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Smart homes are becoming increasingly popular, offering convenience, security, and energy efficiency. One of the standout products in this category is the Aqara FP2 Presence Sensor, which integrates seamlessly with various smart home systems. Available at GeeWiz, this advanced presence sensor enhances the functionality and responsiveness of your smart home setup. Let’s dive into its …
Hero's welcome for SA's tennis star
A hero's welcome awaited South African wheelchair tennis champion Kgothatso Montjane as she beamingly made her arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, on Monday morning.
Excitement, loud cheers, the flashing lights of cameras and hearty clapping was the order of the winter morning as the sportswoman emerged into the terminal, after her splendid showing at Wimbledon over the weekend.
Montjane and her Japanese partner Yui Kamiji bagged their third Grand Slam title together on Sunday.
The number one seeds defeated Dutch duo, Diede De Groot and Jiske Griffioen 6-4, 6-4, to secure the Wimbledon Ladies' Wheelchair Doubles title in London, United Kingdom.
READ | President Ramaphosa congratulates tennis star Kgothatso Montjane
She told journalists that her victory has not sunk in yet, especially after the duo was named silver finalists last year.
“I’m still digesting it - but I’m sure it will sink in. This is just a great feeling,” she told journalists as she beamed from ear to ear.
According to the newly crowned champion, the matches are gruelling and require professionalism to play at this level.
“We try to fight as a team. We wanted to win this one considering our performance last year. After that match last year, we felt we needed to give it our best. We felt we lacked strategy. So, you can imagine how badly we wanted it.
“That’s why we needed to put our differences aside and put our heads together and fight together as a team.”
Montjane had her left leg amputated at age 12 due to a congenital disorder.
She described yesterday’s win as a confidence booster as she prepares for the Paralympic Games in August in Paris.
“I feel like I really needed this. I’ve been having ups and downs throughout the year and my ranking going through ups and downs, and not being sure where I am.
“This one really gives me a great feeling that I can go to the Games to deliver,” she said.
Montjane, who first picked up the racket at the age of 19, thanked her team for motivating her.
“I’m having so many blows and they’re the ones who try to keep me motivated so that I keep my head down and continue to work hard. I keep saying I’m winning the wrong Slam but it’s still a great achievement. The plan is still to win the Singles title.”
The 38-year-old believes that she is closer to winning the singles and that all she needs to do is to put her head down and keep working hard towards her goal.
In 2018, the athlete became the first black South African woman to compete at Wimbledon, and she reached the championships' singles and doubles finals for the first time.
“To the young ones, they must keep believing and working hard. Their dreams are valid and they must believe in the world of possibility. Their turn will come,” Montjane said.
Limpopo's MEC for Sport, Arts, and Culture, Jerry Maseko, was also present at the airport to welcome Montjane.
The MEC told SAnews that he and the provincial leadership were excited and proud of the athlete.
“The Premier and I were both excited. She directed me to come receive this jewel, this diamond from Limpopo, from a rural township of Seshego.”
READ | Tennis superstar Kgothatso Montjane inspires hope
Maseko took the time to express gratitude to the star for her dedication and the consistency she demonstrated from the grassroots to the professional level.
He also paid tribute to Montjane’s many sponsors and said he was rallying the private sector to construct a tennis court that will be named after the champ.
“It’s important to us to honour the living legend. We shouldn’t honour people when they have passed on. We must appreciate them while they’re still alive.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 14:44
The defending Carling Currie Cup Premier Division champions, the Toyota Cheetahs, as well as the two sides from Gauteng, the Fidelity ADT Lions and Vodacom Bulls, all managed to record their second successive victories of the season, while the semi-finalists for the First Division have been confirmed. The Free Staters increased their points tally to …
The skipper’s briefing for the DRHEAM-CUP / GRAND PRIX DE FRANCE DE COURSE AU LARGE was held on Sunday afternoon, an opportunity for the Race Manager, Hervé Gauthier, to announce a shortening of two courses: the Class40 and the large monohull will race on the DC 600 and the Multi 2000, IRC, Sun Fast 30 …
Dear Editor It is my pleasure to announce the two new national spokespersons for the Democratic Alliance (DA): Karabo Khakhau MP and Willie Aucamp MP. As we embark on our preparations for the 2026 local government elections, Karabo and Willie will be the public voice of our party, ensuring that our message resonates across South …
The South African National Roads Agency (SOC) Limited (SANRAL) has advised road users that a stop/go system has been implemented on the N2 Section 16, from Mooiplaas to Qumrha T-Junction (formerly Komga). A periodic road maintenance project is currently underway in the area. The stop/go system will be in place from Mooiplaas to Qumrha T-Junction …
Pretoria, South Africa – 15 July 2024: JLR has joined forces with global tyre manufacturer Pirelli in a global automotive industry-first commitment to use FSC-certified natural rubber tyres across its range of modern luxury vehicles. The luxury car manufacturer will be the first to adopt FSC-certified tyres at scale, transitioning all tyres from Pirelli across …
Despite severe weather conditions between 8 -14 July, law enforcement officials arrested 76 individuals for drunk driving on Western Cape roads. This July, as we observe Drunk Driver Awareness Month, this statistic highlights the ongoing issue of impaired driving and its potential to cause severe harm to both drivers and other road users. Drunk driving …
In the ever-evolving world of automobiles, one brand has steadily carved a niche for itself through innovation, style, and reliability. Chery, a name that resonates with a growing number of car enthusiasts, continues to impress with its line of vehicles that cater to diverse needs and preferences. This article delves into the exceptional offerings of …
Mchunu sets sights on stronger, trusted police force
By Sinovuyo Mfiki
South Africa's new Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has outlined a bold agenda aimed at improving the country's law enforcement agencies.
Mchunu addressed the media in Pretoria on Monday on the Ministry’s priorities, following the establishment of the Government of National Unity after the General Elections.
Vowing to tackle crime, restore public trust and improve the effectiveness of the police force, the Minister said he was honoured and humbled to have been given the “enormous responsibility” of ensuring that South Africans are safe and feel safer.
Mchunu said he would implement careful measures to reduce corruption within the ranks of the police and ensure strict faithfulness to ethical standards and accountability mechanisms.
“The crime levels in the country are on the increase and are intolerable. We need to act decisively and bring this under control.
“This scenario also requires that we think about what management system is needed overall within the police service, which will enable us to respond effectively to the serious challenge we face. It is our view and understanding that tough measures may need to be taken to reduce crime where necessary.”
He said central to the strategy is the urgent need to professionalise the SAPS and instil positive ethical values, patriotism and the understanding that the primary duty of a police officer is to always serve and protect the public.
“Uprooting corruption and removing corrupt police officers from SAPS will remain a top priority. Misconduct by SAPS members will not be tolerated and action will be taken.
“We want to change the negative perceptions of our police officers. People must respect police officers, have confidence in them and feel safe in their midst. Professionalism in the work of police is also part of police protection mechanism,” said the Minister.
Mchunu said in order to do their work police officers need to work in a conducive environment.
The department was committed to ensuring that police stations are well-resourced and have the necessary tools and vehicles to serve communities effectively.
“Police officer must attend regular refresher courses to stay operationally ready. We will also strengthen some existing units within the police force.”
Mchunu said there were plans to update the South African Police Service Act and finalise the National Policy on Policing.
The integration of technologies in police services, Mchunu said, is crucial to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness and overall capability of law enforcement.
“Advanced technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, surveillance systems, and digital communication tools enable police to better predict, prevent, and respond to criminal activities,” said the Minister.
He explained that these tools provide officers with real-time information, improve decision-making, and facilitate faster, more accurate investigations.
“Technology also enhances transparency and accountability and fosters greater public trust. We will benchmark against other successful law enforcement agencies worldwide and endeavour to bring SAPS on par with the best in terms of technology and operational efficiency.” – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 15:30
A busy week ahead in Parliament
Parliament is expected to be abuzz with activity this week as the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) draws closer and Budget Vote Speeches and Parliamentary Committee meetings continue.
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the OPA on Thursday during a joint sitting of the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
“According to the new Joint Rules of Parliament, the OPA is now distinct from the State of the Nation Address (SONA). The SONA is held annually in February to outline the government's plans and priorities for the year and report on the state of the nation.
“The OPA, on the other hand, occurs once every five years, after elections, to announce the new administration's plans and to mark the beginning of the new five-year parliamentary term.
“The OPA coincides with Nelson Mandela International Day - an annual global celebration on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of former President Nelson Mandela by emulating his exemplary and selfless service to humanity,” Parliament said in a statement.
Following that address, the two Houses are expected to hold a joint sitting on Friday to debate the OPA.
However, preceding both the address and subsequent debate will be a media briefing by 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.
Parliament’s other business
According to the statement, tomorrow (Tuesday) the NCOP’s programming committee will meet to “consider the draft parliamentary programme, reports and bills before the House”.
That meeting will commence at 9.15am.
“Meanwhile, the NCOP will have plenary sittings on Tuesday and Wednesday for four policy debates on Budget Votes and to consider legislation before the House, motions and various committee reports.
“The hybrid plenary on Tuesday will hold debates on Budget Vote 3 (Cooperative Governance) and Budget Vote 41 (Water and Sanitation). On Wednesday, the House will have policy debates on Budget Vote 5 (Home Affairs) and Budget Vote 18 (Health),” the statement said.
Parliamentary committees are also expected to meet this week.
“With the parliamentary committee structures now established and chairpersons elected, the committees of the two Houses have scheduled 13 committee meetings for this week. These committees will get briefings from ministers and consider and adopt the draft reports on the Budget Votes.
“The Standing Committee on Appropriations will have virtual public hearings on the Appropriations Bill on Friday,” the statement concluded.
The list of committee meetings are available at www.parliament.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 12:48
New model forms the basis for an urgent recommendation to change African Penguin’s conservation status from endangered to critically endangered
SARS to provide update of Tax Season 2024
Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Edward Kieswetter, is expected to hold a media briefing to provide an update on the Tax Filing Season 2024.
The briefing is expected to be held on Tuesday, 16 July.
“Today marks the continuation of the Tax Filing Season 2024 for provisional and non-provisional taxpayers, who were not selected for Auto Assessments (AA), which commenced on 1 July 2024.
“The AA accommodated approximately 4.8 million taxpayers this year, compared to about 3.8 million taxpayers last year. SARS has also increased the number of digital platforms available to taxpayers to interact with SARS to facilitate a smooth and seamless filing season,” SARS said in a statement.
SARS said it has made progress thus far.
“The Commissioner has expressed his enthusiasm at it being the fourth year of SARS’s commitment to its five-year strategic plan, initiated in 2020, and is proud to acknowledge the progress the organisation has made thus far.
“Part of SARS’s strategic plan is to cultivate a culture of voluntary tax compliance, underpinned by nine strategic objectives that guides the work we do,” SARS said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 13:03
Government activities for the week 15 – 19 July 2024
On Monday, 15 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the keynote address at the opening session of the National Treasury Climate Resilience Symposium 2024.
The symposium is being hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of partner organisations.
On Monday, 15 July, the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, briefs media on the ministry’s priorities in the seventh administration at the GCIS head office in Pretoria.
On Tuesday, 16 July, the Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 – hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of organisations – continues.
On Tuesday, 16 July, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson will deliver the keynote address at the 2024 Infrastructure Africa Business Forum at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
On Wednesday, 17 July, the Climate Resilience Symposium 2024 – hosted by National Treasury, the Presidential Climate Commission, the World Bank and a range of organisations – concludes.
On Thursday, 18 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa will open Parliament in a joint sitting (official Opening of Parliament). 18 July also marks Nelson Mandela International Day in honour of South Africa’s first democratically elected President.
Matona
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 11:26
Tennis superstar Kgothatso Montjane inspires hope
Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has extended her congratulations to Kgothatso Montjane and her playing partner, Yui Kamiji from Japan, on their remarkable victory at the Wimbledon Ladies' Wheelchair Doubles in London.
The dynamic duo triumphed over the formidable Dutch pair, Diede De Groot and Aniek van Koot, with a decisive 6-4, 6-4 win. This outstanding achievement marks Montjane's third overall doubles Grand Slam title and her first Wimbledon title.
READ | President Ramaphosa congratulates tennis star Kgothatso Montjane
“At 36 years old, Montjane is a true daughter of the soil, hailing from Seshego, on the outskirts of Polokwane,” said Ramathuba.
Montjane is currently ranked Number 1 in South Africa in the women's disabled division, and has earned numerous accolades both locally and internationally, solidifying her status as an inspiring sports icon.
"We extend our congratulations and overwhelming joy on your remarkable achievement of winning the Ladies' Doubles Wheelchair Wimbledon title. Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have paid off, showcasing your exceptional talent and skill.
“You have made us all proud. We hope this achievement will inspire other young girls, especially from our rural areas, to believe that the sky is the limit.
“Montjane's success serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that with determination and resilience, anything is possible," said Ramathuba. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 11:10
With local South Africa branches Global EPC company Neosun Energy (www.Neosun.com) offers affordable solar energy solutions for local businesses to mitigate the impact of rising electricity prices.
According to South African Government reports, starting from July 2024, Johannesburg residents will experience a 12.72% increase in electricity costs under local authority tariff charges. Eskom's direct customers will increase all tariff charges, excluding the affordability subsidy charge, from 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2025.
This price hike will impact both residential and business customers, adding financial pressure across the board. The main issue is that new tariffs will increase business costs and reduce profit margins, which forces companies to increase prices and pass them onto the consumer. It means higher operational costs, potentially affecting profitability and leading to higher prices for goods and services.
In this challenging environment, Neosun Energy can play a pivotal role in alleviating the burden of increased electricity costs. Providing solar energy solutions, Neosun Energy can help businesses and local enterprises reduce their dependence on traditional, more expensive electricity sources.
“This increase will primarily affect businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as their profitability will significantly decrease due to such a hike. The best solution to avoid this is to transition to solar energy, which locks in rates permanently. With solar generation, rates do not rise; they are fixed for the next 30 years. Solar Energy transferring - is exactly what can help local enterprises gain their independence from constant bill increases, ” emphasized Ilya Likhov, CEO of Neosun Energy.
Investing in solar energy, businesses can lower their operational costs over the long term, enhancing their profitability and competitiveness.
Today Neosun Energy is presented with 2 local branches in South Africa, located in Cape Town and Johannesburg, bringing to the South African market a high level service of a global company with experience in 16 countries around the world, and saving affordable prices for its customers.
"We firmly believe that establishing local Neosun Energy offices will bring us closer to local businesses and commercial enterprises, enabling us to offer affordable solar energy solutions such as solar plants, innovative energy storage systems, and portable Power Hubs." - added Mr. Likhov.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Neosun.
Media Contact:
For requests: info@neosun.com
CEO Neosun Energy
Social Media:
Ilya Likhov - LinkedIn: http://apo-opa.co/3Y3WoSi
About Neosun Energy:
Neosun Energy (www.Neosun.com) is an international Solar EPC company that provides Commercial Solar PV & Energy Storage Solutions (ESS) with capacity from 200kW to 10MW for Commercial and Industrial projects Worldwide. The company constructs solar power plants and energy storage systems (ESS) on a turn-key basis, covering all stages of construction including design, equipment supply, construction, and commissioning. The company has implemented solar PV projects in 16 countries worldwide.
Morumotsho Charcoal has been going for eight years
President Ramaphosa congratulates tennis star Kgothatso Montjane
President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated wheelchair tennis star Kgothatso Montjane on her win at the Women’s Wheelchair Tennis Doubles at Wimbledon.
Montjane and her Japanese partner, Yui Kamiji, beat Dutch duo Diede de Groot and Jiske Griffioen in straight sets to clinch the title.
Last year, Montjane and Kamiji had come second in the world-renowned grass court competition.
“Proud congratulations to our star from Seshego, Kgothatso Montjane, and her Japanese partner, Yui Kamiji, on their straight-sets win over Diede de Groot and Jiske Griffioen to become the 2024 Women’s Wheelchair Tennis Doubles champions at Wimbledon this weekend,” he said on social media X.
The pair have enjoyed success together, reaching at least eight finals and clinching the 2023 US Open and the 2023 French Open titles.
“This victory at the home of the only major tournament played on grass crowns Kgothatso’s outstanding record in tournaments from Belgium and Switzerland, to the United States and Australia.
“We salute you, Kgothatso, on your life as a champion on and off the court, and we look forward to your continued success,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 07/15/2024 - 09:58
EcoFlow (www.EcoFlow.com/za) is pleased to announce its Annual Winter Sale, running from 15th July to 19th August. This year's sale features exclusive promotions on top-tier products, specially curated for those looking to prepare for energy interruption and the rising energy cost for a warm and load-shedding-free winter season.
The sale includes a wide array of products ranging from the best-selling portable power stations to the newly launched Alternator Charger. These deals include but are not limited to –
This dynamic duo, priced at R19,999 with a 32% discount, is perfect for providing whole-home backup power during winter load-shedding. The DELTA 2's powerful capacity combined with the efficiency of the 220W bifacial solar panels makes for an unbeatable combination.
For those seeking more versatile power solutions, this combo offers reliable performance and on-the-go power convenience. The RIVER 2 Max weighs only 6.1kg and is an ideal energy partner for users who fancy a winter outdoor escapade. The 160W Bifacial Portable Solar Panel ensures the RIVER 2 Max stays powered up and ready, wherever you are. This combo is available at R8,999 with a 40% discount during the winter sale.
The newly launched 800W Alternator Charger is a 3-in-1 charger, jump starter and battery maintainer. With demand for accessible energy and off-grid comfort across the RV, overlanding and van life communities, there is a need for unrestricted access to electricity that isn't dependent on fixed power locations or gas generators. The charger offers an exceptionally convenient and effective solution. During the winter sale, consumers can purchase the DELTA 2 Max along with the 800W Alternator Charger and receive an additional 220W solar panel at no extra cost.
EcoFlow is committed to delivering simple, flexible and reliable eco-friendly energy solutions. In face of rising energy costs and increased energy needs during winter, the seasonal sale provides a wonderful opportunity for people to integrate solar energy systems into their daily energy consumption routine.
The EcoFlow Annual Winter Sale kicks off on 15th July and runs until 19th August. Visit the EcoFlow South Africa website store (https://apo-opa.co/4cWYR5a) for more unbeatable savings and product details. For more information, please visit: https://za.EcoFlow.com/
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EcoFlow.
Media Contact:
Haochen Zhang
haochen.zhang@ecoflow.com
About EcoFlow:
EcoFlow is a leading eco-friendly energy solutions company with the vision to power a new world. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow aims to become a reliable and trusted energy companion for individuals and families across the world, providing accessible and renewable power solutions at home, outdoors, and in mobile spaces. Today, with operational headquarters located in the USA, Germany, and Japan, EcoFlow has empowered more than 3 million users in over 100 markets worldwide. For more information, visit: https://www.EcoFlow.com/au
Clifford Ireland, NSRI Durban duty coxswain, said: At approximately 09h00, Saturday, 13 July, NSRI Durban received notification of a pending medical evacuation due to be carried out from a bulk carrier motor vessel that heading towards Durban from deep sea. At that time the motor vessel was about 100 nautical miles from Durban and due …
The Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 is a standout in the world of personal electric transportation. Known for its sleek design, robust performance, and cutting-edge features, this scooter is ideal for urban commuters seeking a reliable and efficient way to navigate the city. Let’s delve into the key aspects that make the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 …
The Junior Springboks are hurting after losing to Argentina on Sunday and will give it their all to bounce back in the final match of their World Rugby U20 Championship campaign when they contest seventh place on Friday. The SA U20s lost 34-24 (half-time 10-24) to Argentina in their fifth-place semi-final on a sunny but …
Eskom says broken transformer can’t be fixed again because the area is high risk
Electric scooters have surged in popularity as a modern solution for urban transportation. With their convenience, eco-friendliness, and affordability, they offer an excellent alternative to traditional commuting methods. This blog will explore the benefits of electric scooters, key features to look for, and how they are revolutionising city travel. Benefits of Electric Scooters Eco-Friendly …