 25cm better than bronze medallist Nikola Ogrodnikova, and 53cm better than the fourth-placed finisher, Sara Kolak,” SASCOC said.
Meanwhile, high jumper Brian Raats couldn’t better his first jump, where he cleared 2.17m, and ended up in 12th place, with the gold going to New Zealand’s Hamiush Kerr with 2.36m.
“Team SA’s men’s 4x400m took to the track having been reinstated into the final after the referee intervened on Friday following interference and a tumble in their heat. Gardeo Isaacs, in lane one, took the opening, which he covered in 45.67sec, leaving Zakhiti Nene at the back of a nine-country field.
“However, Nene again scorched around the track and has been Team SA’s best 400m athlete at these Games. He made up four places with a lap of 43.81. Lythe Pillay kept the momentum with a 43.97 run and at the changeover, South Africa were still fifth. And that’s where they stayed as Antonie Nortje finished off with a 44.67.
"With the United States winning gold in an Olympic record 2:54.43, South Africa’s quartet set a national record 2:58.12,” SASCOC said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 11:20
Ensuring academic success for children involves more than just regular schooling. Early intervention, particularly through targeted tutoring, can significantly enhance a student’s understanding and performance in various subjects. Proactive Tutoring for Maths Maths is a subject that builds on itself year after year. If a student falls behind, it can be challenging to catch …
Team SA displays fortitude at Paris Olympics
Team South Africa has shown commendable fortitude at the 2024 Paris Olympics Games, having participated in five sporting codes on Saturday.
The team started with five medals but javelin thrower Jo-Ane van Dyk upped it to six with a brilliant effort of 63.93m.
READ | Jo-Ane van Dyk earns Team SA’s sixth medal at Olympics
“Also in finals action at a packed Stade de France on Saturday night were high jumper Brian Raats and the men’s 4x400m relay squad.
“The men’s marathon saw Elroy Galant and Stephen Mokoka take to the Paris roads and hills. Galant finished a fine 11th overall, in 2hr 9min 7sec, while Mokoka crossed the line in 27th position, dipping under 2:11 by one second,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.
Canoeist Hamish Lovemore won his 1000m B-Final, which placed him 9th overall to end his Games on a high.
“Wrestler Nicholas de Lange was always going to be up against it in terms of his draw, and lost his match, while golfers Ashleigh Buhai and Paula Reto wrapped up four days at Le National Golf.
“China, with 38 golds, the United States (with 37), Australia (18), Japan (17) and France (15) took the lead in the medal standings. Team SA are 40th with one gold (Tatjana Smith), three silvers (Smith, men’s 4x100m and Van Dyk) and two bronzes (men’s Sevens rugby and Alan Hatherly),” SASCOC said.
Athletics
• Men’s marathon: Elroy Galant finished 11th in 2hr 9min 7sec, some 2min 41sec behind the gold medallist, Tamarat Tola. The Ethiopian set an Olympic record in winning in 2:06:26. Stephen Mokoka was 27th, with a time of 2:10:59.
• Men’s high jump, final: Brian Raats finished 12th with an opening height of 2.17m.
• Women’s javelin, final: SILVER! Jo-Ane van Dyk threw a distance of 63.93m to take second. position.
• Men’s 4x400m, final: Team SA finished 5th behind the United States in a national record 2:58.12.
Canoeing
• Men’s kayak single 1000m semi-finals: Hamish Lovemore finished 8th in 3:38.39 and qualified for the B-final.
• Men’s kayak single 1000m B-Final: Lovemore won his race in 3:27.94, which would have placed him fourth in the A-final, and he took 9th place overall.
Cycling
• Men’s keiren, first round heats: Jean Spies finished 6th in his heat and advanced to the repechage.
• Men’s keiren, repechage: Jean Spies finished 5th in his heat and didn’t progress to the quarter-finals.
Golf women’s individual, final round
• T13th 285 Ashleigh Buhai 68, 73, 74, 70 (3-under).
• T44th 299 Paula Reto 78, 73, 76, 72 (11-over).
- SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 11:43
Home entertainment is an essential part of our lives, creating an immersive experience with top-notch audio and visual quality is paramount. Transforming your living space into a personal cinema can be achieved with a few essential components: a 4K projector, a home theatre sound system, wireless speakers, and a surround sound system. The Foundation: …
Dear Editor The DA extends our heartfelt congratulations to each member of Team SA for their achievements and participation at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Their dedication and sacrifices were fruitful with the team bringing home six medals – 1 Gold, 3 Silver and 2 Bronze. Team SA’s triumph showcased on the global stage by our …
Mia Le Roux wins Miss South Africa
Twenty-eight year-old Mia Le Roux has won the Miss South Africa title at glitzy event held at the Sun Bet Arena in Pretoria.
According to the Miss South Africa website, Le Roux she was born in Sasolburg, Free State and raised in Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape.
“She is a marketing manager, model and part-time B Com Marketing student. She was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and her community rallied behind her to give her the gift of hearing; inspiring her desire to make a positive impact and break barriers. She describes herself as resilient, dedicated, graceful and kind,” the website said.
In a post on Saturday night on the social media platform X, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie said: “Congratulations to our South African Queen Mia le Roux. I know you will represent us well at Miss Universe.”
The Miss South Africa pageant describes itself as a leadership platform for ambitious young South African women.
“Through a pageantry process, contestants receive world-renowned coaching in addition to advanced networking, business and life skills. Shaped into brand ambassadors for our country, they become champions of women’s rights, thought leaders and savvy career women who inspire other young South Africans to fulfil their potential, recognise their self-worth and find their place in the world,” the website said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 12:03
Parliament committed to advancing gender equality
As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, Parliament has reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing programme for greater women empowerment, emancipation and development, and continues to fight all forms of violence against women.
“Parliament will continue to enhance its oversight to ensure the effective implementation of legislation and policies to promote and protect the constitutionally enshrined rights of women in society,” Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, and the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, said in a joint statement.
The Presiding Officers made these remarks ahead Women’s Day, which was celebrated under the theme: "Celebrating 30 Years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development".
This year’s commemoration of Women’s Day marked 68 years to the day since 20 000 women of diverse backgrounds from across South Africa marched on the Union Buildings to protest against the extension of pass laws to women.
The women presented a petition against the carrying of passes by women.
The Presiding Officers reflected on the country’s progress over the last 30 years of democracy towards greater gender equity and inclusivity. Parliament has passed laws that have significantly improved the lives of women.
“These legislative efforts have focused on promoting gender equality, protecting women's rights, and ensuring their participation in all aspects of society, from the workplace to the political arena.
“Parliament has also reinforced its commitment to combating gender-based violence by passing laws designed to enhance protection for victims and ensure justice for survivors. These advancements mark significant strides towards a more just and equitable society.
“The democratic dividend has been felt by many, as our women have become makers of history as leaders in government, Parliament and legislatures, the judiciary, and the private sector. Notably, among them is Justice Mandisa Maya, the first woman appointed as Chief Justice in the country. We welcome and applaud this historic milestone,” the Presiding Officers said.
READ | Cabinet congratulates Justice Maya on her appointment as Chief Justice
This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the adoption of the 1954 Women’s Charter by the founding conference of the Federation of South African Women (FSAW).
The Charter called for, among other things, the enfranchisement of men and women of all races; equal opportunities in employment; equal pay for equal work; equal rights concerning property, marriage and children; and the removal of all laws and customs that denied women such equality.
While the Presiding Officers reflected on the progress made in uplifting women over the last 30 years, they also acknowledged the challenges that persist.
“In celebrating these milestones and advances made in the pursuit of women’s emancipation during the last 30 years of our democracy, we remain conscious that much more needs to be done to achieve a non-sexist, non-racial, democratic and prosperous South Africa.
“We must do more, be more vigilant, and guard against the scourge threatening the gains of progress made for our women. This responsibility is a shared one for government, Parliament and every South African,” the Presiding Officers said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 08/11/2024 - 10:10