New shelter for homeless people in Muizenberg
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Lesufi announces Gauteng Cabinet
Lesufi announces Gauteng Cabinet
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced his Cabinet that will lead the seventh administration of the provincial government.
The new provincial Cabinet was announced on Wednesday evening.
“Today, we bring to you the new leadership and Members of the Executive Council (MEC), assigned to steer the ship towards a better Gauteng.
“The team, will from this week, start their work of consolidating the election manifestoes of our different parties so that we can develop a shared vision for Gauteng, a shared vision of prosperity, a shared vision of service delivery, a shared vision to eliminate crime, corruption and lawlessness,” he said.
The new MECs are:
- MEC for e-Government is Bonginkosi Dlamini.
- MEC for Finance and Economic Development is Lebogang Maile.
- MEC for Education and Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation is Matome Chiloane.
- MEC for Health and Wellness is Nomantu Nkomo Ralehoko.
- MEC for Roads and Transport is Kedibone Diale-Tlabela.
- MEC for Human Settlements is Tasneem Motara.
- MEC for Social Development is Faith Mazibuko.
- MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development is Vuyiswa Ramokgopa.
- MEC for Infrastructure Development and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is Jacob Mamabolo.
- MEC for Environment is Sheila Mary Peters.
Lesufi explained that the formerly stand alone Department of Community Safety will now move to the Office of the Premier in a bid to strengthen the fight against crime.
“The fight against crime is going to be the centre of this government. We are migrating this responsibility to the Office of the Premier so that we can lead and champion the fight against crime, corruption and lawlessness.
“We can’t surrender our province to criminals. We can’t be scared of our own shadows and convert our own houses to be prisons because criminals are doing as they wish. We strongly believe the utilisation of creative ways of technology, innovation and the increase of personnel to fight crime in our province must be a priority.
“If there is one priority for the seventh administration and the government of Gauteng in the next five years, it’s our relentless efforts to confront and fight crime head on,” he said.
Government of Provincial Unity
The provincial executive is constituted of members from different political parties – forming a Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).
The political parties represented in the provincial cabinet are the African National Congress, the Inkatha Freedom Party, Rise Mzansi and the Patriotic Alliance.
According to Lesufi, other political formations party to the GPU “chose to use the Gauteng Provincial Legislature as their terrain of operation”.
The formation of the GPU was necessitated after no political party received an outright majority following the National and Provincial Elections in May.
The Premier emphasised that although the MECs hail from different parties, they remain committed to serving the people of Gauteng.
“We accept, without any conditions the outcome of our elections and the desires of our electorate that all political parties must work together to run our provincial government. In doing so, we must be matured; we must be sober; we must understand each other at all times. These are uncharted waters; these are opportunities that are presented to us by our voters.
“We’ve been asked to work together - to work together we will do. We’ve been asked to combine our thoughts for a better Gauteng - to combine our thoughts, we will do, together. We’ve been asked to leave no one behind. Today, we all declare that no one, will be left behind unless they choose not to be part of the [GPU].
“I want to emphasise this: there is no door that is closed. This door will be permanently open and those that want to join [the GPU] will be free to join it,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 10:13
298 views
Crown Relocations South Africa Joins the Fight Against Period Poverty by Supporting #GirlDontSkipADay Initiative
Johannesburg, July 2024 – Leading global relocations company, Crown Relocations South Africa, has taken a crucial step towards ensuring that no girl child is unable to attend school due to a lack of menstrual hygiene products. Through their Crown Africa Coronets Group, they have donated 230 sanitary pads to the Foundation for Special Needs Children …
SA’s Locstat recognised as top 50 in the world for financial fraud prevention
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CoGTA welcomes its new Minister and Deputies
CoGTA welcomes its new Minister and Deputies
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and its entities, have extended their congratulations and welcomed Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, Deputy Minister Dickson Masemola and Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe to the portfolio.
This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet on Sunday.
“The staff and management in the department look forward to working with the new Minister, Deputy Minister Masemola, and the returning Deputy Minister Burns-Ncamashe.
“Their experience working with both the local government and traditional leadership sectors will go a long way in ensuring that the departments achieve their constitutional mandate.”
The new leaders have already convened a meeting this week with the Executive Committees (Exco) of the ministry.
The meeting also included the CEO and the Deputy Directors-General (DDGs) of the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) as well as the CEO of the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB).
“The primary purpose of the meeting was to facilitate a meet and greet session and to provide a high-level introduction to the department’s programmes to the new executives. The Directors-General of the departments led the session, pledging their commitment to work with the Minister and Deputy Ministers in fulfilling the departments’ mandates,” the department explained.
Speaking at the session, Burns-Ncamashe briefly highlighted the challenges faced by the institution of traditional leadership.
He expressed his commitment to supporting the Minister in promoting cooperative governance and strengthening traditional affairs.
His colleague, Masemola indicated his eagerness to work with both the Minister and Deputy Minister, as well as the CoGTA team, to address the challenges faced by local governments.
“He emphasised the importance of stabilising and supporting municipalities to ensure they can deliver on their constitutional mandates. Additionally, he called for increased collaboration with traditional leaders to advance South Africa’s development.”
Hlabisa expressed his gratitude to the Deputy Ministers for their support so far.
“He assured that he and the Deputy Ministers are committed to working closely with the department’s officials, using their experience in local government and with traditional leaders.”
The Minister stressed the need to respond rapidly to challenges at the local government level by leveraging all experiences.
The Minister spoke of a proactive and diligent approach, emphasising the importance of striving to “do things right the first time”.
The department also took the time to thank the former Minister, Thembi Simelane and Deputy Minister Parks Tau for their efforts that have enabled the departments to deliver on their constitutional mandate.
Simelane is the new Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, while Tau was appointed Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 10:24
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Make The Most Of The Last Weekend Before The School Starts In The Bay
Before the school bell rings for the third term this year, kids in Cape Town have one last weekend to enjoy at Bay Harbour Market. This destination is perfect for families looking to savour the final moments of fun, food, and fantastic activities. Located in the heart of Hout Bay, Bay Harbour Market offers an …
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Khayelitsha women want to start a clothing factory
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Good news for motorists as fuel prices decrease
Good news for motorists as fuel prices decrease
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has announced a decrease in prices for all grades of fuel for July, bringing much needed relief to consumers.
This is the second month in succession that a fuel price decrease has been implemented.
The fuel prices for July are adjusted as follows:
- Petrol 93 (ULP and LRP): R1,05 decrease.
- Petrol 95 (ULP and LRP): 99c decrease.
- Diesel (0.05% sulphur): 30c decrease.
- Diesel (0.005% sulphur): 24c decrease.
- Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): 18c decrease.
- Single Maximum National Retail Price for illuminating Paraffin: 24c decrease.
- Maximum LP Gas Retail Price: 22c decrease
In a statement, the department attributed the decrease in prices to several factors in the international market.
“The average Brent Crude oil price decreased from 82.98 US Dollars (USD) to 82.24 USD per barrel, during the period under review. The main contributing factors are the increased production by the US and other non-OPEC countries amid slow economic growth globally.
“The average international product prices of petrol decreased following the lower Brent Crude oil prices during the period under review. The movement in product prices has led to a lower contribution to the Basic Fuel Price (BFP) of petrol by 93.66 - 99.65 c/l, diesel by 17.55 – 23.80 c/l and illuminating paraffin by 16.87 cents per litre,” the department stated.
Furthermore, the Rand’s strength against the dollar also influenced prices.
“The Rand appreciated slightly, on average, against the US Dollar (from 18.46 to 18.44 Rand per USD) during the period under review when compared to the previous one. This led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of all products by about 1.50 cents per litre on all products,” the department added.
The adjusted prices are to take effect from Wednesday, 03 July 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 09:17
797 views
Telkom recognised as a top South African brand by Brand Africa
3 July 2024, Johannesburg: We are thrilled to announce that Telkom has been honoured as one of the 30 most admired South African brands that have significantly shaped South Africa’s global reputation and competitiveness over the past 30 years. This prestigious recognition was awarded at the Brand Africa 100 annual rankings of the best brands …
Visitors flock to Renishaw Hills for Botanical Society Winter Gardens
The vibrant colours and textures of the Renishaw Hills indigenous gardens on the KZN South Coast were the central focus as renowned botanist, Dr Elsa Pooley, led Botanical Society Winter Gardens tour on Saturday, 29 June. This mature lifestyle estate was selected as the fundraiser event host, once again, because of its incredible natural beauty …
KZN issues warning on fake job adverts
KZN issues warning on fake job adverts
The KwaZulu-Natal Office of the Premier has noted with concern the recent circulation of misleading job advertisements sent through various social media and other platforms purporting to be newly issued by the provincial government.
The Office of the Premier said upon close examination, the job advertisements mirror the references and appearance of the original job advertisements issued by the provincial government in August 2023, under the Sthesha Waya-Waya provincial recruitment drive.
“Those advertisements have closed, and the recruitment processes have been concluded and they are not being re-advertised. All approved provincial government vacancies are advertised on the provincial government e-recruitment system or departments’ websites.
“At this juncture, the Office of the Premier categorically states that these social media advertisements are not sanctioned by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and are the work of unscrupulous and mischievous individuals seeking to exploit the aspirations of honest South Africans who are diligently searching for employment or considering career changes,” the Office of the Premier said.
The Office of the Premier has urged all citizens to exercise extreme caution and discernment when applying for any vacancies.
“We strongly advise against engaging with such fraudulent adverts and emphasise that any legitimate government vacancies will be formally advertised through credible newspapers as well as the official KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government e-recruitment system, http://kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs.
“The Office of the Premier and KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government remain committed to transparency and integrity in all its recruitment processes. We encourage the public to verify the authenticity of any job postings and to report any suspicious advertisements to the appropriate authorities,” the office said.
The Office of the Premier added that the goal is to protect the interests and well-being of all South Africans and ensure that all opportunities are accessed fairly and legitimately. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 11:13
440 views
Take a walk on the wild side at Lalibela Game Reserve
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Solutions sought to tackle the killing of KZN Amakhosi
Solutions sought to tackle the killing of KZN Amakhosi
In efforts to address the concerns about the safety of Amakhosi in the province, KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has directed the department to find urgent solutions to tackle the killing of Amakhosi.
Buthelezi made the call during his first meeting with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial House of Traditional and Khoisan leaders held in Durban.
The meeting was also attended by representatives from the local houses across the 11 districts in the province.
During the meeting, Amakhosi, through the House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Chairperson, Inkosi Shinga, presented a list of issues they felt the MEC needs to look into, as he continues with his duties.
Buthelezi emphasised that Amakhosi in the province have a critical role to play in shaping the discourse around the institution of traditional leadership in the country.
“Our aim is to ensure that Amakhosi are treated with utmost respect, while being allowed to champion development for the communities. We will amass the requisite legal expertise to assist us in this process,” Buthelezi said.
The MEC also assured Amakhosi that the issues raised will be dealt with extensively at a meeting between the Premier and all Amakhosi of the province, where the details on what the seventh administration has in store for the institution, will be shared.
Buthelezi further announced that he has instructed the department to employ 241 Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers to assist with the cleaning of the Traditional Administrative Centres.
In January 2024, traditional leaders in the King Cetshwayo District called on government to come up with urgent solutions to curb the killing of Amakhosi and Izinduna in the province.
A total of 55 traditional leaders have been killed in the province since 2019. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:29
281 views
Elsa Pooley shares 4 winter garden tips following Botanical Society tour at Renishaw Hills
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Scotland side named for Women’s Summer Series opener
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Making a concrete difference in rail and other infrastructure sectors
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Nelson Mandela Bay Cross Country Legacy Series Update
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Judge Makhubele is not fit to be a judge, says #UniteBehind
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Joburg must scrap new prepaid electricity fixed charge
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Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in
Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in
The new Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the seventh administration have been sworn into office in Cape Town.
The cohort took their oath of office or solemn affirmation in a ceremony officiated by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on Wednesday.
WATCH |
President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile watched on and congratulated the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers that he appointed in terms of the powers vested in him by the Constitution.
Addressing members of the media following the swearing-in ceremony, President Ramaphosa said the ceremony was a historic moment.
“It has been a very difficult and complicated process. It’s now come to an end and to a start. It’s a fresh start for all of us in South Africa. Today was a historic moment in constituting the Executive of our country in the form of Ministers and Deputy Ministers, who have all collectively been assuring me… that they are going to work and they are going to make South Africans proud.
“The trust that our people have invested in all these men and women... We will not waste time. We will work very hard to take our country forward,” he said.
The first to take the oath of office was Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
In taking the oath, the Deputy President said: “In the presence of everyone assembled here, and in full realisation of the high calling I assume as Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, I, Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, swear that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, observe, uphold and maintain the Constitution and all other law of the Republic; and I solemnly and sincerely promise that I will always promote all that will advance the Republic, and oppose all that may harm it;
- be a true and faithful counsellor;
- discharge my duties with all my strength and talents to the best of my knowledge and ability and true to the dictates of my conscience;
- do justice to all; and
- devote myself to the well-being of the Republic and all of its people
“So help me God."
Then it was the turn of the newly minted executive to take the oath of office or solemn affirmation.
The oath or affirmation compels them – amongst others – to be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and to uphold the Constitution and all other laws while in office.
See our Special Feature | Meet the new Cabinet
New path
Unlike previously, the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers are from an array of political parties as a result of the formation of the Government of National Unity.
The cohort boasts some of South Africa’s youngest minds to enter office, including the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, 34; new Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, also 34; Finance Deputy Minister Ashor Sarupen, 36 and 32-year-old Deputy Minister of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi.
On social media platform X, Gwarube said: “Thank you all for the well wishes! Being appointed the Minister of Basic Education is a massive responsibility that I do not take lightly. The future of the country rests on how well this department that I lead does its work.”
New faces to the Cabinet include Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber and Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi.
In a post on X, Schreiber said: “It is my honour to be appointed as Minister of Home Affairs for the Republic of South Africa. I pledge to serve you to the best of my abilities and in a spirit of collaboration, to demonstrate that South Africans can fix even the most intractable problems when we work together.”
There are some returning faces to South Africa’s Cabinet and deputy ministries.
These include Sihle Zikalala, who will be serving as Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI).
Zikalala served as Minister of that department during the sixth administration.
“As we continue this work, we do so with a steadfast commitment to put maximum efforts towards bettering the poor and work with all stakeholders.
“Together, we must make relentless strides to address unemployment, poverty and inequality. I congratulate the new Minister of DPWI, Dean MacPherson, and wish him all the best in his new assignment and look forward to working with him,” Zikalala said in a statement.
At the end of the swearing-in ceremony, Director General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, wished the leaders of the seventh administration well.
“Congratulations to the new National Executive and the Deputy Ministers on your appointment. We wish you well in your duties and endeavours to create a better South Africa and a better world,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:34
228 views