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Measures in area to deal with Diphtheria outbreak

Location: News

Measures in place to deal with Diphtheria outbreak

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is leaving “nothing to chance” as it deals with the outbreak of Diphtheria at the Pollsmoor Correctional Centre, says it’s National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale.

This after a 19-year-old inmate died and eight other inmates tested positive for the contagious bacterial infection at the Pollsmoor Correctional Centre in the Western Cape.

“We would like to assure the public and stakeholders that we are taking proactive measures to address and contain any possible spread of the disease. The epidemiological investigation on the index case is still ongoing.

“Recognising the potential risks associated with communal living, we have implemented a comprehensive set of measures to mitigate the spread of the disease within the correctional setting.

“We are doing this because we also know that [a] Diphtheria outbreak in a correctional environment requires a coordinated and comprehensive response in order to contain the spread and provide appropriate medical care to the affected individuals,” he said at a media briefing on Monday.

Thobakgale outlined the measures taken which include:

  • Vaccination campaign: The department has initiated a vaccination campaign to ensure that all eligible individuals receive the Diphtheria vaccine. A total of 342 inmates have been vaccinated. In terms of officials, the department stands at 36.
  • Hygiene practices: Inmates and staff members are once more being educated and encouraged to practice enhanced hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and water, covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and the use of hand sanitizers. Facilities are being deep cleaned in an effort to minimize the risk of disease transmission. This involves pest control.
  • Isolation: according to Thobakgale, direct contacts are  “effectively on day 16 of isolation”. Appropriate medical care is also provided to those classified as high risk.
  • Regular Health screenings: Inmates and staff members are now subjected to regular health screenings to detect any potential cases early to enable DCS to prevent the spread of the disease and be ready to deal with new infections should they emerge.
  • Medical attention: Health care professionals are available and are treating affected inmates. Appropriate medical treatment is also being offered. The Department of Health is also working closely with DCS in this regard thus ensuring a comprehensive response plan.

“We are leaving nothing to chance, health education efforts to inform inmates, DCS officials and service providers about the symptoms of Diphtheria, the importance of vaccination, and preventive measures are being amplified. Our health care team is vigilant in monitoring the situation and the infection prevention measures are for every individual in a correctional facility to follow through.

“The situation is calm and under control. No new cases have been reported in the past five days. Hence, we do believe that the measures that we have put in place shall be effective in ensuring the well-being of everyone in our care,” he said.

Roots of the outbreak

Reflecting on the events leading up to the outbreak, Thobakgale explained that the 19-year-old inmate who died, fell ill after being transported back to the facility following a court appearance on October 17.

“When the inmate showed signs of not feeling well, the Correctional Services Health Care officials treated him and a decision was taking that he be transferred to an outside hospital. At the time the inmate showed malaise and respiratory symptoms hence the transfer to Victoria Hospital on 28 October.

“He received further treatment and was tested for Diphtheria and the results came back positive on 02 November 2023. Unfortunately, the inmate’s condition deteriorated and he sadly passed away on 5 November 2023 at the Groote Schuur Hospital,” he said.

Thobakgale said following the inmate’s diagnosis, the department immediately embarked on a contact tracing exercise with some 54 inmates and 15 correctional services officials identified as contacts.

Some eight inmates tested positive.

“[The officials] were tested and released to isolate at home. The provisional results have since came back negative, awaiting confirmatory results.

“As a department, it was important that we act with necessary urgency. The health and well-being of our incarcerated inmates, staff members, and the surrounding community are of utmost importance to us, and we are obligated to ensure a safe and healthy environment.

“Diphtheria is a vaccine-preventable disease, and through…comprehensive measures, we aim to minimize the risk of transmission at Pollsmoor Correctional facility,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 12:00

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National summit to address substance abuse, illicit trafficking 

Location: News

National summit to address substance abuse, illicit trafficking 

The Social Development Department in partnership with the Central Drug Authority (CDA) will host the 3rd National Summit on Substance Abuse and Illicit Trafficking from 14 - 16 November at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg. 

Given the high prevalence of substance abuse and illicit trafficking, which negatively affects the wellbeing of the country’s population, the Minister of Social Development Lindiwe Zulu is expected to address the summit. 

Zulu will be accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Social Development,  Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, and the Chairperson of the Central Drug Authority, Nandi Mayathula-Khoza. 

The summit will be held under the theme: “Towards sustainable, coordinated and impactful strategies for national drug and substance use in South Africa”. 

“The summit will unfold on the premise of the need to realise a South Africa free of substance abuse through capacity building sessions on collaborative and coordinated evidence based and sustainable socio-economic interventions.
 
“Civil society organisations together with experts and leaders in government attending the summit are expected to deliberate on drug demand reduction, drug supply reduction, access to medicines and prevention of NPS [new psychoactive substances] diversion, governance, accountability and leadership, research development, monitoring and evaluation, and economic development, as key thematic areas of the summit,” the department said in a statement. 
  
Setting the scene and sharing lived experiences, affected and infected persons from various provinces across South Africa will be speaking at the opening ceremony tomorrow.

Former Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates player, Junaid Hartley, now a recovered substance user, will be sharing his fourteen-year battle with addiction and sleeping on the streets of Johannesburg. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 12:03

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Government activities for the week, 13 November – 17 November 2023

Location: News

Government activities for the week, 13 November - 17 November 2023

On Tuesday, 14 November, the Department of Health will observe World Diabetes Day through an inter-provincial cycling challenge between North West and Gauteng provinces, among other activities.

From Tuesday, 14 November, to Friday, 17 November, the National Primary Health Care (PHC) Conference will be held in South Africa at the East London International Convention Centre.

On Thursday, 16 November, the Department of Water and Sanitation, together with the International Union for Conservation of Nature, Department of Forestry Fisheries and the Environment and the United Nations Development Programme will host a Climate Change Adaptation Workshop.

On Friday, 17 November, Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, will launch a R106 million Dinokana Water Supply Project which is part of ‘Opertiona Bulela Metsi’ intervention programme.

This weekend, from 18 November to 19 November, the IEC will host the voter registration weekend.

Janine
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 13:17

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Tourism, Google sign collaborative agreement

Location: News

Tourism, Google sign collaborative agreement

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has signed an agreement with global tech giant, Google, aimed at promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination and to provide training and support to the sector in digital training.

The Minister and Dr Alistair Mokoena, Country Director for Google South Africa, signed the agreement in Cape Town on Monday.

This partnership is in line with de Lille’s mission to grow tourism to its full potential, unlock the power of technology in the sector and increase arrivals to South Africa to support economic growth and job creation. 

“In an era of digital transformation, collaboration between technology giants and government entities has the potential to reshape industries and enhance public services. As stated in the Tourism Sector Green Paper, there is a ‘lack of support mechanisms for the (tourism) sector, particularly SMMEs, to adapt to a digital future and other technological advancements. 

“This visionary partnership between Google and the Ministry of Tourism, focuses on non-monetary exchanges to leverage each parties’ strengths for mutual benefits,” de Lille said. 

Google intends to provide support to the Ministry to achieve its mandate through providing access to its initiatives and programmes in South Africa that are beneficial to the sector.

Mokoena said they were excited to partner with the Department of Tourism and to sign the letter of intent which aims to position South Africa as a great tourist destination.

“As a company that prides itself in organising the world’s information and making it universally accessible and useful, we look forward to rolling out various programmes in conjunction with the department, to fast track digital transformation in the sector, helping with digital skills and showcasing South African tourism through our Google Arts & Culture platform,” Mokoena said. 

According to the department, the primary goal of this collaboration is to harness Google's technological expertise to support the Ministry of Tourism's efforts in promoting South Africa as a prime tourist destination.

The department said no monetary exchange will take place as a result of the agreement.

The areas of collaboration include:

Collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism, Google can provide insights into global travel trends. This information can guide the Department of Tourism and South African Tourism’s strategies for targeting specific markets and tailoring experiences to visitor expectations.

Specific studies to investigate the impact of digital platforms and online content are to be undertaken by Google and shared at no cost to the Ministry or Department.

Google offers skills training programmes including the Google Hustle Academy and master classes. These digital skills initiatives will be extended to offer training programs for individuals and businesses within the Ministry ecosystem.

This would equip local entrepreneurs with the digital skills needed to market their offerings online, potentially attracting a wider audience of travellers.

Tourism start-ups can be supported by Google programmes such as the Startup Accelerator and the Black Founders Fund.

The training will also include Google Ads training on the fundamentals of Google Ads. To date, more than 2 773 South African SMMES have previously benefited from these support programmes offered by Google.

Google can showcase South African tourism sites and unique cultural heritage to the world through the Google Arts and Culture Portal.

The two will also collaborate in creating a tourism thought leadership seminar through presenting commissioned research results on the opportunity and impact of online content and digital platforms in the tourism sector.

A co-hosted thought leadership seminar will focus on the digital opportunities for accelerating economic growth in the tourism sector.

The aims of the seminar will be to facilitate knowledge sharing and understanding of the digital opportunity in accelerating economic growth and upskilling governments and tourism promotion agencies with global best practices on how to use digital platforms.

“By tapping into Google's technology through digital skills training and the sharing of insights, South Africa's industry, notably SMMEs, can be present their offerings in innovative ways, engaging potential tourists, and inspiring them to explore the country,” Minister de Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 14:00

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Compulsory Prepaid Electricity proposed for all South Africans | Straton Prepaid Meters

Location: Business

Eskom CEO Brian Molefe is of the view that legislation in South Africa should be changed, making it standard to use prepaid electricity. Speaking to MPs during a parliamentary briefing with Eskom and the Select Committee on Communications and Public Enterprises about the power utility’s tariff hike for 2016 to 2017, Molefe said prepaid electricity […]

Read moreCompulsory Prepaid Electricity proposed for all South Africans | Straton Prepaid Meters

Two in hot water for possession of state infrastructure

Location: News

Two in hot water for possession of state infrastructure

Two people have been arrested and charged with the possession of stolen goods, including 52 street lights estimated at R1.9 million belonging to the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality.

The Border Management Authority (BMA) said the pair was arrested by border guards at the Kosi Bay port of entry when they intercepted state property which was en route to Mozambique on Saturday, 11 November 2023. 

According to the authority’s statement released on Monday, the duo was in a grey Isuzu bakkie which was driven by a Mozambican national when they were searched at the port of entry bordering South Africa and Mozambique. 

“The team immediately activated the Hawks and Durban metro police. 

“Two Mozambicans were arrested and charged with the possession of stolen goods, including damaging of essential infrastructure.” 

In addition, the BMA said the vehicle they were travelling in as well as the property were seized and handed over to the Manguzi South African Police Service (SAPS). 

“A case was opened and handed over to the Hawks for further investigation.” 

BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, commended the remarkable work of the border guards in preventing illegal activities and securing the state assets.  

“The BMA border guards serve as the first line of defence working around the clock to enforce immigration laws thereby maintaining the integrity of our nation. Their vigilance in this incident and dedication contribute significantly to maintaining law and order. Their operation in intercepting municipal assets is truly commendable,” said Masiapato. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 14:33

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Navigating Women’s Health: Mammograms, Pelvic Ultrasounds, and HSG

Location: MyPR

Introduction When it comes to prioritising our health, women understand the importance of regular check-ups and screenings. In this blog, we’ll explore three vital diagnostic procedures: Mammograms, Pelvic Ultrasounds, and HSG (Hysterosalpingography). These screenings are essential in maintaining women’s well-being and ensuring early detection of potential health issues. If you’ve ever wondered about finding a …

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Rugby Africa President and African Development Bank President Confer on Advancing Sports Infrastructure in Africa

Location: Sport
Rugby Africa

Herbert Mensah, the newly elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, recently engaged in a 45-minute face-to-face meeting with Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina, the  President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB). The meeting, held during the African Investment Forum in Marrakesh, Morocco, focused on the crucial topic of sports infrastructures in Africa.

During the meeting, President Mensah and Dr Adesina discussed the significant potential of sports as a thriving business in Africa, with a particular emphasis on advancing development of sports infrastructure across the continent. Recognizing the pivotal role of sport in economic growth and community well-being, both leaders explored strategic conversations to harness the continent's potential.

President Adesina took a moment to extend his heartfelt congratulations to the South Africa Springboks for their triumph at the Rugby World Cup. He emphasized the victory's significance in maintaining Africa's status as the reigning champion of the world for another four years.

The newly elected President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah, continues to emphasize the business potential of sport across Africa. Since his election, Mensah has called for a change of mind-set among African governments and international organizations and to fully embrace, support and increase investment in rugby across Africa, as a wealth and development creating activity.

“With abundant talent and the world's attention, Africa stands at the forefront of the global marketplace,” said Mensah. “It's time to turn this potential into power, investing in ourselves, forging structures that allow our resources to fuel our own growth, breaking free from the cycle of export and import that hinders the realization of our true economic potential.” 

The sports industry in Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with significant potential to generate jobs, improve public health, foster social inclusion, and drive economic growth.

According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the industry was valued at $7 billion in 2018, with an expected growth of $12 billion in 2027. Despite the potential, investment across Africa remains limited, with only 1% of start-up financing directed towards the sports sector.

More information: https://apo-opa.co/3FV6pXA

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.

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Managing anxiety and stress in pets

Location: MyPR

When it comes to the well-being of your furry family members, Bob Martin’s Naturals Calmcare is a trusted ally, offering a scientifically sound and holistic approach to managing stress and anxiety. Cats and dogs, just like humans, can experience stress and anxiety and this can present at different stages in their lives, and as a …

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Voter Registration Days Coming Up

Location: News

Dear Editor On 18 and 19 November, every voting station in South Africa will be open for voter registration. We urge all DA supporters and those committed to rescuing South Africa to come forward and register during this weekend. At this pivotal moment in our nation’s history, the 2024 elections stand as a critical opportunity …

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Chikunga receives specialised agency to audit SA’s marine operations

Location: News

Chikunga receives specialised agency to audit SA’s marine operations

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has officially welcomed the International Maritime Organisation audit team who are in the country to conduct a mandatory audit under the IMO’s Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). 

Speaking at Monday’s opening meeting in Cape Town, the Minister described the gathering as a milestone as the country forges ahead with upholding international standards and compliance in maritime operations. 

The International Maritime Organisation, which South Africa became a member of in 1995, is a specialised agency of the United Nations (UN) responsible for regulating and promoting responsible shipping on a global scale.

South Africa’s participation in the IMO, enables the country to contribute to the development of international maritime policies and standards, mainly related to maritime safety, pollution prevention and the welfare of seafarers.  

“South Africa also benefits from IMO initiatives that support capacity building, technical assistance and development in the maritime sector.”

The IMO’s audit scheme has created a regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is fair and effective, universally adopted and implemented. It also promotes a safe and secure environment and efficient and sustainable shipping.

During this audit, the Minister said key areas will be scrutinised, ranging from ship safety and security to environmental protection measures.  

“South Africa’s focus is on fostering compliance with the international maritime conventions and how it meets those obligations, ensuring that our practices align with global standards set by [the] IMO.” 

Legislation

South Africa has since reviewed the Comprehensive Maritime Transport Policy, while some key pieces of legislation are under review and will soon be enacted. 

These include the Merchant Shipping Act, the Marine Pollution Bill and the Oil Pollution Preparedness Response and Cooperation Bill. 

The Minister believes that the legislative process is critical to giving full effect to the convention by accelerating adoption, incorporation into national laws, and development of regulations to mainstream implementation and enforcement of IMO instruments in South African territorial waters.

Audit

The commencement of the IMSAS audit comes after it was postponed due to the aftermath impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. The audit will begin with preparatory work by all entities with the mandate on maritime policy, legislation and operations. 

“A pre-audit questionnaire and an exercise were completed to collect and verify documents and all that is left is for the auditors to satisfy themselves on the audit requirements and completeness of South Africa's compliance to international rules and standards.”

This will be followed by a preliminary audit outcome report, expected to be submitted at the end of the week-long undertaking.

The team will audit the Department of Transport and its implementing agency and the maritime administration, South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA. 

They will also assess the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre supported by Telkom on radio communications, Transnet National Ports Authority, the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment, the South African Weather Services and the South African Navy Hydrography Office.

“Together, we can ensure that the outcomes of this audit catalyse positive change as we strive towards excellence,” she said.

The Minister is of the view that compliance is not merely a regulatory obligation. 

“It is a commitment to the wellbeing of our oceans, the safety of our seafarers, and the sustainability of maritime trade, crucial to the export-driven economy of South Africa.  

“By working together, we strengthen our capacity to address challenges and promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement.” 

In addition, she said the feedback will assist in the regulatory process of the IMO to help make measurable improvements in the effectiveness of the international regulatory framework for shipping.

“I cannot over-emphasise the importance of this audit, a window of reflection of our work as a maritime nation, quality assurance and continuous standards improvement for safe and secure and environmentally sound South Africa’s plus or minus 3 000 kilometres of diverse coastline.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 12:43

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President to undertake State Visit to Qatar

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 15 November 2023, undertake a State Visit to Qatar at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.

The State Visit will form part of two days of engagement between the governments of South Africa and Qatar on 14 and 15 November.

The visit occurs in the context of three decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries who will celebrate the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations on 11 May 2024. This visit will be President Ramaphosa's first visit to the State of Qatar as Head of State.

The programme will include meetings with His Highness Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and high-level business engagements.

During their meeting, President Ramaphosa and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani are expected to deliberate on various geopolitical issues that are currently impacting the world.

Both parties are committed to enhancing their economic ties and focusing on improving economic relations including trade, investment, and tourism.

In 2022, Qatar became South Africa's fifth-largest trading partner in the Middle East.

There is significant potential for further economic cooperation between the two countries. South Africa exported USD 206 million worth of trade to Qatar in 2022.

The bulk of the exports were in the manufacturing sector, accounting for about 56% of total exports. South Africa has witnessed a surge in its imports from Qatar between 2017 and 2022, primarily due to the import of petroleum oils.

South African imports from Qatar amounted to USD 252 million in 2022.

The President will be joined by a high-level business delegation and is expected to engage the Qatari business community to explore opportunities for cooperation in areas such as the creative industries, energy, mining, agro-processing, retail, healthcare, tourism, and shipbuilding. 

South Africa is a significant investor in Qatar, especially in the petrochemical-related sector, with a total investment of approximately USD 8.7 billion.

Sasol has a 49% shareholding with Qatar Petroleum, and established ORYX GTL, the world's first commercial-scale gas-to-liquids plant. Sasol's GTL technology is used in ORYX GTL to convert natural gas into liquid fuel and chemical products.

The governments of South Africa and Qatar share deep concern regarding the conflict, notably the unfolding human catastrophe in Palestine, violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law, the large-scale loss of life and the ongoing hostilities, especially in Gaza.

The leaders will discuss respective efforts to ensure that the conflict does not escalate to other parts of the region and that a peaceful resolution is found.

South Africa also welcomes Qatar's mediation efforts in this crisis.

The President will be accompanied by the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation; Trade, Industry and Competition; Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Mineral Resources and Energy; Defence, Basic Education and the Minister in the Presidency. 

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

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Trail Angels ready to experience mountain biking heaven at Savanna Origin of Trails

Location: MyPR

Taking place in the majestic city of oaks this coming Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 November 2023, the Savanna Origin of Trails MTB Experience has become a firm favourite of South Africa’s largest women-only mountain bike club, the esteemed Trail Angels. “Our aim is to introduce more women to the exhilarating world of mountain biking …

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