MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
The Toyota Cheetahs, Sanlam Boland Kavaliers and Valke were the biggest beneficiaries over the weekend following impressive victories in the sixth round of the SA Cup to ensure they remain in the race to qualify for the Carling Currie Cup Premier Division. The two unbeaten front runners, Suzuki Griquas and the Airlink Pumas, secured comfortable …
Krakow played host to an action packed finale of the HSBC Sevens Challenger 2025 that entertained fans at Henryk Reyman’s Municipal Stadium. Although Germany were leading the men’s competition coming into the concluding round of the tournament, Portugal were able to overcome them in the semi-finals to set themselves up for a place in the …
Springbok Women’s Sevens captain Mathrin Simmers heaped praised on her team after they closed out the last of three World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger tournaments, in Krakow, Poland, with their first victory in the trio of events. Simmers said the 21-12 victory over Argentina in the final and a very impressive 22-10 win over Kenya …
The Springbok Women outmuscled an England age-group side 50-17 (half-time 24-10) in Marcoussis on Saturday, with a powerful scrum performance providing the foundation for a satisfactory win and end to their first week of touring France and Spain. The Bok Women scored eight tries in total, with Jakkie Cilliers (wing) grabbing a brace and adding …
The Vodacom Bulls crashed out of the EPCR Challenge Cup but never stopped fighting on Saturday as they went down 34-28 against Edinburgh, eventually settling for a heart-breaking six-point defeat at the Hive Stadium in the Scottish capital. The defeat for the men from Pretoria, who were the last remaining South African team in the …
Government reiterates commitment to water security
The Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, David Mahlobo, has reaffirmed government's commitment to ensuring water security for all South Africans through innovative partnerships and transformative solutions.
“Water is the lifeblood of our nation's development. By combining government's resources with the innovation and expertise of the private sector, particularly through organisations like the Black Business Council in the Built Environment (BBCBE) that champion transformation, we can overcome our water challenges and build a resilient future for all South Africans,” the Deputy Minister said on Friday.
He was addressing the BBCBE Built Environment Indaba at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, which was taking place under theme: "Built Environment Partnering with Our Government to Deliver Infrastructure Projects through Innovative Funding and Delivery Models.”
The Deputy Minister urged the built environment sector to leverage its expertise and global networks to drive innovation, mentorship, and investment.
“Water challenges as experienced in most parts of the country require bold and collaborative solutions from all of us. Together, we can harness technology, finance, and partnerships to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 on clean water and sanitation for all,” he said.
This as the Department of Water and Sanitation remains steadfast in its mission to secure South Africa’s water future.
Mahlobo’s address underscored the need for unity across government, the private sector, academia, and civil society to transform challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/13/2025 - 10:03
66 views
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) has launched a national petition to oppose the proposed amendments by the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) that threaten to disarm private security officers and undermine community safety. These draft regulations will severely restrict private security companies’ ability to operate effectively by limiting access to essential tools such …
On Friday, 11 April 2025, Premier Alan Winde met with Western Cape Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General, Thembisile Patekile, to receive an update on the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) investigation into the George building collapse. The lead investigator in this case, Captain Johan de Lange, was also present. The Premier was informed that the SAPS investigation …
On Thursday, 10 April 2025, Premier Alan Winde hosted a digicon focusing on the efforts of the Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town (CoCT) to combat and prevent crime. The digicon came after the first Safety Cabinet Committee meeting of 2025. The committee brings together various provincial Cabinet ministers and other stakeholders …
Dear Editor A reply to a Democratic Alliance (DA) parliamentary question has revealed that South African diplomat, Adv David Kweli Nkosi, has been redeployed as political counsellor to the South African Embassy in Amman, Jordan, despite owing the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) just under R800 000,00 for damages incurred to rented properties …
Chris Pike, NSRI Port Alfred station commander, said: At 09h00, Friday, 11 April, NSRI Port Alfred duty crew were activated following eyewitness reports of a drowning in progress at East Beach, Port Alfred. NSRI crew were at the NSRI Port Alfred station 11 rescue base at the time conducting routine maintenance – the NSRI rescue …
Smallholder Farmer Programme empowers100 farmers
One hundred smallholder farmers in KwaZulu-Natal have received training in herb and spice cultivation enabling them to become suppliers for Unilever's supplier localisation programme, said the Department of Agriculture (DOA).
This is a result of the Jozini Smallholder Farmer Programme by the DOA, Unilever South Africa and the KwaZulu-Natal provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD). The Programme is aimed at promoting sustainability, improving livelihoods, and empowering smallholder farmers in the Jozini region.
The 100 farmers participated in a comprehensive training aligned with Agricultural Sector Education and Training Authority (AgriSETA) unit standards, covering practical and theoretical aspects of herb and spice farming.
“Through the programme, I've gained important skills for nurturing crops, preparing soil, identifying issues, and taking necessary actions to support crop growth. It has also taught me the steps involved in the farming process.
“I’m happy that Unilever is assisting us by providing access to marketplaces to sell our produce, helping to prevent financial losses. I encourage young people and women to join such programmes to learn about farming, which can be a viable source of income,” Jozini smallholder farmer, Zinhle Manzini said.
The farmers also received a tractor while there was also an unveiling of a drying tunnel, symbolising the support and resources for the farmers.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen emphasised the importance of collaboration to address the challenges faced by the country.
“Partnerships are very important… we recognise that if we try and do things on our own, we won’t get far, but if we work together, we can go far. Partnerships go beyond just something on paper, or what we say is a priority. Partnerships are rooted in our core philosophy as South Africans – Ubuntu,” the Minister said.
Unilever South Africa CEO Justin Apsey said the initiative will improve the livelihoods of the farmers.
“This initiative will not only improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers but also contribute to a more sustainable agricultural sector. This is a capacity-building initiative empowering and alleviating unemployment while providing a decent life in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal,” said Apsey.
The programme is also aimed at creating employment opportunities, enhancing the skills of local farmers, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
By empowering smallholder farmers, the initiative will contribute to the economic growth and development of the Jozini region. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/13/2025 - 09:53
46 views
President engages South African Council of Churches
President Cyril Ramaphosa has hosted the first engagement between government and the leadership of the church since the start of the seventh Administration.
The President hosted the leadership of the South African Council of Churches (SACC) at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Friday under the banner of the Government of National Unity.
The meeting presented an opportunity for the SACC to introduce its new and recently elected leadership.
“We welcome the opportunity to be introduced to the new leadership of the SACC and to discuss matters that concern the church and the people of South Africa,” the President said.
The meeting discussed a wide range of issues of national interest ranging from the National Dialogue initiative, government’s ongoing fight against crime and corruption and the access of state services.
President Ramaphosa committed that the National Dialogue will bring together all sectors of society and encourage the participation of all South Africans.
“Importantly, the National Dialogue must be informed by extensive public consultation in localities facilitated by various sectors of society. It needs to give a voice to those in society who are not often heard, to people who are marginalised, to those who are most vulnerable to poverty, violence and exploitation,” the President said.
It is envisaged that the National Dialogue will build on the achievements of 30 years of democracy.
Among other things, it will need to address challenges of low growth and job creation, poverty and hunger, governance, corruption and fiscal constraints. It will also need to address gender-based violence and femicide, social fragmentation, racism and sexism, violence and the potential for instability.
Government also briefed the SACC on South Africa’s Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency along with regional and international issues of concern.
“The meeting heard about government’s ongoing work in implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission. This includes criminal investigations and prosecutions, the recovery of stolen funds, legislative amendments and strengthening institutions.
“Furthermore, government remains focused on strengthening and resourcing key institutions in the criminal justice system, like the NPA [National Prosecuting Authority], Hawks and SIU [Special Investigating Unit], this includes the establishment of the NPA’s Investigating Directorate Against Corruption as a permanent entity to prosecute state capture and other significant corruption cases,” the Presidency said.
The President also committed government’s support for greater cooperation between churches and government bodies that are on the frontline of providing services to people – most notably the Departments of Home Affairs and Social Development.
He highlighted South Africa’s drive for an inclusive G20.
The President said dialogue with civil society and other non-government institutions will be conducted through various engagement groups.
“Following the approach of the Brazilian Presidency, a G20 Social Forum will be convened. This will bring together representatives of the existing engagement groups and other segments of civil society including various faith formations.
“The President assured the church leaders that South Africa will continue to pursue an independent foreign policy and will not align itself with any of the major powers or blocs in the world,” the Presidency said.
Ramaphosa asserted that South Africa remains engaged in efforts to bring about peace and stability in various parts of our region and continent, especially through the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and African Union initiatives.
“South Africa continues to use its participation in fora like the G20, BRICS, Non-Aligned Movement, African Union and United Nations to advance a rules-based multilateralism that is fair and inclusive. We are committed to the reform of global institutions to ensure that they represent the needs and interests of all countries,” the President said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/13/2025 - 09:21
23 views
Consumer Commission and PSETA partnership set to enhance skills development
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) and the Public Service Sector Education and Training Authority (PSETA) have entered into a strategic partnership to collaborate on skills development and research on emerging issues.
This was done through a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
“As part of the MoU, PSETA can place its graduates at the NCC, significantly contributing to the NCC's work. In turn, through its internship programme, which these graduates will join, the NCC will help ensure that the programme aligns with the skills demanded by the workplace. This will ensure that the graduates are well-trained and ready for the industry by the end of their training,” a joint statement by the NCC and PSETA said on Saturday.
PSETA’s focus is primarily on transversal skills within the Public Service sector. These skills, dubbed the ‘business of government’, include administration, management, planning, legislation and policy development.
They form the focus to drive the growth of skills and competencies in areas that will make the delivery of the business of government.
The PSETA is a statutory body entrusted with driving skills development across the public sector. As an agency of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, the primary role of the NCC is to protect the interests of consumers and ensure accessible, transparent and efficient redress for consumers.
“As mandated by the Skills Development Act and aligned with the National Skills Development Plan (NSDP) 2030, PSETA plays a critical role in shaping a professional, ethical, and capable public service workforce.
“As a trusted Authority, PSETA is committed to driving impactful, inclusive, and sustainable skills development that strengthens institutional capacity and supports service delivery excellence across the public sector,” the statement said.
The MoU, among other things, aims to achieve the following:
• Identify priority research areas, including research to support the Public Service, in line with both parties’ research agendas and the PSETA’s Sector Skills Plan (SSP) priorities;
• Facilitate cooperation and support on the development of capacity and capabilities for members and officials of the Public Service and unemployed learners, aligned to the PSETA SSP priorities, the National Development Plan, the National Skills Development Plan priorities and the Public Service;
• Human Resource Development Strategy;
• Facilitation and regular sharing of information on matters mutually relevant to the Parties;
• Encourage the maximised usage of shared resources; and
• Setting out the parameters for cooperation and support under the objectives of the MoU.
-SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/13/2025 - 09:01
24 views
Mr Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, has landed in Greece for a high-level Working Visit.
Minister Lamola will address the prestigious Delphi Economic Forum, where he will outline South Africa's priorities as the incumbent G20 Presidency, championing Africa's role in shaping a more equitable and sustainable global future.
Minister Lamola's participation underscores South Africa's commitment to multilateral diplomacy, economic justice, and South-South solidarity.
His engagement will focus on leveraging the G20 platform to advance Africa's developmental aspirations, including reforms to global governance systems, climate finance mechanisms, and inclusive digital transformation.
“As South Africa remains unwavering in its pursuit of a world where no nation is left behind,” stated Minister Lamola.
“Our Presidency prioritises bridging the gap between developed and developing economies, ensuring that Africa's vast potential in green industrialisation, youth innovation, and sustainable trade is unlocked through equitable partnerships.”
The Delphi Economic Forum, a global nexus for economic and geopolitical discourse, offers a strategic platform to amplify South Africa's foreign policy objectives, including its advocacy for peace building, continental integration, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This engagement reaffirms South Africa's leadership in advancing Pan-Africanism on the global stage, ensuring Africa's priorities from debt relief to food security remain central to international agendas.
As the G20 Presidency, South Africa continues to bridge divides, fostering dialogue that translates into tangible progress for the Global South.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
City ordered to pay compensation to owner of “hijacked” building because of delay in providing alternative accommodation to residents
Wina Njalo wants Parks Tau to announce the successful bidder by 9 May
“There is no absolute right to be protected from being the subject of defamatory allegations” says acting judge
The Select Committee on Public Infrastructure and the Ministries in the Presidency met yesterday to consider the negotiating mandates from the nine provincial legislatures on the Marine Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation Bill [B10-2022].
The committee said it is pleased to receive the inputs and proposals from the provinces, which demonstrated the high level of public participation and engagement in the legislative process. The committee also appreciated the constructive contributions made by the provinces and the Department of Transport in working towards finalising this important piece of legislation.
Through robust discussions and deliberations, the committee identified areas of convergence between the provinces and the department. The committee is confident that the technical amendments and clarifications proposed will strengthen the bill and ensure it is fit for purpose in protecting South Africa's marine environment.
The committee will reconvene next week to consider the consolidated list of proposed amendments, known as the C-list, which will be developed through a collaborative process between the department, parliamentary legal advisors and committee support staff. This will then form the basis for the final D-list that will be presented to the provinces for their consideration and support.
Committee Chairperson Mr Rikus Badenhorst said, “The committee remains committed in fulfilling its respective role and ensuring the timely finalisation of the Marine Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation Bill in order to enhance the country's state of readiness and response capability in the event of a marine oil spill incident.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
CCMA ruled that M&N Waste must pay minimum wage, now workers have been suspended
President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Friday, 11 April 2025, hosted the leadership of the South African Council of Churches (SACC) at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
The meeting was the first engagement between Government and the leadership of the church since the start of the 7th Administration under the banner of the Government of National Unity.
The meeting presented an opportunity for the SACC to introduce its new and recently elected leadership.
“We welcome the opportunity to be introduced to the new leadership of the SACC and to discuss matters that concern the church and the people of South Africa.
The SACC is a cherished institution in our country. Over many decades it has made an invaluable contribution to peace, unity, development and transformation.
It has been a source of hope, guidance and inspiration not only to members of the Christian faith, but to all South Africans.
The SACC has always been deeply concerned about the conditions in which our people live and has worked to improve their lives.
We appreciate the willingness and determination of the SACC to work with Government, with other faith formations and with other sectors of society to address these concerns,” said President Ramaphosa.
The meeting discussed a wide range of issues of national interest ranging from the National Dialogue initiative, Government's ongoing fight against crime and corruption and the churches accessing state services. The Government also briefed the SACC on South Africa's G20 Presidency along with regional and international issues of concern.
“We support the National Dialogue initiative but emphasise that for it to have legitimacy, the process must be protected from being hijacked by political, economic, and societal elites. It must be inclusive — incorporating all sectors of society. We must confront our declining values and moral conduct, and address the dehumanisation caused by poverty and inequality. Like many South Africans, we as church leaders and congregants are deeply concerned by the political gamesmanship within the GNU, when urgent national challenges — especially those affecting the poor and vulnerable — demand serious and united attention,” said Bishop Sithembele Sipuka, SACC President.
President Ramaphosa committed that the National Dialogue will bring together all sectors of society and encourage the participation of all South Africans.
It is envisaged that the National Dialogue will build on the achievements of 30 years of democracy.
Among other things, it will need to address challenges of low growth and job creation, poverty and hunger, governance, corruption and fiscal constraints. It will also need to address gender-based violence and femicide, social fragmentation, racism and sexism, violence and the potential for instability.
“Importantly, the National Dialogue must be informed by extensive public consultation in localities facilitated by various sectors of society. It needs to give a voice to those in society who are not often heard, to people who are marginalised, to those who are most vulnerable to poverty, violence and exploitation,” said the President.
The meeting heard about Government's ongoing work in implementing the recommendations of the State Capture Commission. This includes criminal investigations and prosecutions, the recovery of stolen funds, legislative amendments and strengthening institutions.
Furthermore, Government remains focused on strengthening and resourcing key institutions in the criminal justice system, like the NPA, Hawks and SIU, this includes the establishment of the NPA's Investigating Directorate Against Corruption as a permanent entity to prosecute state capture and other significant corruption cases.
President Ramaphosa committed Government's support for greater cooperation between churches and Government bodies that are on the frontline of providing services to people – most notably the Departments of Home Affairs and Social Development.
President Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa's drive for an inclusive G20. The President said dialogue with civil society and other non-government institutions will be conducted through various engagement groups. Following the approach of the Brazilian Presidency, a G20 Social Forum will be convened. This will bring together representatives of the existing engagement groups and other segments of civil society including various faith formations.
The President assured the church leaders that South Africa will continue to pursue an independent foreign policy and will not align itself with any of the major powers or blocs in the world.
South Africa remains engaged in efforts to bring about peace and stability in various parts of our region and continent, especially through SADC and AU initiatives.
“South Africa continues to use its participation in fora like the G20, BRICS, Non-Aligned Movement, African Union and United Nations to advance a rules-based multilateralism that is fair and inclusive. We are committed to the reform of global institutions to ensure that they represent the needs and interests of all countries,” said President Ramaphosa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Friday, 11 April 2025: Loadshedding remains suspended, with the power system remaining stable. Emergency reserves are adequate and being used strategically to meet peak demand, while ongoing planned maintenance continues at 14.85% of generation capacity, marking a 3.8% increase compared to the same period last year. The high level of planned maintenance aims to enhance...
Ferrochrome magnets are essential tools in the mining, metallurgy, and material handling industries. These specialized magnets are particularly effective in separating ferrochrome—a valuable alloy used in the production of stainless steel—from unwanted contaminants in the mining and beneficiation processes. Ferrochrome magnets help enhance the purity of the product, protect equipment, and improve overall efficiency. In …
The FW de Klerk Foundation encourages Minister Gwarube and her department to finish the task of eliminating pit toilets in schools to ensure that no learner is left behind in accessing safe and dignified sanitation.
The post THE FW DE KLERK FOUNDATION CALLS FOR COMPLETE ELIMINATION OF SCHOOL PIT TOILETS appeared first on FW de Klerk Foundation.