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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 …
Well wishes for Springboks
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa says the national rugby team has in recent days inspired the nation, and brought hope.
He made these remarks on Thursday during the send-off for the three-time world champions who will be participating in the 2023 Rugby World Cup taking place in France.
“As we send you off this evening to the battlefield, you will be making your own contribution towards national unity, national identity and social cohesion. As you fight to defend the World Cup title in France, remember the millions of South Africans.
“Remember where you come from, and the hopes and aspirations you represent. I talk of all the schools and communities you all represent, who follow your matches and are inspired by you,” the Minister said.
He said one of the priorities of government is sports development in schools and at grassroots level.
“Your success has inspired children from around the country to get into sports. Millions of South Africans will cheer you from their homes and fan parks because you represent their aspirations and hope,” Kodwa said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 09:14
Introduction In the realm of modern healthcare, mammograms stand as a stalwart guardian of women’s breast health. The significance of these screenings cannot be overstated, as they serve as a formidable defence against one of the most prevalent and potentially life-altering conditions: breast cancer. As the cornerstone of early detection, mammograms play a pivotal role …
Digital literacy programme to provide training to Eastern Cape communities
Communities in the Eastern Cape are set to benefit from a digital literacy programme, which will provide digital skills training.
Launched by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Mondli Gungubele, this initiative is aimed at reducing the digital divide in communities.
“The intention is to extend it to as many municipalities as possible. It also offers an entry point towards higher order skills that are so much needed for entrepreneurial or work opportunities.
“In the absence of such understanding, it is difficult to devise relevant and appropriate digital skills interventions and support strategies for meaningful outcomes,” the Minister said on Thursday in the Buffalo City Metro.
When he delivered his remarks, the Minister noted studies that indicate that more technology advances introduced into society, the more widespread and pervasive the digital divide.
According to a 2022 World Bank report, the digital divide is a stark reality in South Africa, affecting all generations.
"It is a striking symptom of socioeconomic challenges associated with being the most economically unequal country in the world. Therefore, the discourse on digital inclusion has broadened to consider additional critical factors for ensuring digital equality. Digital inclusion is as such more complex.
“The digital inclusion requires access to learning with age-friendly design and relevant, ethical and safe for digital environments that are at play. What is also required is an informed understanding of skills needs towards the use of emerging technologies,” the Minister said.
He said digital literacy should be delivered in a strategic manner to target the different age groups, genders, and people in different socio-economic positions.
“It is therefore critical that our approach consider challenges such as language and cultural realities when the training is done for them. We should continue to ensure that digital inclusion is not inclusion without women.
“We should also find ways to effectively and strategically use digital technologies to Gender Based Violence and Femicide ((GBVF) in South Africa and the world,” the Minister said.
The Digital Ambassadors initiative provides digital skills training to members of the community, especially focusing on locally relevant digital content and services.
It will improve the skills, capacity, and employment prospects of beneficiaries.
“It will further demonstrate the worth of utilizing modern technology to the broader communities. We therefore call on members of the society, in particular young people of Mdantsane, Duncan Village, King Williams Town and East London and the Eastern Cape to join this digital revolution and involve themselves in these initiatives by enrolling with National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA) and take part. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 09:43
Introduction: In today’s digital age, the realm of property management has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the advent of rental property management software. This innovative technology has revolutionised the way landlords and property managers oversee their rental properties, enhancing efficiency, tenant satisfaction, and overall profitability. As the demand for streamlined property management practices continues …
Introduction An inverter is a crucial device that converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), enabling the use of household appliances and systems. The importance of choosing the right size inverter for a house cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the efficiency, functionality, and longevity of the electrical system. This article provides an …
Former President Jacob Zuma granted 'special remission'
The department of Correctional Services has confirmed that former President Jacob Zuma reported to the Estcourt Correctional Centre on Friday morning and has since been released after being granted a “special remission”.
The National Commissioner, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, revealed his decision this morning during a joint media briefing with Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola.
“As the National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, I have exercised my discretion as per the SCA [Supreme Court of Appeal] judgement, in deciding whether or not to take into account the period served under Community Corrections by the former President, Mr Jacob Zuma.”
This comes after the SCA found that the National Commissioner’s decision to place the former Statesman on medical parole was unlawful and unconstitutional and that he had to complete his sentence.
The Constitutional Court sentenced Zuma to 15 months imprisonment in July 2021 and only served two months after he ignored a court order to testify at a State Capture inquiry looking into a web of corruption during his Presidency.
“In compliance with the SCA judgement, Mr Zuma did report back at Estcourt Correctional Centre this morning. A consideration has been made as per legislation, including processes that were already unfolding in the management of correctional services,” said Thobakgale.
“The administrative procedures have ensued and Mr Zuma has been processed accordingly.”
Thobakgale told the media that although both the SCA and the High Court considered the Commissioner’s decision as unlawful, Zuma was not discharged, but placed under community corrections where he continued serving his sentence, under strict conditions.
“Parole in South Africa is a form of punishment which is served by an inmate within the system of community corrections in terms of Chapter VI of the Correctional Services Act of 1998,” he explained.
“When Mr Zuma left a medical hospital upon placement on medical parole, he was continuously under community corrections serving his sentence. He was never a free man with effect from 8 July 2021.”
Meanwhile, Lamola announced that President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved the remission of non-violent offenders in South Africa.
“Obviously, a question will arise whether former President Jacob Zuma will benefit from this decision or not. Indeed, he’s one of the beneficiaries as a low-risk offender.”
According to the Minister, there are 212 286 inmates, including 9 351 foreign nationals, across the country's 243 correctional centres and 218 community centres.
“Unfortunately, the current occupancy rate is 143%, with the overcrowding rate at 43.06%.
“The recent loss of 3 024 beds at Kutama Sinthumule due to fire means that overcrowding will increase by 4%, raising the overcrowding rate to 47.06% and in turn the occupancy rate will increase 147%.”
Lamola told the media this poses a direct threat to inmate health, security, and management, and it could lead to a surge in gangsterism.
“More importantly, it hampers the department’s ability to provide development and rehabilitation programmes.”
The Minister has described the remission of sentences as a crucial aspect of the country’s justice system.
“However, it's important to note that certain offenders, such as those convicted of sexual offences, tampering with essential infrastructure, serving life sentences, and being declared dangerous criminals, are excluded from this criterion of this special remission.”
Despite this, he said low-risk offenders in these categories may still be eligible for a 12-month remission.
Meanwhile, those convicted of non-violent and nonsexual crimes will be eligible for up to 24 months of remission after completing the pre-release programme and risk assessment.
He said the decision will result in the deportation of 3 064 foreign nationals serving short-term sentences under the guidance of the Department of Home Affairs.
Additionally, he emphasised that it will alleviate overcrowding by releasing approximately 9 488 prisoners and a further 15 000 inmates who are currently under correctional supervision and parole.
“The exercise of exploring special remission commenced on 24 April 2023 when we lost approximately 1 112 bed spaces due to dilapidation in most of our centres.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 10:09
Introduction Mammography, a specialised X-ray imaging of breast tissue, has emerged as a cornerstone in the early detection of breast cancer. The significance of this screening tool lies not only in its ability to identify abnormalities before they become palpable but also in its potential to improve the outcomes of breast cancer treatment. With such …
The meant-to-be newly renovated Ngqamakhwe police station has been stripped by vandals after construction work stopped
Introduction: Embarking on the journey of building your dream home is an exciting endeavour, and at its heart lies a crucial element – the house plan. This blueprint not only serves as a roadmap for construction but also shapes the very essence of your living space. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies …
Call for domestic employees injured on duty to claim benefits
The Department of Employment and Labour has encouraged domestic employees who were injured or contracted occupational diseases while on duty from 27 April 1994 to come forward and claim their benefits.
This follows the corrective legislative measures to amend the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, No 130 of 1993 (COIDA) legislation to include domestic employees.
The corrective legislative measures were undertaken due to the 2020 Constitutional Court order, which declared section 1(xix) (v) of the COIDA invalid, with immediate and retrospective effect to 27 April 1994.
“We are encouraging all our stakeholders to inform their family and friends who might have been injured or contracted occupational diseases from 27 April 1994 to come forth and claim for their benefits.
“We are encouraging employers to not pre-judge a claim but rather submit it to the [Compensation] Fund so that we can make our own discretion,” Department of Employment and Labour Deputy Director of employer registrations and compliance Jan Madiega said on Thursday.
He was addressing the Compensation Fund Roundtable Stakeholder Engagement session held at Bolivia Lodge in Polokwane, Limpopo.
Right to claim
Madiega said a right to claim in terms of the Act shall lapse if the accident that happened or the disease that commenced on or after 27 April 1994 is not brought to the attention of the Commissioner or of the employer or mutual association concerned, as the case may be within 36 months from the date of signature on the amendment Act 10 of 2022.
All employers of private domestic employees are obliged to register with the Compensation Fund, submit the Return of Earnings (ROE’s) and make payments.
Those who had employees prior to 19 November 2020 will be required to indicate as such, however the Fund will regard their commencement date as 19/11/2020 unless claim liability is accepted for years prior.
“If the person gets injured, and it is found that you are employing an illegal foreign national you will be prosecuted for harbouring an illegal immigrant in your household. However, whether the domestic employee is a foreign national that is immaterial. As an employer, you have a duty to register your domestic employees. The Fund upon receiving a claim will request for relevant documents,” Madiega said.
As per amendments in the COID Act 10 of 2022, failure to register employees, pay and submit the ROE’s within a reasonable period will result in a penalty of 10% of actual or estimated annual earnings.
In addition, an employer who fails to pay a penalty or instalment is liable to a penalty of 10% of actual or estimated annual earnings.
Inspectors
According to Compensation Fund Legal Services, Irish Lephoto, the amended Act gives powers to the Commissioner to appoint inspectors to enforce compliance to the Act.
These inspectors will be provided with a signed certificate confirming that they are inspectors and the certificate shall state which legislation they are monitoring or enforcing.
“The inspectors may enter a home or other workplace with the consent of the owner or occupier. The Labour Court may authorise entry upon the application by the inspector and if practicable, the employer and trade must be notified of the inspection and the reason thereof.
“The changes in the amendment act will affect everyone and change the way we do business. All workers have a right to social security, which is our priority. The inclusion of domestic employees in the Act is very crucial to all of us hence we are taking steps to enforce compliance,” Lephoto said.
The Compensation Fund was established in terms of section 15 of the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act as amended.
The main objective of the Act is to provide compensation for disablement caused by occupational injuries or diseases sustained or contracted by employees or for death resulting from such injuries or diseases and provide for matters connected therewith. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 10:10
Introduction In the realm of precious metals, gold has long held an allure that transcends time and borders. Among the glinting treasures of the gold market, the Krugerrand stands as a stalwart presence, renowned not only for its intrinsic value but also for the mystique that surrounds its pricing. While it’s a common assumption that …
Introduction Kosher, a Hebrew word meaning fit, proper, or correct, has transcended its religious origins to become a term synonymous with quality and integrity, especially in the context of food and drink. In the modern world, it is most commonly used to describe food and drink that complies with Jewish religious dietary law. This article …
MetPac-SA, the Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) that represents the metal packaging recycling industry in South Africa, has once again partnered with [dot]GOOD, South Africa’s leading cause-marketing agency, to expand its Trash4Treats competition to thirty under-resourced schools in the Western Cape. By collecting as much recyclable packaging as possible, these schools put themselves in line to …
Eastern Cape Presidential Imbizo underway
The ninth District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo has kicked off at the Chris Hani District Municipality in the Eastern Cape.
The Presidential Imbizo presents an opportunity for South Africans from all corners of the country to voice out the challenges they face from their everyday lives directly to the President and Cabinet, with a view to tackle them head on.
The President has visited all provinces, with the Eastern Cape imbizo expected to be the last in this round.
Opening the programme for the day, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Thembi Nkadimeng said the imbizo is an important platform for citizens to get their concerns heard at the highest level.
“It is an honour that we gather here today as part of culmination of an essential journey of the [DDM] Presidential Imbizo that we started.
“This is the last round, our ninth imbizo. What is important is that we give the citizens the opportunity to talk to the President and that is the main reason why we have come here,” she said.
The Minister added that ministers and the President will respond with a way forward on the challenges raised.
“We are here today as part of the [DDM], the Presidential Imbizo to talk to you about service delivery challenges and opportunities in your areas. The President and the ministers will show some of these opportunities and talk about some of the programmes within the DDM framework to show that we are working together.
“We are doing this in support of [municipalities] because we know that basic services are important such as water, sanitation, healthcare [and] education. When we work together as the spheres of government, we can deliver services and improve turnaround time,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 13:21
Home Affairs opens three offices this Saturday
The Department of Home Affairs is continuing to open selected offices on Saturdays to increase access to services mainly for clients who are unable to visit their offices on weekdays.
The extended service is applicable to certain offices and this Saturday 12 August 2023, the following offices will be open from 8am to 1pm:
The Department will communicate when other offices will be open on the various Saturdays.
“We encourage clients to take advantage of the extended hours on Saturdays to collect documents they have applied for,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 10:17
Torture and assault by prison wardens are among the allegations made by prisoners
Introduction: Embarking on a journey into the wild heart of Africa’s breathtaking landscapes is a dream for many travellers. For observant Jewish adventurers, however, there’s an additional layer of consideration – the need for a kosher travel experience. The allure of a safari may be universal, but ensuring that it aligns with kosher dietary laws …
Johannesburg, 11 August 2023: Scuderia South Africa, the official Ferrari distributor in Southern Africa, is pleased to announce that Smartgrowth Investments Proprietary Limited, with André Rossouw as the Chief Executive Officer, has acquired all the equity of the group. This follows the successful conclusion of negotiations that commenced in November 2022 for the purchase of …
Dear Editor This is a momentous moment for the DA, on our pathway to Election 2024 as we select Premier Candidates who can win, and who can govern Provinces across South Africa, rescue them from ANC failure and can deliver the DA’s alternative to the people crying out for change. In the coming weeks, as …
Today Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde, provincial Minister of Mobility, Ricardo Mackenzie, Executive Mayor of Cape Town, Geordin Hill-Lewis, Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Roberto Quintas, and leaders of the South African National Taxi Council in the Western Cape (SANTACO-WC) gave an update on the latest round of talks that secured an end to …
DPE affirms commitment to restructuring Eskom
Government is fully committed to the implementation of the Eskom roadmap and the state retaining 100% control of the three separate entities – Generation, Transmission and Distribution, said the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE).
“The DPE is hereby correcting the misinterpretation and mischievous propaganda arising from a technical letter sent to the Eskom Board,” it said in a statement on Thursday.
The department reminded citizens that the intention to restructure Eskom was first pronounced by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 2019 State of the Nation Address (SONA) when he mandated the process to transform the structure of the electricity industry to better serve the needs of the country.
The President announced the process of establishing three separate entities – Generation, Transmission and Distribution – under Eskom Holdings.
“The implementation of the Eskom roadmap and current legislation before Parliament will result in a restructured electricity industry.”
Globally, the energy sector is rapidly changing due to new technologies, transforming customer behaviours and climate change policies.
“Eskom’s current structure is no longer suitable to meet the country’s energy needs.”
According to the department, Eskom Holdings currently owns all Generation, Transmission and Distribution assets, of which these assets belong to the state.
“The reform of Eskom requires the ‘restructuring of Eskom’. This means establishing three separate companies housing Generation, Transmission and Distribution businesses – 100% owned by the state,” the statement read.
“To implement the above, corresponding assets need to be transferred from Eskom Holdings to each of the new companies.”
The department said this requires approval in terms of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) Section 54 (2), (c) and (d).
In terms of this section, the department said the consent of both Ministers of Finance and Public Enterprises is required for the transfer of these assets into the newly established distribution company.
“The letter to the Board contains the consent of the Minister of Public Enterprises for the transfer of assets from the holding company to the newly established distribution company. Further work still needs to be done and agreed upon in relation to the business and the financial model of the newly established distribution company.”
The department believes that the restructuring process is a crucial part of ensuring energy security in the future for all South Africans.
“The DPE and government are fully committed to the implementation of the roadmap and to retaining 100% control of these entities.
“The public needs to be mindful that there are many vested interests who seem to be intent on undermining energy security and the restructuring process – both of which will be disadvantaging 60 million people.
“This is through misinformation and deliberate distortions aimed at undermining public confidence in the process. This is not in South Africa’s interest,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 10:56
The Cathay Group continues to invest in the Hong Kong international aviation hub with intention to purchase up to 32 new single-aisle Airbus aircraft Re-affirming its commitment to delivering an enhanced flying experience for its customers The Cathay Group announces today its intention to purchase up to 32 Airbus A321neo and A320neo aircraft as it …
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