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Dear Editor It gives us great pleasure to announce the results of the DA Gauteng Provincial Congress election, which took place today, 12 August 2023. Voting for the contested positions took place using the online OpaVote system. This system ensures that voting can be done in a speedy, but reliable manner. These results are consequently …
The Springboks departed South Africa’s shores on Saturday determined to make the country proud and hopeful that they could deliver the quality of play worthy of defending their world champions’ title as they headed to Cardiff for the first stop on their way to France for the Rugby World Cup. The Boks will face Wales …
The following speech was delivered on Saturday, 12 August 2023, by the DA Federal Leader, John Steenhuisen, at the Gauteng Provincial Congress in Boksburg. Fellow Democrats What an honour to speak with you today at this magnificent Congress! Congratulations to the DA in Gauteng for pulling off yet another free and fair internal election, where …
Mr Keith Featherstone, acting Chief Nuclear Officer at the Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP), was Premier Alan Winde’s guest this week at his 20th Energy Digicon. The power station’s contribution to the Western Cape and South Africa’s energy needs was the primary focus of this week’s digicon. “The importance of Koeberg to the Western Cape …
HAVAL Motors South Africa (HMSA) is proud to announce an investment in the Automobile Association (AA) Technical College and its continued support for this venture by supplying New Energy Vehicle (NEV) components to the College, and by contributing to practical and curriculum development on NEV technology in association with the AA. As a world leader …
Japan flanker Pieter Labuschagne has been suspended for three matches, having received a red card in Japan’s RWC Warm Up match against Fiji in Tokyo on 5 August 2023. Japan Flanker, Pieter Labuschagne, appeared before an independent judicial committee on Thursday 10 August, having received a red card for a dangerous tackle (Law 9.13) in …
World Rugby and AFLD, the French National Anti-Doping Organisation, have announced details of the anti-doping testing programme for Rugby World Cup 2023 in France, supporting a fair contest. Rugby World Cup 2023 will be rugby’s greatest celebration of togetherness in the 200th anniversary of the sport, and AFLD will provide independent sample collection for the …
Dear Editor The DA in North West condemns Eskom’s refusal to restore electricity supply to residents in Lichtenburg until the Ditsobotla Local Municipality makes immediate payment and enters into a renegotiated payment plan. Listen to the meeting recording here. Not only is Eskom’s decision in contempt of court, but it is also immoral and completely …
Ramokgopa optimistic about the future as Eskom generation capacity improves
Eskom has recorded a significant improvement with its energy generation moving from an average of 28 000 megawatts (MW) to close to 29 000 MW in the past week, Electricity Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, announced on Sunday.
“There’s a considerable improvement on the generation side, you can see that we’re beginning to normalise available capacity to be upward of 29 000 MW,” he said.
He also took the time to thank the leadership of Eskom, starting with the Board led by Mpho Makwana, followed by the Acting Eskom CEO Calib Cassim, and the entity’s Head of Generation Bheki Nxumalo and his team.
According to the Minister, from 7 to 11 August, Eskom had a generation capacity of 28 932 MW and exceeded 29 000 MW on two occasions.
Ramokgopa was updating the media on the progress made regarding the one-year implementation of the Energy Action Plan (EAP) and provided a weekly generation outlook.
“During winter, demand did surge and of course, the instrument that the system operator has to balance the grid was to ensure we intensify the stages of load shedding.
“The expectation now is that we’re entering a less severe period of cold and demand is going to tamper down.”
As the team improves generation capacity, they are also working to ensure the long-term sustainability of the units to become more reliable by ramping up planned outages.
“Remember when we went into the winter period, the deliberate act to take out the units for service was going to be reduced so that we have many units as possible producing the megawatts.”
He also told the media that Eskom breached the 60% energy availability factor (EAF) as the demand comes down.
“However, for long-term sustainability, it’s important to take out these units as at when we deem it necessary because when these units come back they sustain levels of performance.”
On unplanned capacity loss factor (UCLF), he said it was also decreasing as well.
By definition, UCLF is the ratio between the unavailable energy of the units that are out on unplanned outages over a period compared to the total net installed capacity of all units over the same period.
According to the Minister, UCLF is still at an average of 15 000 MW from 18 000 MW in previous weeks, with plans to keep it under 14 000 MW.
“An area that continues to be at albatross is on the partial load losses these are the units that are performing at the right levels although they are giving us the megawatts, are not at the level that is desired, which is currently sitting at 6 226 MW.”
He assured the citizens that the state-owned entity that these were receiving attention.
“What we’re going to do and not compromise on is the philosophy of maintenance plan so you’re able to guarantee the performance of these units going into the future.”
He noted the underperforming units were due to historic reasons, including a lack of investment in maintenance.
“I think it’s important that we’re transparent in our conversations and take everyone along in relation to the progress or lack of progress could be making against the target we set ourselves.”
The Minister acknowledged that load shedding is causing “untold” devastation to the South African economy.
“There are people out of jobs and there are many companies that folded and finding it difficult to continue to produce. Retailers have to spend an upfront capital cost to meet the requirements associated with buying generators and operational costs for purposes of keeping the cold chain and their operations going.
“Small businesses in the townships are finding it difficult to continue and investors can’t find a legitimate reason to invest in the South African economy and therefore, there’s an opportunity cost associated with load shedding.”
However, Ramokgopa stressed that Eskom is working around the clock to turn this around by improving underperforming power stations and addressing breakdown issues.
“I’m very optimistic about the future. We set the bar very high. We’re going to improve this energy availability factor.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/13/2023 - 13:32
The Upper Highway Baby Home (UHBH), a beacon of hope and care for abandoned and vulnerable infants, has been recognised as the Best Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) in Durban at the prestigious Best of Durban Readers’ Choice Awards. This recognition celebrates the home’s unwavering commitment to providing a loving and nurturing environment for orphaned and abandoned …
Four keys to ensure that People with Disabilities can flourish in your business: Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Employment Equity Amendment Act into law. While the proclamation of the implementation date is still pending, the Minister of Employment and Labour can establish equity targets for various economic sectors as well as prescribe …
98 IDs, 105 bank cards, birth certificate found in F State home
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is calling on the community members who have lost ID books to report to the police station after 98 were found in a home in Selosesha, Free State, along with 100 bank cards.
This is after the Selosesha Public Order Policing members received intelligence-led information on Friday, 11 August 2023 at about 21:30.
“Members followed the information and it took the team to a house in Zone 4, Selosesha.”
The members then met a 28-year-old suspect who, upon searching his room, police found 42 smart card IDs, one Lesotho passport, 55 South African-issued ID books, 105 bank cards from different banks and a birth certificate.
“Investigations are underway to establish the reason for him having personal documents from different people.”
The suspect, the police said, has been arrested for unlawfully being in possession of identification documents and for contravening the Immigration Act.
“Police are pleading with anyone who might have lost or submitted his ID to the 28-year-old to go to Selosesha Police Station so they can retrieve their documents.”
The 28-year-old is expected to appear in the Thaba Nchu Magistrate Court soon. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/13/2023 - 11:30
Johannesburg, South Africa – AV-INNOVATE and ATMS Advisors are excited to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), heralding a new era of cooperation, collaboration, and mutual support in the aviation sector. Signed by Mr. Sibusiso Nkabinde, representing AV-INNOVATE, and Mr. Arthur Bradshaw, on behalf of ATMS Advisors, the MOU formalizes the parties’ …
Nestled within the heart of Johannesburg, South Africa, Soweto stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people and their unwavering resistance against apartheid. What was once a township marked by adversity has now transformed into a captivating destination that draws tourists from around the world. The allure of Soweto lies not only …
Tourism Minister welcomes end of Cape Town taxi strike
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has welcomed the agreement reached by the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco), the Western Cape government and the City of Cape Town to end the devastating taxi strike.
“On behalf of the tourism sector, I wish to express our collective relief that the taxi strike in Cape Town has been called off,” she said on Friday, a day after the stay away was called off immediately.
The strike also dealt a heavy blow to many industries and has severely impacted the lives of residents in Cape Town with children not being able to get to school, people not being able to get to places of work or access other essential services like hospitals and clinics.
Meanwhile, almost a dozen of Golden Arrow buses were torched due to arson attacks since the taxi strike that started on 3 August 2023.
“Visitors to South Africa have also been impacted by the strike and the violence, which affected residents and visitors, is strongly condemned.”
De Lille said she hopes that all parties do all they can to implement the agreement peacefully with no further disruptions, damage to infrastructure and attacks on people.
“The loss of human life during the strike is deeply tragic and we convey our deepest condolences to all families and friends who lost loved ones during the taxi strike violence.
“We sincerely hope that such devastating acts are never repeated again and that all organisations together with government, will work to resolve disputes amicably and within the framework of the law.”
The Minister said the violence and attacks on human lives are unacceptable and uncalled for in the tourism sector.
“We urge all parties to continue to engage peacefully and collaboratively to see progress and fairness for all.”
As a society, she said it was important to acknowledge the important role that all sectors play in the country, including the taxi industry.
“But we must all obey the rule of law and show respect for others as no one is above the law. We hope that all aspects of life, work and travel can now continue as we all work together to grow our economy and create more jobs for our people.”
Meanwhile, she conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the tourist who was killed in this incident in Nyanga, Cape Town last week in an incident that is believed to be related to the taxi strike.
“I plead with law enforcement agencies to find the perpetrators of this violent crime as soon as possible.”
According to the reports, the tourist British tourist has been identified as Kar Hao Teoh, 40, who was shot from close range after taking a wrong turn into Nyanga as he drove from Cape Town International Airport with his wife and two-year-old son.
The BBC said Teoh was a consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon at Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow, Essex. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/13/2023 - 08:08
Dear Editor After collapsing municipalities under its stewardship and bringing some to the brink of bankruptcy, the ANC government has now come up with a harebrained idea to centralise the governance of all municipalities in South Africa through its ill-advised District Development Model (DDM). The DA strongly rejects this Soviet-era inspired idea of central planning …
Dear Editor Earlier this week, during the height of the taxi strike violence in Cape Town, Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga openly sided with SANTACO and the taxi strikers. Her call for the immediate release of impounded taxis was framed under the false pretext of the City of Cape Town’s amended traffic by-laws, an incorrect …
Load shedding to alternate between Stages 1 and 3 on Sunday
Eskom has on Sunday implemented Stage 1 load shedding from 5:00 until 16:00, which will be followed by Stage 3 power cuts until 5:00 on Monday.
According the state-owned power utility, Stage 1 load shedding will be implemented from 5:00 until 16:00 on Monday.
“Eskom will provide a further update on Monday or should any significant changes occur.”
Breakdowns, according to Eskom, are currently at 16 547 megawatts (MW) of generating capacity while the generating capacity out of service for planned maintenance is 4 507 MW.
“Over the past 24 hours, a generating unit at Arnot and two generating units at Matla power stations were returned to service.
“In the same period, a generating unit at Camden, Duvha, Kendal, Kriel and Majuba power stations was taken offline for repairs,” the statement read on Saturday.
Eskom said the delay in returning to service a generating unit at Kendal and two generating units at Tutuka power stations is contributing to the current capacity constraints.
“Eskom teams are working tirelessly to return these generating units to service.”
The utility is appealing to the members of the public to continue reducing demand by switching off non-essential appliances.
“We would like to thank those who do heed the call to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 17:00 to 21:00, as this lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system and contributes to lower stages of load shedding.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/13/2023 - 08:18
Here are facts on how big the industry is, how much drivers make, and the taxi industry’s role in crime
Community leader Alfred Magwaca says more Langa Centenary celebration events have been planned for the coming weeks
Minister welcomes end of Cape Town taxi strike
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has expressed her sincere appreciation for the resolution of the recent taxi strike in Cape Town.
In a statement on Friday, the Minister congratulated all parties involved for reconvening and reaching an amicable solution that allows for the resumption of normal taxi operations within the city.
As the Minister responsible for transport, it is her duty to uphold the law and ensure the smooth functioning of public transportation systems.
She has commended the commitment shown by all stakeholders in working towards a resolution that aligns with the legal framework governing the industry.
While the strike has ended, the Minister emphasised that the talks that led to the resolution have set a 14-day turnaround time for further discussions.
The Minister will closely monitor these talks to ensure that the agreed upon solutions are implemented effectively and in a timely manner.
“The Minister and government deeply regret the adverse effects the strike has had on learners, workers and all those affected in Cape Town and its surrounding areas. The disruption caused by the impasse has had a negative impact on the local economy, and the Minister acknowledges the challenges faced by individuals who rely on public transportation for their daily activities.
“Tragically, the strike has also resulted in the loss of life. Minister Chikunga urges law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice. She extends her heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives during this period of unrest.
“The Minister's primary concern is the safe transportation of commuters and visitors in and around Cape Town,” the Ministry of Transport said in a statement.
She called for a cessation of hostilities among the various stakeholders involved and urged them to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve any outstanding issues.
“In the coming days, Minister Chikunga will convene a media briefing to provide further updates on the situation and measures being taken to prevent future disruptions. The date and time of the briefing will be communicated shortly to ensure that the public and media are adequately informed.
“The Minister remains committed to ensuring a safe and efficient public transportation system for all, and she encourages all parties to work together to achieve this goal,” the Ministry of Transport said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 08:53
Municipality spent just 58% of its budget says Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs minister
Providing water a top priority for government
President Cyril Ramaphosa has assured local communities in Tsomo in the Chris Hani District Municipality that providing water to communities is government’s priority.
“Izimbizo are meant for government to listen to communities, whether you have a complaint, you have an opportunity here,” President Ramaphosa told residents on Friday.
The President was speaking at the ninth Presidential Imbizo held in Tsomo in the Chris Hani District Municipality in the Eastern Cape.
The Presidential Imbizo serves as a platform for face-to-face engagement between citizens and senior government leaders, holding the administration accountable and allowing government to consult and update communities on development and service delivery in the relevant areas.
President Ramaphosa commended those people who did not only raise their concerns or grievances, but also commended what government is doing to improve people’s lives.
“There is a lot that government is doing to improve people’s lives, for all your grievances, there are answers,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa also commended the local communities for heeding the call to attend the Imbizo.
“This is the biggest community Imbizo we have ever been to, I thank you all for coming,” said President Ramaphosa.
The local communities were given an opportunity to raise their concerns before President Ramaphosa and his Cabinet ministers.
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu assured the locals that government is doing everything in its power to ensure that there is water in communities.
“We are working in ensuring that our communities get water. We have already started with some of the projects,” Mchunu said.
Mchunu told the locals that money has been allocated to the municipalities to speed up water projects.
Most raised concerns about water, poor road conditions, lack of job opportunities and other services.
Today is the ninth Presidential Imbizo since government commenced with the District Development Model (DDM) programme in March 2022 in Mahikeng in the North West province.
The DDM is an integrated planning model for Cooperative Governance that seeks to ensure an integrated, district-based service delivery approach aimed at fast-tracking service delivery.
The President’s visit here in Tsomo brought hope to many people in the Chris Hani District Municipality.
Siyamthanda Maqoko from Cofimvaba told SAnews that she is happy that the President has visited their area.
“I hope the President is going to address the many challenges that we have here. We have a water problem, our roads are not good. We hope the President is going to address our grievances and all our challenges,” Maqoko said.
Asked how she feels about 30 years of democracy, Maqoko said she is happy because government has done a lot to improve people’s lives.
“Even though there are still challenges, many people who did not have houses, they now have houses, new schools have been built and most households now have electricity,” she said, adding that people now participate in the running of the government.
Maqoko expressed concern about the high number of young people who are taking drugs, appealing to government to create more job opportunities for young people.
“Government must create job opportunities for young people, this will make our youth to stop taking drugs,” she said.
A learner from Tsomo Mission in Tsomo, Ovayo Booi, told SAnews that the President must intervene and ensure that those who do not have houses should be assisted to get houses.
“Government must help our communities to get houses, water and electricity. Government must also build more schools,” Booi said.
Thabisa Zwakala, a mother of three, said she is happy that the President is in their area, which means government has not forgotten about them.
“For the President to come here, this shows that we are important and that government is going to address our grievances,” Zwakala said, adding that she believes that the communities are going to change for the better.
“Our area is very poor, no water and our roads are very bad,” she said.
Prior to engaging with the local communities, President Ramaphosa started the Imbizo by visiting the local Water Treatment Plant which is expected to help provide water in the area.
Upon his arrival, President Ramaphosa was briefed about the plant by the municipal officials.
He then conducted a walkabout at the plant and thereafter proceeded to the Imbizo venue where he was welcomed by the locals. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 19:56
Introduction In a rapidly evolving business landscape, where adaptability and efficiency are paramount, it comes as no surprise that businesses are finding innovative ways to optimise their operations. One such solution gaining increasing popularity is self-storage. With a notable uptick in businesses utilising self-storage facilities, it’s clear that there’s more to it than meets the …