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You are here: Home / Archives for News

News

9 February 2024

Cape Town’s ocean-bound sewage options unveiled

Location: News

City to deal with the 32-million litres of raw sewage it pumps out to sea every day

Read moreCape Town’s ocean-bound sewage options unveiled
9 February 2024

Remote Working Visa loading: have your say on proposed amendments to Immigration Regulations

Location: News

The Department of Home Affairs has released the draft second amendment of the Immigration Regulations, dealing with two key categories of visas – the remote working and critical skills visa, and ancillary matters for public comment. This comes after extensive lobbying by the Western Cape Government since 2021 for the introduction of a digital nomad …

Read moreRemote Working Visa loading: have your say on proposed amendments to Immigration Regulations
9 February 2024

Minister concerned about high number of vehicle crashes

Location: News

Minister concerned about high number of vehicle crashes

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has expressed concern at the high level of vehicle crashes and fatalities that have occurred in the country recently.

"In recent past weeks, there were some equally gruesome accidents that robbed our country of fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, families and young children who had a potential to grow up and make a meaningful contribution to develop our country,” Chikunga said on Friday in the Free State.

She made these remarks during her visit to Riebeckstad High School where six pupils died and more than 40 others were injured when the driver of a bus lost control and the vehicle overturned on 06 February 2024 between Senekal and Welkom.

“This is an unacceptable behaviour and conduct. It is unacceptable because we know that road crashes are preventable and they are avoidable. Every driver knows that we all have responsibilities, not to drive vehicles with faulty brakes, worn tyres and that are unroadworthy. 

“Each year, the lives of South Africans are cut short because of road traffic crashes. Moreover, thousands of people suffer non-fatal injuries, with many becoming disabled as a result of injuries suffered during road crash incidents.

“While we have intensified efforts to communicate road safety messages through different mediums, it is unfortunate that road users' attitude and behaviour towards obeying the rules of the road remain main factors significantly contributing to fatalities on the road, and as such this calls for more education targeted at behavioural change,” the Minister said.

Chikunga noted that human error was not a contributing factor in the crash as the nuts on the left rear wheels were not tightly secured resulting in the wheels coming off and causing the crash.

“The bus driver would not have been aware of this problem as this was a mechanical error that the mechanics who worked on the bus previously, should have identified before the bus left the workshop.

"I call on the police and everyone involved in the investigation to finalise their investigation sooner to enable families to find closure.

“On behalf of the government of South Africa, and particularly the transport family, we send our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the learners who died. To those that are recuperating in hospitals and at home, we wish them a speedy recovery,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 02/09/2024 - 14:17

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Read moreMinister concerned about high number of vehicle crashes
9 February 2024

A Comprehensive Guide to Digital Marketing in the Modern Era

Location: MyPR

In the dynamic world of digital marketing, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for businesses looking to succeed. From SEO audits to TikTok advertising, the landscape is constantly evolving. This comprehensive guide delves into the key aspects of digital marketing, offering insights and strategies for each. SEO Audits: The Foundation of Your Online Presence SEO …

Read moreA Comprehensive Guide to Digital Marketing in the Modern Era
9 February 2024

Exploring the Versatility of Garage Doors: A Comprehensive Guide

Location: MyPR

When it comes to enhancing the curb appeal and functionality of your home, one often overlooked aspect is the garage door. Gone are the days when garage doors were purely utilitarian; today, they are considered an integral part of the overall aesthetic of a home. Whether you’re looking to replace an old garage door or …

Read moreExploring the Versatility of Garage Doors: A Comprehensive Guide
9 February 2024

Ramaphosa to participate in annual Presidential Golf Challenge

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, Friday, 09 February 2024, tee up at the annual Presidential Golf Challenge at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate, Melkbosstrand.

The Presidential Golf Challenge (PGC) was inaugurated in 1999 to give an opportunity for the sitting President of the Republic to raise funds for the charity of his/her own choice.  

The initiative, coordinated by the Minister for the Public Service and Administration, is a joint effort with the private sector to partake in developmental initiatives to empower society.  

The Challenge raises funds for developmental charities and creates an opportunity for networking among decision-makers within the private sector and entities from the three spheres of government on the day following the President's State of the Nation Address.

This year the Challenge again raises funds for the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation.

The Foundation's partner entity, the Adopt-A-School Foundation, will use the funds to construct ablution facilities at schools in support of the Department of Basic Education's SAFE Initiative, which stands for Sanitation Appropriate for Education.

This is an important investment in the dignity of learners and staff at schools and a contribution to social infrastructure in the country.

The President is honoured that his playing partner this year is 14-year-old Botshepehi Phakoe of Mangaung in the Free State. Botshepehi is one of the best young players in the Free State Junior Union.

On Friday evening, the President will express his appreciation to the event's sponsors and partners at a prize-giving dinner where players will be recognised as well.

Details of the Golf Challenge are as follows:

Date: Friday, 09 February 2024
Time: 09h00 
Venue: Atlantic Beach Golf Club, Melkbosstrand, Cape Town

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency: Republic of South Africa.

Read moreRamaphosa to participate in annual Presidential Golf Challenge
9 February 2024

Presidential Golf Challenge underway for charity

Location: News

Presidential Golf Challenge underway for charity

In a bid to raise funds for the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, President Cyril Ramaphosa this morning teed off at the annual Presidential Golf Challenge (PGC).

The PGC was held  at the  Atlantic Beach Golf Estate, Melkbosstrand, following the President’s State of the Nation Address on Thursday night.

According to the Presidency, the funds will be used by the foundation’s partner, the Adopt-A-School Foundation, to construct ablution facilities as part of the Department of Basic Education’s SAFE Initiative, which stands for Sanitation Appropriate for Education.

“This is an important investment in the dignity of learners and staff at schools and a contribution to social infrastructure in the country.

“The President is honoured that his playing partner this year is 14-year-old Botshepehi Phakoe of Mangaung in the Free State. Botshepehi is one of the best young players in the Free State Junior Union,” the Presidency said.

Load shedding

Answering questions from the media on load shedding on the side lines of the golf challenge, President Ramaphosa said government cannot give an exact date on when the rolling power outages will stop.

“It is a constant problem for South Africans. We know that and everybody feels it. And it’s not comfortable at all. In fact, it does sometimes evoke a lot of anger. But as I’ve said, we do have the resilience as South Africans to keep on ensuring that we do hope for a better time. And a better time is coming.

“The issue of the ending of load shedding is a moot one. Everybody wants to know…when is it ending. When you give them a date and there’s load shedding thereafter, they say you were lying and you make empty, false promises. So we are not going to do that because this is a process.

“Through the National Electricity Crisis Committee, everything is put in place. All the pillars are put in place to finally address load shedding. It would be wonderful and ideal to give a date but processes like these that are engineering based…you cannot really put a date to,” he said.

SARS

Responding to questions on the extension of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) boss, Commissioner Edward Kieswetter’s tenure, President Ramaphosa batted away any suggestions of a crisis at the revenue collector’s office.

He explained that with Kieswetter’s term coming to an end, measures need to be put in place to facilitate a “proper transition”.

“So there’s no crisis. Nobody should be in any form of angst because the process is being handled very, very properly. And I’m happy to have a Commissioner of Revenue like him who is very cooperative; who is committed to his work; who is diligent and who has revived SARS from the grips of state capture.

“So when I was talking about revamping our institutions last night [at the State of the Nation Address], I highlighted that SARS is one of those. It is back to its old, efficient self having been taken into the depths of state capture for a while.

“We have reclaimed it and I’m rather glad that it is one of those institutions that is serving the people of South Africa well,” President Ramaphosa said.

Earlier this week, the President agreed to extend the Commissioner’s tenure beyond the end of his term at the revenue collector. 

 The Commissioner’s contract of employment was set to end on 30 April, where after a new Commissioner would be appointed. 

In March 2019, President Ramaphosa appointed Kieswetter, in terms of Section 6 of the South African Revenue Service Act, for a five-year term that started on 1 May 2019.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Fri, 02/09/2024 - 13:07

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Read morePresidential Golf Challenge underway for charity
9 February 2024

Traversing International Relocations: The Role of Cultural Intelligence

Location: MyPR

As the Managing Director of Crown Relocations South Africa, a leading force in international relocation, Ian Pettey has witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with moving families across borders. International relocations represent not just a change in geography but a profound shift in culture, lifestyle, and identity. In this era of globalisation, where …

Read moreTraversing International Relocations: The Role of Cultural Intelligence
9 February 2024

Afroteq Advisory Appoints Seipati Leboko As Business Unit Head Of Occupational Health, Safety And Environment

Location: MyPR

Afroteq Advisory, a division of the AFMS Group, is an integrated multidisciplinary consulting firm offering project management, advisory and training services to the built environment sector. We are proud to announce the appointment of Seipati Leboko as the Business Unit Head of Occupational Health, Safety and Environment in Gauteng. Seipati is a seasoned SHEQ Manager …

Read moreAfroteq Advisory Appoints Seipati Leboko As Business Unit Head Of Occupational Health, Safety And Environment
9 February 2024

Efficiency in Material Handling: The Ultimate Guide to Forklift Hire and Rentals

Location: MyPR

In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency and productivity are the keystones of success, especially in industries requiring heavy lifting and material handling. Forklifts, the backbone of warehouse operations, construction sites, and manufacturing facilities, are crucial in moving heavy goods safely and swiftly. However, the capital expenditure of purchasing a forklift outright can be substantial, making …

Read moreEfficiency in Material Handling: The Ultimate Guide to Forklift Hire and Rentals
9 February 2024

Government supports call for men to commit to halt GBVF

Location: News

Government supports call for men to commit to end GBVF

President Cyril Ramaphosa says government supports the call for a pledge that men in South Africa are invited to take to demonstrate their personal commitment to ending gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“Our ultimate goal is to end gender-based violence altogether by mobilising all of society,” President Ramaphosa said during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday night. 

Highlighting government’s efforts and achievements to end the scourge, which he described as the second pandemic in the country, the Head of State said together with civil society, government developed the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on gender-based violence as a society-wide response to this pandemic.

“Around R21 billion was dedicated over the medium term to the implementation of the six pillars of the plan, including the economic empowerment of women. 

“New laws were introduced to strengthen the response of the criminal justice system gender based violence and provide better support to survivors of such violence,” the President said.

The NSP on GBVF is driven by six pillars, including:
• Extensive legal reform;
• Support for survivors through the provision of evidence toolkits at police stations; 
• Psychology and social services;
• The establishment of the GBVF Response Fund which commits both government and the private sector to fund the fight against GBVF;
• Support for Thuthuzela and Khuseleka Care centres, which provide vital services for GBV survivors; and 
• The economic empowerment of women.

The President said women are also in the process of developing their own pledge.

As the country celebrates 30 years of freedom, the President noted that government has safeguarded and promoted the basic rights in the Constitution and these include freedom of speech, association, and belief. 

“We have defended media freedom and the independence of the judiciary. We have protected and advanced the rights of members of the LGBTQI [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and intersex] community, and continue to combat all forms of prejudice and intolerance,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa further reaffirmed government’s commitment to continue to build an inclusive economy, focusing on the empowerment of black and women South Africans, advancing workers’ rights, intensifying land reform, and pursuing a just energy transition that leaves no one behind.

“We will continue to strengthen our law enforcement institutions, tackle gender-based violence and fight corruption to make South Africa a safe place for all. We will continue to strengthen local government, professionalise the public service and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions.

“We will continue to position our economy to grow and compete in a fast-changing world, to support small businesses, to give young people economic opportunities and to provide social protection to the vulnerable,” President Ramaphosa said.

This year’s SONA, which was the last one for the sixth administration, was held under the theme: “Following up on our commitments: Making your future work better”. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 02/09/2024 - 11:53

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9 February 2024

Why South Africa’s networks need to defend against the devastating effect of SIM swap fraud

Location: News
iiDENTIFii

Mobile networks must not be complacent about SIM swap fraud and they need to prioritise the protection of customers. This is according to Gur Geva, Founder and CEO of iiDENTIFii (www.iiDENTIFii.com).

“Although SABRIC has noted a slight decline in reported SIM swap fraud in its latest report, mobile service providers still need to tighten up their data security to protect against fraudsters using false identities and SIM swap scams,” says Geva.

This is particularly relevant as telecommunications and banking industries become increasingly intertwined. Banks now offer mobile services, while mobile network operators provide financial services, and so there is a convergence between the regulatory requirements of FICA and RICA. This shift has led to heightened identity theft risks, requiring mobile operators to adopt stringent identity verification practices inspired by the financial sector's standards.

Operators need to define practical, robust security solutions that adhere to and surpass current telco legislation. Geva says, “In order to combat SIM swap and identity fraud, networks should focus on the provision of simple, scalable and safe digital identity. This has a far-reaching impact, not only on safer mobile use and the protection of consumers from fraud, but also on the ability of consumers to access mobile, financial and governmental services through their phones.” 

The current state of SIM swap fraud

SABRIC's 2022 crime report (https://apo-opa.co/3HRlavN) notes that mobile banking fraud saw a 9% reduction in reported incidents in 2022, and that SIM swap incidents declined from 87% in 2021 to 76% (7 657) in 2022. While this reduction is positive, there are still thousands of SIM swap fraud incidents reported each year.

“Cyber-crime will continue to evolve, and networks need to be prepared for increasingly sophisticated SIM swap attacks. Their strongest line of defense is in securing the identity of a person's identity to each SIM,” says Geva.

The effectiveness of this approach has been demonstrated in nations such as Kenya, Namibia, Pakistan and Russia, which have all been enforcing varying levels of biometric SIM registration to deter fraudsters.

Increasing legislation to prevent attacks

The nature of these SIM-related crimes goes beyond financial crimes and SIM swap fraud.

“For the cost of a few unregistered SIM cards at R5 each from a roadside vendor, planning a murder becomes untraceable by police through RICA, and thus virtually risk-free,” says Natasha Mazzone, the DA's Shadow Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies in an article on RICA legislation (https://apo-opa.co/3HRtZp4).

In 2022, ICASA published draft regulations that would require mobile network operators to collect subscriber biometric data. ICASA said these regulations would reduce instances of mobile number hijacking via fraudulent SIM swaps and number porting. However, this was met by hesitance from consumers and organisations such as Communications Risk Information Centre (COMRiC). Consumers feared that the collection of biometric data would compromise their privacy, while COMRiC felt that biometrics as a single solution was too limited in its scope and challenging to implement at scale.

What networks can do

Mobile networks (as owners of the SIM and the technology behind it) should consider implementing clear strategies and leading technologies to mitigate SIM swap fraud and protect their customers. And while SIM swaps constitute one problem, identity fraud is far more problematic.

“When it comes to securing a person's identity, we believe that face biometrics offer the most secure solution,” adds Geva.

In South Africa, face biometrics would be able to verify whether the person registering a SIM is live and doing it in the present moment, as well as binding the SIM card to that applicant's identity and facial image. It can validate barcoded identification documents presented, RICA or FICA details and a facial image back to the Department of Home Affairs. This prevents identity fraud and proves that the individual applying for services online is a ‘live' person and not a deepfake. SIM swaps become a moot point, as all SIM cards are then data bound to a legitimate individual with accurate RICA requirements.

The question of surveillance

Biometrics are deeply personal, but opt-in biometrics do not open consumers up to surveillance. 

“Because biometric technology only started making its way into the mainstream relatively recently, consumers are still unsure of what the technology entails and how it may be used. This, naturally, leads to some misconceptions and fears. The reality is that opt-in biometrics are the most secure way to identify someone – and keep their information and identity safe from misuse – and these differ a great deal from biometrics used for surveillance,” says Geva.

Remote biometric onboarding links a person's biometric data, whether their face or fingerprint, to their account so that they, and only they, can access the account safely and securely. This protects them from fraud.

The question of implementation

In terms of successfully rolling out biometric identity for mobile phones in Africa to protect consumers and companies from SIM-related crime, two key criteria need to be met: scalability and accessibility.

“I urge network providers in Africa to invest in enterprise-grade identity platforms that are robust, scalable and built to handle growing subscribers and fraud-prevention demands,” says Geva. “For example, most of South Africa's leading banks have relied on our own enterprise-grade platform at iiDENTIFI to roll out fast and effective mobile banking verification initiatives at scale. This has proven that, with a simple, fast and friction-free tool, consumers are willing to pass through an extra layer of digital protection.”

“SIM swaps are still a major problem, and networks still have a way to go in protecting consumers. By securing identity for all SIM at the moment of registration, it is possible to make great leaps in providing protection against SIM-related crimes.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of iiDENTIFii.

About iiDENTIFii:
iiDENTIFii is an award-winning face authentication and identity verification platform that distinguishes itself through its use of 3D and 4D Liveness® detection. Purpose-built for enterprises across Africa and the Middle East, iiDENTIFii enables frictionless, scalable customer onboarding in seconds from anywhere and on any device. Founded in 2018, iiDENTIFii has become a proven key partner in multiple tier 1 African banks. The technology plugs seamlessly into existing infrastructures, including mobile and web-based platforms. www.iiDENTIFii.com

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Read moreWhy South Africa’s networks need to defend against the devastating effect of SIM swap fraud
9 February 2024

Historic Win Fueling Proteas Women Ahead Of Final ODI Against Aussies

Location: Sport

SYDNEY: In a thrilling turn of events, the Proteas Women finds themselves on the cusp of making further history as they...

Read moreHistoric Win Fueling Proteas Women Ahead Of Final ODI Against Aussies
9 February 2024

Indulge in an Unforgettable Valentine’s Day Experience at Clico Restaurant

Location: MyPR

This Valentine’s Day, elevate your celebrations with an exclusive offering from Clico Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Rosebank. Prepare for an unparalleled romantic experience as Clico Restaurant presents a meticulously crafted Valentine’s Day menu, set to captivate your senses and create memories to cherish forever. Escape the ordinary and book one of only 8 …

Read moreIndulge in an Unforgettable Valentine’s Day Experience at Clico Restaurant
9 February 2024

State of the Nation Address in numbers

Location: News

State of the Nation Address in numbers

President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday.

Below is the SONA in numbers: 

Social Assistance 

 

  • More than 26 million – South Africans who continue to receive social assistance every month provided by the democratic state.
  • Some 9 million – unemployed people receiving the Special Social Relief of Distress Grant every month.
  •  

Unemployment and Job Creation

 

  • Two million ­– people who lost their jobs due to COVID-19.
  • 15 to 24 – the ages of millions of young people who were not in employment, education or training, by 8 February 2024.
  • More than 1.7 million – work and livelihood opportunities created through the Expanded Public Works Programme.
  • More than 1 million – school assistants placed in 23 000 schools through the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
  • 23 000 – schools where more than one million school assistants have been placed through the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
  • From 8 million to over 16.7 million – the increase in the number of South Africans in employment since 1994 until 2024.
  • Over 4.3 million –  young people engaged on SAYouth.mobi, a zero-rated platform for unemployed young people to access opportunities for learning and earning.
  • 1.6 million – young people who have secured opportunities through the SAYouth.mobi, a zero-rated platform for unemployed young people to access opportunities for learning and earning.

 

Crime and Corruption

 

  • More than 200 – accused persons being prosecuted by the National Prosecuting Authority.
  • R14 billion – value of freezing orders granted to the National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit for state capture-related cases.
  • Around R8.6 billion – value of corrupt proceeds that have been returned to the State.
  • R4.8 billion – unpaid taxes collected by the South African Revenue Service.
  • R64 billion – value of civil litigation instituted by the Special Investigating Unit.
  • 5 000 – extra police officers deployed to Public Order Policing.
  • Over 285 000 – arrests made by the South African Police Service since May 2023 through Operation Shanela.
  • 20 000 – police officers recruited over the last two years.
  • 10 000 – police officers to be recruited in the year to come.
  • Over 100 000 – people stopped by the new Border Management Authority from entering South Africa illegally.

 

Energy

 

  • More than 2 500 – megawatts of solar and wind power connected to the grid.
  • More than 120 – new private energy projects in development.
  • More than 14 000 – kilometres of new transmission lines to be built over the coming years to accommodate renewable energy.
  • Around R170 billion to almost R240 billion – increases in the value of financing pledges for the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan in the past year.

 

Economy and Investment

 

  • More than 60 – ships waiting to berth at the Port of Durban in mid-November 2023.
  • 12 – ships waiting to berth at the Port of Durban at the end of January 2024.
  • R1.5 trillion – value of new investment commitments raised through five South Africa Investment Conferences.
  • R500 billion – value of new investment commitments raised through five South Africa Investment Conferences that have already flowed into the economy.
  • Approximately 39% – black ownership of mining by 2024, compared with 2% in 2004.

 

Road Infrastructure

 

  • Nearly 25 000 – kilometres of roads being managed by the South African National Roads Agency Limited.
  • More than 1 200 – projects to the value of R120 billion awarded by the South African National Roads Agency Limited in the past five years.
  • R120 billion – the value of more than 1 200 projects awarded by the South African National Roads Agency Limited in the past five years.

 

Land

 

  • 25% – farmland owned by black South Africans through redistribution.
  • 30% – target of farmland to be owned by black South Africans through redistribution by 2030.

 

Labour

 

  • Around 1 000 – black industrialists supported with funding and other forms of support in the last five years.
  • More than 90 000 – workers employed by black-owned firms which contribute many billions of rands to the South African economy.
  • About 200 000 – workers who obtained ownership of shares in the companies in which they work.
  • Over half a million – status of worker ownership in companies in the South African economy.
  • Over 6 million – workers whose wages were raised by the introduction of the National Minimum Wage.

 

Matric

 

  • 82.9% – latest matric pass rate; the highest ever.

 

Poverty Alleviation

 

  • 71.1% – South African population living in poverty in 1993.
  • 60.9% – the drop in the poverty rate by 2010.
  • 55.5% – the drop in the poverty rate by 2020.

 

Health

 

  • More than 100 000 ­– South Africans who lost their lives to COVID-19.
  • 54 years – life expectancy in 2003.
  • 65 years – life expectancy in 2023.
  • 95% – persons diagnosed with HIV who know their status.
  • 79% – persons who receive antiretroviral treatment out of the 95% diagnosed with HIV who know their status.
  • 93% – persons virally suppressed out of the 95% diagnosed with HIV who know their status.

 

Housing, Water and Telecommunications

 

  • Nearly nine out of every 10 – households living in a formal dwelling.
  • Only 6 out of 10 – people who had access to clean drinking water at the end of apartheid.
  • 9 out of 10 – South Africans with access to clean drinking water by 2024.
  • 79% – households with access to the internet in 2022.

 

Gender-Based Violence and Femicide

 

  • Around R21 billion – money dedicated over the medium term to implement the six pillars of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence and Femicide, including the economic empowerment of women.

 

Janine
Fri, 02/09/2024 - 10:53

100 views
Read moreState of the Nation Address in numbers
9 February 2024

Nearly 100,000 households in Msunduzi have no refuse collection

Location: News

As illegal dumps mushroom, the municipality is trying to expand rubbish collection services

Read moreNearly 100,000 households in Msunduzi have no refuse collection
9 February 2024

CSA Unveil Proteas Women Squad For First-Ever Test Against Australia

Location: Sport

SYDNEY: Cricket South Africa is thrilled to introduce the Proteas Women squad gearing up for a historic one-off Test match...

Read moreCSA Unveil Proteas Women Squad For First-Ever Test Against Australia
9 February 2024

Stellar Line-up at Qlik Connect 2024 Charts Future of Data and AI

Location: Business

Orlando, February 8, 2024 — Qlik®, a global leader in data analytics and integration, today unveils new details for its upcoming annual conference, Qlik Connect 2024. As companies increasingly recognise the immense value AI brings to their operations, the event arrives at a pivotal moment. It offers a platform for businesses to bridge the gap …

Read moreStellar Line-up at Qlik Connect 2024 Charts Future of Data and AI
9 February 2024

Australia’s Dramatic One-Wicket Win Over Pakistan

Location: Sport

The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 final will see Australia facing off against India after the former edged Pakistan in a thrilling contest in Benoni. If India’s narrow win over South Africa in the first semi-final was not enough, Benoni bore witness to another nail-biter as Australia beat Pakistan by one wicket to …

Read moreAustralia’s Dramatic One-Wicket Win Over Pakistan
9 February 2024

SONA 2024: Cyril’s wonderland but a tragedy for Tintswalo

Location: News

Dear Editor The 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA) will be the last delivered by an African National Congress (ANC) President with its own majority in the National Assembly. As South Africa eagerly approaches its 7th General Elections later this year, it will remember the five-year term from which it has emerged under President …

Read moreSONA 2024: Cyril’s wonderland but a tragedy for Tintswalo
9 February 2024

Darge and Gilchrist return for France encounter

Location: Sport

Co-Captain Rory Darge and second row Grant Gilchrist return to international duty on Saturday, as Scotland host France in the second round of the 2024 Guinness Men’s Six Nations at Scottish Gas Murrayfield. The inclusion of Darge, who will lead the team alongside Finn Russell, and Gilchrist comes on the back of news that Luke …

Read moreDarge and Gilchrist return for France encounter
9 February 2024

Investment in infrastructure gains momentum

Location: News

Investment in infrastructure gains momentum

President Cyril Ramaphosa says investment in infrastructure is gaining momentum, and new and innovative funding mechanisms will be used to increase the construction of infrastructure.

Delivering his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday evening, President Ramaphosa said to deal with severe inefficiencies in the freight logistics system, government is taking action to improve the country’s ports and rail network and restore them to world-class standards.

“We have set out a clear roadmap to stabilise the performance of Transnet and reform our logistics system. Working closely with business and labour, we have established dedicated teams to turn around five strategic corridors that transport goods for export purposes.

“The number of ships waiting to berth at the Port of Durban – which has experienced severe congestion in recent months – has reduced from more than 60 ships in mid-November to just 12 ships at the end of January,” Ramaphosa said.

The President also noted that Transnet has appointed an international terminal operator to help expand and improve its largest terminal at the Port of Durban, and government is overhauling the freight rail system by allowing private rail operators to access the rail network.

“With the current conflict in the Middle East affecting shipping traffic through the Suez Canal, South Africa is well positioned to offer bunkering services for ships that will be rerouted via our shores.

Broadband and investment

“We completed the auction of broadband spectrum after more than a decade of delays, resulting in new investment, lower data costs and improved network reach and quality. These reforms have a profound impact in a society in which access to the internet has risen dramatically over the last decade,” the President told a joint sitting of the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces.

He also noted that less than half of all households had internet access in 2011, compared to 79% of households in 2022.

“Just this week, we published new regulations to reform our visa system, which will make it easier to attract the skills that our economy needs and create a dynamic ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.

“We raised R1.5 trillion in new investment commitments through five South Africa Investment Conferences, of which over R500 billion has already flowed into the economy.”

Bulk water projects

The President further announced that several bulk water projects are under construction across the country to improve water supply to millions of residents in villages, towns, and cities.

“The Department of Water and Sanitation aims to enhance water resource management by initiating infrastructure projects to secure water supply and diversifying water sources to reduce dependence on surface water.”

The President highlighted some of the water infrastructure projects, which are in progress or completed, and these include the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, Umzimvubu, Hazelmere Dam, uMkhomazi Water Project, Clanwilliam Dam, Tzaneen Dam, Loskop, Mandlakazi, pipeline from Jozini Dam, Giyani and the pipeline from Nandoni Dam.  

Included among these are also Pilanesberg Water, Vaal Gamagara and the pipeline from the Vaal River to Hothazel.

“In the Eastern Cape, the Msikaba and Mtentu bridges are beginning to rise over the landscape and will be among the highest in Africa once complete. The steel used for part of the project is fabricated in Mpumalanga, and the iron ore comes from the Northern Cape,” he said.

He also noted that in the past five years, the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), which manages nearly 25 000 km of roads, has awarded more than 1 200 projects to the value of R120 billion.

“In November last year, Cabinet approved a framework for high-speed rail, focusing initially on the Johannesburg to Durban corridor,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Thu, 02/08/2024 - 21:06

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Read moreInvestment in infrastructure gains momentum
9 February 2024

Durban builds boreholes to relieve water crisis

Location: News

“We were hoping that the borehole was going to pump water into our yards. The borehole is too far from my house”

Read moreDurban builds boreholes to relieve water crisis
9 February 2024

Government determined to tackle pressing issue of youth unemployment

Location: News

Government determined to tackle pressing issue of youth unemployment

As the country marks 30 years of democracy, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated government's commitment to tackling the pressing issue of youth unemployment. 

Delivering the final State of the Nation Address (SONA) for the sixth administration, President Ramaphosa emphasised that government is determined to take immediate action in providing employment opportunities for young individuals, underscoring the urgency of addressing this crucial challenge.

“For despite the remarkable achievements of the last 30 years, many of democracy’s children still face great challenges. Millions of young people aged 15 to 24 years are currently not in employment, education or training.

“There are many who have a matric, a diploma or a degree who cannot find a job, or do not have the means to start a business. While economic growth is essential to reduce unemployment, we cannot wait to provide the work that many of democracy’s children need,” the President said. 

Despite the challenges, the President highlighted that government has taken steps to address the youth unemployment crisis. 

Three years ago, building on the success of the Expanded Public Works Programme, government launched the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES) as part of government’s response to the pandemic, but its success in enabling employment creation continues to benefit many.

Through this programme, the sixth administration has created more than 1.7 million work and livelihood opportunities. 

Through the stimulus, more than 1 million school assistants were placed in 23 000 schools, providing participants with valuable work experience while improving learning outcomes. 

Through the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention (PYEI), government has established SAYouth.mobi as a zero-rated platform for unemployed young people to access opportunities for learning and earning. 

Over 4.3 million young people are now engaged on the network and 1.6 million have so far secured opportunities. 

The President added that working together with the National Youth Development Agency, they have set up a number of initiatives to provide opportunities for young people including the National Youth Service and the Youth Employment Service.

“These programmes matter because work matters to people. The NYDA has played a key role in assisting a number of young people to start their own businesses. Having a job does not only provide an income, it is fundamental to people’s sense of self-worth, dignity, hope, purpose and inclusion. 

“From the depths of deprivation and inequality, we have worked over 30 years to ensure that all South Africans have an equal chance to prosper. 

“It is not enough to recognise the injustices of the past; we need to correct them. We have introduced laws and undertaken programmes to enable black South Africans and women to advance in the workplace, to become owners and managers, to acquire land and build up assets,” the President said. 

The President further highlighted that the proportion of jobs in executive management held by black people increased almost five-fold between 1996 and 2016. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 02/08/2024 - 21:12

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Read moreGovernment determined to tackle pressing issue of youth unemployment
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