Fierce winds send Khayelitsha shacks flying
Chemical toilets toppled, roofs blown off
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Indalo Association Reveals Threat to Makhanda and the Eastern Cape’s Socio-Economic Fabric by Albany Wind Farm Project
Makhanda and the Eastern Cape in Peril: Indalo Exposes the Hidden Socio-Economic Impact of Albany Wind Farm [Makhanda], [08 April 2024] — Today, the Indalo Association unveils critical revelations surrounding the proposed Albany Wind Farm, emphasising the profound threat it poses to the socio-economic fabric of Makhanda and the Eastern Cape. In a focused exposé, …
President Ramaphosa visits Rwanda
President Ramaphosa visits Rwanda
President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded a working visit to Kigali, Rwanda, at the weekend.
The President visited the country as part of the commemoration of the 1994 Rwandan genocide which claimed the lives of approximately one million women, men and children in the Central African country.
“[On Sunday] President Ramaphosa, joined fellow Heads of State and Government, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and the President of the European Council, well as other dignitaries, including Former Heads of State and Government and First Ladies, for a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
“This was followed by a National Commemoration Ceremony at the BK Arena. The ceremony marked 30 years since the Genocide against the Tutsi, which began on 7 April 1994,” the Presidency said.
Upon arrival on Saturday, President Ramaphosa held a bilateral meeting with Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame at the Kigali Convention Centre.
“The two leaders held extensive discussions on rekindling the once very strong political and economic ties.
“The discussions also focused on the importance of joint efforts and cooperation in finding a peaceful solution to ending the conflict in the Eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 10:14
195 views
Africa Data Centres and DPA Southern Africa (SA) breaks ground on solar farm in Free State
Africa Data Centres (www.AfricaDataCentres.com/) and DPA SA have broken ground on their solar farm in the Free State; The first phase will see power getting wheeled to its CPT1 facility; The second phase will see power being supplied to JHB1 and JHB2 once wheeling agreements with relevant municipalities conclude.
Africa Data Centres, a business of the Cassava Technologies group, is pleased to announce that it has broken ground on the construction of a solar farm in the Free State in collaboration with DPA Southern Africa.
This announcement forms a crucial component of the 20-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) inked in March 2023 with DPA Southern Africa a joint company of the French utility, EDF. The objective of the Free State farm is to furnish renewable energy to Africa Data Centres sites, commencing with its cutting-edge, carrier-neutral data centre in Cape Town, the CPT1 facility.
According to Cassava Technologies' President and Group CEO, Hardy Pemhiwa, “This initiative positions Africa Data Centres as a trailblaser in the data centre industry in responding to South Africa's energy crisis through sustainable technology solutions. This is in line with a broader industry shift towards innovative, eco-friendly practices. The strategic use of solar power showcases technology's role in pioneering solutions for energy challenges and environmental sustainability”.
Furthermore, Tesh Durvasula, CEO of Africa Data Centres, underscores the commitment to powering all data centres with clean, renewable energy sources. "Today's announcement represents a significant stride in our initiative to energise South African data centres sustainably, advancing our objective of achieving carbon neutrality. The first phase involves constructing the 12MW solar infrastructure to power our Cape Town data centre, with subsequent phases extending to our Johannesburg data centres.”
Nawfal El Fadil, the CEO of DPA SA, states, "Africa Data Centres, as a pioneer in the data centre industry, has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, aligning seamlessly with our company's values. We are thrilled and honoured to contribute to Africa Data Centres' mission of achieving carbon neutrality, beginning with the establishment of this solar power plant in the Free State to serve their data centre in Cape Town. At the heart of our collaboration lies a shared understanding that the path to carbon neutrality extends beyond infrastructure—it demands innovation, expertise, and collective determination to overcome challenges. DPA SA, backed by EDF's legacy, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in delivering high-quality, sustainable energy solutions to this partnership."
"We take immense pride in supporting Africa Data Centres on this journey, being among the pioneers in launching a wheeling solar plant, thereby paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future in South Africa," adds Nawfal El Fadil.
This project is a key element of Africa Data Centres' ambitious plans to emerge as the most sustainable colocation provider on the continent. "Beyond procuring renewable energy, our commitment to an efficiency strategy has earned us the internationally recognised ISO50001 certification for the effective operation of our data centres," Durvasula elaborates.
"Data centres worldwide face scrutiny for their reliance on grid power and renewables, and Africa is no exception. Africa Data Centres is actively addressing this issue by generating renewable energy, alleviating strain on the local grid. Additionally, our sustainability objectives encompass achieving net-zero status at all facilities, making this project another significant stride towards reaching that goal," concludes Durvasula.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Data Centres.
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About Africa Data Centres:
Africa Data Centres is your trusted partner for rapid and secure data centre services and interconnections across the African continent.
Africa Data Centres is Africa's largest network of interconnected, carrier and cloud-neutral data centre facilities. Bringing international experts to the pan-African market. We are your trusted partner for rapid and secure data centre services and interconnections across the African continent. Strategically located, our world-class facilities provide a home for all your business-critical data. Proudly African, we are dedicated to being the heart that beats your business.
Africa Data Centres' aim is to unveil various business opportunities and to develop a strategic network of partnerships. This will further strengthen Africa Data Centres' superiority in providing our customers with the highest standard of interconnected, carrier and cloud-neutral data centre facilities throughout Africa. www.AfricaDataCentres.com/
About Cassava Technologies:
Cassava Technologies is a technology leader providing a vertically integrated ecosystem of digital services and infrastructure enabling digital transformation. Launched in 2021, the company was born out of a need to create a digitally connected future that leaves no African behind. Through its subsidiaries, namely, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Liquid Dataport, Liquid C2, Africa Data Centres, Distributed Power Africa, Sasai Fintech and Telrad, Cassava is a multinational technology company that has operations across key growth markets like Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and the United States of America. Cassava provides its customers in 94 countries with offerings that will help them grow, transform, and expand their operations. https://apo-opa.co/3U7rdmB
About DPA Southern Africa:
DPA Southern Africa, a joint company of the French utility EDF and Distributed Power Africa, is at the forefront of the Southern African renewable energy market for businesses, laying the foundation for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future in South Africa and beyond.
Our commitment is to assist companies in achieving carbon neutrality and cost savings simultaneously by providing tailor-made renewable energy solutions that meet the specific needs of businesses. Our comprehensive offerings include on-site, wheeling, and storage solutions, offering businesses a holistic approach to sustainable energy management.
Wins For Both KZN Sides In CSA T20 Challenge
GQEBERHA: A scintillating unbeaten 83 by Cameron Delport helped the AET Tuskers flatten defending champions Momentum Multiply Titans by 6 wickets...
Botha And Masondo Star As Western Province And Limpopo Get Crowned CSA T20 Champions
NEWLANDS: World Sports Betting Western Province claimed the CSA T20 Challenge title in the inaugural Cricket South Africa (CSA) Professional Women’s...
Beneficiaries struggling with grants since SASSA closed Macassar office
“People are poor and cannot afford to travel far for services that should be here,” says resident
Simple Steps Blogging Summit: Pioneering Digital Influence in South Africa
[Gqeberha, South Africa] – The digital landscape of South Africa is about to be shaken up with the inaugural Simple Steps Blogging Summit, scheduled to take place from the 24th to the 26th of April, 2024. This pioneering event marks the first time that a gathering of this magnitude, focusing on blogging and social media …
NSRI on High Alert
Despite the Black South Easter, brought on by the cut off low forecast by SAWS (South African Weather Services), affecting parts of the Western Cape and beyond, heavy rain thunderstorms forcast and experienced around the coast and inland, NSRI has not been required to respond to any critical weather related incidents at sea, or on …
Children have to use an open field as a toilet at Mthatha primary school
Zwelinzima Primary has 200 learners and 13 staff but no toilets
Navigating Driving Test Cancellations in the UK
The Challenge of Long Wait Times In the UK, learner drivers often face lengthy waits for driving test appointments, a situation exacerbated by high demand and limited slots. This delay can be frustrating for those eager to obtain their driving licenses and enjoy the freedom of the road. The Solution: Driving Test Cancellations Services Driving …
Elevating Business Security: Essential Products to Safeguard Your Assets
In an era where security threats are increasingly sophisticated, businesses must employ robust measures to protect their assets, data, and personnel. Among these measures, physical security products play a crucial role in fortifying business premises against unauthorized access and potential breaches. In this blog, we’ll delve into seven essential business security products that every enterprise …
SAPS makes strides in crime fighting operations
SAPS makes strides in crime fighting operations
Police Minister Bheki Cele says combating crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement remains at the heart of policing in the country.
“We all can agree that crime is [at unacceptable] levels and communities have called on the SAPS [South African Police Service] to respond to their crime concerns,” Cele said.
Addressing media on the Police Take Down Successes of Police Counter Operations in Pretoria on Sunday, Cele said in the past few of days, SAPS has intercepted armed and dangerous gangs, who have left a reign of terror and fear in their wake.
“A group of 11 youngsters terrorising the community of Mariannhill in KwaZulu- Natal was intercepted, and nine were shot and killed during the arrest,” Cele said.
Cele said over 20 would-be cash-in-transit (CIT) robbers in Witbank, Mpumalanga, were also stopped in their tracks through coordinated responses by the police and private security.
“Five of the suspects were killed during gunfire exchange with police in their attempt to evade arrest. Eight of CIT robbers were arrested and another nine managed to escape.
“There is no doubt that these criminals and many others are ruthless and arrogant. Their actions demonstrate that they will eliminate anything and anyone that stands in their way.
“Criminals have waged a war on communities and are so brazen, they are testing the authority of the State by attacking police officers,” Cele said.
Cele said police remain unapologetic in their aggressive and decisive response to crime.
“This Ministry remains in full support of police work that results in safer communities. We will forever welcome the arrest of criminals and for them to have their day in court.
“But criminals are warned that if they engage the police instead of surrendering themselves; they will come out short.
“We are clear police will continue to protect communities and push back hard on criminality. Not on our watch will we allow criminals to walk all over communities and certainly not the country’s law enforcement,” Cele said.
Cele said the SAPS Crime Intelligence Division has been rejuvenated and bolstered to identify and infiltrate syndicates.
He said intervention units and tactical response teams of the SAPS continue to be capacitated.
“The Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations and overall detection of organised crime is sharper than ever. The combination of all these policing services is decisively responding to crime especially to violent and serious crime.
“Without an ounce of hesitation, officers on the ground will protect their lives and preserve the lives of innocent community members when the need arises,” Cele said.
He said takedowns by the police are not isolated and are not coincidental.
“They are as a direct result of reliable and strong intelligence coupled by sharp tactical readiness of police units who are trained to neutralise any threat and protect lives,” he said.
According to Cele, from April 2023 to date, 1 171 intelligence-led takedowns were conducted by the SAPS.
To date, 3 749 suspects have been apprehended during intelligence-led takedowns. These include 173 for murder, 57 for extortion and kidnapping, 164 for property-related crimes and 269 for vehicle-related crimes.
Cele said 768 suspects have been arrested for possession of illegal firearms.
“Four hundred and eighty-eight and 79 suspects were arrested for robberies and CIT robberies, respectively; 1 510 drug-related and 214 illicit mining arrests were made from April to date during intelligence-led takedowns,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 11:16
642 views
Records on offer as top runners confirm targets for Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K
With a lineup featuring both world-class performers and South Africa’s top athletes, the 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K promises to be a record-breaking event on Sunday, 7 April. As the fastest athlete in the women’s field, Diana Chepkorir will be making her South African debut. The Kenyan is aiming to improve on the …
Kenya’s Langat and Chepkorir secure victory at Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K
Kenya’s Vincent Kibet Langat and Diana Chepkorir claimed top honors in the men’s and women’s races, respectively, at the 2nd annual Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday, 7 April 2024. Langat boasted a winning time of 28:01 and Chepkorir 31:15. At the age of 37, veteran South African top runner Elroy Gelant is …
City of Cape Town employs EPWP workers to inspect fire hydrants
City of Cape Town employs EPWP workers to inspect fire hydrants
The City of Cape Town has introduced a new project employing Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers to inspect fire hydrants and refer damaged or obstructed hydrants for further action.
The project is creating work opportunities, while also helping to reduce risks to life and property throughout the city.
There are approximately 57 803 fire hydrants along the city’s approximately 10 000km road network that supply water for fire emergencies. In many areas, these hydrants are routinely vandalised or obstructed by unapproved building work.
A total of 26 job seekers have been recruited to assist with inspections of fire hydrants, as part of the Hydrant Project, while a further five recruits with matric and a valid code B driver’s licence are being contracted as EPWP drivers/supervisors. All recruits were sourced from the city’s Jobseekers' Database.
Hydrant workers receive on-the-job training from handymen and their supervisors, whereas drivers/supervisors benefitted from a smart driving course to help strengthen their CVs for possible future employment opportunities within the city.
All beneficiaries on the project were also sent to fire safety awareness training.
"Considering the possible dire consequences if fire services teams reach the scene of a fire to find the hydrant has been vandalised or built over, this project is a great example of the major value EPWP workers and projects can bring to the city.
“I would like to commend those who conceived of this project, as it manages to provide a valuable service at an affordable cost, while at the same time, providing a lifeline to job seekers,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, Grant Twigg.
How to register for EPWP job opportunities
Interested persons, who would like to be considered for EPWP work opportunities, can register on the Jobseekers’ Database at their local sub-council office.
They are advised to bring a copy of their CV, ID or a valid South African work permit and proof of residence. EPWP beneficiaries are randomly selected from this database.
For more information, contact the EPWP help desk on 021 400 9406 or email epwp.help@capetown.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 12:37
620 views
Navigating the Essentials of Financial Security
Planning for the future is a crucial aspect of financial management, ensuring that your assets are protected and your loved ones are cared for in your absence. Wills and trusts, life insurance, and education insurance are pivotal elements in this planning process. Each serves a unique purpose in safeguarding your financial legacy and providing peace …
The Critical Role of Valuation Services in Todays Market
Valuation services are an essential facet of the financial world, providing critical insights and data that influence a wide range of business decisions. From determining the worth of a company for mergers and acquisitions to assessing property values for real estate transactions, valuation services play a pivotal role in ensuring that stakeholders have accurate and …
SIU obtains interdict to stop sale of farm linked to former NLC exec
SIU obtains interdict to stop sale of farm linked to former NLC exec
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has obtained an interdict from the Special Tribunal to stop the sale of a farm in Limpopo that is linked to the former National Lotteries Commission (NLC) Chief Operations Officer, Phillemon Letwaba and his brother, Johannes Letwaba.
The farm was listed for R7 million last year and is currently under offer for R5 million.
In an order dated 28 March 2024, the Special Tribunal prohibited the Letwaba brothers and any other person with knowledge of the order from selling, disposing, leasing, transferring, donating, or dealing with the farm in any manner.
The 3 426 128-hectares farm is registered under the Mosokoti Business Trust, whose trustees are the Letwaba brothers.
The funds that were used to purchase the farm emanate from the NLC. The farm is now preserved pending the final determination of civil action to be brought by the SIU within 60 days.
The SIU received a tip-off from a whistleblower about the sale of the farm and its potential link to NLC funds.
Following the tip-off, the SIU found that the farm was purchased using NLC funds siphoned through two organisations, which include organisation one -- Lulamisa Community Development Organisation NPO.
The SIU’s investigation revealed that in July 2015, an application for grant funding for Lulamisa Community Development Organisation (Lulamisa) was submitted to the NLC.
On the application form, the NPO was requesting an amount of R85 million for “hosting the Commonwealth Games, which would benefit the people of South Africa and boost the economy of the city of Durban”.
The NLC granted Lulamisa R80 million in two tranches of R64 million and R16 million, respectively.
Between 1 and 31 March 2016, Lulamisa made various payments to Iron Bridge Travelling Agency totalling R2 712 269.77. Phillemon Letwaba’s wife, Rebotile Malomane, owns Iron Bridge Travelling Agency.
In April 2016, Iron Bridge Travelling and Events transferred R1 000 000.00 to conveyancing attorneys, which went towards purchasing the farm.
Organisation number two is Tshikovha Graduate Academy.
On 11 February 2016, Konani Pfunzo Learning Centre applied for grant funding to the NLC for R49 935 697.52. The request aimed to assist Tshikovha Graduate Academy, an NPC, in drilling 200 boreholes in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, Free State and Eastern Cape provinces.
On 19 February 2016, NLC awarded Konani Pfunzo Learning Centre grant funding of R55 463 735.
On 22 February 2016, Konani Pfunzo and Tshikovha signed a memorandum that the grant will be transferred to Tshikovha within two working days upon receipt thereof. After Konani Pfunzo received grand funding from the NLC, an amount of R55 250 000 was transferred to the bank account of Tshikovha Graduate Academy.
Two days after receiving these funds, Tshikovha Graduate Academy transferred R4 800 000.00 to a private company named Redtaq (pty) LTD. Karabo Charles Sithole, Phillemon Ledwaba's cousin, is the sole director of Redtaq.
On 01 March 2016, Redtaq transferred R600 000.00 to Iron Bridge Travelling and Events. On 03 March 2016, Tshikovha further transferred R4 500 000.00 to Redtaq.
On 23 March 2016, Redtaq transferred R2 4000 000.00 to conveyancing attorneys. On the same day, Iron Bridge Travelling and Events transferred R66 009.83 and R300 000.00 to the same attorneys.
On 30 March 2016, Tshikovha transferred R8 000 000.00 to Mshandukani Holdings's bank account. Mshandukani Holdings is a private company with the company and Mr Mashudu Shandukani is the sole director.
On 05 April 2016, Mshandukani Holdings transferred an amount of R1 000 000.00 to Ndzhuku Holdings' bank account. On the same day, Ndzhuku Holdings transferred an amount of R1 000 000.00 to the same aforementioned attorneys.
The farm was purchased for a total of R4 766 003.83. The SIU’s evidence shows that Letwaba contravened the NLC's conflict of interest clause. He also used the funds received from NLC-funded NPOs for his gain.
The interdict is part of implementing the SIU’s investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover cash and assets lost by State institutions due to alleged corruption or negligence.
Acting on the tip-off is part of fighting corruption as a whole of society, as envisioned in the National Anti-Corruption Strategy.
The SIU was authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa, in terms of Proclamation R32 of 2020, to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of the NLC and the conduct of NLC officials, and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State.
The SIU is empowered by the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 to institute civil action in the Special Tribunal or the High Court to correct any wrongdoing it uncovers in its investigation.
The SIU has referred the evidence pointing to criminal conduct to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action. - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 12:53
688 views
Connect with Nature: The Ultimate Prescription for Wellbeing
Feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands? Is the constant juggle of work, family and relationships leaving you feeling like you are just keeping your head above water? According to research, the solution is simple: spend more time in nature. “Sounds easy enough, yet many of us just don’t do it,” says Orrin Cottle, CEO of Brahman …
FAW Trucks South Africa Supports Community Outreach At 15Th Annual Trucker’s Function
Vredendal, South Africa – 28 February 2024: FAW Trucks South Africa, in partnership with FAW Paarl – MyRide Commercial, proudly participated in the 15th Annual Truckers Function held in Vredendal on 22 February 2024. The event, which has been a staple in the transport industry for the past 15 years, aimed to raise funds for …
NCC investigates virtual pig farming enterprise
NCC investigates virtual pig farming enterprise
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) is investigating the affairs of Piggy Farm Trading, an entity that promotes and sells “virtual pigs".
This was after the Commission received complaints that Piggy Trading Farm might be a multiplication scheme.
Promoted on its website and various social media platforms, Piggy Farm Trading provides potential buyers with two options, buying from the farm and virtual buying and owning.
The second option is processed through what is called digital Metaverse Farming. The entity claims that this option is ‘risk-free’, as they farm on behalf of the participants. This includes feeding, insurance of the pigs, vaccination, and regular cleaning of pigs.
According to Piggy Farm Trading, participants can purchase between one and 50 pigs per annum at R2 200 per pig. Each pig gives its owner a minimum of R500 per month over a year as profit.
The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) describes a multiplication scheme as a scheme that promises or guarantees participants an effective annual interest rate, as calculated in the prescribed manner that is at least 20% above the repo rate.
The Commission has warned consumers to exercise caution when dealing with this entity.
“Consumers must be honest with their dealings, as the CPA prohibits any participation, recruitment, joining or promoting a multiplication scheme and other schemes.
“The NCC has noticed a spike in agricultural schemes like this one, which lure participants into joining the scheme and promise high returns. If a consumer buys livestock, they should be able to take possession of that livestock,” said the NCC’s Acting Commissioner.
The latest trends of pyramid schemes, multiplication schemes, and chain letters indicate that the owners have designed these schemes to buy into the idea of “investing” while they (consumers) are participating in prohibited conduct. Consumers are reminded of the dangers of joining, promoting and recruiting others into such schemes. These schemes always collapse and leave consumers out of pocket. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 13:06
518 views
Elevating Your Brand: Exploring Digital Marketing Agency Services
In the digital age, having a robust online presence is crucial for any business aiming to thrive and stand out in a crowded marketplace. Digital marketing agencies offer a spectrum of services designed to elevate your brand, increase visibility, and drive engagement and conversions. Let’s delve into the key services provided by a digital marketing …
Bulls and Sharks through to European quarter-finals
The Vodacom Bulls and Hollywoodbets Sharks provided a ray of light in an indifferent weekend for South Africa’s five teams in the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup playoffs, as they recorded invaluable victories to advance to the quarter-finals next week. The Vodacom Bulls, who thumped Lyon 59-19 in Pretoria, will face the Northhampton …