Deputy principal suspended after probe names him in suicide of 12-year-old Gauteng learner
Three other teachers named in report are still at the school
News
Unveiling the Power of Supplements: A Journey to Optimal Nutrition
Introduction Gym supplements have become a cornerstone of modern nutrition, offering a convenient and effective way to support our health and fitness goals. In a world where our lives are constantly on the move, these nutritional allies provide us with the essential ingredients needed to thrive. This comprehensive guide delves into the diverse world of supplements, …
2900 SANDF Members will be Sitting Ducks
Dear Editor The decision by President Cyril Ramaphosa to deploy 2 900 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members to the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is reckless, irrational and must be reversed immediately. Ramaphosa has ignored several warnings from military experts against this deployment and has instead decided to unilaterally place our troops …
Indulge your Valentine’s Day appetite with exquisite creations from top Southern Sun chefs!
As Cupid’s arrow draws nearer, tantalise your taste buds with a culinary journey crafted by some of the most talented chefs across Southern Sun hotels around the country. Elevating romance to new heights, our culinary maestros have meticulously curated a selection of recipes guaranteed to enchant your senses and ignite the flames of love this …
SADC Media Awards
SADC Media Awards
By William Baloyi
In a world filled with information overload the significance of our own stories should not be overlooked, especially those that contribute positively towards achieving regional integration and co-operation between the people of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
Regional integration and telling our own stories was one of the key reasons for the establishment of the SADC awards, following a decision by the Council of Ministers in 1996 to recognise best media work in disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional co-operation and integration.
The awards aim to recognise excellence in journalism in the area of print, photo, television, radio as well as to encourage media practitioners in member states to cover issues pertaining to the region.
We call on media practitioners in South Africa and the region to share their stories that focus on economic well-being, improvement of the standard of living and quality of life, freedom and social justice, peace and security for the people of Southern Africa. The SADC Media Awards present a unique opportunity for the SADC region’s journalists to be celebrated and recognised by their peers.
Media practitioners are encouraged to continually ensure that we popularise projects that are underway in the SADC region. Africa and the region must tell her own stories. It is important that we hear from a range of voices from our diverse nations. By telling our own stories, we will bridge divides between SADC nations.
The other focus of the awards is to encourage SADC nations to further boost intra-Africa trade through greater market integration, cross-border infrastructure development, and policy coordination.
By sharing and telling these stories, we can show how integration and infrastructure development is driving regional economic development, trade and investment.
The SADC Secretariat has announced that entries for the 2024 SADC Media Awards are open. Entries must be submitted by no later than 29 February 2024, and will be judged in four categories namely; Photo, Print, Television and Radio Journalism. The awards are open to journalists from the SADC Member States. Journalists who wish to enter the competition can access more information about the competition from the www.sadc.int and www.gcis.gov.za websites.
*William Baloyi is Chief Director: Media Engagement at the Government Communication and Information System
Janine
Tue, 02/13/2024 - 10:51
142 views
Optimising Cash Management: The Role of Cash Handling Equipment
Introduction In today’s fast-paced financial landscape, efficient cash handling is crucial for businesses and institutions of all sizes. Whether you run a retail store, a bank, or any other organization that deals with cash transactions, the accuracy and security of your cash management can significantly impact your bottom line. This is where cash handling equipment steps in …
South Africa contributes troops to Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
In fulfilling South Africa's international obligation towards the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission to support the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the employment of 2900 members of the South African National Defense Force to assist in the fight against illegal armed groups in the Eastern DRC.
The employment will cover the period from 15 December 2023 to 15 December 2024 and it was authorised in accordance with the provisions of section 201(2) (c) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa.
The budgeted expenditure to be incurred for the employment amounts to just over R2 billion. This expenditure will not impact provisions for the defense force's regular maintenance and emergency repairs.
The obligation to contribute troops to the SADC mission in the DRC is borne by all SADC Member States.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.
Operation Shanela nets 1 009 suspects in the North West
Operation Shanela nets 1 009 suspects in the North West
Over 1 000 suspects have been nabbed in the North West under Operation Shanela, which was conducted between Thursday and Sunday.
The suspects were arrested for rape, murder, assault grievous bodily harm, malicious damage to property, burglary residential and business premises, theft of motor vehicle and theft out of/from motor vehicle, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Of the 1 009 arrested suspects, 248 were wanted for contact crimes including murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, assault common, house robbery and business robbery.
Also, 20 undocumented persons were taken in for processing.
The arrests were made through the execution of several actions, which included stop and searches, roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, inspection of licensed liquor premises, second-hand goods dealers, tracing of wanted suspects.
The operation also resulted in the confiscation of 170 cell phones, seven unlicensed firearms, drugs such as crack cocaine, crystal meth, nyaope, seven rounds of ammunition, liquor and dangerous weapons.
The provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, commended the police officers, who worked with other law enforcement agencies, including the Traffic Department and Home Affairs, for the successes recorded in the operations. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 02/13/2024 - 09:46
262 views
The Unsung Hero: Refuse Removal in Cape Town
In the bustling city of Cape Town, amidst the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, there exists a crucial service often overlooked: refuse removal. While it may not be the most glamorous topic, the impact of efficient waste management cannot be overstated. Let’s delve into why refuse removal in Cape Town is a vital aspect of …
Government celebrates World Radio Day
Today (13 February 2024), Government joins the global community in celebrating World Radio Day under the theme, "Radio: A Century Informing, Entertaining, and Educating”. This year's theme underscores the rich history and diverse contribution of radio to our society.
For over a century, radio has played a pivotal role in informing, entertaining, and educating societies and it has been a critical tool for communication, connecting people across vast distances and diverse cultures. Its ability to transcend barriers of language and geography makes it a powerful instrument for promoting inclusivity and fostering unity among the country's diverse communities.
In South Africa, radio has historically been a cornerstone of democracy, serving as a platform for dialogue, debate, and the exchange of ideas. It has played a crucial role in promoting social cohesion, advancing human rights, and amplifying the voices of marginalised groups.
The GCIS Acting Diretor-General, Nomonde Mnukwa said: “Radio remains a reliable source of information and a catalyst for positive change. It has also been a constant companion to millions of South Africans, providing them with essential news, entertainment, and valuable educational content. Importantly, the affordability and accessibility of radio makes it an essential medium, particularly in remote and disadvantaged communities."
As the world celebrates World Radio Day, Government also recognises the invaluable contributions of broadcasters, journalists, and producers who work tirelessly to bring quality programming each day.
Together, let us continue to support and nurture this timeless medium as we strive to build a more inclusive, informed, and enlightened society for all South Africans.
Happy World Radio Day!
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Communications and Digital Technologies.
Load shedding to alternate between Stages 3 and 4
Load shedding to alternate between Stages 3 and 4
Eskom has reduced load shedding to Stages 3 and 4 until further notice.
This after the state power utility implemented Stage 5 and 6 load shedding over the past weekend.
“Eskom has returned to service five generating units which will allow the emergency reserves to be adequately replenished by Tuesday morning. This will enable the reduction of load shedding to Stage 3 from 5am on Tuesday until 4pm. Stage 4 load shedding will then be implemented from 4pm on Tuesday until 5am on Wednesday.
“This alternating pattern of Stage 3 load shedding from 5am to 4pm and Stage 4 load shedding from 4pm to 5am will be repeated daily until further notice. Eskom will closely monitor the power system and communicate any changes to load shedding should it be required,” the power utility said.
By Monday afternoon, breakdowns had rendered some 14 579MW of generating capacity offline with a further 7316MW unavailable due to planned maintenance.
“Eskom power station general managers and their teams continue to work diligently to ensure that additional generating units are brought back to service. A total of 2 150MW of generating capacity is planned to be returned to service by Wednesday.
“We would like to appeal to members of the public to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 5pm to 9pm. This lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system, contributing to lower stages of load shedding.”
Meanwhile, the power utility says it has made “significant strides” in restoring electricity supply to most parts of the Eastern Cape village of Tsomo and its surrounding areas.
The area was hit with storms and extreme weather last week which affected electricity supply.
“Only [a] few affected customers remain without power in the Intsika Yethu Local Municipality and are expected to be restored this week.
“We thank the affected customers for their patience. Eskom technicians and contractors are doing all they can to normalise the situation. Customers without electricity are urged to treat all electricity appliances as live during this period,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 02/13/2024 - 09:28
57 views
KFC Mini Cricket Continues To Level The Playing Field With Over 800 Kids In Kwa-Zulu Natal
PIETERMARITZBURG: The Cricket South Africa (CSA) KFC Mini-Cricket programme resumed this past weekend with over 800 KFC Mini-Cricket kids in action. The...
Students snooze on the floor at CPUT amid housing funding blunder
The university says its own accredited and leased residences have already reached full capacity
Mamelodi flood victims demand City keeps its promise to relocate them
City of Tshwane says Mavuso residents will be relocated to land acquired by the provincial government
R9.7-million spent and three years later, still no bridge
Eastern Cape villagers say Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality has been promising them the bridge for 20 years
Draft work visa regulations a boon for attracting skills
Draft work visa regulations a boon for attracting skills
South Africa’s new draft work visa regulations are a milestone for the country’s efforts to attract investment and promote job creation.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who addressed the nation through his weekly newsletter on Monday.
Last week, the Department of Home Affairs released the draft second amendment of the Immigration Regulations for public comment. The draft regulations deal with remote work and critical skills visas.
“The publication of the new draft regulations are part of our ongoing drive to reform the country’s visa system, making it easier to attract the skills our economy's needs and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. An efficient, agile, responsive visa regime is key to attracting business investment and boosting economic growth.
“International experience shows that employees with critical skills contribute to improved productivity, enhanced innovation, and improving the competitiveness of the firms they work for,” President Ramaphosa said.
He explained that the new remote working visa is a response to “the rapidly evolving world of work, where increasing numbers of skilled workers…are attracted by the lifestyle benefits of working from a remote location”.
“It also caters to so-called digital nomads, who are able to work virtually from any location in the world. A remote worker who wants to work in South Africa while being employed by a foreign company will be able to receive such a visa.
“The draft regulations propose the introduction of a points system for critical skills visas that will take into account factors such as age, qualifications, language skills, work experience and having an offer of employment, amongst others,” the President said.
Attracting the right skills
President Ramaphosa explained that although South Africa has invested in producing the skills needed for the digital economy, more is needed.
“To succeed in an ever-changing global economy, our country needs far more people with the right skills. This is so that our economy can be competitive, grow and create employment. As a country, we have invested much in producing these skills, from significantly expanding access to higher education, introducing digital programmes in TVET colleges and a shift to a new pay-for-performance approach to skills development.
“However, it will take some time before we will be able to produce enough skilled people to enable our country to grow rapidly.”
He added that attracting these skills to South Africa will be important as the country is “fast becoming an increasingly attractive destination for industries like business process outsourcing and customer experience”.
“Last year, for example, a leading international strategic advisory firm ranked South Africa second as the most favoured offshore customer experience delivery destination globally. Since 2016, government has invested more than R3 billion towards supporting the growth and expansion of business process outsourcing and is targeting the creation of approximately 500 000 jobs in the sector by 2030.
“In line with our ongoing efforts to attract higher levels of investment and promote job creation, the new work visa regulations are a milestone. They are part of high-impact structural reforms we are undertaking to improve the business operating environment.
“They send a clear signal to business that we are committed to attracting skills that meet the demands of a modern, inclusive and growing economy,” he concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 10:09
885 views
Gauteng Health cautions against risky sexual behaviour as STI infection rises
Gauteng Health cautions against risky sexual behaviour as STI infection rises
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has cautioned the public against engaging in risky sexual behaviour, as this increases the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV infection.
Between April and December 2023, 167 109 males presented at public health facilities across the province and 67 400 (40%) were treated for male urethritis syndrome (MUS).
According to the provincial department, the MUS data accurately reflect newly acquired STIs.
Symptoms of MUS include discharge from the penis and burning urination.
If left untreated, complications can include pain and swelling of the testes, while gonorrhoeae and chlamydia are the most predominant cause of MUS in South Africa.
In 2020, the MUS incidence in the province was recorded at 12% and has increased over the years to 15% in 2023.
The department said it has noticed a peak of STI incidence in sub-districts E (Alexandra and Sandton) and F (Inner City, Braamfontein and Hillbrow) in Johannesburg.
Some areas include the Merafong sub-district in the West Rand, Katlehong, Ekurhuleni South, Germiston, Katlehong and Vooslorus, Lesedi in Sedibeng and Bronkhorstspruit in Tshwane.
Sub-districts E and F in Johannesburg have tertiary institutions and high-risk individuals such as sex workers and people who inject drugs.
Meanwhile, Merafong is a mining area with a majority male population. Region 7 has farming areas, where cultural norms hinder the uptake of services, especially amongst men.
Ekurhuleni South and Lesedi have technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, informal settlements, truck stops and hostels.
The GDoH has implemented a combination of prevention intervention approaches, which incorporate STI components in these areas such as the promotion of consistent use of male and female condoms, which are free and available in health facilities.
The interventions also involve encouraging the reduction in the number of sexual partners, increased uptake of HIV counselling and testing, STI screening, delayed sexual debut, as well as the promotion of sexual wellbeing.
The MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has urged people who are sexually active to use male and female condoms, which they can access free at their local healthcare centres to protect themselves against STIs and HIV.
She said the rise in MUS is attributed to high rates of unsafe behaviour such as non-use of condoms while engaging in vaginal or anal sex, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, high levels of substance use and cultural norms.
“Our clinics provide free condoms and STI and HIV prevention, testing and treatment services. We should not let STIs go untreated, as they increase the risk of HIV infection and transmission, which will hamper the province’s goal to reduce new HIV infections by 2030,” emphasised Nkomo-Ralehoko.
In addition, the MEC encouraged women to start early antenatal care as soon as they realise that they are pregnant for thorough screening of any STI, and appropriate and timely treatment for those who test positive.
Between April and December 2023, she said 1 255 out of 66 377 pregnant women who presented at our facilities for antenatal care for the first time tested positive for syphilis.
“If left untreated in pregnant women, syphilis can have adverse outcomes for the growing baby as well as increased morbidity in the mother. It can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy (congenital syphilis), leading to stillbirths, health complications, congenital deformities and even infant death,” said the concerned MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The MEC also said that there has been a noticeable increase in women who are presenting at health facilities to be initiated on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which is an antiretroviral drug prescribed for HIV-negative people to prevent them from becoming infected with HIV.
Between April and November 2023, 38 305 females aged 15 to 49 years were initiated on PrEP, compared to 11 988 males.
“We believe that the high uptake of PrEP among women has led this group to have unprotected sex resulting in a high incidence of MUS. The studies have reported that STI incidence is also high among young women receiving PrEP.
“We would like to encourage more males to get initiated on PrEP to protect themselves against STIs. Additionally, both men and women who are on PrEP should use condoms to protect themselves against STIs, HIV and unwanted pregnancies,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 11:29
1013 views
Unemployed doctors march to Department of Health
They demand permanent jobs and no budget cuts to healthcare
Transnet steps up efforts to curb shipping delays
Transnet steps up efforts to curb shipping delays
The first batch of four hydraulic mooring units procured by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to improve operations and reduce shipping delays at ports have been delivered and operationalised at the Ports of Cape Town and Ngqura.
The batch is part of the 52 units procured by the authority.
TNPA General Manager for Infrastructure, Thecla Mneney, said: “This marks the first of a series of major port equipment deliveries at our commercial seaports this year. We continue to make progress in fast-tracking the implementation of key investments in port infrastructure to improve operational efficiencies and provide quality service to the maritime industry”.
The TNPA also explained the uses of the units.
“A hydraulic tension mooring unit is a system that is placed on the quayside to ensure the safety of vessels alongside and mitigate the severity of long-wave effects on vessels. The units assist with stabilising vessels alongside during strong winds, adverse weather conditions and high swells. The benefits also include minimized down-time and safety during operations.
“The new mooring units increases TNPA’s capacity to prevent excessive surge motions of vessels alongside, bringing the total number of units to six at the Port of Cape Town and four at the Port of Ngqura.
“TNPA has procured 52 shore tension units with an allocation of 16 units for the Port of Cape Town, 14 for the Port of Durban, eight for the Port of Port Elizabeth, six for the Port of Ngqura, four for the Port of Saldanha and four for the Port of Richards Bay. The phased delivery of the rest of the units will be completed by early 2025,” TNPA said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 11:30
440 views
Cape Winelands and City of Cape Town Residents say Yes and No to the Tobacco Bill
Various groups of people from the Cape Winelands District and the City of Cape Town, including academics specialising in issues around health, healthcare consultants, workers and representatives from health and tobacco trading and farmers' associations shared their support or rejection of the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill during public hearings conducted by the Portfolio Committee on Health in Paarl yesterday.
Some academics rejected the Bill. They based their stance on electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and noted that the Food and Drug Administration in the United States, one of the leading authorities on ENDS worldwide, authorised the sale of about 23 e-cigarettes, heat-not-burn and snus products. They therefore argued that there is a moral obligation to promote ENDS as safer products for adult smokers.
Some participants rejected the Bill on the basis that the Department of Health had not embarked on wider consultations before developing the Bill. As a result, the Bill in its current form is devoid of scientific substance. They also called on the department to embark on in-depth research and consult as widely as possible. They said ignoring smokers on an issue about tobacco and smoking is a big mistake.
There were also objection to the Bill on economic grounds, as some participants feared that it would contribute to the closure of tobacco companies. The Bill would therefore impact negatively on revenue collection and lead to retrenchments and unemployment.
Other participants in the public hearings rejected the Bill on the grounds that it would have a negative impact on indigenous traditions, as tobacco is a major element in their traditional rituals.
Those who supported the Bill based their support largely on health grounds, citing available statistics on smoke-related deaths. They called for tobacco advertising to include information about the side effects of tobacco. They also argued that the government, as part of its fight against drugs, should ban smoking.
The committee Chairperson, Dr Kenneth Jacobs, welcomed the contributions to the Bill made by participants in the public hearings. He assured them that the committee will consider all their views before it compiles its report on the Bill, which will then be submitted to the National Assembly for its consideration.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
SIU to probe NC economic development agency
SIU to probe NC economic development agency
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is expected to investigate allegations of maladministration and corruption at the Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (NCEDA).
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the unit to probe the agency.
SIU spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago explained that the unit will probe allegations of corruption related to at least seven contracts and “serious maladministration of salary adjustments… that were not duly authorised”.
The seven contracts in question are for the procurement of legal services; event organising and management services; consultancy services; security services; services relating to the Riemvasmaak Tourism Master Plan; catering services, and an audio-visual system.
“The SIU will also investigate any unauthorised, irregular, or fruitless and wasteful expenditure incurred by NCEDA or the State. The scope of the investigation also covers any unlawful or improper conduct by officials or employees of NCEDA, the applicable suppliers or service providers or any other person or entity.
“In addition to investigating maladministration, malpractice, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses,” he said.
The investigation is expected to cover a time period between 1 March 2012 and February 2024, and may lead to referrals for criminal prosecution.
“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
“The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” Kganyago said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 12:02
420 views
Limpopo police investigate fatal crash
Limpopo police investigate fatal crash
The Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General, Thembi Hadebe, has ordered an immediate probe into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash that claimed seven lives on the R101 between Mookgophong and Mokopane in the Waterberg District in the early hours of Sunday.
The accident involves members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and a sedan motor vehicle.
According to reports, a Renault sedan collided head-on with a Toyota light delivery van, which was traveling from Mookgophong towards Mokopane.
All five people in the Renault sedan and two passengers from the SAPS Toyota light delivery van (a police officer and an inmate) died on the scene.
The driver of the SAPS vehicle, a sergeant, was rushed to the hospital and is currently receiving medical attention.
The cause of the horific accident is still unknown and is currently being investigated.
Hadebe has sent messages of condolences to the bereaved families and wished the driver a speedy recovery.
The passenger in the SAPS vehicle, who died on the scene, was identified as Constable M.M. Makwela, who was attached to SAPS Naboomspruit.
The identity of the inmate, who also died at the scene, as well as the five deceased from the other vehicle, will be released as soon as the next of kin are notified. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 14:38
452 views
Hawks act against one of their own for Lottery corruption
Spokeperson Hangwani Mulaudzi and former Head of Risk at the National Lotteries Commission Marubini Ramatsekisa are both named in a dossier handed to prosecutors
Free State Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs accelerates youth economic emancipation for sustainable future
The growth of the economy is dependent on a robust and thriving SMME ecosystem. Therefore, the government is of the view that supporting SMMEs in sectors such as manufacturing, agro-processing, tourism, finance, and logistics, as well as construction, will create much-needed jobs in the province.
As part of achieving this goal, DESTEA MEC Thabo Meeko will host the Provincial Youth Business Pitching competition on 15 February 2024 at 10h00, PACOFS. The pitching competition is aimed at unearthing innovative business ideas from youth entrepreneurs and providing comprehensive support for the sustainable growth of such ideas.
To this end, the Youth Business Pitching programme has been rolled out across all four districts, and Mangaung Metro, where each district winner scooped the first price of R200 000, followed by the second price of R120 000 towards their businesses.
Those who emerged as district winners will be presenting their ground-breaking business ideas at the provincial level to a highly experienced and competent panel of adjudicators.
The provincial winner will scoop business funding and non-financial support worth R500,000.
The Youth Business Pitching initiative affords young entrepreneurs to pitch their business ideas to potential investors and funders for exploring business opportunities, technical advice, and support.
MEC Meeko explained that entrepreneurship drives economic growth, job creation, poverty alleviation, and reduction of inequality.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South Africa: Free State Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs.