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Dear Editor The DA in the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Municipality has written to the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) to investigate the R38 million ‘shack’ call centre in Vryburg. See letter here. Yesterday, during a DA oversight inspection of the call centre, we found the temporary facility unstaffed and locked. Following media reports over …
Dear Editor The DA is deeply concerned by the recent reports of an alarming increase in snaring incidents within South Africa’s National Parks (SANParks), particularly the iconic Kruger National Park. The revelation that six elephants—a keystone species—have fallen victim to snares this year alone is a call for urgent action. Snaring is a cruel and …
More than 12 months after the damning finding by Western Cape High Court Judge, Daniel Thulare, it is deeply worrying that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has not been available to provide an update on their investigations to myself and my office as the Western Cape Minister for Police Oversight and Community Safety. This …
Transport Minister safe after robbery incident
The Department of Transport has confirmed reports of an unfortunate incident involving Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga between the N3 Vosloorus and Heidelberg.
“The tyres of the Minister’s car were punctured by spikes, bringing the car to a stop, enabling the criminals to rob the occupants of valuables,” the department said on Tuesday.
This incident took place in the early hours of Monday morning when the Minister was en route to Pretoria.
“Both the Minister and her dedicated South African Police Service (SAPS) protection team emerged from this incident unharmed and safe. Minister Chikunga remains committed to fulfilling her government responsibilities and is deeply grateful for the overwhelming support she has received from her fellow government colleagues and the people of South Africa,” the department said.
The department is unable to provide further details as this is an ongoing police investigation. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 12:50
Dr. Martin Forlee is a distinguished vein specialist based in Cape Town with an impressive academic and professional background. His expertise lies in vascular surgery, particularly in minimally invasive venous and arterial endovascular surgery as well as the management of diabetic foot complications. Dr. Forlee completed his MBChB with first-class honours from the University of …
Court freezes R29m in assets of alleged Eskom electricity voucher syndicate
The Pretoria Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has been granted an order to freeze properties and cash worth R29 million belonging to a syndicate that allegedly stole from Eskom.
NPA Regional Spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana, explained that a former employee of Eskom, Mothelli Theletsane, allegedly stole a Master Vending Unit from the company, which dispenses electricity coupons for consumers.
“Theletsane, who has since passed on, was employed at Eskom on a contract basis and worked in the pre-paid environment, supporting Eskom’s pre-paid vending system. He operated as a supervisor in his role and therefore obtained intimate knowledge of the operations of machines, and he also acquired technical expertise on the ins and outs of the Credit Dispensing Units (CDU).
“[He] also acquired, unknowingly to Eskom, a Master Vending Unit (MVU), that can generate limitless prepaid electricity vouchers and a few CDUs which he concealed after his exit from Eskom. It was discovered that Theletsane was allegedly running a ghost vending operation, whereby he illegally generated electricity vouchers to the value of over R36 million and sold them to the public for his benefit,” Mahanjana said.
She said following Theletsane’s death, the illegal “business” was allegedly taken over by Theletsane’s wife, Thandi Theletsane and her three sons, Papi and Tebello Theletsane and Sibusiso Migal.
“The business became so lucrative that it was expanded throughout all the nine provinces. Through the syndicate, the Theletsane family and the company, Mothelli Theletsane Holdings and Investment (PTY) Ltd, managed to acquire 27 movable and 39 immovable properties worth over R23 million from the proceeds of crime,” Mahanjana said.
The family members are standing trial together with 10 other suspects, namely: Petrus Mohapi, Donald Rammusi, Victor Mdlalose, Joseph Mdlalose, Florence Mdlalose, Daniel Moleko, Xolani Dube, Lebohang Thabanyana, Raymond Mohapi and Sebabatso Mbele.
“This matter does not only highlight the effective cooperation and collaboration between various crime-fighting agencies within the NPA, as well as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), but shows determination and commitment by the NPA to ensure that money stolen from the state is returned,” Mahanjana said.
The criminal case is expected back in court on 15 November. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 10:24
It was another legal setback for Nandipha Magudumana on Tuesday when she failed to convince a judge that she should be granted bail. Magudamana had approached the Bloemfontein High Court in an appeal against a ruling in September this year against a decision by Magistrate Estelle de Lange to deny her bail. On Tuesday, Acting …
In the dynamic world of gaming, Evo Games stands out as a haven for enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of products and accessories from some of the most sought-after brands in the industry. As a one-stop destination for all things gaming, Evo Games provides a gateway to elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Here’s …
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Johannesburg has been vindicated by the High Court Judgment declaring Floyd Brink’s appointment by the ANC/EFF/PA coalition, as Johannesburg’s City Manager unconstitutional, unlawful and invalid. We welcome the judgment and call on the City to immediately implement the remedies ordered by the court. This follows the DA’s urgent …
Following the thrilling conclusion of Rugby World Cup 2023 attention now turns to the first event of the revamped and rebranded HSBC SVNS 2024, which gets underway on 2-3 December with the highly anticipated return of Emirates Dubai 7s as the pools and match schedule are announced Emirates Dubai 7s returns on 2-3 December as …
MetPac-SA, a global leader in metal packaging solutions, is thrilled to announce the remarkable success of its fourth Annual General Meeting (AGM), which took place recently. This virtual event was attended by key stakeholders, board members and partners, marking a significant milestone in the association’s journey towards sustainability and excellence. The AGM served as a …
Dear Editor The DA has noted with great concern the government’s determination to create yet another loss-making SOE, especially given the dismal record of SOEs under ANC control. The purpose of the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) draft bill, Gazetted on 16 September 2023, is the establishment of yet another fully state-owned company, or …
The International Cricket Council (ICC) today revealed the latest group of international superstars in contention to win the ICC Player of the Month awards following an action-packed month of cricket in October. The ICC Men’s Player of the Month shortlist celebrates three of the top performers from October’s group stage fixtures at the ICC Men’s …
Creecy takes decisions in FRAP 2021/2022 appeals process
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy has issued her decisions on appeals that were submitted against the decisions of the Delegated Authority in the Hake Longline (HLL) Sector, in terms of the Fishing Rights Allocation Process 2020/2021 (FRAP 2021).
The Minister’s General Published Reasons for her Appeal Decisions in the Hake Longline Sector: 2021/2022 will be published on the department’s website.
The department will provide appellants with the outcome of their individual appeals in due course.
In addition, rightsholders will be able to access the FRAP Online Portal for their grant of rights letters, which will be uploaded shortly.
“In my consideration of these appeals, I balanced a wide range of factors, including the principles and objectives of the Marine Living Resources Act 18 of 1998 (MLRA), the 2021 General Policy on the Allocation of Commercial Fishing Rights and the sector specific policy on the allocation of commercial fishing rights in the Hake Longline sector: 2021.
"I was cognisant of the need to introduce new entrants into the sector to broaden access to the fishing industry and to promote transformation of industry,” Creecy said on Tuesday.
On appeal, an additional eight Category A, 2 Category B and 6 Category C applicants were awarded rights.
To facilitate the admission of the successful appellants into the sector, it was necessary to reduce the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) allocated to category A applicants and to redistribute the TAC in an equitable manner, whilst ensuring that no rightsholder’s TAC falls below the minimum allocation.
“In my determination on the reduction of the TAC and the redistribution thereof, I was mindful of the need to ensure stability in the sector, so as to minimise any negative impact on existing participation in job creation, and to avoid any job losses.
“In addition, the limited availability of TAC required that I exercise my discretion on the distribution of the resource in a manner that ensures sustainable development of the natural resource, whilst ensuring that rightholders are able to sustain themselves.
“I am satisfied that based on a careful consideration of the appeals, I have arrived at the correct decision on each appeal and for the sector as a whole,” the Minister said.
The department is endeavouring to finalise the Sardine appeals (169 appeals) by 25 November 2023 and the Anchovy appeals (230 appeals) by 30 November 2023, so that the process is finalised before the commencement of the next fishing season for each of these sectors on 15 January 2023.
Link to the General Published Reasons (GPR): https://www.dffe.gov.za/sites/default/files/legislations/appeals/04nov2023gpr_hakelongline.pdf. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 10:27
Australia have found what they were missing earlier on in the tournament – their energy. In the first two games, they looked like a flat cricket team in all three facets of the game. The last five games, in particular, there has been a lot more energy in the field and to me that’s always …
Limpopo Premier to hand over ambulances to Sekhukhune district
Limpopo Premier Chupu Stanley Mathabatha is expected to hand over 35 brand new ambulances to the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at district municipality offices in the Sekhukhune District.
The new fleet of EMS vehicles is a major step in the department's ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare services for all residents in the province.
The handover is a pivotal moment aligning with the goal set by Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba (during the 2023/24 budget speech) of providing a total of 500 new ambulances.
In recent months, 105 new ambulances have been commissioned and allocated to EMS stations across the province.
Other districts and EMS stations are in the queue to receive new ambulances in the upcoming tranches.
Mathabatha emphasised the crucial role of ambulance services in delivering timely medical care to patients, ensuring immediate attention, providing vital first aid, stabilising patients and preventing the deterioration of their condition.
"Improving our ability to respond swiftly to emergency situations is our top priority," said Mathabatha. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 09:07
But amending the law will not be enough. Police leadership must commit to addressing brutality.
But even with the best proposals, without a shift in political culture coalition governments will be unstable
Kubayi launches R430m bulk infrastructure project in Free State
Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has unveiled a R430 million bulk infrastructure project in Moqhaka Local Municipality, Free State.
Unveiled on Friday, the bulk infrastructure project for Maokeng Extension 10 and 13 will yield 5 300 serviced stands to benefit the community of Moqhaka in the Fezile Dabi District Municipality.
The project also includes sites for public amenities like schools and recreational facilities.
Kubayi said the infrastructure project will provide a huge financial injection into the municipality.
“This will be in the form of labour, the procurement of materials, diesel and hiring of plant machines. As part of local economic development, 30% of the value of the project will be spent on local sub-contractors,” Kubayi explained.
The event was followed by a community engagement at Constantia Hall in Maokeng township, where the Minister handed over 445 title deeds to the rightful beneficiaries.
The handing over of title deeds is part of the Title Deeds Friday campaign, which the department is embarking on to restor dignity by fast-tracking the issuing of title deeds to the rightful owners.
Kubayi said about 30 000 title deeds are readily available for handing over to beneficiaries around the country, and the Free State province accounts for the highest number, at least 16 000 title deeds.
The Minister said the main obstacle to the delivery of title deeds to beneficiaries is township establishment. She urged municipalities to state their problems in the planning process, as they delay the issuing of titles.
Joined by Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana, Cooperative Governance Traditional Affairs and Human Settlements MEC, Ketso Makume and Moqhaka Local Municipality Mayor, Ellis Mokatsane, Kubayi used the opportunity to reiterate the department’s warning to contractors who leave projects incomplete.
“The worst scenario is if you take the money and do not complete the work. It disadvantages communities who must benefit. Some contractors fail to complete projects because of criminal elements who demand money from them and disrupt the implementation of projects.
“We are pleased the Security Cluster has come on board to rid the sector of these criminal elements. Communities must work with government, as the Security Cluster continues to be seized with resolving this untenable situation of project disruptions,” the Minister said.
Kubayi called on councillors to interact with communities, citing an agreement with Mokatsane that all ward councillors will, in the next two weeks, call community meetings to talk to the people about developments in their areas.
Makume reiterated government’s commitment to clear all backlogs, saying that a title deed “restores people’s dignity and confirms the ownership of property”.
“To many, it gives hope to their children that they will have a home to live in even when they pass on, and it is also means giving our people the land,” Makume said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 13:44
Draft White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection approved for publication
Cabinet has approved the publication of the White Paper on Citizenship, Immigration and Refugee Protection for public comment.
“The draft policy aims to provide a framework to guide the granting of residency and citizenship to foreign nationals, as well as the protection of refugees and asylum seekers in South Africa, cognisant of the Republic’s national security interests and in compliance with international agreements and protocols on migration that South Africa is party to,” Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Monday.
The Minister was addressing a media briefing in Pretoria on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on 1 November in Pretoria.
In addition, Cabinet has approved the submission of the Draft African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund (ARF) Bill to Parliament.
“The bill seeks to amend the ARF Act (Act 51 of 2000) and establish the South African Development Partnership Agency that will serve as a mechanism to support South Africa’s development and cooperation with sister countries through the promotion of democracy, good governance, the prevention and resolution of conflict, socio-economic development and integration,” Ntshavheni said.
Disability rights, 16 Days of Activism
Cabinet has approved for publication in the government gazette the 6th Annual Progress Report on the implementation of the White Paper on the Rights of People with Disabilities.
The publication of the progress report will coincide with the international commemoration of the Disability Rights Awareness Month from 3 November to 3 December.
“The progress report also signals an increase of the minimum employment equity target from 2% to 3% for persons with disabilities, as from the 2024/2025 financial year, towards a minimum 7% employment equity target for persons with disabilities by 2030,” Ntshavheni said.
Meanwhile, this year marks the 25th anniversary of South Africa’s participation in the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children Campaign.
The campaign will take place under the theme: “Accelerating Actions to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF): Leaving no one behind”.
“This global campaign runs from 25 November -- the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women to 10 December -- International Human Rights Day. It aims to combat violence against women, whilst upholding human rights,” Ntshavheni said.
Anti-corruption
Following Cabinet’s approval of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS 2020-2030) in November 2020, government will host the Anti-Corruption Dialogue to mobilise society in the fight against corruption, in line with the country’s National Anti-Corruption Strategy.
The strategy is aimed at creating a corruption-free society, while also encouraging citizens to have zero-tolerance for corruption and abide by the rule of law.
The Anti-Corruption Dialogue will be held on 8 and 9 November 2023 at Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 14:16
Cabinet affirms value of AGOA
Cabinet has welcomed the confirmation by both the United States Administration and Congress of the intention to extend AGOA, which brings certainty to the investment community in eligible countries.
“Cabinet has always asserted that the African Growth and Opportunity Act [AGOA] provides an opportunity for the United States of America to strengthen its economic relationship with Africa and thus it must be extended for a meaningful period, enhanced to make it impactful and attractive,” said Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni on Monday.
The 20th AGOA Forum was hosted in Johannesburg last week and it concluded on Saturday.
The forum, held from 2 - 4 November 2023, brought together participants from 32 Africa countries from government, business, civil society and organised labour, for the first time, including representatives of the United States government.
BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting
Cabinet has also welcomed the successful conclusion of the 2023 BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting held in Cape Town, which committed member nations to deeper cooperation and to promote intra-BRICS tourism, develop routes for better tourism mobility and connectivity among the member countries.
Ntshavheni said this will further strengthen South Africa’s tourism sector, which is already showing signs of recovery.
“For the first eight months of 2023, the country saw 5.5 million arrivals, which represented a 63.4% increase from the same period in 2022,” the Minister said.
Held in Cape Town on 24 October 2023, the BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting provided an opportunity for exchange of information and experiences, as well as deepening cooperation among BRICS members to reach consensus on key policy priorities for a balanced tourism recovery.
To ensure continuity and to leverage on the combined strength of BRICS member States, South Africa’s theme for chairing the meeting was: “Sustainable and inclusive tourism recovery”, which aligns to the overall theme of SA’s chairship. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 14:21
Register to vote
All eligible voters are encouraged to go to and check their voter registration status when the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) holds its first voter registration weekend.
The registration weekend will be held on 18 and 19 November 2023 ahead of the General Elections next year.
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said: “Cabinet is calling on all eligible voters to register to vote in the 2024 General Elections at your nearest voting stations.”
The Minister said online voter registration has already commenced, with citizens urged to make use of the online facility to register or update their details.
“South Africans, who have applied for their IDs, are encouraged to visit their local Home Affairs office to collect them. There are more than 500 000 smart ID cards still to be collected at Home Affairs offices across the country,” she said.
The IEC has said that some 22 300 voting stations will be open to the public during the voter registration weekend.
The commission explained that only South African citizens 18 years and older can vote.
“To register, you need a South African identity document – either a green barcoded ID book, a smart ID card, or a valid temporary ID certificate. To register, you must also provide an address or description of where you live, so that the IEC can place you in the correct ward and voting district. No proof of address is needed.
“If you don’t have an ID, please apply for one at Home Affairs as soon as possible. In addition to their normal working hours, Home Affairs offices will be open on 18 and 19 November, from 8am to 5pm, to coincide with the voter registration weekend.
“In the 2024 Elections, you must register at the voting station for the voting district where you live, and vote where you are registered,” the commission said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 14:23
Calls for Palestinian human rights to be respected
MTBPS a 'frank assessment' - Cabinet
Cabinet has welcomed the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) tabled by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana last week.
“The 2023 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement… provided a frank assessment of the current economic climate and demonstrated government’s firm hold on our nation’s finances amid tough revenue constraints.
“The decisions in the MTBPS improve our fiscal framework; stimulate economic growth, while balancing our social commitments that support the vulnerable in our nation. The Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan has contributed to many green shoots in our economy,” said Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who briefed the media on Monday.
Meanwhile, Cabinet has called on parents and guardians to continue supporting matric learners, who enter the second week of their final examinations this week.
The learners are expected to be examined in subjects including mathematics, physical sciences, a wide range of languages and economics.
Ntshavheni said: “Cabinet welcomed the smooth start to the 2023 National Senior Certificate (matric) exams, which commenced on 30 October 2023. Parents and guardians are encouraged to continue to support learners during this critical period.
“Cabinet also sends its well wishes to all the learners who will be sitting for their year-end exams.” – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 14:32