Shack dwellers build makeshift speed bumps on ‘deadly’ road
At least two people died and three shacks were destroyed in a taxi accident on Old Faure Road near Mfuleni on Friday
News
Exclusive Networks Africa bolsters security portfolio with HCLSoftware agreement
Johannesburg, 29 January 2024 – Exclusive Networks Africa has secured an agreement with HCLSoftware, the software business division of HCLTech, which will see the global trusted cybersecurity specialist for digital infrastructure add the HCLBigFix endpoint management platform to its existing cybersecurity offering. According to Anton Jacobsz, Managing Director of Exclusive Networks Africa, the agreement came …
IEC to host voter registration this weekend
IEC to host voter registration this weekend
The Electoral Commission (IEC) will on Wednesday host a media briefing to unveil plans for the second national voter registration weekend scheduled for 3 and 4 February 2024.
The second national voter registration weekend is part of the Electoral Commission's effort to ensure that South Africans, who were unable to register to vote during the first registration drive in November 2023, have another opportunity to do so.
Existing voters will also use the opportunity to update and/or change their details before the voters’ roll is closed for the 2024 General Elections.
During the briefing, the Electoral Commission will shed light on its countrywide rollout plan ahead of the voter registration weekend.
Last week, the IEC announced that South Africans living abroad were given the opportunity to register at South Africa’s 120 high commissions, embassies and consulates on January 26, 27 and 28.
Registration for inmates at correctional centres is scheduled to take place between January 30 and February 1.
“The Commission has been informed that due to the transfer factor for inmates, correctional centres will also be accepting IDs for inmates serving sentences in distant towns or provinces. These identity documents will be transferred to the relevant facilities where inmates are incarcerated,” the IEC said in a statement.
The Department of Correctional Services has indicated that it will put all necessary measures in place to ensure that IDs are kept safe.
The IEC emphasizes that the online voter registration portal will remain accessible until the date of the proclamation of the elections, providing an additional avenue for voter registration.
According to the IEC, 23 296 voting stations will open from 08h00 to 17h00 on Saturday, 3 February and Sunday, 4 February to allow new voters to register and existing voters to check and if necessary, update their registration details ahead of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.
Following the first registration weekend held in November 2023, the voters’ roll contains 26.8 million voters.
The Commission said it is hopeful that the second registration weekend will build on and surpass the satisfactory turnout recorded in November.
Citizens aged 16 years and older can register to vote. All they need is a South African identity document (the green barcoded ID book, smartcard ID or a valid temporary ID certificate). However, only those aged 18 and older can vote.
When registering, voters will need to provide their address or a description of where they live to allow the Electoral Commission to place them on the correct segment of the voters’ roll. However, proof of address is not a requirement to register as a voter.
The Electoral Commission helpline -- 0800 11 8000 -- is available to assist citizens with queries and information about the registration process and information related to locations of voting stations. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 13:09
353 views
Unlocking Business Success: Click Results Shares Crucial Insights on Website Speed Optimization
Pretoria, South Africa. In a digital age where information is sought at lightning speed, Click Results, a leading digital marketing firm based in Pretoria, brings forth indispensable insights on the critical impact of website speed on businesses. In today’s competitive online landscape, the need for swift, efficient websites cannot be overstated. In a recent communication, …
SAPS notes report on July unrest
SAPS notes report on July unrest
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, together with the management of the police service, has noted the report released on The National Investigative Hearing into the July Unrest by the South African Human Rights Commisson (SAHRC) and Cultural, Religious and Linguistic (CRL) Commission.
The report is a detailed look into the July 2021 unrest that unfolded in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), during which some 350 people lost their lives. The full report can be found on https://www.sahrc.org.za/home/21/files/JULY%20UNREST%20REPORT%20FINAL_29%20JAN%202024.pdf.
The report contains various recommendations and findings on the events that took place in July 2021, including the policing of the unrest, the gathering of intelligence and the response of the SAPS.
SAPS said in a statement on Monday that while it will study the report in detail, "it is important to highlight notable progress made where key milestones were achieved to ensure the SAPS is better prepared to respond to such incidents".
READ | SAHRC releases July 2021 unrest report
Crime intelligence
SAPS said the filling of critical and key vacancies within the crime intelligence environment has been addressed, such as the appointment of a permanent Divisional Commissioner and a Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection.
All structures within the Crime Intelligence environment are being reviewed to enhance service delivery in all provinces.
"It is also important to note that the Crime Intelligence environment has greatly improved its mandate of detecting and collecting of information on crime, which informs and assists in the coordination and planning of joint multidisciplinary operations with other key role players in the fight against crime," the statement read.
Human and physical resources
Through Project 10 000, the SAPS trained and deployed 20 000 police officers in the last two years to capacitate frontline policing services, as well as specialised units with a key focus on the Public Order Police (POP) unit.
Seventy-nine police officers have been trained and deployed as drone pilots to assist in crime prevention and policing operations.
Public Order Police
In the past year, 5 000 police officers have been trained in crowd management and deployed to serve in the POP unit.
R150 million was also allocated to procure resources to bolster crowd management equipment for the unit.
Training has also been enhanced for members and now includes crowd psychology to improve the management and policing of crowds and gatherings.
The SAPS has also benchmarked and compared with other police organisations, in terms of use of the minimum force to disperse large crowds and found that its current equipment and techniques, such as the use of water canons, rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse violent crowd situations, is in line with international standards.
However, the SAPS is continuously researching and updating training material in respect of techniques and equipment in use during crowd management to minimise the risk of human rights violation and prevent the excessive use of force.
Rebuilding trust between SAPS and communities
The Ministry of Police is continuously taking part in community participation programmes through community engagements during izimbizo, walkabouts and policing operations such as roadblocks.
Various community policing concepts are being implemented by the SAPS.
"Through the Community Police Forum (CPF) and sector crime forums, SAPS is able to forge and promote a shared responsibility on crime prevention and community safety.
"All 1 163 police stations currently have fully functional CPF forums. R70million was allocated in this financial year to resource and capacitate these CPF structures," SAPS said.
Case management
SAPS arrested 5 341 suspects, with 505 of those arrested being found guilty of various charges ranging from murder, attempted murder, arson, possession of stolen property, and malicious damage to property.
A total of 394 cases are still in court
Incitement to commit violence cases
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) is currently investigating eight cases of incitement to commit violence.
The DPCI has arrested 68 suspects, 65 of them were charged for contravening the Protection of Constitutional Democracy against Terrorist and Related Activities Act 33 of 2004 (POCDATARA).
One accused has already been sentenced to 12 years direct imprisonment for incitement to commit public violence and conspiracy to commit public violence.
"The SAPS respects the work done by the two Commissions, especially as they are Chapter 9 institutions and will respond accordingly in terms of the timeframes reflected in the report," said SAPS. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 15:06
215 views
SAHRC releases July 2021 unrest report
SAHRC releases July 2021 unrest report
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has released its report into the July 2021 unrest that unfolded in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), during which some 350 people lost their lives.
The violence and destruction also caused damage to infrastructure and businesses costing South Africa’s economy some R50 billion, with a further two million jobs being lost or affected.
Speaking at the release of the report, SAHRC Commissioner Philile Ntuli said the commission found that myriad factors contributed to the outbreak of destruction and violence during the riots.
“The violence and destruction were symptomatic of unresolved systemic conditions, including post-COVID-19 economic recovery, high unemployment, lawlessness, discrimination, socio-economic divides, and issues within the security sector.
“The Commission concluded that organised groups and individuals opportunistically exploited these conditions to attempt to usurp the rule of law,” Ntuli said.
The Commission’s work focused on four issues namely:
- The social, economic, spatial, and political factors prevalent in the various affected areas, and the extent to which these played a role in the unrest.
- The causes of the alleged racially motivated attacks and killings in the country.
- The causes of the apparent lapses in law enforcement by State Security agencies, particularly in the South African Police Service, and the role of private security companies in the unrest.
- The causes of the July unrest, with particular focus on Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
The SAHRC made a series of findings on and recommendations for each issue - including on the South African Police Service and the country’s intelligence services.
The full report can be obtained at https://www.sahrc.org.za/home/21/files/JULY%20UNREST%20REPORT%20FINAL_29%20JAN%202024.pdf.
Ntuli described the unrest as a well-orchestrated and a “violent culmination of deep-rooted political and social challenges” that South Africa had been facing.
“The unrest was largely attributed to typologies of organisation and orchestration of public discord, crime and protest.
“Evidence indicated that the acts during the unrest were well-orchestrated, including the blocking of the N3, destruction of factories and warehouses, attack on government communication facilities, and bombing and theft of ATMs. These events were interconnected and required significant resources.
“Two types of actors were identified during the unrest: primary actors, who led and executed widespread destruction, and secondary actors, who participated in theft. The timing of the events coincided with the incarceration of former President Jacob Zuma, leading to a perception that the two were related,” Ntuli said.
Ntuli said while evidence suggests that the unrest was well orchestrated, the Commission “did not receive clear evidence identifying specific groups or individuals as primary actors, while… the common purpose or intention behind the unrest remained unclear”.
In her concluding remarks, Ntuli said the July 2021 unrest must be a “marker and a lesson” as South Africa continues its journey “from our colonial past”.
“Building a united, inclusive, safe and prosperous South Africa requires confronting the past, acknowledging present challenges, and working together for positive change. The unrest was a wake-up call, nudging us all to the reality of the fragility of the peace and security that some enjoy.
“It was a reminder that the process of democracy and constitutionalism has to benefit all, if it is to be sustained. It was a confrontation with the reality that the Bill of Rights must be realised for all, and particularly for those of whom the same rights were deprived by the colonial and apartheid governments,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 13:23
270 views
Interview: U19 Cricket World Cup – Harry Dixon (Australia) and Vishva Lahiru (Sri Lanka)
In an U19 Cricket World Cup on 28 January 2024, Australia beat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Kimberley. Sri Lanka 208 (49.5 overs) v Australia 211/4 (48.5 overs). In Kimberley, Sri Lanka were jolted early after they opted to bat first. Pulindu Perera fell in the very first over with Callum Vidler striking for …
Gauteng sees surge in acts of vandalism targeting traffic signals
Gauteng sees surge in acts of vandalism targeting traffic signals
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has appealed to members of the public to report acts of vandalism following a surge in vandalism and theft targeting traffic signals within the province.
“The department is faced with an enormous battle of maintaining and protecting the province’s road traffic signals from the rampant theft and vandalism. This battle has jumped to over R30 million in the past year (2023) alone, with over 400 of signalised traffic intersections having been vandalised,” the department said on Monday.
In certain areas, the department said it had taken the interim measure of converting signalised intersections into four-way stops to enhance safety, while actively seeking alternative and sustainable methods for maintaining traffic signals.
“The criminal activities surrounding these incidents are inflicting economic losses on the province, with replacement and repair costs reaching millions. Rebuilding an intersection, on average, can range between R900 000 and R1 500 000.
“Notably, high-profile intersections such as Hendrik Potgieter and Christiaan De Wet are repeatedly vandalised shortly after repairs, incurring costs exceeding R500 000 per repair.
“These acts of vandalism and theft do not only disrupt the functioning of essential traffic signal services but also pose a threat to public safety,” the department said.
These incidents contribute to increased downtime for traffic signals, resulting in an unfavourable user experience, road crashes, and substantial costs for the department in rebuilding and replacing stolen equipment.
As part of its strategy to combat theft and vandalism, the department is actively engaging in partnerships to create awareness of the hazards associated with these persistent unlawful activities.
The department acknowledges the impact of these incidents and urges the public to exercise caution and understanding, as collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies are underway to address these issues.
Road users should adhere to treating non-functional traffic signals as four-way stops. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 14:20
10 views
Disciplinary tribunal for tardy judge goes behind closed doors
Judiciary watchdog “surprised” by blanket ban
Government activities for the week 29 January to 2 February 2024
Government activities for the week 29 January to 2 February 2024
On Monday, 29 January, the National School of Government is hosting a webinar on artificial intelligence (AI) from 11:00 to 13:00.
On Tuesday, 30 January, is the opening ceremony of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers (COM) responsible for Trade.
On Tuesday, 30 January, Deputy Minister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Pinky Kenana will conduct a frontline monitoring and Back to School Campaign at Vukuhambe Special School in Mdantsane under the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape.
On Wednesday, 31 January, is South Africa’s launch of the preferential trade ceremony and the closing ceremony of the Council of Ministers.
Also on Wednesday, 31 January, President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a Presidential Welisizwe Bridges hand over in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Makhotso Sotyu, will lead the hand over ceremonies of the Kei Mouth and Qoloha plantations, followed by the Wilo and Ntlangaza plantations in the Eastern Cape on Wednesday, 31 January.
On Wednesday, 31 January, The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) will host a series of public engagement sessions to unpack the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2023) that has been published for public comment.
Janine
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 12:17
285 views
Record pass rate for the Matric Class of 2023
The Matric Class of 2023 achieved a pass rate of 82,9%, surpassing the 80,1% recorded the year before with an improvement of 2.8 percentage points. Basic Education Minister Angie Motshkega pointed out that the record-high pass rate, in both number and percentage, was the highest attained in the entire history of the National Senior Certificate …
President to officiate launch of SA’s first shipment under AfCFTA
President to officiate launch of SA’s first shipment under AfCFTA
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday officiate the launch of South Africa's first shipment and preferential trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The launch ceremony will take place at the Port of Durban and occurs on the margins of the 13th AfCFTA Council of Ministers meeting to be held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 30 - 31 January 2024.
South Africa is the first among the four Southern African Customs Union (SACU) countries to practically realise the AfCFTA agreement.
The 37th African Union Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government will, at its annual convention next month, take stock of the progress made thus far in the implementation of the AfCFTA.
The successful implementation of the AfCFTA is expected to lead to diversification of exports, increased productive capacity, acceleration of growth, increased investment, increased employment opportunities and incomes and most importantly, broaden economic inclusion both in South Africa and the rest of the continent.
It provides South African exporters with new market access opportunities to key markets in the African continent and can unlock growth.
President Ramaphosa will be joined by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel; KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube and AfCFTA Secretary General Wamkele Mene. Other dignitaries will include the AfCFTA Council of Ministers, who will witness the first shipment of Proudly South African products exported to the continent.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said the launch ceremony will be a historic step and an instrumental tool in generating meaningful trade on the African continent through the shipment of made-in-South Africa products.
“The main message being sent to Africa and the rest of the world through this event is to illustrate that companies can trade under the AfCFTA procedures to expand their markets within a legally binding framework,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 10:59
154 views
Back-to-School excitement at Adopt-a-School Foundation
There were no tears as confident five and six-year-olds kicked off Day One of Grade R in what will be their 12-year journey through school. There to wish them well were members of the Adopt-a-School Foundation (AAS), a partner entity of Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation. The Foundation will follow their progress and celebrate their successes while …
Man Cons His Way Into Most Secure Intelligence Networks
Dear Editor South Africans are hearing how a 24-year-old allegedly pulled the wool over the eyes of the entire South African intelligence and security community by misrepresenting himself to the South African intelligence and security services as a United Nations ambassador. SA Intelligence structures and SAPS failed to verify any of this information and allowed …
South Africa Qualify for Final Super Six
Fixtures in the Super Six stage of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 were confirmed on Sunday following the conclusion of the last round of group stage matches. The top three teams in Groups A and D combine, as well as the top three sides in Groups B and C, creating two groups …
Regent Business School: A Gateway to Excellence for Matric Graduates
Following the recent announcement of the 2023 Matric results, Regent Business School extends heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for the 2024 academic year to all learners. Navigating the path to higher education can be challenging and sometimes even overwhelming leaving aspiring students looking for a guiding light in choosing the best higher education fit. Regent …
Stage 2 load shedding until further notice
Stage 2 load shedding until further notice
Eskom has announced that Stage 2 load shedding will continue to be implemented until further notice.
By Sunday afternoon, at least 14 759MW of generating capacity was unavailable due to unplanned outages with a further 7639MW out of service due to planned maintenance.
“Despite the return to service of five generating units in the last 36 hours, the need to replenish and stabilise the emergency reserves in preparation for the weekday electricity demand, as well as the marginally deteriorated available generation capacity, necessitates that Stage 2 load shedding continue to be implemented until further notice.
“Eskom will monitor the system closely. A further outlook will be provided on Wednesday afternoon, or any changes will be communicated if required,” the power utility said.
Eskom said teams at power stations are working to ensure the return of generating capacity later this week and called on consumers to use electricity sparingly.
“Eskom Power Station General Managers and their teams will continue to work diligently to ensure that the 2 320MW of generating capacity is returned to service by Wednesday as planned.
“We would like to thank those who heed the call to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00. This lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system, contributing to lower stages of load shedding,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 01/29/2024 - 10:21
157 views
JC Auditors (JCA) Raise Awareness of SAHPRA Medical Device Licence Requirements
JC Auditors (JCA) in Bid to Raise Awareness of SAHPRA Medical Device Licence Requirements January 2024: JC Auditors (JCA), a leader in the certification industry, has embarked on a campaign to raise awareness about the critical importance of ISO 13485 certification as a prerequisite for obtaining medical device licenses in South Africa. South African Health Products …
Viva Jazzart – Jazzart Dance’s Triumphant 50th Birthday Finale – a Tribute to Talent
Cape Town, 29 January 2024 – Getting 2024 off to a rousing start, Jazzart Dance Theatre will present ENCORE on 29 February and 01 March 2024 at the Artscape Theatre, as the finale to its 50th anniversary celebrations. ENCORE will pay homage to artists who have contributed to the history and longevity of Jazzart, including …
First Number One for Jaguar TCS Racing
Pretoria, South Africa – 29 January 2024: Nick Cassidy won the 2024 Diriyah E-Prix for Jaguar TCS Racing, in his third race for the British team. The 29-year-old has achieved a hat-trick of podiums since he joined Jaguar TCS Racing at the start of the season. Nick lined up third on the grid after a …
Africa Mercy® heads to Madagascar after recrewing in East London
Following a recrewing effort, the hospital ship, Africa Mercy®, has now departed from the Port of East London for service within the nation of Madagascar for the next ten months.
During the eight-month refit in Durban's Dormac Shipyard, the ship underwent extensive repairs and maintenance to prolong and improve the vessel's service life and quality of medical services.
Highlights of the Africa Mercy's® refurbishment included an information technology (IT) upgrade enhancing the ship's operating theatre functionality and performance by enabling seamless coordination between the Africa Mercy® and Mercy Ships' latest hospital ship, the Global Mercy™, currently serving the nation of Sierra Leone in West Africa. Upgrades will support the provision of essential training for local doctors, fostering the development of in-country healthcare professionals. Additional improvements included the modernization of the galley, upgrades to the elevator system, and remodeling of several cabin spaces, enabling the ship's community to better serve those in need of surgical care.
Brenda van Straten, Director, Mercy Ships, South Africa, says: “The refit was part of a broader five-year initiative to ensure that the Africa Mercy® can continue the provision of life-changing surgeries and training over the next decade. In parallel with the Ship's refurbishment, Mercy Ships conducted eight Safer Anesthetics from Education (SAFE) courses in South Africa this past year, impacting 236 health professionals in the region.”
The courses in South Africa focused on rural and state hospitals where junior doctors were in vital need of practical approaches to managing their patients. A total of 58 South African anesthetists partnered with Mercy Ships to provide the training.
The ship's service in Madagascar is part of a five-year investment in Education, Training, and Advocacy efforts in combination with a surgical schedule, including maxillofacial and ENT, general, pediatric specialized general, pediatric orthopedic, reconstructive plastics, ophthalmic, women's health, as well as dental care.
“Madagascar faces a shortage of surgical support from both local and international partners, especially in the most vulnerable areas. We appreciate Mercy Ships' approach to reaching underserved communities. As we open 28 district hospitals, each requiring at least two surgeons, we look forward to collaborating with Mercy Ships to strengthen our surgical capacity,” shared Dr. Lethicia Lydia Yasmine, secretary general for the Ministry of Health, Madagascar.
A 2016 study found that only 20% of the population can access surgical services within two hours, and up to 95% of the population would face financial ruin if they required surgery. With approximately 20 physicians for every 100,000 people, surgical treatment feels out of reach for many.
The ten-month field service will be the fourth visit since 1996, with the most recent in 2015-2016. Over these three previous field services, Mercy Ships worked with the government and the Ministry of Health to provide 6,425 surgical procedures and over 52,000 dental procedures. In addition to providing life-changing surgical and dental care, Mercy Ships has a historic focus on education having trained a total of 2,019 healthcare professionals in Madagascar to date.
Mercy Ships still has open volunteer roles for project directors, a clinical training coordinator, informatics specialists, as well as ward nurses, IT professionals, cooks, teachers, plumbers, and electricians. For more information visit www.MercyShips.co.za
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.
Hi-res photos and general Mercy Ships B-Roll video footage are available upon request.
For more information contact:
Brenda van Straten
Director, South Africa
Mercy Ships
Email: info.zaf@mercyships.org
Website: www.MercyShips.co.za
About Mercy Ships:
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.
Each year, more than 3,000 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world's two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical, obstetric and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit MercyShips.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.
Shaping the Future of South African Education: The Transformative Role of Emerging Technologies
By Dr Shahiem Patel – Dean of Regent Business School The future is becoming increasingly difficult to think about, let alone plan for. The vital need for education systems in South Africa to improve and meet the pressing needs of society and our economy only compound this difficulty. The rate at which technology is developing …
Anger at Panyaza Lesufi for failing to fix Roodepoort school for years
The department committed to replacing the school with a brick-and-mortar structure more than five years ago.
Record Stolk 50 Bulldozes Sa U19s Into Super Sixes
POTCHEFSTROOM: A sensational 37-ball 83 by Steve Stolk powered South Africa Under-19 into the Super Sixes stages of the ICC U19...