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Roodepoort, South Africa – June 13, 2024 – Family Divorce Mediators is proud to announce the launch of its brand-new website. The aim is to provide seamless access to comprehensive divorce and family mediation services through a user-friendly platform. Family Divorce Mediators is dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of divorce with empathy and …
POLOKWANE: The 2024/25 T20 Knockout competition kicks off on Saturday, 21 September and all eyes will be on the defending...
Cooler weekend expected, says weather service
While many South Africans are experiencing a hot to very hot start to spring with the first heat wave of the season occurring over parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, cooler weather is expected from Thursday.
Weather conditions are expected to change significantly as a cold front and cut-off low-pressure system will introduce wintery conditions to the Western Cape, southern parts of the Northern Cape and the Eastern Cape from Thursday, 19 September 2024.
Significantly colder conditions will then spread to KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State and Mpumalanga on Friday, 20 September, and reach Gauteng, North West and Limpopo on Saturday, 21 September.
“Disruptive snowfall and bitterly cold conditions are expected to affect the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape (especially the north-eastern high-ground) from Thursday, spreading to the eastern and southern high-ground of the Free State, the western and southern high-ground of KwaZulu-Natal and extending as far as the southern Highveld of Mpumalanga on Friday into Saturday morning,” the SA Weather Service (SAWS) said in a statement.
The public and small stock farmers are advised to take the necessary precautions ahead of the expected adverse weather conditions to ensure the safety and health of their animals.
A cold front arrives in the Western Cape today resulting in showers and rain over the south-western parts, spreading to the Garden Route and Little Karoo by this evening and to the Eastern Cape tomorrow.
“It will be cold to very cold over parts of the Western Cape interior and the Eastern Cape on Thursday. Strong to near-gale force winds with rough seas of 4 to 6 metres are likely along the Western Cape coast today, spreading to parts of the Eastern Cape coast overnight and to the coast of KwaZulu-Natal tomorrow.
“Light snowfalls are likely to occur over the eastern mountains of the Western Cape and the northern high-ground and mountains of the Eastern Cape, mainly from Thursday afternoon into the evening, while becoming disruptive over the north-eastern high ground of the Eastern Cape later in the evening,” the Weather Service said.
In contrast, very hot to extremely hot temperatures - exceeding 38 to 40°C - are expected to occur over parts of the Limpopo Valley and Lowveld of Limpopo ahead of this system.
On Friday, an intense cut-off low pressure system will develop along the border of the Northern and Eastern Cape provinces and will move into the southern parts of the Free State in the evening.
This system will result in widespread showers and thundershowers over parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal (with possible heavy rainfall along the coastal regions), while scattered thunderstorms are possible over parts of Gauteng, western Limpopo, the eastern parts of the North West and the Free State as well as parts of Mpumalanga.
Bitterly cold daytime temperatures of 4 to 8°C can be expected over the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape, the eastern Free State, and the interior of KwaZulu-Natal, where widespread snowfall is likely.
SAWS said current numerical weather prediction models indicate the possibility of light snowfall over the southern parts of Gauteng and the remainder of the Highveld of Mpumalanga on Saturday morning.
“However, there is significant uncertainty regarding this outlook, as the forecast may still change.”
Disruptive snowfall of 15 to 30 cm can be expected over the north-eastern high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape, the western and southern areas of KwaZulu-Natal, the eastern Free State and the southern Highveld and escarpment of Mpumalanga, mainly on Friday continuing into Saturday morning.
“This may result in the closure of mountain passes, loss of livestock and crops, and affect major traffic routes (parts of the N3, N5 and N11). Cold to very cold daytime temperatures (8 to 12°C) can also be expected over Gauteng and the eastern parts of North West on Saturday, 21 September.
The cut-off low is expected to weaken and exit the country from Saturday afternoon. Daytime temperatures are expected to recover quickly from Sunday into Monday across eastern South Africa.
The weather service will therefore continue to monitor any further developments relating to this weather system and will issue subsequent updates as required.
The public is urged and encouraged to regularly follow weather forecasts on television and radio. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 14:58
Johannesburg, South Africa – June 13, 2024 – A leading supplier of hunting safaris in South Africa, Lindile Safaris is pleased to announce the introduction of their brand-new website. The enhanced online experience provided by this user-friendly platform makes it simpler for visitors to browse and schedule hunting excursions. The company’s commitment to providing exceptional …
In recognition of the critical role that gender plays in the sustainability and success of small-scale fisheries, AU-IBAR, Mabuyi Development Planners, and he Blue Wild Coast Non-Profit Organization (South Africa) are hosting a two-day community workshop in East London, South Africa. The workshop, running from September 18-19, 2024, aims to develop a Gender Plan of Action for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in small-scale fisheries to support aquatic biodiversity conservation efforts in South Africa. This event serves as a vital platform to address gender disparities in the fisheries sector, amplify the voices of women, and establish gender-sensitive policies and strategies.
Objective of the Workshop
The workshop engages stakeholders from various sectors to co-create and enrich a Gender Policy Document for environmental NGOs. Specifically, it seeks to mainstream gender into aquatic biodiversity conservation and environmental management efforts. Through this collaborative process, the event addresses gender inequalities in small-scale fisheries, enhances female participation in decision-making, and ensures that women's roles are better recognized across the fisheries value chain.
Participants and Stakeholders
This multi-stakeholder event brings together representatives from AU-IBAR, government agencies, local cooperatives, private sector actors, and gender advocacy organizations, including the South African Network for Women in Fisheries (SANWFA) and the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET). Collectively, these organizations focus on strengthening the roles of women and youth in small-scale fisheries and advancing gender mainstreaming in the sector.
Opening Remarks and Keynotes
The first day of the workshop opens with welcoming remarks from the Blue Wild Coast NPO, emphasizing the importance of civil society in empowering communities with fishing rights and elevating the often-overlooked contributions of women in fisheries.
- Ms. Francisca Mhuriro, who represented the Director of AU-IBAR, delivered an address, emphasising the need for gender equality in aquatic biodiversity conservation. “Equal participation of both men and women in conserving aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems is crucial for Africa's blue economy development,” she stated. “Yet, women are often marginalized in decision-making due to cultural norms. These constraints limit their access to resources and participation in the sector.” Ms. Mhuriro highlights frameworks such as the Beijing Declaration and Malabo Declaration, which call for affirmative actions to include women in economic opportunities and urges participants to adopt inclusive approaches in fisheries management.
- Mr. Zamkhaya Maseti, representing the Premier's Office of the Eastern Cape, shared insights into the Eastern Cape province's Blue Oceans Economy Master Plan, developed in partnership with Nelson Mandela University. “For our province to realize its potential in the blue economy, access to equipment and capacity-building for women is crucial,” he noted. Maseti called for more partnerships with civil society organisations to empower coastal communities, urging for protection from exploitation by external investors.
- Ms. Thabisa Sigwela, from the Buffalo City Maritime Cluster, spoke about her organization's work supporting projects related to coastal marine tourism, ocean governance, and small harbor development. “South Africa's 3,000-kilometer coastline is vital for improving the livelihoods of coastal communities,” she noted. Sigwela stressed the need for strategies that balance the exploitation of natural resources with long-term sustainability, emphasizing the importance of involving rural communities, especially women and youth, in these initiatives.
- Ms. Mashebane Thosago, representing SANWFA and AWFISHNET, called for greater female leadership in the fisheries sector. “Gender issues affect every aspect of our lives, and women must be at the forefront of shaping policies that influence their livelihoods,” she stated. Thosago encouraged participants to engage openly in discussions, noting that while sensitive issues may arise, such dialogue is necessary to foster inclusivity and progress.
- Ms. Nozuko Ntsokota, from the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), addressed the barriers women face in accessing markets and infrastructure. “Market access is a significant challenge for small-scale fishers, especially women,” she noted. Ntsokota highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to open opportunities for women in fisheries cooperatives and praised the mentorship programs being developed for traditional fishers.
Workshop Structure and Themes
Throughout the workshop, participants are expected to gain valuable insights from key stakeholders who discuss current challenges and opportunities for gender equality in small-scale fisheries. The workshop is structured around several key themes:
1. Gender Mainstreaming in Fisheries: Participants will explore concepts of gender mainstreaming and how these apply to aquatic biodiversity conservation. Case studies demonstrate how gender integration can enhance sustainability in fisheries management.
2. Gender Roles in Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation: A dedicated session will examine the distinct roles men and women play in aquatic biodiversity conservation. Although women often engage in fish processing and trading, their involvement in resource management and decision-making is frequently overlooked.
3. Small Group Discussions: Participants break into stakeholder-specific groups to identify challenges faced by women in the fisheries value chain. These discussions focus on practical solutions to improve women's access to resources and leadership positions.
4. Capacity Building and Policy Development: On the second day, SANWFA will lead a session on gender analysis tools, providing participants with practical strategies for addressing gender disparities. The workshop concludes with the development of a comprehensive Gender Action Plan, which serves as a guide for NGOs working in small-scale fisheries across South Africa.
Why This Workshop Matters
Small-scale fisheries contribute significantly to food security, livelihoods, and biodiversity conservation in South Africa. However, women remain underrepresented and face substantial barriers to participation and leadership. This workshop provides a platform to address these challenges through dialogue, gender-sensitive policy development, and capacity building.
By the end of the two-day workshop, participants are expected to create a comprehensive Gender Action Plan tailored to the realities of NGOs working in small-scale fisheries. This collaborative effort promotes more inclusive and sustainable fisheries management in South Africa, aligning with the goals of the Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity Project under the Africa Blue Economy Strategy, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).
Addressing the tech skills shortage needs to become a national imperative, says MANCOSA South Africa has faced two major cyber security breaches this year and has been the victim of ongoing cyber abuse over a significant period, which cost millions of Rands in losses. Over the past ten years, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) …
Local company sets sights on international markets
A Mamelodi-based detergents company is determined to take full advantage of the Partnering in Business with Germany Programme and export their products to international markets.
This was said by the Founder and Managing Director of TOSH Detergents, Lufuno Rasoesoe.
She was speaking during the recent alumni event of the programme that was hosted by South Africa and Germany in Sandton.
According to Rasoesoe, participating in the Partnering in Business with Germany Programme has been of significant benefit to her Gauteng company.
In April, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Change signed a Joint Declaration on Cooperation to formalise a programme to train and mentor emerging exporters from South Africa to access the German market.
“Through the business-to-business meetings and visits to various manufacturing plants in Germany, I gained valuable insights into how we can improve our own manufacturing plant.
“The exposure to advanced processes and operational standards inspired the factory plans that we are currently developing, as well as the implementation of more efficient standard operating systems. This experience has given us a clearer vision of how to elevate our production capabilities and meet global standards,” Rasoesoe said.
She explained that after participating in the programme, her company was invited to participate in the Africa Start-up Connect Week in Berlin, Germany.
At that event, she met entrepreneurs from across the African continent and was exposed to a wealth of export opportunities within the continent.
“This has broadened my network and opened doors for potential collaborations and expansion into various African markets, bringing us closer to our goal of growing TOSH Detergents' presence internationally."
She added that her participation in the Partnering in Business with Germany Programme and the Rand Show Exhibition, both with the assistance of the dtic has impacted positively on her business.
“Both experiences were incredibly valuable for my business. The Rand Show Exhibition provided us with great exposure to a wider audience, allowing us to showcase our products and build new connections.
“The Partnering in Business with Germany Programme offered insights into international markets, manufacturing best practices, and potential export opportunities.
“These experiences have been instrumental in growing our brand and expanding our market reach,” Rasoesoe said.
TOSH Detergents was formed in March 2021 as a business initiative aimed at addressing the need for affordable, high-quality cleaning products in South Africa.
The company was inspired by the desire to create a sustainable business that could provide essential household products while also empowering local communities.
“TOSH Detergents does not only fill a gap in the market, but also promotes job creation and economic development, particularly in the previously disadvantaged areas,” she said.
READ | SA-Germany to place trade and investment under the spotlight
The company currently employs 15 people, nine in the production area, and six as merchandisers and sales agents.
TOSH Detergents products can be found at Shoprite, Checkers, Makro Online, Takealot, Zulzi and distributors in various provinces. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 15:12
South Africa, 18 September 2024 – As South Africa grapples with a staggering rise in road accidents, IQTech, a leader in telematics technology, is spearheading efforts to enhance road safety through cutting-edge solutions. Recent statistics from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) underscore the urgent need for comprehensive measures to curb road fatalities, which have reached …
Green Hydrogen programme makes progress
Since the gazetting of nine Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) by Infrastructure at a Capex value of R300 billion, the Green Hydrogen National Programme (GHNP) has attracted projects with the Capex value of over R800 billion with about 20% of the total investments at the bankable feasibility stage.
This is according to Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister, Sihle Zikalala, who was speaking at the Green Hydrogen Devac conference in Sandton, Johannesburg on Wednesday.
The gazetting of the SIPs was done by Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) which is an entity of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure in 2022.
According to Zikalala, most of these projects are at different stages of development ranging from prefeasibility to execution.
These projects include the Isondo Precious Metals (IPM) in Johannesburg which entails a fuel cell and electrolyser component manufacturing facility in Gauteng, the Prieska Energy Cluster Green Ammonia Production facility in the Northern Cape, Boegoes Bay Green Hydrogen Port Rail and Infrastructure Project driven by the Northern Cape provincial government.
Other projects include the Hive Green Ammonia export project in the Eastern Cape, Arcelor Mittal South Africa (AMSA) Saldanha Green Steel Project in the Western Cape and the Sasolburg 60MW H2 production in Gauteng.
Zikalala said South Africa only needed one percent of the country’s land area to support green hydrogen economy initiatives, creating jobs and improving the economy. He said this was unusable land for agriculture and human settlements.
The Deputy Minster said ISA acted as one of the government enablers for the South African green hydrogen opportunity.
He said that by gazetting the GHNP as a SIP, ISA enabled projects to be placed on an expedited path to development with prescribed and shortened timeframes for various project approvals and authorisations.
‘The seventh administration has identified three priorities: driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living and building a capable, ethical and developmental state," said the Deputy Minister.
He called on green hydrogen players to work with government in the creation of jobs in the green hydrogen economy.
“We look up to you to take a lead in facilitating green hydrogen manufacturing capability in a manner that localises the production of upstream and downstream value-added products. Working together, South Africa can realise its potential to produce six to 13 million tons of green hydrogen and derivatives per year by 2050.
“We reiterate that South Africa as a green hydrogen investment destination still offers substantial additional investment opportunities including green shipping, green fertiliser production, electrolyser manufacturing, pipeline development, green field port developments’, said Zikalala. - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 15:26
Gqeberha based BA Systems have completed a number of high profile projects in Nelson Mandela Bay, the Eastern Cape, South Africa and abroad. In this article we explore the benefits and cost savings that Building Automation and Management Systems offer to the industrial, commercial, retail and domestic consumer. What is Building Automation? Key Components Benefits …
Report argues that solitary confinement is a form of torture
Call for urgent action on North West stalled projects
The North West’s permanent delegates to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) have called for urgent intervention that will lead to tangible results on stalled infrastructure projects in the province.
The delegation commenced with a week-long oversight visit to the province as part of the NCOP flagship Provincial Week Programme on Tuesday.
Provincial whip and leader of the delegation, Sylvia Sithole, underscored an urgent need for implementation of practical interventions for the benefit of the people, who are mostly poor and vulnerable.
“While we are concerned that some projects have taken a long time to complete, we accept the assurances you have given today, and we will be back in November to assess if those commitments have been honoured. We want to see positive change here in the province,” Sithole said.
The delegation raised concerns as highlighted by the Office of the Auditor General including inadequate planning and project management which have a direct impact on the overall implementation of projects.
The delegation also raised concern at the lack of effective coordination between the province and municipalities which indicated the need for the adoption of the District Development Model (DDM) to ensure efficiency.
The delegation visited the Mahikeng Airport which is not functioning despite its potential of being a strong economic driver in the area.
The delegation noted the plans by the North West Department of Transport, Roads and Community Safety to revitalise the airport, but highlighted that a comprehensive cost benefit analysis must be done to ensure that the plans create the needed economic benefit that is envisioned.
The delegates also urged the department to undertake an economic viability analysis as it relates to the plans to utilise the airport for cargo to be transported to neighbouring countries.
The delegation further engaged local business forums that highlighted the availability of investors willing to reinvent the airport. The department was urged to consider all available options on the table to ensure the most economic option is taken.
Delays in completing water projects
Meanwhile, during a visit at the Rooigrond Waste Water Treatment Works, a concern was raised regarding the delayed completion of the project which was initially planned to be completed in 2018.
“It is unacceptable that the over 1000 households that would have benefited [from] the projects are still waiting to this day. While the delegation notes the plans by Magalies Water Board to complete the project in July 2025, it is concerning that the initial plans were inadequate thereby raising the hopes of the community for quality sanitation services,” Sithole said.
The delegation also raised their concerns about the Environmental Impact Assessment, and the application for servitudes, which were not conducted when the project was commissioned, which delayed the projects.
“This points to poor planning by departments. Infrastructure projects are complex and effective planning will ensure that they are delivered on time and within budgets,” Sithole said.
Concern was also raised on the number of acting personnel responsible for project implementation and called for Magalies Water to urgently appoint permanent personnel that will be held accountable, in case the projects are not implemented within the stipulated time frames.
The delegation will on Wednesday visit the stalled RDP Project in Tshunyane Village, and proceed to Sanieshof Waste Water Treatment Plant and complete its second day programme by assessing the rehabilitation of sections of road P152/1 from N18 at Delareyville. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 11:42
Maponya Mall, a vibrant shopping destination in the soul of Soweto, is excited to announce its “Join The Upside” market, taking place from September 23rd to 29th, 2024. This initiative aims to celebrate the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Soweto community, while offering opportunities for local businesses to thrive. Share Your Upside Story and …
Deputy Minister Morolong calls on media to adapt to digital era to survive
The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, has emphasised the media’s necessity for long-term self-sustainability strategies as many traditional publications struggle with declining readership and closure.
According to Morolong, the media sector has a significant role in holding government and corporate leaders accountable to the citizens.
“Newspaper companies are also at the forefront of driving economic development in terms of their contributions to a country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), employment creation, general literacy, and skills development.”
The Deputy Minister delivered a keynote address via a virtual platform at the second Meta for Government Summit in Johannesburg on Wednesday.
Meta, in partnership with the Ministry of the Presidency and the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), is hosting this year’s summit which is currently underway.
He bemoaned the impact of the digital industrial revolution on the media industry.
“We have seen newspaper closures, and the decline in advertising revenue, circulation and readership figures means that the sector needs long-term self-sustainability strategies.”
According to the Deputy Minister, profits and the emergence of digital content distribution platforms continue to impact on companies’ traditional profit, which is based on an advertising-based business model.
He announced that the ministerial-appointed Print and Digital Media Transformation and Revitalisation Steering Committee, which he hopes Meta will join, will assist government in addressing issues of mutual interest among all stakeholders.
Meanwhile, he said government has resolved to work with all stakeholders to develop legislative frameworks regarding freedom of the press.
“This approach acknowledges the role of all media in a democracy, and confirms that media and new media fulfil an extremely critical role in the realisation of the right to receive and impart information.”
According to the Deputy Minister, the partnership between government and Meta represents a significant opportunity to create lasting change in South Africa.
The discussion also focused on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and communication tools in government to enhance citizen engagement.
The Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of digital platforms like Meta in connecting citizens and empowering them through educational content and job opportunities.
The conversation also addressed the challenges of misinformation and the need for media sustainability.
The government’s commitment to inclusive economic growth, job creation, and ethical digital tool usage was underscored, with a call for collaboration to ensure safe and effective digital engagement.
“Together, we can ensure that digital platforms are not just tools for communication but enablers of economic growth, empowerment, and social cohesion. Let us embrace this opportunity to build a digitally inclusive, safe and empowered South Africa.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 12:05
Education key for African children
Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, has told a gathering of the Speakers of African Parliaments that the education of African children in the 21st Century is dependent on the ending of wars and instability on the continent.
Didiza was speaking at the Conference of Speakers of African National and Regional Parliaments held at the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand.
Leaning on the session’s theme, “Educate an African fit for the 21st Century. Building resilient education system for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa”, Didiza acknowledged the importance of education.
“While the African continent is relatively peaceful, there are still pockets of instabilities, terrorism and threats to peace in various parts of the continent.
“Therefore, our success in educating the Africans fit for the 21st Century is also dependent on our success in silencing guns in order to ensure peace and stability, for there can be no proper education in volatile and war environments.
“The same obligation applies to development and economic prosperity, for there can be no development and prosperity without peace and education,” she said.
Furthermore, Didiza said the need for investment in education is “unquestionable”.
“The weaker economic and financial standing of our societies should not be the yardstick that determines whether their children should have access to quality education or not.
“This presents us with an opportunity and positive challenge to rethink our budgeting processes and to allocate more funds to departments of education in our respective nations,” she said.
Peace in Africa and the world
Didiza told her counterparts on the continent that South Africa’s recent democratically held general elections and the consequences of that process bear testimony to how the country has embraced democratic processes.
“We hope our sister countries will also learn and embrace democratic processes should they face similar situations in future. Democracy remains the viable system of governance that can help us valorise our natural resources and build the resilience we need for prosperous economies in the continent.
“Embracing democratic processes is a golden route to peace, stability and prosperity,” she said.
Turning to events in the Middle East, Didiza reiterated government’s stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict.
“[The] attainment of democracy in South Africa against the barbaric apartheid system is a living proof that no challenge can withstand the will and might of the united global community.
“As the product of international solidarity, we call upon the nations of the world, the African Union Member States in particular, to support the call and the birth right of the people of Palestine and all the oppressed people in the world for self-determination and freedom.
“Our founding father, President [Nelson] Mandela left us with a message that South Africa will never be free until the people of Palestine are free,” Didiza insisted. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 12:06
Johannesburg, South Africa – July 10, 2024 – CoreLife Medical, a leading provider of medical oxygen solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its newly designed website. The revamped online platform offers an enhanced user experience and streamlined access to a comprehensive range of oxygen concentrators, cylinders, and accessories. The new website reflects CoreLife …
Nelson Mandela Bay's efforts to combat crime pay off
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents in a series of coordinated operations.
This follows multiple joint compliance operations conducted over the weekend across various areas, which yielded significant results.
A comprehensive joint compliance operation including Metro Police, the South African Police Service (SAPS), various municipal departments, and Immigration Services, was executed.
This led to the issuing of fines for the shops operating illegally, resulting in their closure; the issuing of fines for illegal dumping; the confiscation of 203 male enhancement tablets and 203 skin lightening creams valued at R10 650 and the issuing of 24 traffic fines.
A liquor compliance operation was also conducted in the Humewood/Central area with the participation of Metro Police, SAPS, Immigration Services, and Traffic and Licensing departments. The operation resulted in the arrest of six undocumented foreign national and two arrests for drunken driving.
Operation Shanela was also conducted in the Humewood/Central area with the involvement of the SAPS, Metro Police, and Traffic and Licensing, leading to five arrests for drunken driving.
A liquor compliance operation was also conducted in Walmer, involving SAPS and Immigration Services. The operation resulted in the arrests of twelve undocumented foreign nationals, and one arrest for drunken driving.
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Mayor, Gary Van Niekerk said the operations underscored the municipality’s intensified efforts and steadfast commitment to maintaining law and order.
Van Niekerk said collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies and municipal departments have been pivotal in achieving these successes.
The Mayor also encouraged the community to continue supporting such initiatives to create a safer environment for all.
"Our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our residents is unwavering. These operations highlight the dedication and hard work of our law enforcement agencies and municipal departments. Together, we are making Nelson Mandela Bay a safer place for everyone," Van Niekerk said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 12:19
For the first time in the event’s history, the highly anticipated Sappi Scottburgh MTB & Trail Run will start and finish at the exquisite Crocworld Conservation Centre on the KZN South Coast. Competitors are encouraged to book now for the race taking place on Sunday, 22 September 2024, with Crocworld announcing a flat entry rate …
President Ramaphosa, Business Unity SA meet on NHI
President Cyril Ramaphosa has met with the leadership of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) to discuss matters related to the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act.
According to the Presidency, the meeting on Tuesday included the Minister and Deputy Minister of Health and senior officials and was “constructive and forward looking”.
“Business and government expressed a shared commitment to the underlying objectives of the NHI, namely to achieve universal health coverage for all South Africans and address inequality in the health system,” the Presidency said.
Furthermore, the office said government will continue to engage on the matter “in good faith”.
“The President has requested BUSA to put forward specific proposals on the remaining issues of concern as a basis for further engagement. Government remains committed to engaging with all stakeholders in good faith on the process of healthcare reform, and to finding workable solutions that will advance quality and affordable healthcare for all,” the Presidency said.
In May this year, President Ramaphosa signed the then NHI Bill into law. During the signing ceremony, he said the signing was a “milestone in South Africa's ongoing quest for a more just society”.
“This transformational health care initiative gives further effect to our constitutional commitment to progressively realise access to health care services for all its citizens.
“At its essence, the NHI is a commitment to eradicate the stark inequalities that have long determined who receives adequate healthcare and who suffers from neglect.
“By putting in place a system that ensures equal access to health care regardless of a person’s social and economic circumstances, the NHI takes a bold stride towards a society where no individual must bear an untenable financial burden while seeking medical attention,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 09:01
Trek Africa has launched their 2024 Hunting Packages and hunters can be assured of thrilling hunting experiences with an all-inclusive service from start to finish. Trek Africa will organise your customised hunting safari based on the species you wish to hunt across Africa and guarantee an unforgettable hunting experience. Their experienced professional hunters and support …
Corrupt traffic officers arrested in Mpumalanga
Law enforcement agencies have arrested a further 13 traffic officers in different towns in Mpumalanga in a clean-up anti-corruption operation aimed at restoring discipline and ethical conduct in the traffic law enforcement sector.
This brings the total number of arrested officials to 39 following the arrest of 14 officials in the same province on Monday while 11 other officers were handcuffed in Polokwane, Limpopo last week and a weighbridge master was caught in Belfast, Mpumalanga.
The 13 officers arrested on Tuesday were caught in a joint operation conducted by the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s (RTMC) National Anti-Corruption Unit, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and Mpumalanga based Crime Intelligence.
The 13 suspects were nabbed in Nelspruit, Kabokweni, KwaNyamazane, Hazyview, Barberton, White River and Calcutta just outside of Mbombela.
Some of the suspects have appeared in different magistrate courts and were all granted bail ranging from R2 500 to R10.000.
They are expected to hand over their passports to the investigating officer, and not leave their hometowns without permission from the investigating officer.
RTMC Chief Executive Officer Advocate Makhosini Msibi has welcomed the arrests and said they will send a message that corruption within traffic law enforcement will not be tolerated.
“Corrupt officials have for a long time operated with impunity and turned the noble duty of enforcing the law into a self-enrichment scheme. This must come to an end. South Africa deserves ethical officers who conduct themselves with discipline and integrity,” he said.
He commended all the officers involved in the investigations that led to the arrests to a job well done. He called on them not to rest until all the “rotten apples have been removed”.
Corrupt officers erode public confidence in the traffic law enforcement and create condition where motorists can violate the rules of the road without consequence leading to avoidable road crashes and fatalities.
The RTMC urges the public to report traffic fraud and corruption on Ntacu@rtmc.co.za or Whatsapp on 083 293 7989. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 09:16
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality pushes to spend funds before December
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality says the metro is working hard to spend 40 percent of the R361 million Informal Settlements Upgrading Partnership Grant (ISUPG) in an effort to accelerate essential service delivery and stop underspending.
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Thembinkosi Mafana, said the metro is working closely with senior officials and project managers to make sure that spending and the quality of work tally with the timeframes stipulated in the process plan.
"We want to push all our efforts to spend at least 40 percent of the allocated funds by the December 2024 break so that by January when we reopen, we accelerate performance even more,” Mafana said.
The standing committee this week visited a number of active sites that are funded under the ISUPG, including the Arlington Landfill Site fencing that has been funded for R15 million. Other visits included sites for housing delivery funded for R50 million, roads and storm water infrastructure and electrification of shacks and temporary houses.
The grant covers a number of deliverables that form part of holistic human settlements, such as servicing sites, relocation of communities from vulnerable areas, provision of services like water, electricity, and sanitation to the development of parks and creation of a safe and sustainable environment.
Mafana noted that the municipality’s job must not end at approving budgets at standing committee and council.
“We must follow through in spending, quality of work and monitor adherence to timeframes,” Mafana said.
The MMC added that the ISUPG site visits, which form part of the MMC and the standing committee oversight responsibility for the current financial year, will from now be a standard item in the Human Settlements standing committee financial year plan.
"Our people are living in distress in flood plains and other unliveable conditions, we must then move with speed in relocating them and provide them a decent life,” the MMC said.
Mafana noted that in the last financial year, 2023/24 the metro was allocated R333 million and managed to spend within the stipulated timeframe R317 million.
During the second site visits on Tuesday, the standing committee visited projects in areas including Kariega, among others. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 09:50
Report by Just Share exposes pay gaps in the retail and wholesale sector
South Africa commits support for South Sudan
South Africa will continue to support the Republic of South Sudan in its efforts for peace, democracy and development.
This according to a statement by the Presidency on Wednesday.
The statement follows an announcement by the government of South Sudan regarding the extension of its transitional period for a further two years.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted the statement by the Government of the Republic of South Sudan extending the country's transitional period by another two years. This effectively postpones the national elections initially due to take place on 22 December 2024.
“According to the announcement, the postponement is intended to provide time and space for the implementation of the remaining provisions of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement to the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan [R-ARCSS],” the Presidency said.
The statement said President Ramaphosa “commends the Parties to the R-ARCSS for arriving at the decision by consensus, which bodes well for the implementation of the remainder of the provisions of the R-ARCSS”.
“To this end, President Ramaphosa calls on South Sudanese Parties and the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity [RTGoNU] to spare no effort in implementing the outstanding provisions of the R-ARCSS and to maintain the peaceful atmosphere that has existed since September 2018,” the Presidency said.
“President Ramaphosa further calls on the RTGoNU to allocate the necessary resources for the effective functioning of statutory institutions mandated to deliver free and fair elections,” the statement read.
The President also called on the East African bloc, the East African Community (EAC) and the international community to “continue to support the Government and people of South Sudan in their search for lasting peace and democracy”.
“For its part, South Africa will continue to support South Sudan to realise the ideals for peace, democracy and development,” the Presidency concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 09:37