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Senzo Mchunu elected as Acting Minister of Agriculture
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed the Minister of Water Affairs and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, as Acting Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development.
“The appointment, which takes effect immediately, follows the election by the National Assembly of Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Thoko Didiza as Speaker of the National Assembly,” the Presidency statement read.
On Friday, the newly elected Speaker of the seventh administration committed to ensure that Parliamentary debates are conducted within the rule of law, and in a fair manner.
Didiza took the seat of the Speaker during the first sitting of Parliament, held at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
Didiza, who is an African National Congress member, received 284 votes against Economic Freedom Fighters’ Veronica Mente, who received 49.
“I also commit that I will work with all the parties, led by their whips and representatives, to make sure that we conduct the business of this Parliament in a manner that indeed reflects the will of the people of South Africa,” Didiza said.
The Democratic Alliance’s Annelie Lotriet was elected Deputy Speaker after securing 273 votes. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 06/16/2024 - 06:59
Road closures for Presidential inauguration
Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) has announced that several roads will be closed near the Union Buildings in Pretoria ahead of the Presidential inauguration on Wednesday, 19 June 2024.
Government announced on Saturday that all is set for the Presidential inauguration after Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as the President of South Africa at the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh democratic administration on Friday.
READ | All set for President Ramaphosa's inauguration on Wednesday
The Presidential inauguration is expected to be attended by the President-elect, Members of Parliament, dignitaries, foreign Heads of State, other guests and members of the public.
According to the TMPD, the Heads of State or Governments and the delegates are expected to arrive at a different point of entry.
Road closures around the Union Buildings will be implemented from 3am on Wednesday, until 6am on Thursday, 20 June 2024, as follows:
• Gordon Road and Stanza Bopape Street
• Jan Shoba and Stanza Bopape Street
• Grosvenor and Stanza Bopape Street
• Hilda and Stanza Bopape Street
• Festival and Stanza Bopape Street
• Athlone and Stanza Bopape Street
• Hill and Stanza Bopape Street
• Orient and Stanza Bopape Street
• Balmoral Avenue and Stanza Bopape Street
• Lisdogan Avenue and Stanza Bopape Street
• Farenden and Stanza Bopape Street
• East Avenue and Stanza Bopape Street
• Beckett and Stanza Bopape Street
• Pine and Stanza Bopape Street
• Blackwood and Stanza Bopape Street
• Johan and Stanza Bopape Street
• Wessels and Stanza Bopape Street
• Madiba and Stanza Bopape Street
• Leyds/Zeederberg and Stanza Bopape Street
• Hamilton and Stanza Bopape Street
• Steve Biko and Stanza Bopape Street
• Dumbarton Road and Stanza Bopape Street
• Dumbarton Road and Harcourt Street
• Dumbarton Road and Nassau Street
• Madiba Street and Government Avenue
• Edmond Street and Government Avenue
• Balmoral and Government Avenue
• Tom Jenkins Drive and Soutpansberg Road
• Tom Jenkins Drive and Russell Street
• Tom Jenkins Drive next to Government House
• East and Government Avenue
• Beckett Street and Government Avenue
• Pine Street and Government Avenue
• Blackwood Street and Government Avenue
• North Street
• Soutpansberg Road
• Van Der Merwe Street
• Nuffield Street
Meanwhile, TMPD said the trial run of the street closures for the Presidential inauguration is scheduled to take place on 16 and 17 June 2024 from 2am, until it is completed.
“The Tshwane Metro Police Department, together with other law enforcement agencies, will be deployed to monitor the street closures.”
Alternative routes
Motorists are advised to avoid the affected streets and to use alternative routes, such as the following:
• Pretorius Street
• Park Street
• Du Toit Street
• Greef Street
• Frederika Street
• Justice Mahomed Street
Park and ride
Rietondale Park will be open for guests and members of the public to park their cars and ride the bus to the Union Buildings.
The shuttles will commence operations from 3am until 6:30am.
There will be no private vehicle access to the Union Buildings or the area surrounding the venue except for residents with permits.
Residents in streets affected by the closures around the Union Buildings and Rietondale are urged to collect permits from Pieter Delport Centre at 770 Government Avenue, Eastcliff in Pretoria.
The residents will have to present proof of residence when collecting the permits.
The public walking in will have access to the Union Buildings South Lawns through a security checkpoint. – SAnews.go.za
Gabisile
Sun, 06/16/2024 - 12:04
Youth challenges to remain key under government of national unity – Mashatile
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has thrown his weight behind President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa, saying he is confident that under his leadership in the government of national unity, South Africa will continue to address the challenges facing the youth.
“In this regard, we will in the next five years, focus on creating jobs and building an inclusive and growing economy. We will equally focus on implementing a programme focused on skilling youth with the skills of the future,” he said on Sunday.
Mashatile was speaking at the 48th anniversary of Youth Day at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo.
The annual event recollects the sacrifices of South Africa’s youth in the fight for democracy, an event immortalised by the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976.
“Our young people must have work opportunities,” Mashatile told the gathering.
The Deputy President believes that the recent General Elections have once again demonstrated the country’s dedication to the values and principles of democracy through fair, free fair elections.
He told the people who had filled the marquee that through their vote, they had spoken and given political parties a clear message after no party won an outright majority.
“You want us as political leaders to put our differences aside and work together to build our country and address the challenges affecting our people. We are determined to put our differences aside and use our collective strength, skills and experience to create the South Africa that the fallen heroes of the 1976 uprising fought for.”
He stated that young people make up more than two-thirds of the population, making them the biggest community in South Africa. “Therefore, we cannot move forward without them, without the youth of our country.”
He cited the National Development Plan (NDP), which places youth at the heart of the country’s development. He said their participation was critical to meeting growth targets.
The Deputy President also highlighted the importance of involving young people in South Africa’s developmental initiatives to address challenges such as poverty, social inequality, poor mental health and high levels of unemployment.
Youth programmes
He acknowledged the challenges facing the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and assured youngsters that they will ensure the scheme is administered efficiently.
He believes that NSFAS remains a critical vehicle that supports students from poor and working-class families, with over 70% of university and more than 90% of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students benefiting from the scheme.
“We must work together, the private sector, government and civil society must work together to address these challenges.”
The Deputy President also emphasised the need for a whole-of-society approach to provide young people with better access to quality education, basic skills, and employment opportunities, especially those who live in rural areas.
Despite the country’s challenging financial circumstances, he said the State continues to invest in youth human capital development, with more than R31. 8 billion pumped into basic education in 2023 and R130.1 billion for post-secondary education training in 2022.
He touched on government’s efforts to create opportunities for youth through programmes such as the National Youth Development Agency and Enterprise Development Programme.
“As the government, we want to see more young people actively involved in the economy and participating in decisions that affect their lives.
“This time around, young people have a government that cares for, prioritises their needs, and wants to see them succeed, unlike the government of 1976.”
Government’s comprehensive approach to reducing youth unemployment, he said, includes formal education, internships, and assistance for youth entrepreneurship through the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention.
“Without the employment of young people, growth cannot occur. I am confident that the seventh administration will continue with efforts to position young people as essential drivers and beneficiaries of economic transformation.”
The Deputy also took the time to pay tribute to the fallen heroes and saluted the brave youth who fought for liberation.
“As we traverse the economic challenges, we urge the youth to adopt the same attitude as Hector Peterson, Mbuyisa Makhubo, Tsietsi Mashinini, and all the youth of 1976, whose sacrifices gave birth to our political freedom. Their efforts have set us on the right path towards a South Africa that is non-racial, non-sexist and democratic.”
Newly elected Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has urged the youth to tackle the social ills that they are facing and grab every opportunity that comes their way.
She highlighted the need for innovative approaches, such as technology integration and equal access to quality education for all.
Ramathuba stressed the importance of addressing the current education system’s inequalities and limitations to ensure a brighter future for South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 06/16/2024 - 16:41
Deputy President Mashatile to address National Youth Day commemoration
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will speak at the 48th anniversary of Youth Day at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo, on Sunday.
According to the Presidency, the commemoration will focus on “actively embracing the socio-economic gains of our democracy”.
The annual event recollects the sacrifices of South Africa’s youth in the fight for democracy, an event immortalised by the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976.
“This important national day provides an opportunity, for our country, to commemorate and honour the bravery of young people and to champion youth development in South Africa,” the Presidency said.
In his speech, Mashatile will highlight the progress made in improving the lives of young people and reflect on the remaining challenges, which require immediate attention.
Government, working together with all relevant stakeholders, said it will continue to promote initiatives aimed at improving the physical and mental well-being of young people.
The State said it was also addressing the challenge of substance abuse, crime and gender-based violence, and promoting academic excellence and economic participation, as well as improving efforts to strengthen solidarity and social cohesion amongst the youth.
The commemoration will also have an expo, which will showcase opportunities relating to skills training, learnerships, bursaries, careers and entrepreneurship.
The province will also host a marathon in the morning, bringing together young people with various sporting personalities and government representatives, followed by a cultural programme, which will include a music concert, cultural dances, and poetry.
Various leaders including Ministers Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Maropene Ramokgopa and Ronald Lamola, Limpopo Premier-elect Dr Phophi Ramathuba and National Youth Development Agency Chairperson Asanda Luwaca, will accompany the Deputy President. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sat, 06/15/2024 - 11:18
All set for President Ramaphosa's inauguration on Wednesday
Government is all set for the Presidential inauguration, which will take place on Wednesday, 19 June 2024, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
This is after Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as the President of South Africa on Friday at the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh democratic administration, which was held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
Three hundred and thirty-nine ballot papers were issued and counted, with 12 invalid ballots. Ramaphosa received 283 votes against Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema, who received 44 votes from MPs.
READ | President Ramaphosa re-elected to lead South Africa
Section 87 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa prescribes that the President of the Republic must be sworn in within five days after his or her election by the National Assembly.
“Consequently, the provisions of Section 87 kick in and the President of South Africa must accordingly be inaugurated on Wednesday, 19 June 2024,” Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, announced at a briefing on Saturday.
Ntshavheni described the Presidential inauguration as an important feature in a year in which South Africa is marking 30 Years of Freedom.
“The inauguration will bring together South Africans from all backgrounds, walks of life and political orientations, united in our diversity. It offers us an occasion to celebrate our democratic values and system of governance, including the agreed commitment of our body politic that the seventh administration will be one led by a government of national unity.”
READ | President-elect reiterates commitment to uplifting South Africa
Ntshavheni said this year’s theme, '30 Years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth’, brings together the country’s past and the road travelled since 1994 when Nelson Mandela took his oath at the Union Buildings as the first democratically elected President.
The ceremony will be held at the Union Buildings Amphitheatre and its South Lawns.
According to the Minister, the Amphitheatre will host national and foreign dignitaries, including Heads of State and Government.
Preparations have been made for South Africans to participate in the ceremony.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will perform the ceremonial elements of the inauguration, as they pledge their allegiance to both the Republic and the Commander-In-Chief.
The ceremonial elements will include, amongst others, a 21-gun salute, a salute flight by the South African Air Force, inspection of a SANDF battalion, a battalion march past, and massed fly past.
Ntshavheni, the Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) preparing for the inauguration, stated that the President-elect would be sworn in by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo and would take an oath or affirmation as outlined in Schedule 2 of the Constitution.
The newly sworn-in President will also deliver his inaugural address.
Attendees will also enjoy an array of music genres and other cultural and artistic performances that reflect the achievements of the past three decades.
In terms of road closures, she said there will be no private vehicle access to the Union Buildings or the area immediately surrounding the venue.
“Tshwane Metro Police will effect road closures in and around the Union Buildings precinct. Residents in streets affected by these closures will be alerted on how they will access various exits and entrances.”
Ntshavheni said law enforcement is fully deployed to continue to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and guests on the day and throughout the post-election phase of the country.
The Minister encouraged South Africans to be part of this momentous occasion, and for those who cannot attend to follow proceedings on television and radio.
“Government, therefore, calls on South Africans to take a few hours out of their time to devote attention to this special occasion and especially to encourage children and young people to observe this event as part of building social cohesion and developing an appreciation for what makes us special as a nation.”
She told the media that the ceremony will commence with an entertainment programme at 9am, while the formal proceedings are scheduled to commence at 11am. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sat, 06/15/2024 - 15:59
Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane elected unopposed as Chair of NCOP
The African National Congress’s Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane was elected unopposed as the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Saturday.
The newly-elected Chairperson vowed to execute the obligations of her Office in accordance with the Constitution.
This morning, delegates from nine provinces were sworn in at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) at the first sitting of the NCOP since the General Election in May.
In the first sitting of the National Assembly (NA) on Friday, new Members of Parliament (MPs) took the oath and affirmation. This session also saw the election of Speaker Thoko Didiza and the re-election of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, who presided over the proceedings, also administered the prescribed oath and affirmation to the NCOP members and presided over the election of the NCOP Chairperson.
Mtsweni-Tsipane, who is the outing Premier of Mpumalanga, emphasised the need for transformative leadership, women’s inclusion, and progressive governance in the provinces.
“It is with great humility and a deep resolve to honour your trust that I assume the position of Chairperson in the National Council of Provinces during the seventh parliamentary dispensation.
“It is indeed an honour for me to serve our Constitution, which is the base framework for democratic governance in South Africa, far from being purely prescriptive and constraining. Our Constitution is permissive and enabling, putting the power of the State in pursuit of a positive project of achieving equality, justice and freedom,” she told the House.
Since its inception, she said the NCOP has always played an important role in the promotion of the principles of cooperative governance and inter-governmental relations.
“The NCOP will need to address the uncertainty which is rife around the status of intergovernmental relations, decisions and recommendations. We must also address issues relating to who takes responsibility for the follow up of recommendations and key executive undertakings while addressing the lack of horizontal integration between the activities of various government departments,” said Mtsweni-Tsipane.
According to Mtsweni-Tsipane, the NCOP has been strategically repositioned over the past few years to improve the quality of life of ordinary South Africans, particularly the poor and the marginalised.
“As we begin with the task of the seventh parliament, the NCOP must foster and maintain a dynamic relationship with provinces, particularly the provincial legislatures, as well as the communities that we serve.”
She said she hoped that permanent delegates would serve as active agents for the ongoing promotion of a dynamic interaction with their provinces.
“The significance of this ongoing interaction cannot be overemphasised, as this facilitates a useful link between both provincial and national spheres of government is faced with a wide variety of developmental challenges, which include the high levels of inequality and unemployment, slow economic growth, as well as the gender-based violence and femicide.”
The Chairperson believes the House has made great strides in institutionalising key oversight and report back programmes.
These include the Women’s Parliament, Youth Parliament, Men’s Parliament, as well as the provincial women’s charter report back programme.
She said the NCOP must collectively strive to work cooperatively with all stakeholders to address the developmental challenges of the nation.
Kenneth Mmoiemang, who is a member of the Northern Cape delegation, was also elected unopposed as the Chief Whip of the NCOP.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Chief Justice Zondo explained the contents of the oath and affirmation.
The delegates promised to fulfil their duties as permanent delegates to the NCOP or as members of their provincial legislatures to the best of their abilities.
The NCOP is one of the two Houses of Parliament and consists of 54 permanent members and 36 special delegates.
Delegations consist of 10 representatives from each province and the NCOP must have a mandate from the provinces before it can make certain decisions.
The House aims to represent provincial interests in the national sphere of government.
South African Local Government Association (Salga) President Bheki Stofile congratulated Mtsweni-Tsipane on her election while the heads of delegations from provinces also offered their messages of support. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sat, 06/15/2024 - 12:17
Mpox cases rise to seven in SA after new infection recorded in W Cape
The Department of Health has advised people on medication for any health condition to adhere to their treatment, as the number of Mpox cases has risen to seven.
The department has noted that all diagnosed patients have chronic illnesses, suggesting a high probability of immunocompromise, unless adherent to prescribed treatment.
“Treatment adherence can prevent new or worsening health problems, and failure to adhere to your prescriptions can negatively impact the quality of your life,” the department said.
The latest confirmed case is a 39-year-old male patient, who was admitted on 28 May 2024 at a local private health facility in Cape Town.
On Thursday, he tested positive for Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, at a private laboratory.
“The patient presented with extensive lesions and he is RVD (retrovirus disease) positive with unknown CD4,” the department said.
The latest patient listed his residential address as Northcliff, Gauteng.
On Thursday, Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla announced a second death linked to Mpox.
Meanwhile, the department said it was scheduled to receive a batch of Mpox treatment, Tecovirimat, which has been described as effective in preventing morbidity and mortality associated with the disease, especially when initiated within a few days of incubation and diagnosis.
In addition, the department said it was working closely with other stakeholders and will continue with surveillance, contract tracing and health education activities across the country and empower citizens with information to make well-informed health choices.
“The effectiveness of contract tracing and case finding depends on the cooperation and accuracy of information provided by both confirmed and suspected cases.”
Some of the common symptoms of Mpox include a rash, which may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands or lymph nodes.
The painful rash looks like blisters or sores and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital and/or anal regions. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sat, 06/15/2024 - 12:28
President-elect reiterates commitment to uplifting South Africa
President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his commitment to continue to work towards the objectives of building a united and prosperous South Africa.
In his acceptance speech after being elected by Members of Parliament to be the President of the seventh administration, Ramaphosa on Friday said he was “humbled and honoured” to be entrusted with the responsibility of the office.
“It is with pleasure that I accept [the re-election]. It will once again be a privilege and pleasure to serve this great nation in the position of President. I wish to thank all leaders for their congratulatory messages.
“Your messages are a clear clarion call for working together, and they constitute what I see as a well of encouragement, good advice and wisdom,” President Ramaphosa said.
READ | President Ramaphosa re-elected to lead South Africa
Ramaphosa, the President of the ANC, was re-elected at the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh administration held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). Earlier in the day, he was also sworn in as a Member of the National Assembly. However, once elected, he ceases to be an MP.
The Constitution stipulates that once elected as President by the National Assembly, the President-elect must assume office within five days by taking an oath or affirming their faithfulness to the Republic and their obedience to the Constitution.
After the conclusion of the first sittings, MPs will proceed to attend the Inauguration of the President-elect, which is scheduled for 19 June 2024 in Pretoria.
Addressing the House as President-elect after securing 283 votes of 339 during Friday’s proceedings, Ramaphosa said he believed that this is an era of hope and inclusivity. He acknowledged the reality of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections results, where no party represented in the National Assembly achieved an outright majority to enable it to work alone legislatively and at the executive level.
“Through their vote, our people expect all parties to work together within the framework of our Constitution, and to work as political parties to achieve the objectives of a democratic society based on non-racialism, non-sexism, peace, justice, and to ensure stability and tackle the triple challenge of poverty, unemployment and inequality, and to achieve prosperity for all,” President Ramaphosa said.
He challenged the political parties represented in Parliament to pledge to cooperate to foster national unity, and through the voluntary government of national unity.
Once the President has taken the oath of office, he will proceed to form a Cabinet, selecting Ministers who will head various government departments and execute the administration's policies. Additionally, the President will convene a joint sitting of the newly established National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces for the Opening of Parliament. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sat, 06/15/2024 - 01:34
President Ramaphosa re-elected to lead South Africa
Cyril Ramaphosa has been re-elected as the President of the Republic of South Africa, who will lead the seventh democratic administration.
After a full day of proceedings during the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh Parliament, Ramaphosa -- the President of the African National Congress -- was on Friday evening nominated for the position of President.
The sitting took place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in the Western Cape.
Three hundred and thirty-nine ballot papers were issued and counted, with 12 invalid ballots. Ramaphosa received 283 votes against Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema, who received 44 votes.
African National Congress Member of Parliament (MP), Mdumiseni Ntuli, nominated Ramaphosa for the position of President, and was seconded by Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader and MP, Velenkosini Hlabisa, during a process that was presided over by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.
The President’s election came after former Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza was elected as the Speaker of the National Assembly after a vote in the House.
READ | Didiza appointed new National Assembly Speaker
Didiza was declared by Justice Zondo as a Speaker after receiving 284 votes against her contestant, Veronica Mente from the Economic Freedom Fighters, who received 49 votes.
The Democratic Alliance's Dr Annelie Lotriet was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly for the seventh Parliament. This after she received 273 votes, while fellow nominee, Vuyolwethu Zungula, the African Transformation Movement leader, received 54 votes.
The first sitting of the National Assembly took place after the General Election on 29 May. The day’s proceedings started with the swearing in of Members of Parliament, who either took an oath or affirmation that enjoins them to be faithful to the Republic of South Africa, and to obey, respect and uphold the Constitution and all other laws of the Republic.
READ | New Members of Parliament sworn in
South Africa’s recent National and Provincial Elections were the most contested and most compelling since the dawn of democracy in 1994. As in the post-1994 election period, President-elect Ramaphosa is expected to lead a Government of National Unity into the future.
This will be his second term as the leader of South Africa’s government.
He is expected to be inaugurated next Wednesday, 19 June.
Messages of congratulations
After Justice Zondo declared the re-election of President Ramaphosa, various political parties took turns in congratulating him.
Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen said the day is a historic day for the country, and the start for a new chapter of building, cooperation, and putting the country’s interests and future first.
“In these elections, the voters chose not to give any party its own majority, and in doing so, they have told us that they want us to work together to build a prosperous non-racial, united South Africa, with a great economy that works for everybody. We must now rise to the occasion and rise to the call of South Africa,” Steenhuisen said.
EFF leader Julius Malema also congratulated the President, saying his party accepts the results and the voice of people of South Africa expressed during the elections.
“We are going to ensure that this Parliament is functional,” Malema said.
Inkatha Freedom Party leader, Velenkosini Hlabisa, said this is the beginning of a new era.
“The IFP stands ready to serve in the government of South Africa. We enter the government of national unity with an open mind and eyes wide open.”
READ | Date set for Presidential inauguration
Ramaphosa was sworn in as the President of South Africa for the first time on 15 February 2018 and again on 22 May 2019 after the 2019 elections.
The early years
The President was born on 17 November 1952 in Johannesburg. His family was moved from Western Native Township to Soweto in 1962, where he attended Tshilidzi Primary School.
He completed high school at Mphaphuli High School in Sibasa, Venda in 1971.
Ramaphosa began his studies at the University of the North in 1972, where he became involved in student politics, joining the South African Student Organisation (SASO) and the Black People’s Convention (BPC).
The President holds a law degree from the University of South Africa, and has received several honorary doctorates from local and international universities.
He received the Olof Palme prize in Stockholm in 1987 and was awarded the National Order of the Baobab in Silver in 2009 for his contribution to the multiparty negotiations and for chairing the Constitutional Assembly.
Prior to becoming the President of South Africa, Ramaphosa served as the Deputy President since 2012. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Sat, 06/15/2024 - 00:09
Didiza appointed new National Assembly Speaker
The newly elected Speaker of the National Assembly (NA) of the seventh administration, Thoko Didiza, has committed to ensure that Parliamentary debates are conducted within the rule of law, and in a manner that is fair.
Didiza made the commitment as she took the seat of the Speaker of the National Assembly during the first Joint Sitting of Parliament, held at Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) in the Western Cape on Friday.
The outgoing Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development and African National Congress member took the seat of the Speaker after receiving 284 votes against her contestant, Veronica Mente from the Economic Freedom Fighters, who received 49 votes.
Didiza commended Members of Parliament from across the political divide for supporting her nomination, as the new government of national unity starts to take shape, and for participating in the democratic process of electing the Speaker.
“As a country and a democratic State, we have an opportunity to express our views, representing our constituencies, and we have to elect and participate in such process,” Didiza said.
She emphasised that Parliament is an important institution of the country, where members have to pass laws and ensure that they play an oversight role on the Executive.
“I also commit that I will work with all the parties, led by their whips and representatives to make sure that we conduct the business of this parliament in a manner that indeed reflects the will of the people of South Africa,” Didiza said.
Didiza presided over the election of her Deputy, which was contested by African Transformation Movement leader, Vuyolwethu Zungula, and the Democratic Alliance's Annelie Lotriet.
With 273 votes, Lotriet is now the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 19:00
Road closures ahead of first sitting of Parliament
The public is advised that numerous road closures will be in effect around the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) ahead of the first sittings of the two Houses of Parliament.
Parliament is gearing up to host the first sittings of the two Houses of Parliament scheduled for Friday and Saturday at the CTICC.
Friday’s proceedings will see Members of Parliament (MPs) electing a President who will form the seventh administration to govern the country.
The City of Cape Town’s Traffic Service advises motorists to plan their routes accordingly and to avoid the foreshore where possible.
The following road closures will take effect:
The closures will be in place until the events at the CTICC have concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 08:44
Youth challenged to find innovative solutions for water problems
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has challenged the youth to help find solutions to the global water woes.
Mahlobo made the call during the Wetskills Challenge Awards Ceremony held at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in eThekwini on Wednesday.
The Deputy Minister officiated the Wetskills Challenge, a two-week programme for students and young professionals with a passion for water from all over the globe to work in transdisciplinary and transcultural teams on challenging water cases.
The participants’ challenge is to find innovative solutions for the water challenges facing the world.
Several teams competed for the number one spot and came up with solutions to various topics, including water security within the green hydrogen industry; developing a business model for non-governmental organisations, and innovative sanitation solutions in schools.
Speaking at the event, Mahlobo reminded the youth that science must be used for humanity, and that they will help to find solutions to the global water woes.
Mahlobo said he trusts that with the calibre of young men and women who participated in the challenge, the future of the water sector is in good hands.
“Your trade is about humanity and humanity is to improve conditions. We all have shared aspirations and dreams.
“We all want to live in peace and harmony, with development. At this point, we are carrying a treasure and inheritance for the next generations, as we inherited from our forebearers,” Mahlobo said.
He called on government to create opportunities for the ideas presented to be realised, and to foster talent and innovation.
“What we need to do is to support you in implementing the strategies you have come up with, and create pace for your development and an opportunity to pilot these ideas. As government, we need to say, ‘now that the seed has been planted, how do we water and nurture it?',” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister congratulated the winners who came up with solutions to the pit latrine problem in rural areas in South Africa.
Emerald Reddy, Rafael Tembe, Shongile Chauke and Tasmiyah Ismail presented a study that investigates integrating the innovative Larvae'd toilet system with the existing WASH solution in South Africa's rural schools.
The proposed solution aims to resolve these facilities with sustainable and hygienic sanitation solutions.
The team said the innovation will leverage community involvement and the use of recycled materials.
The initiative also ensures students health and safety, and explores business for those who will be supplying for the schools. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 08:52
Limpopo Legislature elects first female Premier
History has been made in Limpopo where Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has been elected as the new Premier - the first woman to hold the position in the province.
Ramathuba was elected during a sitting of the seventh Limpopo Legislature in Lebowakgomo on Friday.
She takes over the reins from outgoing Premier, Chupu Stanley Mathabatha, who held the post during the fifth and sixth administration terms.
The Speaker and Deputy Speaker are also women. Makoma Makhurupetje was elected unopposed as the new Speaker of the Limpopo Legislature, and Tebogo Mamorobela was elected as the Deputy Speaker.
In her acceptance speech, Ramathuba said she was humbled and grateful to accept the responsibility entrusted to her as the Premier of “this great province”.
The newly appointed Premier committed the new administration to inclusivity and access to quality basic services.
“I am deeply honoured for the opportunity to lead Limpopo towards a future of progress, prosperity and unity. I am recommitting the new administration to inclusivity, [and] access to qualify basic services,” Ramathuba said.
She also called on the Executives to carry out their duties with diligence.
“I call upon the members of this Legislature to uphold their oversight role with diligence and dedication, ensuring that the administration of Limpopo serves the best interests of all its citizens,” the new Premier said.
She acknowledged the exemplary leadership of the outgoing Premier, saying his stewardship has steered Limpopo through the challenges of the past two administrations.
Ramathuba’s election came as a number of provinces held their first sittings of their respective Legislatures on Friday.
In Mpumalanga, Mandla Ndlovu was elected as the new Premier, taking over from Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane who took office in 2018.
In his acceptance speech, Ndlovu said he was grateful for the opportunity given to him.
“I am committed to upholding and building upon the legacy that the previous premiers have left for us. We are continuing with the journey which was started by Premier Matthews Phosa up until Premier Refilwe. Premier, you have done your part,” Ndlovu said.
Oscar Mabuyane was re-elected as Premier of the Eastern Cape for a second term and MaQueen Joyce Letsoha-Mathae was elected Premier for Free State.
Meanwhile, Alan Winde was re-elected as the Western Cape Premier during a sitting of the Western Cape Parliament on Thursday. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 14:39
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