MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Dear Editor The Minister of Defence, Thandi Modise, should not be “applying her mind” to the highly irregular and potentially illegal request for financial assistance that was submitted to the Department of Defense by the former Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa Nqakula, to cover legal costs in her corruption trial. Should Modise accede …
Dear Editor The DA can reveal that the number of public servants in provincial and national government departments being paid over R1 million per year has ballooned to a total of 37 839. This figure is only limited to national and provincial departments, and excludes executives at State-owned enterprises, municipalities and other government agencies. The …
The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) advises road users that a Stop/Go system has been implemented on the N2 Section 16, from Mooiplaas to Qumrha T-Junction (formerly Komga), where a periodic road maintenance project is currently underway. The 3.4km one-way Stop/Go system will be in place from Mooiplaas to Qumrha T- Junction …
The following speech was delivered by the Leader of the Democratic Alliance, John Steenhuisen, during his Rescue South Africa Tour in Springs, Ekurhuleni, Gauteng. Fellow Democrats, It is wonderful to be here in Ekurhuleni tonight. This city, the place of peace, is home to wonderful people and has the potential to be the industrial heartland …
Mercurial backline talent Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu has signed a contract extension that will keep him in a DHL Stormers jersey until at least 2027. The former Junior Springbok captain and age-group star has already made the step-up to the senior squad with ease and will continue to grow in the DHL Stormers system over the next …
KARIEGA – In March 2004, the Volkswagen Group Africa plant in Kariega opened the doors to its own heritage centre for the first time. The VW AutoPavilion, which was built following a R13-million investment, was established with the… Read more: 20 Years of Heritage Celebrations
Attractions such as the highest number of Blue Flag Beaches, top dive sites, nature-based excursions and golf courses are major drawcards to the incredible KZN South Coast. The region also boasts an extensive events programme such as the successful Kurudi Afrika Cultural Experience which was hosted recently. “The KZN South Coast, with its subtropical climate …
Minister welcomes sentencing of Home Affairs employee for fraud
Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has welcomed the sentencing of a Home Affairs employee for issuing birth certificates to foreigners for cash.
According to the department, Amos Ngwenyama was sentenced to eight and six years imprisonment on two counts of fraud and corruption at the Giyani Commercial Court in Limpopo, on Friday. The sentences will run concurrently.
Ngwenyama was based at the Home Affairs office in Malamulele.
“Mr Ngwenyama was arrested following a joint investigation by the Home Affairs Counter Corruption Unit and the Hawks in Limpopo in 2023 for issuing birth certificates to undeserving foreign nationals in exchange for money.”
Motsoaledi reiterated his warning to officials involved in fraud and corruption that “their days are numbered”.
“We have no tolerance for any acts of corruption and malfeasance. Public members expect government officials to uphold the highest ethical and moral standards. They are also expected to be honest in serving the public and the state,” Motsoaledi said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 08:58
With a mission to be a sustainable leader in the development and production of high-quality healthier alternative oils, Southern Oil (SOILL) continues to champion the benefits of canola oil as the go-to choice for consumers. “We are proud to promote canola oil as a cooking oil alternative for the health-conscious consumer” says Morne Botes, Commercial …
For decades, South Africa’s rubber has been a major material used in both the mining and automotive sectors. Now, with increasing pressure to address energy usage and optimisation, the intervention of Associated Energy Services (AES), a leading operations and maintenance service provider to the steam and boiler sector, could be a game changer. AES Gauteng …
Johannesburg, 22 April 2024 – Volkswagen brought together its top performers from the Dealer Network at the esteemed Grand Prix Awards held in Sun City last week. The Grand Prix Awards acknowledges and recognises the exceptional performance of Volkswagen’s dealerships throughout 2023. The Grand Prix Awards ceremony celebrated the achievements of 86 members of the …
The Fascinating World of Feather Fans: Uses and Significance Feather fans, with their delicate beauty and rich history, continue to captivate and charm people around the world. More than just an accessory, these fans have played significant roles in various cultures throughout history. Whether used for ceremonial purposes, as a fashion statement, or for practical …
Trinity International Bible University unauthorised to issue honorary degrees
The Department of Higher Education and Training has warned that Trinity International Bible University is not a registered private higher education institution and not authorised to offer any qualifications, including honorary degrees.
In a statement, Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, said he has become aware of reports on social media of honorary doctorates that have been awarded to some of the country's top celebrities by Trinity International Bible University.
Nzimande said the Department of Higher Education and Training has written to Trinity International University before and warned them about continuing to operate illegally and for them to regularise their operations.
He said the department has also asked the Council on Higher Education (CHE) for guidance on how honorary qualifications should be offered, and by who.
“As the department, we have nothing against Trinity International Bible University or the celebrities they have chosen to honour. We are, however, deeply disturbed by the persistent disregard for the department's regulations by the management of Trinity International Bible University.
“The department is considering more comprehensive and decisive action against Trinity International Bible University and all other individuals or institutions, who continue to undermine the department's regulations,” Nzimande said.
The Minister said the department is willing to engage with Trinity International Bible University and the celebrities they have honoured to better explain their position.
“Most importantly, as the Department of Higher Education and Training, we have a legal responsibility to protect the integrity of our qualifications and that of our post school education and training system,” Nzimande said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 09:56
In the face of persistent loadshedding challenges, an uninterrupted power supply is imperative for sustaining critical operations in businesses and industries. As a result, many South African companies have found that they have no choice but to invest in alternative power solutions such as solar, inverters or generators to ensure business continuity. Solar power can …
GQEBERHA: A career-best five-for from Daryn Dupavillon helped the Hollywoodbets Dolphins secure a home semi-final as the Cricket South Africa (CSA)...
The post CSA T20 CHALLENGE SEMI-FINALISTS CONFIRMED first appeared on Cricket South Africa.
When it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, having the right seating can make all the difference. Whether you’re lounging in your backyard, camping under the stars, or celebrating a special occasion, having comfortable and stylish chairs can enhance the experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best outdoor chairs and where …
In the world of live entertainment, the excitement of attending a highly anticipated concert can sometimes be overshadowed by the presence of ticket scams. These deceptive practices prey on the enthusiasm of fans, offering fake tickets to sold-out events and leaving unsuspecting individuals disappointed and out of pocket. One such example is the case of […]
The Fabulous World of Feather Boas: Uses and Styles Feather boas, those fluffy, luxurious accessories, are not just a prop relegated to the wardrobes of vintage Hollywood starlets or the stages of cabaret shows. They are a versatile and vibrant addition to many different outfits and occasions. Here’s a glimpse into the various uses of …
Unveiling the unparalleled luxury of the 2024 Exquisite Ostrich Leather Collection, where each meticulously crafted item highlights the distinctive beauty and robust texture of ostrich leather, renowned for its durability and unique quill patterns. This collection encompasses everything from elegant bags and stylish wallets to sophisticated accessories and belts, offering the pinnacle of luxury and …
New health centre to meet diverse needs of the community
Jubilation and ululations, mixed with tears of joy, were the order of the day as the community of Umtubatuba in KwaZulu-Natal witnessed the sod turning ceremony marking the official start of the long-awaited construction of a local community health centre.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, joined by Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane and UMkhanyakude District Municipality Mayor, Siphile Mdaka, presided over the sod turning ceremony at the site for the construction of the Mtubatuba Community Health Centre (CHC), which will provide comprehensive health services.
The establishment of the community health centre represents a vital step towards redefining healthcare access for the residents of Umtubatuba.
By bringing essential medical services closer to home, the CHC aims to alleviate the burden of traveling long distances in search of healthcare, thereby saving community costs and time.
The initiative aligns with the overarching goal of ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all members of the community.
The most noteworthy aspect of the CHC project is its commitment to provide a wide range of healthcare services tailored to meet the diverse needs of the community.
Upon completion, the centre will serve as a one-stop destination for disease screenings, medication collection, dental and optometric consultations, TB and cancer screenings, as well as specialised services for male health.
The centre will also offer free circumcision services and facilitate access to mobility aids, including wheelchairs and crutches, further enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Speaking at the event, Dube-Ncube said the construction of the community health centre will result in the creation of more than 300 jobs.
The Premier urged people responsible for employing staff to refrain from employing people based on political affiliation or membership.
“We also discourage community members who demand that only local professional people must be employed in health facilities. Employment of professionals in these facilities need to be done on merit – irrespective of where the health professionals hail from,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier introduced the contractor tasked with the construction of the health centre and handed over ten vehicles to Community Policing Forums (CPFs) in Umkhanyakude District Municipality.
The ten cars are part of a fleet of 85 vehicles that were unveiled during the handing over of tools of trade to community crime fighting structure in Durban on 5 April 2024.
Simelane emphasised that access to quality healthcare is a human right, and people in rural areas are also entitled to it like others in urban areas.
The MEC also assured that the local community will receive priority during recruitment of people who will work during the construction of the facility.
The Department of Health said the construction of the health centre is expected to be completed in the next three years.– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 10:27
IEC to begin printing election ballot papers
The Electoral Commission (IEC) has welcomed the Electoral Court ruling dismissing cases lodged by five political parties against the commission.
The five political parties - Operation Dudula, Arise South Africa, Cape Independence Party, Defenders of the People, and Independent South Africa National Civic Organisation - lodged cases against their exclusion from contesting in the upcoming elections.
South Africa will hold elections on 29 May 2024.
The court applications related to non-compliance with the requirements for candidate nomination.
In a consolidated decision on the five applications, the court on Friday made an identical order, dismissing all of them. The court said reasons for the orders would follow shortly.
The IEC said the decision by the Electoral Court has cleared the path for the commission to begin with printing the ballot papers for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
“The Electoral Commission appreciates the hard work of the Electoral Court for bringing these matters to finality. These applications had an immense implication for the production of the ballot papers for the forthcoming elections,” the Commission said in a statement.
The Electoral Commission has reminded that applications for special votes opened on 15 April 2024 and will close on 3 May 2024.
The commission reiterated that sound electoral administration demands that voters cast ballots at the voting station of registration.
“However, our framework allows for voters to vote at other voting stations where they are not registered if such voters notify the Commission. Notification for this purpose will close on 17 May 2024,” the commission said.
Code of conduct
Meanwhile, the Gauteng Electoral Commission will on Tuesday host the signing of the Electoral Code of Conduct by political parties and independent candidates contesting the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
A total of 52 political parties and independent candidates contesting the elections in Gauteng will publicly pledge to adhere to the Electoral Code of Conduct.
The signing ceremony will be held at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Johannesburg. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 11:10
Upper uMkhomazi Water Project a catalyst for KZN water security
The signing of offtake agreements this week has signified the start of phase one of the much-awaited R28 billion Upper uMkhomazi Water Project.
The project is expected to be a catalyst to water security and vibrant economic activity in the eThekwini area and surrounding districts.
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, joined by Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, lead the signing of joint offtake agreements with the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), uMngeni-uThukela Water Board and six KwaZulu-Natal municipalities during a ceremony at Deepsdale in Bulwer on Friday.
The project consists of the construction of an 81 metre high dam at Smithfield on the uMkhomazi River with a gross storage capacity of 251 million m3, as well as a 33 kilometre and 3.5 metre diameter tunnel from Smithfield Dam to the uMlaza River Valley, and a 5.1 kilometre and 2.6 metre diameter gravity bulk pipeline connecting the tunnel to the Baynesfield Water Treatment Works.
Upon its completion, the project is set to increase the amount of raw water in the uMgeni Water System yield by 55%, from 394 to 608 million cubic metres (or kilolitres) per annum.
The TCTA will implement the raw water component of project and uMngeni-uThukela will implement the bulk water treatment component for distribution to the identified six water services authorities.
Speaking at the event attended by various Mayors in the area, Mchunu noted the project has seen delays but they are excited at the commencement of the project.
The Minister said the department is hard at work with other projects within the province to address the water challenges.
“We are here to do a number of things, we visited the site where the Upper uMkhomazi Dam will be built [because] we wanted to see the actual site [and] we are delighted that we managed to view the site.
“The next thing is to allow TCTA to provide a road map about the actual construction of the dam and the timeframes regarding commencement and completion dates,” Mchunu said.
Mahlobo highlighted that the projects that are currently being implemented by the department, working together with entities and municipalities, are a response to an instruction from President Cyril Ramaphosa.
He said President Ramaphosa has put the Economic Reconstruction Recovery Plan at the centre of renewing the country.
“Water is one of the infrastructures that has become an impediment around the issue of economic growth, hence we are pushing major bulk water infrastructure projects to ensure that we do not run out of water,” Mahlobo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 08:39
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the passing of liberation struggle veteran and former Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) President Dr Motsoko Pheko.
Dr Pheko passed away at the age of 93 on Friday, 19 April 2024.
President Ramaphosa offers his condolences to the family, comrades and associates nationally and internationally of Dr Pheko who formerly served as the PAC Representative to the United Nations and as a Member of Parliament during his distinguished political career.
He was a lawyer, author of 45 books, theologian, academic and historian.
President Ramaphosa said: “With the passing of Motsoko Pheko, we are grateful for the extended lifetime during which this son of Lesotho became a champion of our liberation struggle and fought for the rights of dispossessed and landless people who had endured colonialism and apartheid.
“His diverse qualifications and interests made Motsoko Pheko an invaluable contributor to human development and the intellectual heritage of our nation and that of our continent whose causes and accomplishments were uppermost in his consciousness and activism.
“As we observe 30 Years of Freedom, we honour all individuals and political traditions who brought about the dispensation in which we live today and to whom we remain indebted.
“May Motsoko Pheko rest in peace.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Workshop highlights importance of effective water resource management
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Judith Tshabalala, has reiterated the importance of the effective management of water resources in promoting development in the country.
"It is not the intention of the department to make the lives of our citizens difficult by going through the tedious journey of having to apply for a water use licence [but] we do it because we have been entrusted with powers to ensure that water is managed in the best interest of all citizens,” Tshabalala said.
Tshabalala was speaking during a community engagement on water use license applications at the Westonaria Banquet Hall in the Rand West District Municipality, Johannesburg on Friday.
The workshop aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of the application process, engage on sustainable water management practices, facilitate networking opportunities and empower disadvantaged communities.
Tshabalala said the workshop allowed users the space to network, including people who applied for water use licenses, those who have been on the waiting list, and those who have been experiencing challenges regarding water licensing.
The Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of water use licenses to ensure effective water resource management.
“Activities that require water use authorisation include the development of facilities or infrastructure for animal concentration such as pigs, rabbits, crocodiles, ostriches, poultry aquaculture, the development of facilities or infrastructure for animal slaughter such as poultry, game, red meat, and more.
“Additionally, water use authorisation is required for the development and operation of hatcheries or agri-industrial facilities; for an area of 300 square meters or more of indigenous vegetation in specified geographical areas; and of 1 hectare or more of indigenous vegetation,” Tshabalala explained.
During the question-and-answer session, the community members and stakeholders commended the department for the initiative, saying the workshop will make things easier for the disadvantaged when they undergo the application process.
However, they expressed their concerns about water regulations in the country, requesting the government take immediate action against those who claim to sell purified water in their shops.
The community members asked for government’s intervention in spaces where racism is rife and less-literate individuals are taken for granted and are unwittingly made to sign away their land and water use licenses.
The Deputy Minister noted the concerns and promised that a follow-up meeting would be convened to provide feedback regarding the concerns raised.
"We welcome your input and complaints with an open mind and we are very much resolute in our quest of addressing whatever challenge you have in water use licensing,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 09:17