After five years only 26 state houses built in Inanda
Families relocated to make way for housing project have been living in a poorly serviced transit camp
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Sibanye-Stillwater miners who staged underground protest resurface in Rustenburg
They staged a sit-in strike over unpaid employee share ownership scheme funds. But the company says they do not qualify yet.
Call to limit livestock movement amid Foot and Mouth Disease
Call to limit livestock movement amid Foot and Mouth Disease
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has called on livestock farmers and owners in all provinces to limit the movement of cloven-hoofed animals, amid confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in the Eastern Cape.
The department said cases of FMD were confirmed on five farms located at Humansdorp and East London after the National Veterinary Reference laboratory conducted epidemiological investigations.
“Clinical signs of FMD were observed on the first reported farm (index farm) and samples were collected immediately on 30 April 2024. Since then, clinical signs of FMD were found on four more farms in the Humansdorp area, and one in the East London area.
“The laboratory at Onderstepoort Veterinary Research in Pretoria confirmed that the results from samples collected on these farms are positive for SAT3 on serology and PCR tests. Virus identifications by sequencing have identified the same SAT3 virus on these positive farms.”
The department emphasised that cloven hoofed animals should not be moved unless it is necessary, considering among others that the East London farm sourced animals from multiple origins.
“This will allow for the department to find and quarantine further undetected, affected properties to prevent any further spread of the disease.”
The department also re-emphasised the significance of the incubation period for FMD, noting 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.
It said an investigation into the origin and extent of the FMD outbreak in the province is ongoing, and various steps have been taken, including the placement under quarantine of locations that were confirmed to be positive for FMD by the Eastern Cape Provincial Veterinary Services.
“A full epidemiological investigation is underway to identify the possible origin and any other properties that could be at risk. Immediate neighbours and all linked locations have been placed under precautionary quarantine, pending clinical and serological investigation to determine their FMD status.”
Cattle and sheep on the affected farms have since been vaccinated against FMD to reduce the viral load on these farms.
Biosecurity
The department has also urged farmers 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.
In line with this, a regulation was prescribed by Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, in October 2022, stipulating 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.
In addition, all cattle, including sheep, and goats newly brought onto a farm must be kept separated from the resident herds for at least 28 days.
FMD is a controlled animal disease in terms of the Animal Diseases Act, 1984 (Act No 35 of 1984) and the Act prescribes certain control measures, like isolation and movement control, which are being enforced by Veterinary Services.
“Should any suspicious clinical symptoms (salivation, blisters in the mouth, limping or hoof lesions) be seen, it should be reported to the local state veterinarian immediately, and such animals must not be moved under any circumstances,” the department advised. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 09:30
744 views
MP, MPLs lists handed over to Parliament Secretary
MP, MPLs lists handed over to Parliament Secretary
Secretary of Parliament, Xolile George, has now officially received the list of elected representatives who will make up the National Assembly for South Africa’s seventh Parliament.
George received the list from Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in a handover ceremony held at the Constitutional Court in Johannesburg on Thursday.
Earlier in the ceremony, Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) chairperson Mosotho Moepya handed over that list and another list of those expected to serve in the Provincial Legislatures to the Chief Justice.
“As South Africans, we have again demonstrated to the world, that despite the numerous global and domestic challenges that we face, we are steadfast in maintaining the integrity of our Constitution and our commitment to our growing democracy through, again, conducting peaceful and efficient elections.
“This is a track record that all South Africans should be proud of. South Africa's young democracy shines as a beacon of hope, not just for our nation, but for all those who believe in the power of the people to shape their own destiny through free and fair elections.
“This is indeed a historic moment in the maturity of our democracy, where political parties are compelled to work together to establish a government and a Parliament that represents the will and aspirations of the people,” George said.
Chief Justice Raymond Zondo said the handover of the lists from the IEC to the Chief Justice and in turn to the Secretary of Parliament “marks an important milestone in our Constitutional democracy”.
“Now that the list is here, one knows who will be members of Parliament who will convene on the first day of the sitting. The announcement of the date for the first sitting of Parliament will be the next step. That…will be announced by the Chief Justice and I think it’s going to happen pretty soon.
“The judiciary will play its role to make sure that our Constitutional democracy runs as smoothly as it should,” Zondo said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 17:26
297 views
First sitting of new Parliament will be at the Cape Town International Convention Centre
The new National Assembly will not be complete until February 2026
SA records two more monkeypox disease cases
SA records two more monkeypox disease cases
The Department of Health is appealing to citizens who have been in close contact with known or suspected patients of monkeypox disease, also known as Mpox, to go to their nearest health facility.
This is after the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) detected two more cases of Mpox this week at Addington and St Augustine Hospitals in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
“The preliminary case finding report has revealed that the two recent cases had contact with the other previously confirmed case in the province, and this suggests that there is a local transmission of the disease, which could potentially lead to a larger outbreak in the province,” the department said in a statement.
This brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed infections in the country to four, with three in KwaZulu-Natal and one in Gauteng.
READ | SA records second case of Mpox
According to the data, all the patients are South African males in their mid to late 30s.
The department said close contact with lesions, sexual contact, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as bedding transmit the Mpox virus from one person to another.
The incubation period of Mpox is usually from six to 13 days but can range from five to 21 days.
“The health officials rely on transparency and cooperation from cases or patients for contact tracing and case finding to determine the rate of transmission of this infectious virus at community level.”
The department said they were pleased by the patients’ honesty and courage during the investigation process and thanked them for assisting officials in tracing suspected cases who also tested positive.
“It is through transparency of both confirmed and suspected cases that government can prevent further transmission and avoidable deaths.”
Meanwhile, the department in collaboration with various stakeholders in the sector is intensifying epidemiology and surveillance, and risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) activities.
“These will also help to address social stigma, which contributes to people’s decision not to openly speak out because they suspect communities will not accept them due to their health conditions.”
In most cases, the department said stigma contributes to the spread of the virus thereby making the outbreak and transmission worse.
Symptoms
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.
“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,” the department explained.
However, the department has urged the public not to panic because the situation remains under control and that they will keep the public informed of the situation. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 09:55
850 views
Appliance Repairs Centre Offers Expert Solutions for Washing Machine Spin Cycle Issues
Pretoria, Centurion, and Midrand – Homeowners experiencing the frustration of washing machines that won’t spin dry can now find relief with Appliance Repairs Centre. With over 38 years of industry experience, Appliance Repairs Centre specializes in servicing and repairing a wide range of appliances, including washing machines, fridges, freezers, dishwashers, and tumble dryers. Their certified …
Employment and Labour condemns employee’s murder
Employment and Labour condemns employee’s murder
The Department of Employment and Labour has condemned the killing of an employee from the Fort Beaufort Labour Centre, in the Eastern Cape.
The woman was murdered by an employee, with whom she was in a relationship.
The Department’s Acting Director-General, Onke Mjo, said it was regrettable that the relationship ended in such a tragic manner.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and to all our officials who are dealing with the shock and sadness of this devastating event. The loss of a young life in such circumstances is a tragedy beyond words,” Mjo said.
Mjo condemned any act of gender-based violence (GBV), noting that the recent report released by the Public Protector on GBV underscored the urgency and importance of addressing this issue.
READ | Public Protector report on GBV welcomed
“Now, we are faced with this matter within our own ranks. The department does not condone gender-based violence in any form and will continue to advocate for a safe and respectful work environment for all,” Mjo said.
The department will continue to provide all necessary assistance to the family and those affected by the tragic incident.
Mjo said the matter is in the hands of court authorities, and the department has full confidence in the justice system.
Parallel with the ongoing court proceedings, Mjo said the department is steadfast in its commitment to commence immediate and appropriate internal procedures, potentially encompassing disciplinary actions.
“We urge all our employees and the public to support those affected by GBV and to stand together in condemning such acts. Let us all strive to create a society where every individual is treated with dignity and respect,” Mjo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 14:44
234 views
This Father’s Day, treat Dad to an unforgettable experience at the Bay Harbour Market!
Nestled in the heart of Hout Bay, this vibrant market offers a perfect blend of artisanal crafts, gourmet food, and live entertainment, making it an ideal destination to celebrate and honour all the amazing dads out there. Whether your father is a foodie, an art enthusiast, or simply enjoys soaking in the lively atmosphere, Bay …
Hammarsdale based Mathe Group & Van Dyck damps down the sound in London gyms
The sound of a heavy barbell hitting the ground or a kettlebell or medicine ball slamming onto a floor, the thump in a gym and bodyweight training and the drone of dance tracks and screeching trainers during fitness and spinning classes have created a whole new class of noise pollution. Add vibrations from equipment and …
More service stations set up to provide humanitarian aid
More service stations set up to provide humanitarian aid
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is at the centre of coordinating relief and humanitarian efforts in the aftermath of a devastating storm that ripped through parts of the province on Monday.
The uThongathi area in eThekwini was the hardest hit, with other district municipalities, including Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Amajuba, Umzinyathi and Umkhanyakude, being affected by the storm.
According to the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, 12 people across the province died following the storm and strong winds.
Initial assessments show that over 7 000 households have been damaged, affecting over 17 000 people. Eighteen schools have been damaged.
The provincial government said over 1200 homeless families were currently receiving humanitarian aid from government across the province.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube Nncube, said disaster teams were continuing with assessments to establish the total cost of the damages.
A central management centre has been set up in the eMagwaveni area in uThongathi, where all relief and support efforts are being coordinated, and more services to the areas affected by storms have been added.
“Every government department is on the ground to speed up recovery efforts, providing humanitarian relief and improve safety and security as mop-up operations continue. Government has also coordinated all the support from non-government organisations and private donors to ensure it reaches all those that are affected and avoid duplication.
“To support the South African Police Services and Metro Police to ensure maximum security, government has deployed safety volunteers from the Department of Community Safety and Liaison and the eThekwini Municipality.
“Power generators have been set up in strategic locations around the uThongathi area to ensure adequate lighting and visibility and power has been restored in some parts of uThongathi,” Dube-Ncube said.
Considering the scale of damages and amount of work required it is anticipated that power supply will progressively be fully restored in the coming days.
The provincial government has commended the progress made by Eskom in restoring power to affected communities across the province.
However, it appealed to the public to be patient as damaged infrastructure has led to challenges in accessing certain areas, hampering repair efforts.
“While water supply was not affected, eThekwini Municipality has provided water tankers to ensure everyone has access to water, and standpipe systems have been installed in areas where taps were damaged.
“The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has increased the number of Community Development Workers and Expanded Public Works Programme workers to assist in clearing debris and cleaning the streets to make areas accessible.
“The Department of Social Development has made social workers available to provide counselling, and the South African Social Security Agency is assisting families to replace lost social grant cards.
“The Department of Home Affairs is also assisting community members who lost their identity documents, while government is provides three meals a day to the community members at the various centres that have been set up in the area,” said the provincial government.
The Premier assured residents that government was working hard to find permanent solutions to assist victims, particularly in uThongathi.
“We have engaged with eThekwini Municipality to review existing plans related to human settlements.
“Working together with the city and the Provincial Department of Human Settlements, we are seeking the quickest solutions to provide shelter for those affected.
“We appreciate the continuous support from non-government organisations that have extended a helping hand to our people. We are working closely with all grieving families to ensure they mourn with dignity and bury their loved ones in a dignified manner,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 15:02
96 views
Barclay Hails Showdown
Former Scotland captain and current Premier Sports pundit John Barclay has hailed the Vodacom URC play-off showdown between Glasgow Warriors and the DHL Stormers as the tie of the round. It will be fourth meets fifth at Scotstoun on Saturday night in the last of the weekend’s four Quarter-Finals. Having been league leaders just a …
SIU welcomes dismissal of application related to Operation Mabone
SIU welcomes dismissal of application related to Operation Mabone
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed a Constitutional Court judgment dismissing an application to appeal a High Court order bid by engineering company Mphaphuli Consulting to have the unit’s report on Operation Mabone reviewed and set aside.
In 2013, the Greater Tubatse Local Municipality (now known as Fetakgomo Tubatse Municipality) entered into a contract with the company to connect at least 13 000 houses to the grid worth some R168.8 million.
An investigation by the SIU found that the company – owned by Lufuno Mphaphuli – allegedly overcharged the municipality by at least R73 million after costs skyrocketed as the municipality twice amended the contract - bringing the total number of houses to be electrified to 19 000, at a cost of at least R326 million.
“In the judgment dated 3 June 2024, the Constitutional Court states that it ‘considered the application for condonation and application for leave to appeal and has concluded that the application for leave does not engage its jurisdiction. Consequently, leave to appeal must be refused with costs and the Court need not decide the application for condonation’.
“The SIU welcomes the decision of the Constitutional Court, as it now settles the question of whether the SIU was empowered to investigate the electrification of villages under Greater Tubatse Municipality and paves the way for the civil claim against the engineering company to recover approximately R76 million to commence in the Limpopo High Court,” the SIU said.
The corruption busting unit explained that in its investigation, it was found that the municipality had “piggybacked on an existing contract between Mphaphuli Consulting and Vhembe District Municipality to electrify villages”.
“However, the terms of the contract were changed to increase the pricing of the services by more than R5 000 than what was charged in Vhembe resulting in an overpayment of approximately R76 million. The SIU instituted a civil claim in 2017 in the Limpopo High Court to recover financial losses suffered by the Municipality following the conclusion of its investigation.
“In response, Mphaphuli Consulting brought an application to review and set aside the SIU report and to seek an order compelling the SIU to stop all steps taken against the engineering company, which emanated from the SIU’s investigation.
“In March 2022, the Limpopo High Court dismissed the application with costs. In August 2023, the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed the application with costs and now the apex court has also dismissed it with costs. The SIU will start the process of pursuing the legal fees it is owed by Mphaphuli Consulting for these court proceedings and other related legal processes,” the unit said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 12:24
312 views
Children’s book on Palestine occupation pulled from Exclusive Books’ shelves
“It is sad when a book like this gets pulled from the biggest retailer in the country”
New liquid bulk facility to boost Durban’s economy
New liquid bulk facility to boost Durban’s economy
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed a significant Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) with Mnambithi Terminals, paving the way for the development of a state-of the-art liquid bulk facility at the Port of Durban’s Maydon Wharf Precinct.
The project, with an investment value of R1.3 billion, will transform the port’s infrastructure, and feature advanced direct rail and road loading capabilities, an on-site truck staging area, and automated loading systems.
The upgrades will streamline operations and reduce road congestion in the Maydon Wharf area, thereby improving the overall logistical flow.
The agreement signed recently, follows a successful section 79 directive under the National Ports Act of 2005, which underscores the project’s alignment with national strategic and economic goals.
Transnet Group Chief Executive Advocate, Michelle Phillips, said the initiative forms part of Transnet’s broader Recovery Plan aimed at boosting volume recovery and operational efficiencies across its divisions.
Phillips noted that the project’s completion will not only modernise the port, but also significantly contribute to Durban’s economy by creating over 50 to 100 direct jobs and more than 400 indirect job opportunities for local communities.
Phillips said the 20-year TOA with Mnambithi Terminals, a 100% Black-owned subsidiary of Mnambithi Group, highlights TNPA’s commitment to fostering transformation and inclusive growth within the port industry.
“TNPA is deliberate about enabling transformation in the industry and breaking barriers of entry by ensuring inclusion and access for all. We are therefore delighted to welcome Mnambithi Terminals and hope that this strategic relationship will promote the national, strategic, and economic interests of the country, as mandated by Section 79 of the National Ports Act of 2005,” Phillips said.
The project will be executed in two phases, with the initial phase involving the demolition of the existing structures, including foundations, installation of tanks, associated infrastructure, road loading gantry, as well as bulk transfer of pipelines connecting Mnambithi Terminals to the relevant berths to receive liquid cargo.
The second phase will include the installation of remaining tanks and associated infrastructure.
eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda commended the move, emphasising its potential to significantly grow the city’s economy. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 12:19
13 views
Smith Extends Contract
Lock Adré Smith has signed a contract extension that will keep him in DHL Stormers colours until at least 2027. The hard-working second rower joins teammates Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Dan du Plessis, Ruben van Heerden, Evan Roos, Manie Libbok and Suleiman Hartzenberg in confirming a new three-year contract. Having joined the DHL Stormers in 2021, Smith …
Scenes Filmed in Cape Town Highlight Milli Vanilli Biopic
Wednesday, 5 June 2024 – The highly anticipated biographical film drama, “Girl, you know it`s true”, promises to captivate audiences with its retelling of themeteoric rise and fall of Milli Vanilli, one of the world’s biggest pop superstars of the late `80s and early `90s. This powerful narrative featuring pivotal scenes filmed in Cape Town, …
Restoration of basic services in uThongathi a priority, says eThekwini Mayor
Restoration of basic services in uThongathi a priority, says eThekwini Mayor
eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, has commended the work done and still underway to restore basic services in uThongathi following heavy rains, which caused widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure in the metro areas.
Kaunda conducted an assessment on the restoration of basic services in the eMagwaveni area in uThongathi on Wednesday, following recent heavy rains accompanied by strong wind and hailstorms.
Seven lives were lost and there was extensive damage to households and infrastructure in eThekwini metro.
Kaunda emphasised that the current priority was clearing of debris and fallen trees on roads so that municipal teams can access the area.
"We are pleased that this work has been done and work is underway to restore electricity. Government departments and non-government organisations that are providing temporary relief are now able to access the area.
“Working with the Department of Human Settlements, we are accelerating the process of rebuilding houses of the bereaved families so that they can commence with funeral arrangements in proper structures," Kaunda said.
Three temporary shelters have been established to accommodate displaced families, and assessments are ongoing to determine the extent of the damage to infrastructure.
Kaunda noted that the heavy rainfall came at a time when the municipality was preparing to commence with a housing project in the area at the end of June.
He said that instead of building temporary houses for the affected households, the municipality will accelerate the process of building permanent houses as part of the housing project that was planned for eMagwaveni.
Kaunda assured residents that water supply in the area was not severely affected and that there the community continues to receive clean drinking water from the taps.
uThongathi is currently the most affected area, with hundreds of houses severely destroyed. Other areas that have also been severely affected include Umgababa, south of the eThekwini Metro, Eshowe, Utrecht, Osizweni and KwaHlabisa.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is currently coordinating various sector departments to provide humanitarian relief and other interventions to assist the affected communities. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 10:23
457 views
Absa and Renault Announce Strategic Alliance
Johannesburg, South Africa – 6 June 2024, Absa and Renault in South Africa are delighted to announce a strategic alliance designed to drive market-leading growth for both businesses. This partnership brings to market the launch of Renault Financial Services, a finance product of Absa, aimed at offering finance and other comprehensive suite of financial services …
No place to hide
The Vodacom Bulls and DHL Stormers will fly the South African flag in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship quarter-finals against Benetton and the Glasgow Warriors respectively on Saturday, with semi-final berths be at stake as the competition reaches the knock-out stages. The Vodacom Bulls, who finished second on the log, will have the luxury of …
Mighty Munster
The DHL Stormers can look to Munster’s incredible journey to the 2022-23 Vodacom URC title for inspiration as they embark on a trip to Glasgow looking to win a first play-off on the road. It’s fight week as the contenders for 2023-24 Vodacom URC title weigh in for the first round of the play-offs where …
Fixtures released for 2024-2025club rugby season
Edinburgh Academical host Hawick RFC in the 2024-2025 Men’s Premiership opening weekend, repeating this season’s Scottish Cup final classic. Meanwhile, 2023-2024 men’s champions Currie Chieftains begin their title defence with a trip to Ayr RFC. And Watsonian FC begin their own title defence in the Women’s Premiership against Cartha Queens Park RFC. Scottish Rugby has …
Hyprop partners with MTN to host South Africa’s largest national console gaming tournament
R50k in prize money, eight qualifiers nationwide, culminating in one epic gaming showdown… this is the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2024! Get ready for another exhilarating display of gaming prowess, MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience is back. Now in its second year, it is the largest national mall-based gaming tournament ever held in the country. This …
Proteas Receive Warm Welcome In New York
NEW YORK: The Proteas are in New York and the reception they have received at the onset of their eagerly awaited ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign has been as warm as the weather in the Big Apple. The team was treated to a special welcome dinner co-hosted by Cricket South Africa (CSA) and the …