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You are here: Home / Archives for News

News

29 November 2023

SAPS proud of its men and women in blue

Location: News

SAPS proud of its men and women in blue

As the country observes the 25th anniversary of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign (25 November to 10 December), the South African Police Service (SAPS) has embarked on profiling a series of untold stories of its men and women in blue.

This is to celebrate the men and women who go beyond the call of duty to protect women, children and other vulnerable groups.

Today, the spotlight is on Captain Karin Botha, a forensic social worker attached to the Germiston Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations (FCS) unit.

Forensic Social Work is a specialised field of Social Work practice within the FCS environment, which is characterised by the social worker's primary function of providing expert testimony in courts of law.

Moreover, a forensic social worker’s core function is to conduct forensic interviews in the investigation of child abuse cases using age appropriate techniques in order to obtain accurate information from child victims to assist courts to make just and fair decisions.

Botha holds a degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Forensic Practice.

Some of her career highlights include when the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria sentenced a 42-year-old father to four life terms and an additional 73 years direct imprisonment on multiple counts of rape, statutory rape, sexual grooming, incest, possession of child pornography and sexual abuse, earlier this year.

The father pleaded guilty to all the charges levelled against him for raping and sexually abusing five child victims - two of  whom are his biological daughters, between 2019 and 2020. The victims were aged between nine and 13 around the time of the abuse.

Botha was assigned to obtain these victims' statements and compiled their competency assessment reports, which assisted the court to hand down an appropriate sentence.

She was also assigned to compile a victim impact report and testified in court as an expert witness in the sentencing of Nicholas Ninow, dubbed the ‘Silverton Dros rapist’.

The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria sentenced Ninow to life in prison and an additional 10 years imprisonment in 2019 on charges of rape, possession of drugs and defeating the ends of justice.

Ninow attacked and raped a 7-year-old girl in the restroom of the DROS restaurant in Silverton, Pretoria, in September 2018.

In 2020, Botha was awarded with a Certificate of Commendation by the Minister of Police for the instrumental role she played in the sentencing of a paedophile to life in prison and an additional 100 years imprisonment for multiple counts of possession, manufacturing and distribution of child pornography, as well as child abuse. 

Botha said she assesses over 100 sexually abused child victims a year, who fondly refer to her as ‘tannie Karin'. Botha feels humbled by her profession that allows her to make a difference in abused children’s lives.

“Parents, caregivers, teachers or any other adult should never doubt or dismiss a child when they are disclosing the possibility of sexual abuse. Contact your nearest police station, open a case and act in the best interest of our children,” Botha said.

Captain Botha is the personification of ‘real heroes do not wear capes’, as she continues to be a voice for ‘voiceless’ child victims. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 09:29

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Read moreSAPS proud of its men and women in blue
29 November 2023

Beyond Compliance: A Blueprint for Precise Inclusivity

Location: MyPR

Five key steps for businesses to foster greater inclusion for People with Disabilities The 3rd of December is recognised as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and is the culmination of a month of national awareness in South Africa. As we observe this day, it is a stark reminder that much still needs to …

Read moreBeyond Compliance: A Blueprint for Precise Inclusivity
29 November 2023

Four KZN Entrepreneurs Secure Cash Prizes In Business Accelerator

Location: MyPR

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – The Durban Chemicals Cluster (DCC) Business Accelerator held its annual “Dragons’ Den” event at The Pearls in Umhlanga Rocks on Tuesday, 28 November 2023. Emulating the renowned Dragons’ Den format, 11 emerging Black-owned enterprises passionately presented their ventures to a panel of influential ‘Dragons’ who are driving the meaningful transformation of the …

Read moreFour KZN Entrepreneurs Secure Cash Prizes In Business Accelerator
29 November 2023

AG reports overall improved audit outcomes

Location: News

AG reports overall improved audit outcomes

The Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA), Tsakani Maluleke, has reported an overall improvement in the national and provincial government audit outcomes.

Tabling the 2022-23 general report for national and provincial departments, entities and legislatures in Parliament on Wednesday, the AG said the outcomes reflect an overall improvement over the term of the current administration, now in its fourth year.

However, she pointed out that there are still weaknesses in planning, monitoring and reporting on service delivery; challenges in infrastructure management, and increasing pressure on the fiscus due to a lack of prudence in spending.

“Over the administration’s term, we have seen some encouraging signs of improvement in the ability of national and provincial government to transparently report on their finances and performance, and to comply with key legislation.

“However, those auditees with the greatest impact on the lives of South Africans and on government finances, which we refer to as ‘high-impact auditees’, are lagging behind on financial and performance management disciplines. This is placing further pressure on government finances,” Maluleke said.

She said these high-impact auditees comprise departments, public entities and State-owned entities that are collectively responsible for 85% (R2.64 trillion) of the expenditure budget.

They contribute to delivering health services, skills development and employment, infrastructure development, safety and security, water and sanitation, energy, and environmental and financial sustainability.

“Overall, the audit outcomes of both departments and public entities improved and more auditees improved their audit outcomes each year of the administrative term than regressed. In 2022-23, the net improvement was 37 auditees (9%) – the biggest movement over the four-year period. Provincial government showed a net improvement of 44 (27%) and national government a net improvement of 34 (15%),” the AG said.

Clean audits

The AG noted that the number of clean audits continues to increase every year due to significant effort and commitment by the leadership, officials and governance structures of these institutions.

“A clean audit is not always an indicator of good service delivery. However, a clean audit positions an auditee to transparently communicate to citizens on whether and when their needs will be met through accurate records, which also enables informed decisions by the different role-players in the accountability ecosystem.

“We have seen that auditees with institutionalised controls and systems to plan, measure, monitor and account for their finances and performance, and to stay within the rules, often also have a solid foundation for service delivery to the people of South Africa,” Maluleke said.

She re-emphasised the importance of a clean audit, which shows that an auditee’s financial statements and performance report give a transparent and credible account of its finances and its performance against the targets that had been set.

It also means that the auditee had complied with the important legislation that applies to financial and performance management.

The 147 auditees (35%) that achieved clean audits in 2022-23 managed 16% of the R3.10 trillion expenditure budget in national and provincial government.

In addition, the 162 auditees (39%) that received unqualified audit opinions with findings managed 48% of the budget.

“It is commendable that these auditees that make up 74% of the auditee population are able to publish credible financial statements, which is a positive development that must be encouraged. This augurs well for accountability,” the AG said.

She also commended the 53 auditees (36%) that have managed to retain their clean audit status over the administrative term through practices such as institutionalising and monitoring key controls (including preventative controls), and by having all role players in the accountability ecosystem committed to fulfilling their monitoring, governance and oversight roles.

She further acknowledged the 37 auditees that are very close to obtaining a clean audit, and only need to address one finding on either the quality of their financial statements or on their performance reporting.

“Some of these auditees have been working towards this goal for many years and we encourage them to persevere in overcoming the last hurdle. If they manage to do so, we expect to see an increase in the number of clean audits for 2023-24. This will set a strong foundation from which the next administration can build when its term starts in 2024-25,” Maluleke said.

Disclaimed and adverse outcomes

Overall, the number of auditees with disclaimed audit opinions decreased.

Maluleke cautioned that if any of the 31 auditees with outstanding audits also receive disclaimed opinions, the improvement in this area will be less significant, but should still be acknowledged.

Nine of these audits were subsequently finalised, with an additional two auditees receiving disclaimed audit opinions.

Maluleke reported an increase in adverse audit opinions due to three public entities moving from a disclaimed opinion last year to an adverse opinion in 2022-23. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 12:16

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Read moreAG reports overall improved audit outcomes
29 November 2023

NHI pulled from order paper without any reason

Location: News

Dear Editor Today, the ANC once again showed that it has a complete disregard for the rules of Parliament and due process. The NCOP was supposed to have debated on the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill today, but after allegedly receiving a mysterious letter, the ANC Chief Whip, together with its majority, quickly decided to …

Read moreNHI pulled from order paper without any reason
29 November 2023

Scottish Rugby awards Edinburgh club with Major Capital Investment

Location: Sport

Scottish Rugby has today confirmed Corstorphine Cougars Rugby Club as the recipients of £250,000 in funding from the second phase of funding from the Major Capital Investment stream. The Major Capital Investment award is part of the ‘Growth & Participation Fund’ and was established from the £5M Scottish Government funding during the Covid-19 pandemic. This …

Read moreScottish Rugby awards Edinburgh club with Major Capital Investment
29 November 2023

Husqvarna’s Versatile TF 545DE Diesel Tiller – The Small Farmer’s “Swiss Army Knife” Solution

Location: MyPR

For small farmers, keeping production costs as low as possible isn’t just a financial strategy, it’s a survival tactic. With profit margins that are often as narrow as a furrow, every Rand conserved is a victory won – so innovations that save time and money are a massive plus. Husqvarna is passionate about land care …

Read moreHusqvarna’s Versatile TF 545DE Diesel Tiller – The Small Farmer’s “Swiss Army Knife” Solution
29 November 2023

Stock up on the greatest gaming gadgets this Black Friday

Location: MyPR

Stock up on the greatest gaming gadgets this Black Friday Gaming has come a long way since the pixelated days of Ridge Racer and Tekken 1. Today, gaming is a dynamic and immersive world where accessories play a crucial role in making releases like The Last of Us, cult classics. With November being International Games …

Read moreStock up on the greatest gaming gadgets this Black Friday
29 November 2023

Delay in delivery of infrastructure projects affects service delivery

Location: News

Delay in delivery of infrastructure projects affects service delivery

The Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) Tsakani Maluleke says all too often infrastructure delivery projects which have been delayed, are costing more than what was initially planned or are of poor quality.

In the 2022-23 financial year, the AGSA audited 137 infrastructure projects, focusing on critical infrastructure, including health facilities, schools, housing, roads and railways, water infrastructure, and government buildings such as police stations.

“Our audit work incorporated numerous site visits by our multi-disciplinary audit teams, who applied their expertise to inspect project progress and quality. We reported findings on 112 (82%) of the projects that we visited. There are also delays in newly built infrastructure,” Maluleke said.

She said when auditees, especially high-impact auditees, do not properly manage their performance, finances and infrastructure; it directly affects the delivery of key government programmes that are intended to improve the lives of South Africans and to alleviate hardships stemming from tough economic conditions and poverty.

“Wasted money and resources means reduced funding for service delivery programmes and, eventually, a greater burden on taxpayers,” the AG said.

She made these remarks in Parliament on Wednesday, while tabling the 2022-23 general report for national and provincial departments, their entities and legislatures.

Maintenance of government properties

Maluleke noted that many government properties are in a poor condition because of the sector’s reactive approach to maintenance.

“Most maintenance work is only done in response to emergency requests and little time or budget is spent on preventative maintenance,” the AG said.

The public works sector is responsible for maintaining government properties, including health facilities, police stations and buildings that accommodate departments.

She said government officials and the public continue to use properties that are in poor condition, which lowers the effectiveness of the working environment and puts the safety of officials and the public at risk.

“There are currently 2 394 unoccupied government properties, most of which have not been maintained and are in a bad state. Even though these properties are not used, costs such as property rates and taxes still need to be paid.

“When there are not enough fit-for-use properties available to departments, the Property Management Trading Entity needs to enter into lease agreements – which could have been avoided if properties had been properly maintained,” Maluleke said.

The AG further cautioned that such lease agreements are often costly to government because of high annual increases and higher-than-average market rates being paid.

She attributed the failures in delivering, maintaining and safeguarding infrastructure to four matters that need urgent attention:

  • Inadequate coordination and collaboration, and deliverables not being synchronised in the ecosystem (e.g. between implementing agents and other departments).
  • Failure to conduct proper needs assessments and feasibility studies; or conducting them but not using them as a base to implement the infrastructure projects.
  • Lack of accountability – the terms of construction contracts are not used to hold contractors and professional service providers (consultants and implementing agents) accountable when they do not perform.
  • Inadequate monitoring and enforcement by infrastructure-related regulatory bodies such as the Construction Industry Development Board and the National Home Builders Registration Council, particularly relating to repeat offenders that cause delayed projects across sectors.

Audit outcomes of service delivery auditees and key public entities

The AG said the 193 high-impact auditees generally have poorer audit outcomes than other auditees and struggle with performance, financial and infrastructure management.

These high-impact auditees comprise departments, public entities and state-owned entities that are collectively responsible for 85% (R2.64 trillion) of the expenditure budget.

They contribute to delivering health services, skills development and employment, infrastructure development, safety and security, water and sanitation, energy, and environmental and financial sustainability.

“Auditees from this group also account for 48% of all outstanding audits and 65% of all modified audit opinions; in other words, qualified, adverse and disclaimed opinions. In total, 139 of the 193 high-impact auditees were required to report on their performance in 2022-23,” she said.

Those excluded were the 50 technical and vocational education and training colleges, the Property Management Trading Entity, Water Trading Entity and Commission on Restitution of Land Rights, whose performance is reported in the performance reports of their parent departments.

“We raised material findings on the reported performance information of 127 (42%) of these auditees, as well as material findings on compliance with key legislation at 76% of the 178 auditees with completed audits.”

Call for improvement in service delivery

The AG has called for improved service delivery enabled by capable, cooperative, accountable and responsive institutions delivering on their mandates.

“At a time of economic hardship in which the public’s demands for service delivery and accountability are increasing, there is an expectation that national and provincial government will do everything in their power to get the most value from every rand spent and to manage every aspect of their finances with diligence and care.

“This is, however, not what we have seen at some departments and public entities during our audits. Improved service delivery and the responsible use of the limited funds available will only be possible when we have capable, cooperative, accountable and responsive institutions that deliver on their mandates.”

She urged all roleplayers in the accountability ecosystem, particularly those with direct control over service delivery, to work deliberately and with urgency towards achieving a culture of accountability, transparency, integrity and improved service delivery for all South Africans. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 12:26

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Read moreDelay in delivery of infrastructure projects affects service delivery
29 November 2023

“Fix our schools” activists show Minister as deadline passes

Location: News

Minimum norms and standards set ten years ago have not been met, says Equal Education

Read more“Fix our schools” activists show Minister as deadline passes
29 November 2023

The Dynamic World of Software Development in South Africa

Location: MyPR

South Africa’s technology landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with software development playing a pivotal role. The growth of software companies in this region not only marks a substantial shift in the economic and technological paradigms but also highlights South Africa’s burgeoning influence in the global tech arena.   The Landscape of Software Development Companies …

Read moreThe Dynamic World of Software Development in South Africa
29 November 2023

Digital Transformation in South Africa

Location: MyPR

In recent years, South Africa has been riding the wave of digital transformation, a pivotal shift that is redefining how businesses operate and interact with their customers. This transformation is not just about adopting new technologies but is a holistic change in how companies think, operate, and deliver value to their clients.   The Role …

Read moreDigital Transformation in South Africa
29 November 2023

AG: Unauthorised expenditure remains high

Location: News

AG: Unauthorised expenditure remains high

The Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) Tsakani Maluleke says unauthorised expenditure at departments remained high throughout the administrative term, totaling R28.22 billion over four years.

Tabling the 2022-23 general report for national and provincial departments, their entities and legislatures in Parliament on Wednesday, Maluleke said in the 2022-23 financial year, such spending amounted to R4.59 billion.

Collectively, accounting officers and authorities managed an estimated expenditure budget of R3.10 trillion in 2022-23.

“The irregular expenditure disclosed in 2022-23 totaled R63.37 billion, with high-impact auditees being responsible for R53.77 billion (85%) of this amount. These amounts might be incomplete, as auditees no longer have to include irregular expenditure incurred in prior years or the closing balance of irregular expenditure in their financial statements,” the AG said.

She said when departments overspend their budgets, they disclose this as unauthorised expenditure.

“If this type of expenditure is condoned, it means that the department needs to either find more money or absorb the overspent amount, which reduces the available budget for the following years,” Maluleke said.

Unlike departments, which must submit their budget vote to parliamentary committee hearings to be approved, public entities do not have a separate vote and thus disclose their overspending as irregular expenditure.

In 2022-23, the irregular expenditure incurred due to overspending was R0.90 billion.

High-impact auditees were responsible for R4.35 billion (79%) of the R5.49 billion total overspending across departments and public entities in 2022-23.

Material irregularity process sees recovery in financial losses

Maluleke has reported that through the material irregularity (MI) process, accounting officers and authorities have taken action to prevent or recover financial losses of R2.55 billion since 2019, with some of this amount still in the process of being recovered.

“We are pleased that the MI process is proving to be effective in enforcing accountability and protecting state resources. Departments and public entities can direct the recovered funds towards service delivery, enabling government to achieve its strategic priorities,” Maluleke said.

From 1 April 2019 - when the amendments to the Public Audit Act became effective and the AGSA began implementing the MI process - until 30 September 2023 - the cutoff date for MIs to be included in the latest general report- the audit office identified 266 MIs.

“We estimate the total financial loss of the 240 MIs that involved a material financial loss to be R14.34 billion. The 26 MIs with an impact other than financial loss involved material public resources not being used (most often health facilities), harm to the general public due to infrastructure neglect and poor-quality service delivery, and harm to public sector institutions mainly because of the non-submission of financial statements.

“We used this enforcement tool to spur accounting officers and authorities into action to strengthen internal controls, institute disciplinary measures, stem resource leakage arising from non-compliant procurement processes, recover funds lost through duplicate payments and overpayments to suppliers, safeguard assets, and improve the use of public resources such that they benefit citizens,” Maluleke said.

She said that where the MIs were not dealt with swiftly or with the required seriousness, her office included recommendations in audit reports, took remedial action or referred matters to relevant public bodies for investigation, where appropriate.

Financial management

The AG cautioned that when government is not careful with its spending practices, this reduces the already limited funds available.

“The main reasons for the continuing financial losses and waste that we observed, especially at high-impact auditees, were poor payment practices, uncompetitive and uneconomical procurement practices, limited value and benefit for money spent, poorly managed government properties and accommodation leases, and weaknesses in project management.

“Government’s budget for service delivery activities is reduced by claims made against departments, and by auditees overspending their budgets and being in poor financial health. Ailing institutions, such as the state-owned enterprises, place further pressure on government by needing bailouts and by creating potential future obligations as a result of guarantees,” Maluleke said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 12:53

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Read moreAG: Unauthorised expenditure remains high
29 November 2023

The Rise of Cloud Computing in South Africa

Location: MyPR

Introduction In recent years, South Africa has witnessed a significant shift towards cloud computing, marking a pivotal moment in its digital transformation journey. This move is reshaping how businesses and services operate, with cloud architects and consultants playing a central role.   The Role of Cloud Architects in South Africa Cloud architects in South Africa …

Read moreThe Rise of Cloud Computing in South Africa
29 November 2023

Springbok Women’s Sevens need to make it count

Location: Sport

The Springbok Women’s Sevens are under no illusions about the realities of playing in the HSBC SVNS – they are literally taking on the world for survival, according to one of the team’s forwards, Asisipho Plaatjies. Plaatjies will run out at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai for the first time, although she has donned the …

Read moreSpringbok Women’s Sevens need to make it count
29 November 2023

The AWS Advanced Consulting Partner Status

Location: MyPR

Introduction In the rapidly evolving world of cloud computing, becoming an Amazon Web Services (AWS) Advanced Consulting   Partner represents a significant milestone for any organization. This status not only showcases technical prowess but also opens doors to a myriad of opportunities, especially in the realm of cloud-based solutions. This article delves into what it …

Read moreThe AWS Advanced Consulting Partner Status
29 November 2023

Prison security to be beefed up to avoid ‘threats’ this festive season

Location: News

Prison security to be beefed up to avoid 'threats' this festive season

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, on Wednesday said the department will enhance prison security to address any potential risks ahead of the festive season. 

“Proactive measures will be taken to prevent the smuggling of contraband and to deter any attempts at disorder,” Thobakgale said.

The Commissioner was speaking in Durban during the official launch of the department’s National Festive Season Security Operations Plan.  

“We are going into the holiday season, a time of joy, a time of celebration, and a time of togetherness for many. Yet, the festive season is also a period where the country experiences unique challenges related to elevated crime and security breaches in correctional facilities.

“Today’s launch of the DCS Festive Season Security Operations Plan is our commitment, as Correctional Services, towards safe and secure correctional centres.”

He told the attendees that the safety of correctional officials is the department’s number one priority. 

However, he raised concerns about the officials who continue to live under a cloud of insecurity following several recent attacks.  

“This shocking and appalling behaviour by those who try to stop law enforcement agencies from carrying out their duties will not be tolerated. An attack on law enforcement institutions is an attack on the State, and government views this in the most serious light.” 

He described the correctional facilities as an essential part of the justice system, as they are tasked with the rehabilitation responsibility and safe custody of those who have transgressed the laws that govern society. 

“The safety of both correctional officials and inmates is paramount,” he stressed. 

According to the Commissioner, overcrowding, gang activities, contraband smuggling and violence have become pervasive. 

And this, according to him, does not only jeopardise the lives of those within facilities but also communities to which offenders eventually return.  

“These challenges underscore the pressing necessity to enhance security measures within correctional centres.” 

Thobakgale believes that the festive season poses specific risks, including heightened emotions and increased social interactions among inmates. 

“It is during these times that our collective vigilance becomes even more critical.” 

He stressed that this year’s festive season plan was not only about maintaining security but about fostering an environment where both inmates and staff can experience a sense of peace and stability.  

“We aim to ensure that the spirit of the season is not overshadowed by incidents that compromise the safety of our facilities.” 

Interventions 

To achieve this, Thobakgale said they will implement multi-faceted operations. 

These include increased vigilance and traffic monitoring as holidays often result in an increased number of visitors to correctional facilities as families try to maintain ties during special occasions. 

“Strict visitor screening procedures will be in place to prevent the introduction of contraband, and to ensure that only authorised individuals are allowed access.”

In addition, the department will also encourage inmates to participate in positive engagement programmes and activities as a distraction from potential conflicts, which also contribute to the rehabilitation process.

“We will strengthen our collaboration with external partners, including various law enforcement agencies and community organisations to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to security. 

“Information-sharing and joint initiatives can help track and apprehend individuals attempting to orchestrate criminal activities from within correctional centres,” said Thobakgale.

He is of the view that by addressing these factors and maintaining a proactive approach to safety and security, correctional facilities will be better equipped to function with ease.

“As a result, the well-being of both staff members and inmates during the holiday season shall find resonance.” 

The Commissioner also expressed his gratitude to the dedicated correctional officials who work tirelessly to maintain order and abide by the code of conduct in their daily routine.  

“Your commitment to public safety is commendable and your efforts are invaluable. Working in a correctional facility is challenging, and your resoluteness must be valued at all times.” 

He reminded his colleagues that their mission extends beyond the physical confines of correctional facilities. 

But, according to the Commissioner, it is about fostering a safe society, with respect and dignity. 

“Tightening security in our facilities is not merely a matter of institutional concern. It is a collective responsibility that impacts the safety and well-being of the entire society.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 15:26

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Read morePrison security to be beefed up to avoid ‘threats’ this festive season
29 November 2023

SAICC warns about the impact of South African foreign policy on local exporters

Location: MyPR

November 2023, Johannesburg: The South Africa Israel Chamber of Commerce (SAICC) notes with alarm, the current moves within the US Senate to review South Africa’s (SA’s) eligibility for the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The Democratic Senator, Chris Coons is currently lobbying support for a proposed law to renew AGOA for 16 years that …

Read moreSAICC warns about the impact of South African foreign policy on local exporters
29 November 2023

July unrest ‘instigator’ Mdumiseni Zuma slapped with 12-year jail sentence

Location: News

July unrest 'instigator' Mdumiseni Zuma slapped with 12-year jail sentence

The Pietermaritzburg Regional Court this week sentenced Mdumiseni Khetha Zuma to an effective 12 years imprisonment for instigating the 2021 July unrest in KwaZulu-Natal.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the 36-year-old’s conviction comes after contravening Sections 17 and 18 of the Riotous Assemblies Act, where he incited people to gather and commit public violence.

“This was done by making an inciteful video, pertaining to the Brookside Mall, and distributing it on the WhatsApp platform. The charges relate to the incidents of looting and public violence, which occurred in July 2021 in parts of the country, especially KwaZulu-Natal.

This, according to the NPA, resulted in the Brookside Mall in Pietermaritzburg being looted and burnt to the ground.

According to the statement, Senior State Advocate Yuri Gangai led the evidence of video footage, audio clips and the testimony of a guard who worked at the mall. 

Gangai further led the evidence of two experts who translated the audio clips. 

“In aggravation of sentence, Gangai led the testimony of the manager of the mall, at the time it was burned,” said the NPA.

The manager told the court that the estimated damage caused by the looting and fire was approximately R500 million. 

“He further stated that the mall serviced five different communities, as well as about 5 000 people who collected their SASSA [South African Social Security Agency] grants there. 

“They have all been adversely affected by the burning down of the mall,” the NPA said.

Zuma was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for count one, two years of which are suspended for five years on condition that he is not convicted of the same offences during the period of suspension.

He was also sentenced to six years in prison, of which two years are to run concurrently with count one. 

“This results in the effective sentence of 12 years direct imprisonment,” the NPA explained. 

While the NPA in KwaZulu-Natal has finalised several cases in respect of the July 2021 unrest, the agency said this was the first conviction where an individual has been convicted and subsequently sentenced for inciting the unrest. 

“We hope that this sentence serves as a deterrent to others who intend on engaging in similar offences. We commend the working relationship between the DPCI [Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation] KZN and the prosecution,” the NPA said. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

Gabisile
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 13:56

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Read moreJuly unrest ‘instigator’ Mdumiseni Zuma slapped with 12-year jail sentence
29 November 2023

The call goes out for manganese, and South Africa’s ready

Location: MyPR

For a long time, South Africa has hinged its prosperity on gold, and the development and economic prosperity of the province of Gauteng gives testimony to this fact. Recent decades, however, have seen production of gold wane dramatically, from an era of having been our majority metal export to now being a small minority at …

Read moreThe call goes out for manganese, and South Africa’s ready
29 November 2023

Clean our “stinking” canal, demand Moeggesukkel shack dwellers

Location: News

Nelson Mandela Bay ward councillor promises they will get water by Christmas and electricity in January

Read moreClean our “stinking” canal, demand Moeggesukkel shack dwellers
29 November 2023

We asked the Top Financial Services, Insurance, and Retail companies in South Africa – Is Data the Current Currency?

Location: MyPR

The management of data quality is a common struggle across companies and industries. Prioritising fraud prevention and having insight into data can have a ripple effect on the economy. Everything is hyper-personalised by tracking people’s engagements, clicks, and movements.  Insights into this invaluable data can enable rapid instant information with various benefits.   To explore …

Read moreWe asked the Top Financial Services, Insurance, and Retail companies in South Africa – Is Data the Current Currency?
29 November 2023

Cele Should Apologise in Person to Cameron

Location: News

Dear Editor The DA welcomes Parliament’s Joint Ethics Committee’s recommendation that Police Minister Bheki Cele must apologise to the house following his “shut up” tirade last year. While the committee recommended that Cele apologises “in the house for his conduct towards Mr Ian Cameron”, the DA believes that the Police Minister must also apologise to …

Read moreCele Should Apologise in Person to Cameron
29 November 2023

Are You ONLY Using ONE Sunscreen?

Location: Business

Shouldn’t You Be Using Different Sunscreens For Your Face And Body? South Africa – When it comes to adequately protecting your skin against the damaging effects of the sun, sunscreen is widely known as your saving grace for both your face and body. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the skin on your …

Read moreAre You ONLY Using ONE Sunscreen?
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