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Scottish Rugby Chief Executive Mark Dodson has announced his decision to step down from the role in the summer of 2024. Dodson, who was appointed in September 2011, previously had his contract extended in June 2022, with unanimous agreement of the then Board, through to summer 2025. With a revised Governance structure now in place, …
12 January 2024 – The 2024 aQuellé Midmar Mile will once again play a massive role in raising millions of rands for charities this February. Thousands of swimmers are already working hard to raise funds for the various charitable organisations they will be representing at the 8-11 February event. Among them is a group of …
Zhai Auto has added both Jeep® and Fiat brands to their established operations in the Garden Route, complementing their current line-up of Opel, Peugeot, and Citroën. The latest addition forms part of the Stellantis’ expansion of their multifranchise dealer network, making more brands more accessible to more customers around the country. The development continues to …
Dear Editor While the DA understands the necessity of higher education tuition and accommodation increases, years of alleged National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) corruption and mismanagement, dubious supply chain management processes within the sector, and the ANC government’s unsustainable fee-free model for higher education mean that these increase are unfortunately limiting the number of …
As one of South Africa’s leading operations and maintenance (O & M) service providers to the steam and boiler sector, AES occupies a flexible niche where it can optimise existing power infrastructure for heavy industries, while charting gradual sustainability transitions which match clients’ risk profiles and commercial drivers. AES’s Commercial Director, Dennis Williams believes that …
Editor: One cannot bu selfishly wonder if this will affect SAP’s willingness too sponsor sport – like sailings SAP 5O5 World Championships that were held in Gqeberha? SAP’s R2.295bn penalties and repayments to South Africa show alternative dispute resolutions can help resolve state capture cases. OUTA welcomes the resolution, findings and stiff penalties in the …
Capital institutions Edinburgh Rugby and The University of Edinburgh are delighted to announce the beginning of a new, wide-ranging strategic partnership. The foundations of the new deal are built on sporting collaboration, which will see the two institutions working closely together on player recruitment, development, education, and coaching, and to enhance the University’s rugby programme. …
Over 600 beneficiaries in Mpumalanga receive title deeds
The New Year began on a high note for 619 beneficiaries of government-subsidised homes who have received their long-awaited title deeds in Tekwane South in the City of Mbombela in Mpumalanga.
This as Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi and Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete, led a delegation on a two-day service delivery programme in the province.
The two leaders also engaged with contractors, developers and members of the community, amongst others.
The meeting focused on opportunities in the human settlement sector, while discussions focused on policy enhancements as envisaged in the Human Settlements White Paper, released for written public submissions.
According to the Department of Human Settlements, the issuing of title deeds is one of the government priorities to restore full property of ownership and bestow security of tenure.
Other interventions to respond to the gap market include programmes such as First Home Finance, social housing, upgrading informal settlements, and the delivery of fully subsidised government housing.
The beneficiaries included 74-year-old Nana Santumela and 72-year-old Esther Mhlabane, who also receive social services from the government.
“Everywhere, every week, every province's MECs and Mayors must issue title deeds as a matter of urgency to give back dignity to people and ensure home ownership, even for the most vulnerable in society,” said Kubayi.
Affordable housing
Kubayi also made a clarion call to contractors and developers to partner with the government through the Department of Human Settlements to increase affordable housing for people who do not qualify for fully subsidised government homes.
“Contractors should seize these opportunities to increase stock for other programmes such as First Home Finance for the missing middle-income earners. This is one of the growth points for the department,” she added.
The Minister also highlighted various opportunities on offer including the Government Employee Housing Scheme, which enables home ownership for public servants.
The increased delivery of affordable housing stock, the department said, will enable the government to respond to in-migration, which mainly affects Metropolitan Municipalities and secondary cities, such as Mbombela.
“We are working with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) to respond to migration through specific funding. This will enable the government to work with the private sector to deliver more affordable housing units,” said Kubayi.
Economic opportunities
Meanwhile, Tshwete applauded the Mpumalanga provincial government for availing economic opportunities for women-owned contractors, including youth and people with disabilities.
She also emphasised a need for result-driven transformation in the sector in which women can play a much bigger role than they deserve, citing that women always ensure the timely delivery of projects compared to their male counterparts.
Community Schemes Ombud Service
The two-day programme concluded with the launch of the Community Schemes Ombud Service (CSOS) Mbombela Satellite Office, led by Tshwete and MEC for Human Settlements, Speed Mashilo.
The CSOS is an agency of the Department of Human Settlements responsible for regulating the conduct of parties within community schemes. The expansion of the CSOS footprint seeks to better service communities and follows the recent launches of other satellite offices in Limpopo and Western Cape provinces.
“I want to congratulate CSOS on this milestone of launching an office in Mpumalanga. This is indicative of an organisation that is growing in its service and reaching more people in the country,” Tshwete added.
White Paper
The Ministerial visit to Mpumalanga was also used as a platform to solicit inputs on the Human Settlements White Paper released for public comments.
The White Paper is aimed at improving how the department executes its mandate, including social housing which can be converted into rent-to-own opportunities to increase home ownership.
The public has until 31 January to make written inputs on the White Paper, which can be accessed here https://bit.ly/3vwvOF9. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 01/12/2024 - 12:50
JOHANNESBURG: South Africa Under-19 (SA U19) and Lions fast bowler Esosa Aihevba has been ruled out of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World...
England white-ball captain aiming for another strong performance with the bat Friday, 12 January 2024: Paarl Royals are hoping to...
Government to launch programme aimed at encouraging active citizenry
Citizens in the country can look forward to the airing of a brand new show on their tele's - set to educate, inspire and connect with South Africans about issues that affect their daily lives.
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) is set to launch a 13 episode Advertiser Funded Programme (AFP) called 'Citizens Connect', to be broadcast on SABC 2, starting Thursday, 18 January 2024 at 8:30 pm.
“This collaboration with SABC 2 is a testament to government’s commitment to reach a diverse audience and deliver impactful content,” said the GCIS in a statement on Friday.
Citizens Connect is a social reality program featuring government content, re-enactments and discussions on matters relating to gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), anti-corruption and Government's Economic Recovery and Reconstruction Plan (ERRP).
“We call on all South Africans across all spheres of life to follow and tune in to SABC 2 from Thursday, 18 January – 22 March 2024 at 8:30 pm, to follow and engage on the 13 episodes of Citizens Connect which will significantly touch on various interventions and experiences of citizens with government on issues that are essential to their lives.
"Through storytelling and engaging content, we aspire to inspire a collective shift towards an informed and engaged society,” said GCIS acting Director-General Nomonde Mnukwa.
The choice of SABC 2 as a channel was informed by government’s effort to engage and inform the public through a platform that has a wide audience and reaches many households across South Africa.
Government has called on all South Africans to follow all 13 episodes, which will also repeat on a Friday from 12:00 – 12:30 pm. Episodes will also be available on the SABC Plus streaming platform. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 01/12/2024 - 13:01
The Reddam House Durbanville Class of 2023’s Cambridge International AS Level and A Level students have excelled beyond expectation. Fifty AS Level students achieved 126 subject distinctions while six students wrote A Levels, with one student achieving four out of four subject distinctions. Designed to challenge the academic abilities of students and prepare them for …
The influential history of Black individuals and organizations in civic engagement and political leadership throughout the world is incontrovertible and enduring. Strong leadership plays a crucial role in shaping the world and driving social progress, bringing innovation and opportunity to the realms of business, science, technology, sports, arts, and literature. As such, this year's Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS), taking place in Dubai on February 27, 2024, will honor the achievements and untapped potential of Black leaders in politics and civic engagement.
Concern for the welfare and civil rights of all people has been an outspoken theme in the policies of Black civic leaders for over a century. As an outspoken advocate for desegregation and unity in the United States (U.S.) during the mid-20th Century, French dancer, singer, actress, and activist, Josephine Baker became the first Black women inducted to the Panthéon in Paris, which came as a result of her contributions to French culture and the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S.
Moreover, as a long-time advocate for African American equality, Coretta Scott King was an author, activist, and civil rights leader whose prominent role during the U.S.'s Civil Rights Movement enthused Black participation in the U.S. political system, driving progress and spurring change in the country's political landscape. Furthermore, her long-standing opposition to Apartheid in South Africa in the 1980s prompted nationwide protests against the country's racial policies, contributing to the regime's dismantling.
Additionally, despite his relatively short career in government, former Congolese Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba's contributions to de-colonialism and African nationalist movements in the 20th century are defined by dignity, humanity, strength, and unity, and whose administration played a significant role in the transformation of the Republic of Congo from a colony into an independent republic.
Meanwhile, having jointly won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018 for his efforts to end wartime sexual violence in Central Africa, Dr. Denis Mukwege is a Congolese gynecologist who serves in the Board Membership of numerous organizations and agencies that advocates healthcare and support for survivors of conflict. Dr. Mukwege's accomplishments in the fields of medicine and care in Africa has resulted in the growth of a culture of peace in the continent's Central region.
The accomplishments of these individuals and the many more in the global leadership and civic engagement space have laid the foundation for transformational change worldwide. As a platform for uniting the global Black community, GBIS will shine the spotlight on Black excellence, with achievement in civic engagement and politics celebrated. The conference, which serves to highlight the contributions, achievements, and influence of Black leaders from all over the world, takes place under the theme, Black Excellence: Unleashing the Unexplored Potential for Global Unity. The summit encapsulates the profound impact of Black individuals on the global stage while serving as a platform for networking, celebration, and the realization of the true potential of a united global community.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About Global Black Impact Summit 2024:
Organized by Energy Capital & Power, the Global Black Impact Summit is an annual event that seeks to celebrate the achievements of the Black community, promote excellence, and explore untapped potential across various fields. This year's summit is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that encourage attendees to reach new heights.
To secure your spot at this prestigious gather, register promptly at www.GlobalBlackImpact.com.
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is honoured to have been named by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as hosts of the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup which commences on 19 January. This decision was only taken in November last year after the original hosts, Sri Lanka, were suspended by the ICC, leaving us with little …
SA appeals to top UN court in Israel-Palestine matter
Justice and Correctional Services Minister, Ronald Lamola, fears that without the intervention of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Palestinians will be destroyed.
This was as South Africa approached the ICJ, under the Genocide Convention, for acts committed by Israel in the context of its attacks on Gaza.
He said the Israeli actions were reminiscent of the Rwandan genocide 30 years ago.
“We are here, on behalf of South Africa and the global community, to seek justice for the victims, particularly children, women, and the elderly. We believe that without the intervention of this court, of the international community, we will see the total destruction of the Palestinian people.
“Remaining silent in the efface of this, in and of itself, would be a gross violation of international law,” he pleaded.
The Minister was addressing the media on Thursday outside the ICJ. South Africa presented its genocide case against Israel at the ICJ in The Hague, Netherlands.
“We are asking the court to intervene and stop the ongoing massacre in Gaza. Today, it is a common cause that the Rwandan genocide could have been prevented.
“Former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, expressed this regret when he said, ‘The international community failed Rwanda, and that must leave us always with a sense of bitter regret and abiding sorrow’.
“Let us not have to live with the same regret when it comes to Palestine.”
Israel, which South Africa is accusing of genocide, was on Friday on the floor in a legal battle to defend itself at the top United Nations (UN) court.
“The government of the Republic of South Africa, led by His Excellency President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, entrusted me with representing its commitment to the rule of just law, a universal respect for human rights, and specifically the right of the Palestinian people to sovereignty, to peace, to life.”
Finding a solution
South Africa, added the Minister, has supported various resolutions of the UN and other international solutions to support a just and lasting solution that will bring peace to Palestinians and Israelis.
This is in addition to President Ramaphosa calling for a ceasefire and humanitarian interventions on numerous occasions.
“The world has watched in horror as Palestinian men, women and children were slaughtered, blown up, buried alive under the rubble of their homes, left to die painful deaths in un-resourced hospitals, resulting in over 23 000 deaths,” he added.
This, according to the Minister, was done through the destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, water treatment plants and other public infrastructure.
“Sadly, the world has not succeeded in stopping the genocide that is currently unfolding in Gaza.
“The international community has largely remained passive in response to these atrocities.”
He also cited Secretary-General António Guterres who last year called on the world to “press to avert a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and unite in a call for a full humanitarian ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants”.
“This plea for ubuntu, a plea for the humanity of the international community to prevail was simply ignored. Israel’s institutional impunity was reinforced.”
Measures
Lamola also explained that South Africa has also asked the ICJ for provisional measures which include an immediate suspension of Israeli military operations in and against Gaza.
“The philosophy of ubuntu means ‘humanity’ and is reflected in the idea that we affirm our humanity when we affirm the humanity of others.
“It has played a major role in the forging of a South African national consciousness and the process of its democratic transformation and nation building.”
He also reflected on the country’s history of repression and violence, human rights abuses, apartheid as a crime against humanity, discrimination and distrust between people born on the same soil.
“This history enjoins us to stand in principle in solidarity with the people of Palestine.”
He is of the view that the esteemed institution has the opportunity to not only reaffirm but also strengthen humanity's commitment to justice.
“This can be achieved by infusing the Genocide Convention with vibrancy and bringing it to life with action and meaning.
“We trust that, after hearing us presenting the facts, the legal arguments, the truth, the court will grant them the protection they seek.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 01/12/2024 - 11:44
SANBI says it is “balancing” visitors’ experience with its ongoing upgrades since taking over the facility in 2018
Kiviet visits Lebombo border post
Public Service and Administration Minister, Noxolo Kiviet and her Deputy, Dr Chana Pilane-Majake have visited the Lebombo port of entry as part of a service delivery outreach engagement.
“The purpose of the ministerial visit was to get information and insights into the operations of the border under the Border Management Authority (BMA),” the Ministry of the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) said of Thursday’s Ministerial visit.
According to the DPSA, the border post between South Africa and Mozambique is one of the busiest in the country and is managed by the BMA, which was officially launched in October 2023.
The Ministers were briefed by BMA Deputy Commissioner of Operations, Major General (retired) David Chilembe and other senior managers on the achievements, challenges and plans in the operations of the border post since the BMA took over from the Department of Home affairs.
The authority is responsible for the execution of frontline border law enforcement functions related to, inter alia, port health, immigration control, access control, biosecurity, food safety and phyto-sanitary control, land border infrastructure development and maintenance, and border information and risk management.
The BMA said the visit allowed the Ministers to acquaint themselves with the day-to-day work of the authority at the border post through exposure to the pedestrian office, main port, cargo by-pass, borderline, stop and search (main gate).
In addition, the BMA said it was cooperating with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to fast track the movement of trucks.
This as the DPSA complimented the authority for the work it has done thus far with limited resources.- SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 01/12/2024 - 11:14
Police to host stakeholder engagement session in Mpumalanga
The Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale and the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Fannie Masemola are set to engage with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex and asexual (LGBTQIA) community as well as people living with albinism.
“The purpose of the engagement is to provide a platform to discuss crime related challenges faced by these communities with a sole purpose of ensuring policing services and actions promote diversity,” said the South African Police Service (SAPS) ahead of the Friday, 12 January session.
The stakeholder engagement session led by the Deputy Minister and Commissioner with communities will take place at the SANDF Military Sports Club, Graniteville, West Acres in Mbombela.
“This initiative also aims to establish and strengthen the fight against crime perpetrated against the LGBTQIA and people living with albinism community,” said the police service. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 01/12/2024 - 09:37
Thursday, 11 January 2024. Heinrich Klaasen and Ryan Rickelton produced sizzling performances for Durban’s Super Giants and MI Cape Town, respectively,...
For over a century, the Classic Martini has served as a global symbol of sophistication – and it all begins in the late 1800s, when the original martini was born. The simple equal-part-sweet-vermouth-and-gin cocktail quickly grew in popularity. However, during the early 1900s, preferences were skewing towards crisper, more spirit-forward cocktails – so the martini …
A tapestry of flavour at the re-launched LUX* Belle Mare As LUX* Belle Mare opened its welcoming arms once more, revealing an exquisite revival post its temporary closure, it is almost a serendipitous event that the charming property reopened its doors on 1st October 2023, echoing its initial debut on the very same day in 1999. While …
As Friday dawns across Africa, a tapestry of news unfolds, showcasing the continent’s vibrant pulse and diverse challenges. From legal battles on international stages to environmental concerns and human triumphs, here are the top 5 stories shaping the African narrative today: South Africa Leads on Genocide Case Against Israel at ICJ: Former Chief Justice Dikgang …
As Friday arrives, South Africa’s news landscape pulsates with stories shaping the nation’s conversation. From political intrigue to environmental concerns and human triumphs, here are the top 5 headlines captivating attention today: Judge Dikgang Moseneke Rejoins ANC Fold: Former Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke, who has lent his legal expertise to South Africa’s case against Israel …
Gauteng Department of Human Settlements heads to court to evict the occupiers