Department of health fails to buy life-saving device for diabetes patients
Using vials and syringes instead of pens can lead to insulin dosing errors which can be fatal
News
Event Info: Beach Clean Ups in Gqeberha: Making a Difference
Beach clean-ups play a crucial role in preserving the natural beauty of our coastal areas and protecting marine ecosystems. In Gqeberha, a vibrant coastal city in South Africa, several organizations and clubs have taken up the responsibility of organizing regular clean-up initiatives. Among them, the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) and the […]
Non-stop action and thrilling spectator attractions in store for 2024 Simola Hillclimb
Simola Hillclimb kicks into gear from Thursday 2 May with scrutineering for Classic Car Friday, the race car display and the popular Knysna Parade leading up to a full day of competitive action on Friday The heavy hitters roll into town on Friday 3 May for the official build-up including a spectacular Knysna Parade, followed […]
Gupta brothers extradition still on NPA sights despite setbacks
Gupta brothers extradition still on NPA sights despite setbacks
National Director of Public Prosecutions of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Advocate Shamila Batohi, says the entity is facing challenges in its bid to extradite Atul and Rajesh Gupta back to South Africa from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to face charges including fraud and money laundering related to State Capture.
The extradition request to the UAE was rejected in April last year and Batohi said follow ups on finding reasons why have not been responded to by their Middle Eastern counterparts.
“We have been trying very hard to find out some very basic things like what exactly [is] the problem with our extradition request. We’ve not had satisfactory responses from the UAE.
“We’ve been trying to…set up a meeting with the national director and the head of the prosecuting authority in the UAE in order for us to understand this. We’ve not been able to schedule that meeting for months,” she said.
Batothi explained that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has taken steps to request political intervention from the Presidency.
She revealed that the entity had briefed Deputy President Paul Mashatile on the matter ahead of his working visit to the UAE this week.
“We’ve decided, as the NPA, that we needed the President of this country to intervene with the ruler of the UAE because we realised that unless there isn’t that strong political push in the UAE, we’re going to struggle with this matter.
“Mutual legal assistance, ultimately…it depends on political will and if the leaders in a country do not want to cooperate with you, there’s no way you can get that cooperation.
“What we hope the DP [Deputy President] will be able to do – we have briefed him fully – is really to get the commitment from the rulers of the UAE at the highest level, for them to understand the importance of these cases to South Africa and for them to get the commitment at the highest level that the UAE will support South Africa in our requests,” she said.
In September 2023, the Department of Justice and Correctional Services in a statement said it had now been requested to resubmit a new extradition request.
This after the UAE in April 2023, rejected South Africa’s extradition request for the brothers, which the department described then as “inconsistent with article 17 of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, to which both nations are a signatory”.
READ | Justice dept gives Gupta brothers extradition update
– SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:38
1270 views
Probe into tributary blockages to Middle Letaba Dam
Probe into tributary blockages to Middle Letaba Dam
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu is set to establish an independent investigation into the alleged blockage of tributaries that lead to the Middle Letaba Dam in Limpopo, which has resulted in low water levels in the dam.
This follows Mchunu’s visit to the Oliphant Catchment Area, where Middle Letaba Dam is located.
The Minister and his Deputies, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, conducted a site inspection at the streams and tributaries along some of the biggest farms at Mooketsi on Wednesday before interacting with the concerned farmers and community members, who have been negatively affected by the alleged blockages.
READ | Twenty-four Giyani villages expected to have running water by June
Middle Letaba Dam is fed from the Middle Letaba, Koedoes and Brandboontjies rivers in the Middle Letaba sub-catchment within the Olifant Catchment Area. Its primary objective is to supply raw water to domestic users and for irrigation purposes.
The dam is a source for Middle Letaba, Mapuve and Giyani Water Treatment Works, through a 60km canal. It supplies 82% of water to agriculture, with industry and mining using 3% and 6% respectively, while 8% of water is for domestic use.
However, due to the low levels of the dam (currently at about 2.8%), the department said the water treatment works cannot yield raw water according to their designed capacities, resulting in restricted water supply to communities.
Mchunu said the department has received complaints from the concerned local farmers and community members, and it has conducted investigations into the claims.
He said the department has also implemented interventions that include developing groundwater to maximise the available source from the dam, and the transfer of water from Nandoni Dam to Nsami Dam to augment water in the Nsami system in Giyani.
Mchunu said the investigation will pave the way to solving the allegations of blockages of streams and illegal dams, and finally bring closure to the matter, ensuring fair distribution of water in the area.
“There have been complaints on these illegal blockages which cause water supply challenges in the area, and we have therefore resolved to set up an independent investigation into the matter, and its recommendations will give way to the resolution of the matter.
“We understand that this is an urgent matter, and we will give our full attention to ensure that there is justice and fairness for everyone in the area,” Mchunu said.
The Minister also visited Tzaneen Dam, where the R550 million wall raising project is currently underway.
He commended progress made on the project, which commenced last year and is currently at 25% completion.
The raising of the Tzaneen Dam wall by three metres will result in increased storage capacity, providing much-needed additional water for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use in the north-east of Limpopo.
Mchunu and his deputies will on Thursday and Friday conduct an oversight inspection of bulk water infrastructure projects that are currently underway in Lebowakgomo and Burgersfort in Limpopo. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:39
532 views
Event Info: Girls Only Schools in Gqeberha
In the vibrant city of Gqeberha, the tradition of girls only schools has a rich history that dates back many years. These educational institutions have played a crucial role in shaping the lives of young women and providing them with a nurturing environment to excel academically and personally. Girls only schools in Gqeberha trace their […]
President to lead Freedom Day celebrations
President to lead Freedom Day celebrations
President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the 2024 Freedom Day national celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria this weekend.
“This commemoration calls on all South Africans to honour our past, celebrate our achievements, and collectively build a future where everyone enjoys equal rights,” the Presidency said on Wednesday ahead of Saturday’s celebrations.
This year’s Freedom Day marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democratic dispensation and commemorates the nation’s first democratic election on 27 April 1994.
Celebrated Under the theme: “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth,” this year's Freedom Month celebrations hold special significance as they also coincide with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land.
“Reflecting on the strides made over the past three decades, we honour the sacrifices of those who fought tirelessly for a democratic, equal, and discrimination-free nation. The Freedom Day event will unite all spheres of government and stakeholders and partners from all sectors of society in celebrating our democratic journey,” the Presidency said.
VIEW | Read our Special Feature on the 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy
The observance of this historic milestone comes as preparations are being finalised for the 2024 National and Provincial elections taking place on Wednesday, May 29.
“Freedom Day and Freedom Month seek to deepen understanding of South Africa's history and development, foster dialogue on our constitutional journey, and mobilise the public and private sectors towards addressing pressing challenges.
“Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Zizi Kodwa, Premier of Gauteng Province Panyaza Lesufi, and Members of the Executive Council, along with mayors and senior government officials, will join President Ramaphosa on this momentous occasion,” the Presidency said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:51
727 views
It took a year but Tafelsig’s streetlights are back on
1,000 residents needing help with service inquiries also went to a pop-up service hub hosted by the City
Broadlands Country House: A Historic Gem in Nqweba
Nestled in the heart of Kirkwood (now named Nqweba) Eastern Cape, Broadlands Country House, is a charming and historic destination that offers a unique experience for travelers seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a touch of colonial elegance. This article will delve into the rich history of Broadlands Country House, as well as highlight the plethora… Read More »
Deputy Minister pays visit to Pretoria Magistrates’ Court
Deputy Minister pays visit to Pretoria Magistrates’ Court
Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development John Jeffery has paid an unannounced visit to the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court following reports of alleged service delivery issues at the court.
According to the department, challenges at the court include “infrastructural concerns, such as certain non-functioning air conditioners, improved lighting and water supply on the upper floors”.
These are to be followed up with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.
“As is the case, with all Magistrates Courts, our department will continue to monitor the delivery of justice services being offered at the courts, as well as continuing to attend to issues such as the maintenance of infrastructure and the provision of staff.
“With regards to the number of active court hours, these are continuously being monitored and our department continues to work with all other role-players in the justice system, such as the Magistracy, the National Prosecuting Authority, Legal Aid SA and private legal practitioners, to ensure that our courts run smoothly and efficiently,” Jeffery said.
The Deputy Minister visited the court on Tuesday.
The department explained that a large part of the court is under construction since it was ravaged by fire in 2010 which made the building uninhabitable.
“With regards to the construction, a restoration project was registered to bring the building back to its original state and construction commenced in 2015.
However, hazardous black mould and asbestos was detected in certain areas of the building and the Department of Labour issued a Prohibition Notice to vacate the site. Construction work recommenced in 2017, but the contractor’s appointment was later terminated due to poor performance.
“A replacement tender was advertised in 2020 and a new contractor was appointed in 2023. The anticipated completion date is May 2025 and the anticipated handover is August 2025,” the department explained.
The Deputy Minister expressed confidence that the restoration will be at an advanced stage in the next year.
“We are confident that by this time next year the restoration and refurbishment of the court will be far advanced and, once completed, the new court will greatly enhance the further delivery of services to the public,” said Deputy Minister Jeffery. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 11:11
829 views
Commission welcomes appeal ruling in rape case against paramedic
Commission welcomes appeal ruling in rape case against paramedic
The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has commended the Supreme Court of Appeal’s decision to reinstate the ruling in the rape case against paramedic, Loyiso Coko.
Coko was accused of raping his then 21-year-old girlfriend, who had repeatedly expressed her desire to preserve her virginity and not engage in penetrative intercourse.
Despite assurances from Coko that he respected her wishes, he, however, proceeded to sexually penetrate her without her consent, causing her distress and pain.
In 2018, the Regional Court in Makhanda found the State's evidence compelling and convicted Coko of rape.
However, Coko appealed his conviction at the High Court in 2021 and the High Court ruled that his conviction was unsustainable based on the evidence presented.
The High Court further found that the Regional Court made significant errors in understanding the concept of consent in sexual penetration cases. It, however, found that consent can be given explicitly or implied through conduct.
The High Court postulated that the complainant was an active participant due to her lack of objection to various actions before the sexual penetration, such as kissing, undressing, and oral sex, and concluded that force or coercion was not used by the accused.
The State appealed to the SCA, and on Wednesday ruled that consent must be given consciously and voluntarily, either explicitly or implicitly by individuals with the mental capacity to understand the nature of the act.
The SCA highlighted that consent to specific acts of sexual penetration is necessary, and withdrawal of consent during the act is valid. The court also concluded that the accused intentionally engaged in penetrative sexual intercourse without consent, despite assurances that he would not do so.
Commission for Gender Equality’s Chairperson, Advocate Nthabiseng Sepanya-Mogale, noted that in its submission, the CGE referred the court to foreign judicial precedent in interpreting sexual assault and in finding that “an act’ referred to in section 3 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters Act) Amendment Act 32 of 2007, does not mean more than one act.
“Furthermore, the court indicated that such interpretation would undermine the purpose of the legislation,” Sepanya-Mogale said.
Sepanya-Mogale said the Supreme Court of Appeal’s decision to set aside Coko’s acquittal and uphold his conviction is a monumental step in the nation’s fight against the scourge of rape.
Sepanya-Mogale said the judgment reaffirms the rights of women and children to dignity and physical integrity.
“A 21-year-old woman was raped, and the Commission was disturbed by sentiments expressed in the High Court’s judgment implying that she was an active participant in her own rape due to her lack of objection. We hope that the SCA judgment will provide clarity on the matter of consent in respect of sexual intercourse.
“We are equally relieved that the SCA has set the High Court ruling aside and we are looking forward to the consideration of the High Court on whether the sentence of seven years imprisonment that was imposed by the Reginal Court is appropriate in the matter,” the chairperson said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 14:23
277 views
Launch of cutting-edge recycling facility in Namibia
A N$24 million (over US$1.2million) investment through a partnership between Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) (www.CCBAgroup.com) in Namibia and Plastic Packaging has culminated in the opening of a new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flaking plant in Okahandja which will double the capacity of the only mechanical recycler of plastic waste in the country.
The plant was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta.
“The Coca-Cola system aims to drive systemic change through a circular economy for packaging. We are leading the industry to help collect and recycle a bottle or can for every one we sell by 2030. We have a responsibility to help solve complex plastic waste challenges facing our planet and society, and we're leveraging our scale and reach to achieve our sustainability goals and reduce packaging waste,” said CCBA Chief Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Officer, Tshidi Ramogase.
“This facility is an example of how we work with partners across business, government and civil society to support or create closed loop systems to ensure our packaging is collected and recycled or reused.
“Supporting the establishment of a circular economy for packaging has both environmental and economic benefits since recycling has the potential to create jobs and to empower the informal waste collection sector in a circular economy.
“Unlike a traditional linear economy in which packaging is made, used and disposed of; a circular economy preserves the economic value of packaging through robust collection and recycling systems,” said Ramogase.
The completion of this cutting-edge recycling facility will enable Namibia Polymer Recyclers (NPR), a subsidiary of Plastic Packaging, to recycle up to 500 tons per month.
The recycling plant transforms discarded beverage bottles made from PET material into PET flakes with an international market value. The flaking process of post-consumer PET bottles involves sorting, shredding it into PET flakes, hot-washing and drying of flakes, which are then sent for further processing into recycled PET pellets and other end-uses.
This reduces the need to use virgin PET, while diverting waste from landfills and the environment.
“We are investing in infrastructure and exploring ways to support additional recycled PET capacity in each of the regions where we operate. These investments not only provide a source of recycled content for our packaging but also create additional demand for empty packages, driving increased collection.
“At CCBA, we are a proud industry leader in developing increasingly sustainable ways to produce, distribute and sell our products. We use our industry leadership to be part of the solution to achieve positive change and to build a more sustainable future for our planet,” said Ramogase.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca Cola Beverages Africa.
Issued By:
Enid Johr
PACS Director
CCBA in Namibia
Tel: +264 81 778 5381
Email: ejohr@ccbagroup.com
Wendy Thole-Muir
Head: Reputation and Communication
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Tel: +27 83 795 8524
Email: WThole-Muir@ccbagroup.com
Follow us on:
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LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4dfq8AC
About CCBA:
CCBA is the 8th largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 18,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 720,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. The group was formed in July 2016 after the successful combination of the southern and east Africa bottling operations of the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages businesses of The Coca-Cola Company, SABMiller plc and Gutsche Family Investments. CCBA shareholders are currently: The Coca-Cola Company 66.5% and Gutsche Family Investments 33.5%. CCBA operates in 15 countries, including its six key markets of South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique and Namibia, as well as Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Malawi.
Learn more at https://www.CCBAgroup.com
Africa’s Children lend their voice to the continent’s future Focusing on Education, the child-led Africa Children’s Summit 2024 will host 500 children from over 25 countries across the continent to begin leading child welfare in a more meaningful way
JOHANNESBURG – April 2024: Africa’s children continue to have their voices heard in impactful policy-making forums across the continent with the launch of the second annual Africa Children’s Summit (ACS), set to take place between 9 and 12 August 2024. Facilitated by The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (NMCF), the ACS will be organised, hosted, and …
Heart of a Cowgirl: Women’s Night of Worship
Saddle up, ladies! Get ready to experience an evening like no other at the Heart of a Cowgirl: Women’s Night of Worship, taking place on Friday, May 10th. Hosted by Pastor Wendy Mc Donald and other special guests at Good Hope Christian Centre in Ottery. Doors will swing open at 18:00 PM, inviting cowgirls of …
Event Info: Estimating the Amounts of Profit Made by Touring Bands and Artists
Touring bands and artists have lots of expenses to cover when they go on tour – oftentimes the expenses can be crippling and drive them deep into debt. One way in which MyZA acknowledges and assists artists in a small way is to provide the MyZA Events Calendar which allows artists to publicise their events […]
Treat Yourself to a DIY Spa Experience with Nuts About Cooking Coconut Oil
Treat Yourself to a DIY Spa Experience with Nuts About Cooking Coconut Oil In the rush of daily life, finding moments for self-care can seem out of reach. But DIY spa treatments offer a simple, quick, and affordable way to pamper yourself at home. Taking just 10 minutes to indulge in some you-time can help …
Stellantis Middle East and Africa (MEA) Elevates Customer Experience with Inaugural Customer Centricity Competition
Stellantis Middle East and Africa (www.Stellantis.com) celebrated this April 18th in Istanbul _Turkey the success of its first Customer Centricity Competition, an innovative event that brought together our network front liners exceptional talent from across the MEA region. The competition showcased the skills and expertise of professionals in four distinct categories: Sales Advisor, Service Advisor, Technician, and Spare Parts Advisor.
The Stellantis MEA Customer Centricity Competition saw a total of 24 winners among 6000 professionals from 81 markets across MEA region, representing the four different categories across various dealers within the MEA region. Participants from all over the region, including countries such as Morocco, Turkey, Egypt, South Africa, Tunisia, and Qatar, eagerly took part in this event.
The winners were selected based on their exemplary performance and expertise in each sub-category. In the Sales and Service Advisor category, winners were recognized for their excellence in Best Greeting & Consulting, Best Negotiation & Closing, and Best Theoretical Knowledge. Similarly, in the Technician and Spare Parts Advisor category, winners were awarded for Best First Practical Test, Best Second Practical Test, and Best Third Practical Test.
"This competition highlights Stellantis MEA's commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction as per our dare forward 2030 strategy with our ultimate goal to accomplish the top position in customer satisfaction it's a commitment that drives our actions by placing the customer at the heart of our operations." said Samir Cherfan, Chief Operations Officer for Stellantis Middle East & Africa. “We were pleased to see such an exceptional display of talent and expertise. The winners have truly set a benchmark for customer-centricity and professionalism.”
To reinforce this commitment, Stellantis MEA have made substantial investments in training totaling nearly 2 million Euros in 2023 and translating into along with 70,000 hours training across the region. Thus, several tangible efforts have been implemented such as:
- The MEA Spotlight program, recognizing and rewarding top-performing Advisors.
- The NPS Data Reliability program, guaranteeing authentic customer feedback.
- The Introduction of Customer Tables to speed up the resolution of Customer Care resolution.
The success of the Customer Centricity Competition highlights Stellantis MEA's dedication to fostering talent and enhancing customer experiences across the MEA region.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Stellantis.
For more information, contact:
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About Stellantis:
Stellantis N.V. (NYSE: STLA / Euronext Milan: STLAM / Euronext Paris: STLAP) is one of the world's leading automakers and a mobility provider. Its storied and iconic brands embody the passion of their visionary founders and today's customers in their innovative products and services, including Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Citroën, Dodge, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep®, Lancia, Maserati, Opel, Peugeot, Ram, Vauxhall, Free2move and Leasys. Powered by our diversity, we lead the way the world moves – aspiring to become the greatest sustainable mobility tech company, not the biggest, while creating added value for all stakeholders as well as the communities in which it operates. For more information, visit www.Stellantis.com
What people are saying about D&D
With 2024 marking the 50th celebration of Dungeons & Dragons, both newbies and old hats are more excited than ever. Since Covid, the game has increased in popularity, with people getting together at someone’s home or joining a tabletop gaming event to play and meet with other fans. The game has reached a new peak …
SA takes steps to improve financial regulatory structure
SA takes steps to improve financial regulatory structure
With the newly launched Corporation for Deposit Insurance (CODI), South Africa has taken a significant step in overhauling its financial regulatory structure, says Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana.
CODI is South Africa’s Deposit Insurance Scheme (DIS) created and mandated by law to protect qualifying bank depositors in the unlikely event of their bank failing.
READ | Deposit insurance body established to protect bank depositors
“The establishment of CODI underpins the consumer protection pillar, securing depositors by guaranteeing access to up to R100 000 of their deposits in case of a bank failure - an essential safety net in our rapidly evolving financial landscape and advancing the Twin Peaks model,” the Minister said on Thursday.
Addressing the CODI launch in Johannesburg, the Minister said the corporation will advance the Twin Peaks model.
“The Twin Peaks model revolutionises financial safety and consumer protection by splitting regulatory duties into two focused areas. One ensures financial institutions are robust and secure, and the other safeguards consumer interests.
"This model not only enhances the system's stability but also bolsters consumer confidence by offering clearer oversight and reducing financial crisis risks,” Godongwana said.
The Twin Peaks model positions two dedicated bodies - the Financial Sector Conduct Authority and the Prudential Authority - at the forefront, enhancing the management of complex financial systems and boosting both consumer and investor confidence.
The model was introduced by the National Treasury in 2011 as a response to vulnerabilities exposed by the global financial crisis.
“The Financial Sector Regulation Act of 2017 laid the legal foundation, establishing the Prudential Authority and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority in 2018. These bodies have since been fine-tuning regulations, adapting to new technologies, and enhancing their oversight capabilities.
“The Conduct of Financial Institutions (COFI) Bill, key to further solidifying this framework, has been refined through public consultations and is slated for parliamentary consideration later this year.
“Its focus on preventing bank failures from broadly impacting the financial system and economy is a testament to our proactive regulatory approach, preventing crises that have historically had devastating socioeconomic effects,” the Minister said.
Godongwana said trust is fundamental to any financial system’s effectiveness and existence.
“Yet, global trends, especially post-2008, show a marked decline in trust towards financial regulators, attributed to regulatory failures and perceived alignment with financial elites rather than the public. To counteract this, we must adopt a regulatory framework that is as dynamic and proactive as the financial sector itself.
“This involves not only adapting to but anticipating market changes, ensuring transparency, and enhancing public understanding and engagement in financial regulation. Regaining public trust in financial regulation requires deep structural reforms and a shift towards greater accountability, transparency, and public inclusivity,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 15:22
101 views
Unlocking the World of Kosher Certification
In today’s global market, where diverse dietary needs and preferences abound, the demand for kosher certification is on the rise. Whether it’s for religious observance, dietary restrictions, or simply a desire for quality assurance, consumers worldwide seek products bearing the emblem of kosher approval. Kosher certification serves as a testament to the meticulous adherence to …
SA on track to eliminate malaria disease by 2028
SA on track to eliminate malaria disease by 2028
The Department of Health says South Africa is on track to achieve malaria elimination status by 2028, as outlined in the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan.
This, according to the department, is despite facing challenges such as heightened heatwaves exacerbated by climate change, with the potential to directly impact transmission and the burden of disease.
According to the department, malaria elimination promises both health and economic benefits, in line with the goals of the 2030 National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“This has the potential to also benefit the Southern African countries collectively on issues of trade, tourism, health, and economic growth,” the statement read.
While progress has been made in reducing the burden of malaria in provinces such as Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, the department believes further efforts are needed to curb local transmission.
South Africa is today joining the global community to observe World Malaria Day to recognise global efforts to control malaria to reduce the burden of the disease and avoid preventable deaths.
Each year on April 25, South Africa joins the global community in recognising World Malaria Day.
READ | SA commemorates World Malaria Day
The Department of Health has since urged all stakeholders, including communities, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations and international partners to collaborate in intensifying the fight against malaria, aiming to foster a healthier and more equitable world for current and future generations.
Malaria is a preventable and curable life-threatening disease transmitted by a type of female mosquito called Anopheles, which remains a significant global health concern.
In 2022, an estimated 249 million new cases and approximately 608 000 deaths were reported, with Sub-Saharan Africa enduring the most of the burden.
In South Africa, 9 795 cases and 106 deaths were reported in 2023, demonstrating notable progress, including the subnational elimination of malaria in the King Cetshwayo District of KwaZulu-Natal.
“The government is committed to integrating the ethos of ensuring equal access to malaria prevention and treatment services for all with the principles of the National Health Insurance, which essentially has the objective of attaining Universal Health Coverage.”
The department is of the view that eliminating malaria is an ambitious task that requires sustainable resources, collaboration with neighbouring countries including Botswana, Eswatini, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, evidence-based policies, strong partnerships and a dedicated workforce.
“South Africa is working towards strengthening and harnessing its domestic expertise while collaborating with global partners.”
Last year, South Africa was amongst the countries that received global prestigious awards from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for their efforts to achieve important milestones towards malaria elimination.
The 2024 World Malaria Day will be commemorated under the theme: ‘Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world’, which focuses on acknowledging the varying effects of malaria on men and women, emphasising the need to address these discrepancies in prevention and healthcare access.
Malaria symptoms include headache, fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain that occur up to three weeks after first potential exposure.
However, early diagnosis and treatment are strongly recommended as the disease rapidly progresses to severe illness, often with severe consequences. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 11:43
202 views
No water for cooking or washing: KwaNobuhle families battle system breakdown
In one informal settlement, only one of 15 standpipes has water - and only for two hours at a time
Battle of the Blues
The DHL Stormers have rallied their World Cup-winning Springboks to stand tall and get the home team’s drive for a Vodacom United Rugby Championship play-off back on track against Leinster in Cape Town. The Vodacom URC Race to the Eight continues in Round 15 with the sixth-placed DHL Stormers reeled back into the playoff gridlock …
Gordon D’Arcy on Leinster’s double trouble
Former Ireland star Gordon D’Arcy says it is taking an “enormous effort” for Leinster Rugby to be competing for silverware on two fronts. The Dublin-based outfit are the only Vodacom URC team left in the Investec Champions Cup, with a Croke Park semi-final against Northampton Saints coming up next week. Before that, they face a …