MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Introduction A good night’s sleep starts with a clean, comfortable mattress. One simple yet effective way to ensure this is by using a waterproof mattress protector. Let’s dive into why it’s a must-have for every bed. The Need for a Waterproof Mattress Protector Longevity of Your Mattress: Moisture is a mattress’s worst enemy. A …
Egyptian cotton sheets and bedding are renowned worldwide for their superior quality and luxurious feel. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding and appreciating the allure of Egyptian cotton in your bedding. What is Egyptian Cotton? Egyptian cotton, grown exclusively in the fertile Nile River Valley, is distinguished by its long fibers or staples. These …
PRASA committed to addressing long distance train challenges
With the reintroduction of the long-distance passenger train service, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has noted some challenges that may affect the service and has outlined its commitment to address them.
“The country is currently facing a shortage of locomotives, and some of those available are unreliable. This may result in delays and, in some cases, even cancellations. Contingency plans are in place for trips on all four corridors where the MLPS [Mainline Passenger Services ] service operates,” PRASA said on Thursday.
The agency said the condition and quality of the infrastructure have been a concern and may impact the travel experience.
“Despite these challenges, PRASA remains steadfast in its commitment to reviving the long-distance service. PRASA plans to ensure access to locomotives and improve the infrastructure quality and availability in conjunction with our sister agency, Transnet.
“PRASA believes acknowledging and addressing challenges openly is essential to rebuilding and maintaining trust in our service. We know that long-distance travel via rail is the most affordable. During this phase of reintroducing the MLPS service, PRASA will provide regular updates on our progress and actively seek feedback from our passengers and other stakeholders,” the agency said.
Amid these challenges, passenger safety remains its top priority.
“PRASA has implemented enhanced safety and security protocols to improve passenger safety on our trains. Our MLPS trains will have visible security on board the trains and at platforms to ensure all passengers feel safe.
“Passenger feedback will be critical as we accelerate the roll-out of the MLPS service and shape its future. We call on our passengers to share their experiences, concerns, and suggestions.
“PRASA is committed to delivering a service that meets the expectations of its stakeholders, especially passengers. The resumption of the MLPS service is a critical step in PRASA’s recovery of all aspects of passenger rail. The agency is determined to deliver a reliable, safe, comfortable long-distance train experience,” it said.
Earlier this month, the agency announced that the long-distance MLPS under its rail division had resumed the Johannesburg to Durban and Cape Town services on the Shosholoza Meyl.
The services were both suspended in 2021 due to operational and network infrastructure challenges.
As an entity of the Department of Transport (DoT), PRASA is the sole state-owned entity responsible for providing long-distance and urban passenger rail services and intercity bus services at the behest of the DoT. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 09:03
Creating Inclusive Workplaces and Fostering Tech Talent for a Diverse Future Johannesburg, November 2023 – As this year draws to a close, the 2023 cohort of eight from the iSchoolAfrica Deaf Developers Programme have graduated. This programme emerges as a pioneering effort, inviting businesses to embark on a journey that not only addresses the pressing …
Olive cultivation and processing to produce Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is a capital-intensive process and therefore carries a price premium, but recent market dynamics have seen substantial spike in olive oil prices, affecting various olive oil categories, from high-end extra virgins to everyday blends. Let’s take a closer look at what has shaped these …
The journey to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Bangladesh continues as Uganda opens her doors to host the Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier from 9 to 17 December. For the first time, two spots are up for grabs from the Africa region as Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and …
SA Rugby has extended the contract of Rian Oberholzer as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for a further two years, the organisation confirmed on Friday. The appointment was approved by the Executive Council of SA Rugby, extending what had begun as a one-year appointment for the experienced administrator. He was appointed at the start of 2023 …
Dear Editor The DA rejects the decision taken by Eskom to confirm the appointment of Dan Marokane, the former CEO of embattled sugar producer Tongaat Hulett, as the new CEO of Eskom. As the former Head of Group Capital at Eskom, Marokane is a legacy executive and as such he will not bring anything different …
Two of the Springboks’ biggest rivals both head to South Africa in 2024 for mouth-watering two-Test series, while a brand-new opponent will also make an appearance as the re-crowned World Champions come out of international hibernation from 6 July. Old foes New Zealand – presently ranked number three in the world – are back for …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu-Natal can today announce that is now offering R1 million for information that leads to the conviction of those individuals that murdered DA Chief Whip in the uMngeni Municipality, Councillor Nhlalayenza Ndlovu on the 5th of December 2023. The DA will spare no expense and leave no stone unturned …
The realities of being the new kid on the block in HSBC SVNS cannot be clearer for the Springbok Women’s Sevens squad considering the number of combined tournament caps each of the 12 teams in the series. The South Africans have 40 combined world series caps, compared to the next team, Japan, on 104, while …
An impressive performance in the opening tournament of the 2024 HSBC SVNS in Dubai last weekend created expectations that the Springbok Sevens squad will do a double at the HSBC SVNS Cape Town this weekend. However, Blitzbok captain Selvyn Davids downplayed those expectations on Friday as the team finished off their preparations and said it …
BMA intercepts harmful skin lightning products at OR Tambo
The Border Management Authority’s (BMA) port health team, working in the cargo section of the OR Tambo International Airport, on Thursday intercepted 865kg of skin lightning products, as well as unregistered medicine.
The BMA highlighted that skin lightening products are prohibited in South Africa as they cause harm to the skin.
“The products were coming in on a flight from Nigeria and will be destroyed. In accordance with the Medicines and Related Substances Act 101 of 1965 and the Foodstuffs Cosmetic and Disinfection Act 54, when these products are found, the importer has to pay for the destruction of the products before the rest of the shipment is released.
“Only an approved destruction facility licensed to deal with hazardous waste is used for destroying the products,” the BMA said in a statement.
The BMA’s port health team also found unregistered medicines which were detained for destruction.
Port Health and environmental health practitioners work closely with officials from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) who play an important role in advising officials on product identification and what steps to take.
Port Health is a special function of the Border Management Authority which monitors and evaluates all foodstuffs, cosmetics, disinfectants, hazardous substances and medicines entering South Africa through the ports.
Commissioner of the BMA, Dr Mike Masiapato, has outlined detailed port health regulations that will be undertaken at ports.
“All arriving travellers must expect to be screened and searched on their arrival at the ports of entry. We have employed all our resources and intensified our work during this festive season to ensure our borders are secured. We aim to record significant success with interceptions around the ports of entry and border law enforcement areas,” Dr Masiapato said.
The BMA is responsible and accountable for the entire border environment ensuring legitimate movement of goods and people. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 12:03
Introduction to Krugerrand Coins Krugerrand coins hold a significant place in the world of precious metals. Originating from South Africa in 1967, these gold coins were intended to promote South African gold. They are named after Paul Kruger, a prominent figure in South Africa’s history, and the Rand, the South African currency. Krugerrands are renowned …
Introduction: A Lucrative Market for Gold In South Africa, a unique market thrives around the buying and selling of gold for cash. This market caters to individuals looking to sell their gold for immediate financial gain, reflecting both the enduring value of gold and the economic needs of the population. Who are the Gold …
Call for swift arrest in uMngeni Municipality Councillor’s murder
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has urged police to act swiftly to arrest the criminals behind the murder of uMngeni Local Municipality Democratic Alliance Chief Whip, Nhlalayenza Ndlovu.
Ndlovu was gunned down in front of his children at his home in eMpophomeni Township on Tuesday night.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has condemned the murder.
The Premier said this was yet another incident of violence shining the spotlight on the killing of political leaders in the province.
“We simply will not allow our province to become a killing field, especially of politicians and traditional leaders. This is a direct attack on the centre that holds our communities together which should serve as the last defence of all the people of our province.
“Those elected should be allowed the space and time to govern following elections. Attacks on politicians are invariably an attack on the very institutions which hold our democracy together, and should never be countenanced,” Dube-Ncube said.
Ndlovu’s murder comes after Police Minister Bheki Cele released a report of the Inter-Ministerial Committee tasked to probe all political killings in KwaZulu-Natal in September, which reported major advances against this phenomenon.
Given the arrests reported by the police, the Premier said government is making progress in ensuring that the perpetrators of political and traditional leaders end up behind bars.
“As we send our condolences to the family of Councillor Ndlovu, we want to state that we have no doubt that the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, and his team will ensure that no stone is left unturned to locate the killers.
“As we go into the festive season holidays, we also wish to sound a stern warning to all criminals that there will be no place to hide, as all organs of the State working together with all the law-abiding members of our communities, will continue to narrow the space for all forms of criminality in order to make our province a safer place to live in,” Dube-Ncube said.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC Bongi Sithole-Moloi said it was disappointing that incidents of killing democratically-elected councillors continues to occur.
“As a department, we condemn violence in the strongest possible terms as we strive for stability and peace in all our councils, and it is always a matter of great concern when a ward councillor is killed in this manner, instilling fear in the public and fellow councillors.
“We call upon the public members or anyone who may have information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators to work with the police to seek justice for councillor Ndlovu.
“As the department, we extend our condolences to the Ndlovu family, who have lost a father, to his friends, colleagues, and the entire uMngeni community, who have lost their representative in the council,” Sithole-Moloi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 12:03
There’s enough water - the problem is allocation, says protester
Introduction Navigating the complexities of withholding tax reclaim can be a daunting task for investors, especially when dealing with international investments. This is where outsourcing the process becomes a valuable strategy. Outsourcing withholding tax reclaim to specialized service providers can streamline the process, ensuring compliance and maximizing returns. Understanding Withholding Tax Reclaim Withholding tax …
Introduction For investors with international portfolios, understanding the concept of withholding tax reclaim is crucial. This process involves recovering taxes that have been withheld on income earned from foreign investments. It’s an important aspect of maximizing returns and managing global investment effectively. What is Withholding Tax? Withholding tax is a tax deducted at source …
Weather service warns of heavy rain from Sunday
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of widespread heavy rain in the days ahead, which could result in flooding or river flooding that might cause significant disruption in some provinces.
Initially the weather this weekend will be relatively settled, with just a small chance of thunderstorms over some of the eastern provinces on Friday and Saturday.
“Incidentally, neither the Western Cape nor the Eastern Cape will be directly affected by this weather system. On Sunday, 10 December, weather conditions will begin to deteriorate significantly, as the cut-off low manifests itself over the northern parts of the Northern Cape, introducing marked instability into the atmosphere, to drive widespread showers and thundershowers.
“As tropical air begins to stream southward over Botswana and South Africa, conditions will become progressively cloudy to overcast. During the course of the day, rain will set in over numerous provinces, including North West, the Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and to a lesser extent, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN),” SAWS said.
Heavy rainfall is likely to occur in many parts of the above-mentioned provinces, elevating the risk of flooding as well as river flooding.
The public has been urged to monitor, and to take heed of, regular weather updates and warnings issued by the weather service.
“Moreover, as the rain produced by this system is expected to continue unabated into Monday, 11 December, the ground is likely to become saturated, leading to widespread overland runoff into streams and rivers.
“Whilst this phenomenon will ultimately lead to increased dam levels, the risk of river flooding (and associated road closures and general traffic disruption) will remain particularly high. Disaster management practitioners are also advised to maintain a high level of vigilance during this period, should river flooding continue to pose a safety and health risk to the public at large,” SAWS said.
Motorists and pedestrians are urged not to try to cross rivers or streams, which are already flooded, under any circumstances.
“The cause of the widespread rainy weather will be the combination of three distinct circulation features in the atmosphere over southern Africa. Firstly, a cut-off low is expected to develop, in the upper air of the atmosphere, over the central interior during the latter half of the weekend.
“Secondly, a surface trough is expected to begin intensifying, in sympathy with the deepening upper-air cut-off low. The combination of these two features is well known to have the potential to drive episodes of widespread, often heavy, rain over southern Africa.
“Importantly, in this particular case, there is a third significant factor which is expected to elevate the risk of heavy rainfall from this system. This factor is the expected introduction of a stream of tropically sourced moisture, drawn southwards over the central and eastern interior of South Africa, under the influence of the circulation associated with the surface trough and upper-air system respectively,” SAWS said.
Tropically sourced air is well known to be associated with rainfall of a potentially heavy, widespread nature.
“Currently, numeric weather prediction models suggest that the rainfall in association with this system will start clearing from the west, during the course of Tuesday, 12 December, although areas of heavier rainfall may still linger over KZN, eSwatini and the lowveld regions of Mpumalanga and Limpopo.
“A surface high pressure system is likely to sustain light rainfall over aforementioned provinces on Wednesday, 13 December, as cooler, moist maritime air is introduced to the eastern coastal regions. However, the upper air cut-off low will have moved off the country completely by this time,” SAWS said.
The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor this weather system and issue subsequent updates and impact-based warnings over the next few days.
The public has been advised to regularly follow weather forecasts on television and radio, as well as all social media platforms.
Updated information will regularly be available at www.weathersa.co.za as well as on X at @SAWeatherServic and Facebook @SouthAfricanWeatherservice. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 12:18
Johannesburg – World-renowned designer to the stars, Gert-Johan Coetzee, is proud to announce the launch of the 2023 Fashion Design Bursary, an annual initiative that has been shaping the future of South African fashion since its inception in 2009. The lucky winner will embark on a transformative three-year journey of fashion education at Gert-Johan Coetzee’s …
Insufficient corporate governance lies at the core of several societal welfare and democratic challenges, spanning from dysfunctional municipalities struggling to meet service delivery needs due to corruption and inefficiency, to disparities in the private sector such as wage gaps and collusive practices that do not serve the public interest. Addressing the critical issues surrounding ethical …
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa regrets to announce that it is unable to strike a deal with the SABC to broadcast the...
Call to deal with corruption
Corruption has become so pervasive that the same vigour used to fight apartheid should be used to combat the scourge.
This is according to the Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner, Prof Somadoda Fikeni, who was speaking on Friday at this year’s International Anti-Corruption Day at the ZK Matthews Great Hall at Unisa in Pretoria.
International Anti-Corruption Day is commemorated annually on 9 December in recognition of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, which was signed in Mexico in 2003.
South Africa is one of the signatories to the Convention having ratified it in 2004.
Reflecting on the 10th anniversary of the passing of the global statesman Nelson Mandela, Prof Fikeni said Madiba led with cohorts of successful leaders of their time.
“The struggle and the mission of their time was apartheid. That was the biggest challenge of their time. But today, after all the revelations to the Zondo Commission, we realise that the biggest challenge we face is corruption.
“Apartheid was the rule of law that took from the majority and gave to the minority. And corruption is the minority rule that takes from the majority and gives to the minority,” he said.
He believes that it should not matter whether corruption happens is in the public or private sector, religious institutions or non-government organisations.
Fikeni called South Africans to wage war against the scourge.
“During apartheid, we had iconic figures who died like Hector Pieterson and today, the whistle-blowers like Babita [Deokaran] are the Hector Pietersons of the struggle of today and many other whistle-blowers who died to save the country have become the Sharpeville Massacre victims of today.”
He said collaborative effort is needed to fight corruption.
“Government alone, accountability institutions alone, civil society alone, academic institutions alone and private sector alone can no longer combat this scourge. We need a coordinated effort,” he said.
South Africa, according to Fikeni, is rich in producing policies and frameworks but tends to be challenged with implementation.
It is for this reason that the 2023 International Anti-Corruption Day’s focus is on uniting against corruption and how to better collaborate and improve implementation and impact.
“When we leave this place and years pass, no one will remember what we said, what we were wearing, what venue we were in but what concrete steps do we take to combat corruption,” he said to the packed hall.
He said it was not right that whistle-blowers have to go into “exile” because they do not feel safe.
According to the Prof, the PSC is also working on the lifestyle audits of officials and collaborating with Chapter 9 institutions to ensure the oversight eco-system is strengthened.
“This is a generational mission of our time to say that corruption is a new apartheid that we should all combine forces. It shouldn’t be a football for any election but an all-time struggle and something we talk about and pursue beyond elections.”
Good governance
Deputy President Paul Mashatile told the attendees that both the public and private sectors needed to unite against unscrupulousness to maintain good governance.
The country’s second-in-command said Madiba played an integral role in advocating for a Constitution based on the principles of social justice, inclusion, accountability and decisive leadership.
“It was through his leadership and those who led with him that we learnt the values of selflessness and putting people first. Corruption on the other hand is based on selfishness and a lack of concern for the majority that one leads.”
It is on this basis that the Deputy President said government should be vigilant in how it deals with corruption, especially in the public sector.
“It is a persistent problem that inhibits development, fairness and inequality in our society.”
He also called for a united front dedicated to getting rid of corruption and dealing harshly with those partake in it.
In the past 29 years of democracy, he said the State has developed framework law, strategy, and institutions mandated to combat corruption.
These, the Deputy President said, include the Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act, the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2020-2030 and the Anti-Corruption Advisory Council.
The strategy, he said, also aims to ensure that officials and those in positions of power act with integrity, respect the rule of law and promote zero tolerance for corruption.
The Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004 intends to provide for the strengthening of measures to prevent and combat corruption and corrupt activities and to provide for the offence of corruption and offences relating to corrupt activities, among others.
The Deputy President is of the view that accountability, transparency and the rule of law are important tools to rid the country of crime and corruption.
“As public servants and office bearers, we must safeguard the preamble of our Constitution and constantly remind ourselves that our purpose is to serve our people and not to satisfy our stomachs.
“Our priority should be those we have sworn to serve and protect.”
He also announced that government was also in the process of implementing recommendations contained in the State Capture report.
“We need to ensure that such activities should never happen ever again,” he said, adding that the State is looking at tax avoidance and illicit financial flows. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 13:22