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New Zealand, USA, Canada and Australia are left chasing Olympic gold after a sensational day of women’s rugby sevens witnessed by more than 120,000 fans at Stade de France. The best women’s rugby sevens players in the world dazzled more than 120,000 fans inside Stade de France across two competition sessions with their outstanding talent …
Rand Water concludes month-long maintenance project
Rand Water will this evening wrap up the final phase of its month-long proactive maintenance, which commenced last month.
The final phase of the maintenance project includes work at Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Plant (ZWTP) Engine Room 2, which resumed on Monday and will end on Tuesday, 30 July 2024, around 9pm.
“This work involves maintenance of various valves, pipelines as well as electrical and mechanical assets,” Rand Water explained.
According to Rand Water, the work will impact the water supply to the Palmiet Pumping Station, as pumping will be reduced to 76% during this period.
This means that 24% of Palmiet’s pumping capacity will be out of production.
Municipal customers affected by this maintenance work include residents from Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni.
The Madibeng Local Municipality in Bojanala Platinum District Municipality, in the North West, will also be impacted.
The water utility explained that areas recover differently after the maintenance process due to different hydraulic designs of the systems, which indicate that some areas will recover earlier than others.
Rand Water said it continues to work with affected customers to ensure that municipalities continue to inform their customers of the extent and impact of water supply and measures to provide alternative water supply to residents.
“Maintenance of the water infrastructure is critical to improving the reliability, integrity and long-term preservation of the infrastructure to ensure sustainable and uninterrupted supply of bulk potable water,” said Rand Water. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 07/30/2024 - 10:16
In the world of entrepreneurship, the most remarkable stories often begin with a personal challenge. For Zanele Matome, Founder and CEO of Welo, that challenge is the lack of affordable access to healthcare services for an overwhelming majority of South Africans. Having spent 15 years in the construction and mining sectors, Matome saw firsthand the …
The story of Credipple is one of innovation meeting a critical need. Founded by Kgololo Lekoma (CEO), Lethabo Sekhu (COO) and Sibusiso Manentsa (Founder) in 2017, Credipple bridges the gap between skilled professionals, and businesses seeking trustworthy digital talent. The inspiration behind the platform came from the founders witnessing their university peers struggling to access …
Tatjana Smith glitters at Paris Olympics
South African swimmer Tatjana Smith has bagged the nation’s first gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, putting on a glittering performance in the women’s 100m breaststroke.
Smith finished the race at 1:05.28 on Monday.
“Smith’s own Olympics tally has now grown to three, with two golds and a silver, and one more will see her equal Chad le Clos on four, the most of any South African Olympian. The chances of her adding to that total later in the week are high, given she’s the reigning champion in the 200m,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said.
Nearly 150 athletes are representing Team South Africa at Paris 2024 - in the country's 21st appearance at the Olympic Games, taking place from 26 July to 11 August.
“I had no idea where I was most of the race. I actually didn’t think I medalled because when I turned to my left, the two blocks next to me both had lights on and it felt like someone else on the other side touched first.
“So, I actually didn’t think I was medalling. My main goal was just to not do what I did in Tokyo and look around. So literally the last 15 metres, I was like, no, close your eyes, let’s just go,” Smith said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated Smith in a post on social media platform X, adding that he looked forward to more spectacular performances. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 07/30/2024 - 10:21
Pilot programme rolled out to help recipients of the Social Relief of Distress grant to verify their identity
This is one of five Safe Spaces run by the City of Cape Town
Labour Minister welcomes signing into law of Companies Amendment Act
Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has commended the signing into law of the Companies Amendment Act by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
President Ramaphosa signed into law amendments to the Companies Act of 2008 on Friday, which promote the ease of doing business and impose greater corporate transparency on the earnings gap between the highest and lowest paid persons in a company.
The Companies Amendment Bill and Companies Second Amendment Bill, which were referred to the President for assent, jointly constitute initiatives by government to make the conduct of business less burdensome. They also tighten the pursuit of delinquent directors or prescribed officers for wrongdoing, including State capture, and addresses disparities in earnings.
The Companies Amendment Act, as signed by the President, streamlines company law to be clear, user-friendly and less burdensome on the conduct of business. This reform is important for the efficient and effective conduct of the domestic economy, as well as the attraction of foreign investment.
The Act is also aimed at achieving equity between directors and senior management on the one hand, and shareholders and workers on the other hand.
According to Meth, this law has a direct linkage to the Employment Equity Amendment Act, 2022, particularly section 27, which refers to the statement of income differentials required from designated employers.
Meth said the requirement of disclosure by companies of the average and median total remuneration of all employees, the remuneration gap between the total remuneration of the top 5% highest paid employees, and the total remuneration of the bottom 5% lowest paid employees of the company, will go a long way in exposing existing inequalities in employment.
“As a result, the work done by the Department of Employment and Labour to transform the labour market will be strengthened, as the two pieces of law are complementing each other and will ensure more transparency from the employers.
“Through our departmental inspectorate, we will promote, strengthen and enforce compliance of our labour laws, as we strive for a labour market that is conducive to economic growth,” Meth said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 10:56
Disease Management Area declared amid foot and mouth disease in EC
In further efforts to prevent the spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), the Department of Agriculture has declared a Disease Management Area (DMA), which includes part of the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Municipalities in the Eastern Cape.
This follows the department’s concerns over the outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease in the Kouga and Kou-Kamma Municipalities, where cattle on 26 farms have tested positive for the disease.
The department said the cattle on the positive farms have been vaccinated to decrease the viral load and to control the severity of the clinical signs seen in especially dairy cattle.
The positive farms were also placed under quarantine, with strict movement control.
“Requests were received to preventatively vaccinate dairy cattle on farms that have not been confirmed as being FMD positive but were at high risk of infection. Permission was given to preventatively vaccinate cattle on 29 farms.
“Animals on a further seven farms were vaccinated after veterinary officials reported suspect clinical signs. In total, 84 655 animals were vaccinated on 62 farms,” the department said.
The department said the boundaries of the DMA will be detailed in the related July 2024 Government Gazette Notice.
The department explained that the DMA, which was declared on Friday, will make it possible to control the movements of animals out of, into and within the affected area.
“The main aim of the DMA is to prevent outward spread of the outbreaks, to areas not previously affected. In addition, the DMA aims to decrease further spread of the disease within the affected area, as this will decrease the viral load and infection pressure of the area.
“No cloven-hoofed animals, animal products derived from cloven-hoofed animals or genetic material of cloven-hoofed animals may be moved from, to or within the Disease Management Areas of the Eastern Cape Province except under authority of a State veterinary permit contemplated in Regulation 20 (1) of the Regulations and in compliance with the conditions of such permit,” the department said.
In addition to the control measures of the Eastern Cape Province DMA, the department said the July 2024 Gazette Notice also stipulates that cloven hoofed livestock may only be moved if accompanied by a health declaration from the owner of the animals, attesting to their health at the time of moving.
“All cattle, [including] sheep and goats newly brought onto a farm must be kept separated from the resident herds for at least 28 days. This has been a requirement by law since October 2022, but the importance of this is again emphasised,” the department said.
The department has strongly recommended to all livestock farmers in the whole country to limit animal movement as far as possible.
“Cloven-hoofed animals should not be moved unless it is necessary to allow for an opportunity to find and quarantine further undetected and affected properties to prevent any further spread of the disease.
“The significance of the incubation period for FMD cannot be overemphasised. This is the period when animals appear to be healthy, in the early stages of infection (incubation period) where they are shedding virus without showing clinical signs of disease yet,” the department said.
Farmers are again urged to observe biosecurity on their farms and to protect their own herds from becoming infected with disease. Section 11 of the Animal Diseases Act imposes a legal duty on any owner or manager of animals to take all reasonable steps to prevent their animals from becoming infected with any disease and to prevent the spread of any disease from their animals or land to other animals or other properties. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 11:43
Nick Matzukis, co-founder and CEO at Academy of Sound Engineering There is no magic wand to make it in the music industry. A combination of talent, technical knowledge and business acumen is essential if aspiring young artists are to monetise their skills effectively. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) Global Music …
Rush Nutrition has created a proudly African range of Superfoods, snacks and beverages built on a foundation of feminine innovation and ingenuity. · 100% vegan, kosher and Halaal, the Rush stable of premium quality and natural health solutions are 100% healthy and natural · Nutrient-dense, clean, and pure, the range of snacks and juices from …
Gauteng launches e-Panic app
The Gauteng Provincial Government has officially launched its e-Panic app (Gauteng e-Panic) as part of the province’s commitment to prioritise the safety and security of citizens and communities.
The panic button has been created to fight against crime and the persistent issues of domestic violence in Gauteng.
It is a free to use service and, according to the provincial government, the response team is fully equipped to assist residents in their time of need.
The Gauteng MEC of e-Government, Bonginkosi Dhlamini, has encouraged all residents to use this free resource.
"The Gauteng Panic Button is a testament to the progress made by the provincial government to create a safer environment for everyone in the province. By downloading and using this app, you can protect yourself and your loved ones in times of emergency,” Dhlamini said.
The Panic Button initiative offers both a physical device and an electronic version that is available as an app.
The Gauteng Panic Button app, is available for download on Android and iOS platforms, providing a convenient and accessible way for all residents to stay safe.
"The Gauteng Panic Button is not just a tool; it's a lifeline. It is an initiative by the Gauteng Provincial Government to ensure that all our residents are safe at all times," Dhlamini said.
Download and register for the app:
Edwin
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 13:37
Six years after the Constitutional Court judgment, small-scale dagga growers are sliding deeper into poverty while businesses profit in South Africa’s “cowboy” cannabis industry
Johannesburg, 29 July 2024: South Africa’s energy landscape is rapidly evolving, with renewable energy – specifically solar and wind – emerging as a significant player in the quest for a sustainable and reliable energy supply. Indications are that between a concerted effort by Eskom to recover underperforming coal fired power plants to higher levels of …
Introduction Warehouse storage is a crucial aspect of any business operation. In Johannesburg, the need for efficient and well-organised storage solutions is paramount due to the city’s bustling commerce and industry. This article explores the various aspects of warehouse storage in Johannesburg and how businesses can maximise their efficiency. The Importance of Warehouse Storage …
Call to participate in Money Smart Week
National Treasury, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) and the National Consumer Financial Education Committee (NCFEC) has called on organisations and individuals to participate in the Money Smart Week South Africa (MSWSA) 2024 campaign.
The 2024 edition of MSWSA will run from 26 August to 1 September 2024, featuring various consumer-focused financial education programmes and initiatives.
“The key objective of the MSWSA is to provide a national collaborative platform and mobilise a wide range of stakeholders to motivate, empower and educate South Africans and contribute to a more financially literate citizenry,” the National Treasury said on Monday.
MSWSA is an initiative of the NCFEC and was first launched in 2018.
Over the past six years it has reached a multitude of South Africans through mainstream media, community radio, exhibitions, television, social media, and face-to-face workshops.
Additionally, the initiative has witnessed an increase in stakeholder participation from 48 participants in 2018 to 78 participants in 2023.
“Participation in MSWSA is open to any organisation or individual, including academic institutions, government departments, regulatory authorities, financial institutions, community groups, companies, non-governmental organisations and public benefit organisations.
“Activities during this campaign will include free workshops, presentations, mall activations, exhibitions, and webinars. Interested participants are invited to organise their own financial education initiatives and events to host during the week-long campaign,” National Treasury said.
The online registration process is open for participants to submit a participation application form, by no later than 16 August 2024. -SAews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 13:56
Mzansi’s most preferred noodle brand, MAGGI, as recognised by the Ask Afrika Icon Awards, is set to elevate South African kitchens with its latest campaign, “Cook the Difference!” Unveiled at an exclusive media luncheon on 25 July, VIP media guests experienced the brand’s magic and versatility. MAGGI showcased its potential to be both a complete …
No "secret meetings" held to discuss climate change commitments
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has asserted that it has not conducted any “secret meetings” with business on the review of the country’s climate change commitments.
This comes after the department received a request for access to information related to closed-door meetings and other interactions between government officials and private industry representatives relating to South Africa’s policy and regulatory approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation.
The application also relates to other interactions on South Africa’s energy mix, the Just Transition to a low-carbon economy and any associated infrastructure and resource exploration activities.
The request was received on 25 August 2023 in terms of the Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2000 (Act No 2 of 2000) for information.
“DFFE will respond to the PAIA application from Just Share and the amaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism in due course. South Africa concluded its process to develop its national climate change commitments on climate mitigation and adaptation in 2021.
“The process involved rigorous public consultation and the Presidential Climate Commission, a constituency based advisory body, provided valuable advisory inputs that led to the finalisation of the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC),” the department said on Monday.
Through the updated NDC, South Africa has committed to a target range of 420-350 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
“This is consistent with the Paris Agreement limit of a temperature increase well below two degrees Celsius. Since then, there has not been any subsequent discussion to review these targets,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 15:06
Minister Ramokgopa commits to finding 'enduring, lasting solution' to rising electricity costs
Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has moved to assure South Africans that the department is committed, together with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and municipalities, to finding an enduring solution to the rising cost of electricity in South Africa.
The Minister was addressing a media briefing on Monday morning.
“There’s been an exponential rise in the cost of electricity. Our electricity pricing plan needs to kick in and that’s the primary preoccupation of the work of the ministry now working with Eskom; working with municipalities and working with SALGA.”
Ramokgopa addressed some initiatives by municipalities, which have not been well received by communities. He cited the example of a “surcharge” (also known as a network fee).
“We really don’t want to engage publicly on the merits of whether the R200 [surcharge] is necessary or not. What we want to do is to find a more enduring and robust solution to this problem,” he said.
The Minister added that discussions with SALGA had already begun during the sixth administration.
“There’s an appreciation that it’s important that we pull together. This situation is untenable. Communities are getting more and more enraged [and] people just can’t afford the cost of electricity.
“As the ministry, together with the Deputy Minister, we have taken a view that we will not fold our arms although that domain… is the exclusive purview of local authorities. Municipalities rightfully say that it’s their domain but we are agreed with SALGA that we are going to resolve this problem domestically,” he said.
Ramokgopa said in finding solutions, the role of the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) is indispensable.
“As an independent authority, they’ve got the duty to protect the consumer, they’ve got a duty to interrogate the proposed tariff increases from Eskom and also from municipalities. So what we’re going to do is not to pressure Nersa but to work with Nersa.
“We are going to insist on a Nersa framework… that takes care of the interests of the poor and the marginalised so that we don’t deny them access to electricity. Protect the interests also of the affluent because we can’t get to a situation where the pricing structure is such that it becomes unaffordable over time but also protects industries… that don’t become competitive as a result of the pricing structure.
“We will work with the municipalities. We know what you are going through and it is our intention to resolve this question,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 14:05
[Listen to SARU President, Mr Mark Alexander] SA Rugby president, Mr Mark Alexander, praised the resilience showed by the South African men’s sevens squad at the Olympic Games in Paris, where they won the bronze medal over the weekend, and said it was a guiding light to all back in South Africa. Mr Alexander hosted …
This year’s International Marimba and Steelpan Festival featured a record 2,300 musicians from across South Africa and neighbouring countries
Governments urged to prioritise testing, treatment and vaccinating against hepatitis
A liver performs over 500 vital functions every single day to keep us alive, that is the reason that the World Health Organisation (WHO) believes testing, treating and preventing viral hepatitis is so important.
On Sunday, the globe commemorated World Hepatitis Day and the WHO called on all governments to prioritise testing, treatment and vaccination to realise a hepatitis-free world by 2030.
The Department of Health said viral hepatitis is a preventable and manageable disease, which remains a silent and neglected cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver often caused by a virus. Viral hepatitis means there is a specific virus causing your liver to swell or become larger than normal.
World Hepatitis Day is observed each year on 28 July to educate the public about the disease and encourage people, health professionals, communities and governments to drive awareness and action to eliminate viral hepatitis.
“Viral hepatitis is responsible for an enormous health burden, mostly due to chronic hepatitis B and C infection,” the department explained.
According to the 2024 WHO Global Hepatitis Report, in 2022, an estimated 304 million people were living with hepatitis B and hepatitis C globally.
The department said viral hepatitis is the second leading infectious cause of death globally, with about 1.3 million deaths recorded annually around the world, including over 2 000 deaths recorded in South Africa.
This burden is further compounded by the lack of screening, access to care and treatment, inadequate disease surveillance, and human and financial resources.
Meanwhile, the department stated that people living with underlying conditions such as HIV are at a higher risk due to coinfection, which further exacerbates the burden of liver disease.
South Africa is a signatory to the WHO’s global hepatitis strategy endorsed by other Member States, which aims to reduce new hepatitis infections by 90% and deaths by 65% between 2016 and 2030.
The prevention of this infectious disease includes both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions such as vaccines, practising safer sex, good hygiene, avoid sharing needles, toothbrushes and razors.
The department is also advising people to avoid drinking water from known potentially unsafe sources and cooking food well to help prevent the spread of the disease.
While viral hepatitis is typically asymptomatic, the department said some signs may include fever, malaise, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, dark-coloured urine and jaundice.
“In some cases, the virus can also cause a chronic liver infection or liver cancer, putting patients at a higher risk of death, unless they get treatment.”
The department has since developed National Guidelines for the Management of Viral Hepatitis as part of efforts to reduce morbidity and mortality in the country.
People, especially those experiencing any of the hepatitis symptoms, are urged to go for screening and testing for early diagnosis and treatment depending on the type of hepatitis.
In addition, those at higher risk of serious health complications if they contract hepatitis B and/or C need the vaccine, including all newborns and previously unvaccinated children and adolescents, people with more than one sex partner, key populations, and those infected with HIV and/or other sexually transmitted diseases. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 10:11
[Listen to a soundbite by Willie Aucamp MP] Dear Editor The DA welcomes the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) endorsement of the Government of National Unity’s changed position to add chicken as another VAT-free essential food item. President Cyril Ramaphosa, during his Opening of Parliament address, announced that the government will add protein-rich foods like …
Dear Editor The DA calls on President Cyril Ramaphosa to proclaim a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigation into all the projects that have been undertaken by the National Skills Fund (NSF) to date. Last year, the DA made a similar call, but given former Higher Education Minister Dr Blade Nzimande’s efforts to keep the Nexus …