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By 24 November 2024 ALL prepaid meters in South Africa will need to be recoded. The current Token Identifier (TID) code will expire on 24 November 2024 and after this date all Standard Transfer Specification (STS) compliant meters will stop accepting credit tokens. Most meters in the country fall within this category. This project is …
Councillors equipped with digital skills
The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) has launched the inaugural Broadband and Digital Skills for Municipalities Programme in Polokwane, Limpopo.
Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi told participants at the launch that the time is ripe for government to equip councillors with digital skills in order to propel the use of technology to service the nation and grow the economy.
The Broadband and Digital Skills for Municipalities Programme launch drew councillors from the length and breadth of Limpopo and digital experts under one roof.
The DCDT is in partnership with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and the British High Commission as part of the Declaration of Intent signed between the South African Government and the United Kingdom under the UK’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) Fund.
“The programme aims to empower municipal managers and councillors to steer the deployment of broadband infrastructure in an inclusive manner to reach as many of people as possible, more so those who are digitally disconnected from the rest of the world or have been left behind by many current digital advances.
“In a world where public representatives, more so councillors, are inundated with endless service delivery queries and confronted with hundreds of important decisions to make on their council work daily, having the necessary digital skills will enable them to work smarter, resolve public queries faster and be more accessible to residents,” Malatsi said.
In an effort to ensure that councillors leverage AI capabilities, DCDT, with SALGA and the British High Commission as partners, intends to roll out this programme to all other provinces in the country so as to leave no one behind.
Speaking at the launch event, UK High Commissioner Antony Phillipson emphasised the significant role of digital technology as a catalyst for economic growth and development.
“We know that digital technology is a powerful catalyst for economic growth and development. The impact of digital inclusion can be profound and wide-ranging. This UK-funded project reflects the UK’s commitment to both digital inclusion and partnership with all spheres of the South African government, ensuring that we are leaving no one behind as we transition to a digital future,” Phillipson said.
The launch will be followed by a two-day training for councillors, which will be a continuous exercise to ensure that councillors are well trained to deliver services to communities for sustainable development in the digital economy. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:20
Gauteng Legislature honours former Ministers Dlamini Zuma and Pandor
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature has paid tribute to former ministers, Dr Naledi Pandor and Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, in a special sitting of the legislature.
Pandor retired from government following nearly 30 years of service in roles including the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Minister of Higher Education and Training, twice as Minister of Science and Technology, Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Education.
Dlamini Zuma also served in various positions, including as Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Minister in The Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Minister of Home Affairs, Minister of Health from 1994 to 1999 and as Minister of Foreign Affairs before her retirement.
Both played roles in the struggle against Apartheid in South Africa.
Addressing the public gathering, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said the two women represent the epitome of what it means to be a South African patriot.
“Our presence today is nothing else but an endorsement for the hard work, the dedication and commitment that they had for our country. They didn’t only love our country, they loved our people. They didn’t only sacrifice for our country, they sacrificed for everyone who is here now to understand that indeed our freedom was not free.
“They represent every epoch of our freedom and every epoch of our revolution. We don’t have silver, we don’t have gold but we have are these words: Thank you. We are indeed indebted to these two powerful women,” he said.
In response, former Minister Dlamini Zuma said: “Defend the gains of the revolution and push the frontiers. You must bequeath to the next generation a better Gauteng and a better South Africa than the one you have”.
Meanwhile, former Minister Pandor said: “There’s a lot of young people who have time to do a great deal of things and if you can change our nation’s thinking of itself…all you need is the will to make the difference”. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:24
When dealing with legal matters, the importance of seeking professional help cannot be overstated. Whether it’s related to family disputes, labor issues, or property matters, having the right legal guidance can help you through difficult times. Labour Law: Protecting Your Rights in the Workplace In employment-related cases, specialized labour lawyers are essential. These professionals …
Premier sends condolences to KZN road victims’ families
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has sent condolences to the families of road accident victims, who passed away in separate motor vehicle accidents in the province.
A two-vehicle collision took place on the R622 Mooi Plaza on Greytown Road over the weekend and claimed the lives of 11 people, while a taxi crash on the R74 Kranskop Road left six people dead and 10 critically injured.
“I would like to extend my profound condolences to the relatives and friends of those who lost their lives due to a fatal head-on collision, which took place on the R622, R74 and N2. It is heartbreaking that we continue to mourn the loss of loved ones as a result of road carnage,” Ntuli said.
The Premier said the causes of the collisions are not yet known, as crash investigators and law enforcement authorities continue to investigate what happened.
The Premier emphasised the importance of daylight driving, as it enhances alertness and visibility.
“I advise South African motorists to exercise great caution when driving at night. Road accident statistics continue to highlight to us that a lot of fatal crashes occur in the nighttime. I would therefore like to continue to echo the importance of daytime driving, especially for long distance travels,” Ntuli said.
The Premier also called on all road law enforcement agencies to execute all possible measures to reduce road carnage across the province.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety of all road users, especially during peak travel periods.
Ntuli appealed to the public to adhere to traffic rules, drive responsibly and cooperate with law enforcement officials to create safer roads for all.
The Premier further urged law enforcement to be vigilant, enforce traffic regulations, and increase visibility on all major roads to curb reckless driving, speeding and other violations contributing to road accidents.
“The loss of life due to road accidents is unacceptable, and we must do everything in our power to prevent it. I call upon all law enforcement agencies to strengthen their efforts and work together to ensure that our roads are safe for everyone,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:39
Nelson Mandela University hosts a Women’s Empowerment Event. Equipping students with the skills to succeed in the digital PR industry. Insights into the rapidly evolving PR landscape. Gqeberha, 04 September , 2024: The event took place on the 29th of August 2024 at the Ocean Science Campus at Nelson Mandela University. The event commemorating Women’s …
The department says the Hawks are investigating the sustainable livelihoods programme but will not provide details
Forensic report on Postbank referred to the Hawks
A KPMG forensic report on the Postbank has been referred to the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks, in a bid to ensure that those responsible for the crimes are brought to book.
According to a statement by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, Minister Solly Malatsi, received the forensic report on governance and financial breaches at the Postbank which compromised the institution and resulted in financial losses to the value of approximately R89.5 million, during the period 2021 - 2022.
The report was presented to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies by a delegation led by Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele on Wednesday.
The department said the Minister has referred the case to the Hawks.
The KPMG investigation was instituted following the Auditor General of South Africa’s (AGSA) 2021 report which detailed fraudulent activities at the Post Bank. These include multiple incidents of cash theft which have accordingly been reported to the police.
The Ministry has also instructed the Postbank Board to ensure that the recommendations contained in the KPMG report are implemented.
“What makes this cash theft even more repugnant is that some of this money was stolen from vulnerable social grant beneficiaries and ordinary South Africans who were saving for a better future. We will use the full might of the law to fight anyone who dares rob citizens.
"I expect decisive action to ensure that public entities are run ethically and with integrity, for the benefit of our citizens, and not criminals,” Minister Malatsi said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 11:08
SA called to learn Sign Language
South Africans have been encouraged to learn South African Sign Language as the country joins the global community in commemorating International Month for Deaf People.
International Month for Deaf People is observed annually in September to promote awareness of the rights of deaf people around the world, and bring to the fore challenges faced by deaf people.
The month is used to promote the understanding of the deaf community, and to encourage people to take steps to be more inclusive and celebrate diversity. This includes learning sign language so that people can communicate with the deaf community.
This year’s International Month for Deaf People is commemorated under the theme: “Sign up for Sign Language Rights”.
In celebrating Deaf Awareness Month, the Minister of Women Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, called on South Africans to learn Sign Language, as “it is the most effective way to communicate with and connect with deaf individuals”.
“Public activities should be focused on mainstream and advocacy for the rights of the deaf community, to foster social cohesion, and education on disability inclusive language to eliminate any form of unfair discrimination,” Chikunga said.
She noted that South Africa's deaf community is well established, with over four million deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
The amendment of section 6 of the Constitution Eighteenth Amendment Bill to include South African Sign Language as the 12th official language in the country is a major stride towards effective protection and promotion of the linguistic rights of the deaf community.
“The year 2024 stands out as a significant year in South Africa, as Mia Le Roux made history by becoming the first individual with a hearing impairment to be crowned Miss South Africa. This month-long celebration aims to encourage inclusivity, advance Sign Language education, and cultivate a deeper understanding of deaf culture,” Chikunga said.
In leading socio-economic transformation and the implementation of empowerment and participation of people with disabilities through mainstreaming and advocacy, the department further called upon all sectors of society to develop initiatives to commemorate this month and afford the deaf community the dignity they deserve. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 13:54
The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his successful visit to Bali, Indonesia, where he participated in the High-Level Forum on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships (HLF-MSP) and the Second Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) from 1-3 September 2024. The two events were convened under the theme, Bandung Spirit for Africa's Agenda 2063.
The objectives of the Second IAF were to:
During the Second Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF), Deputy Minister Botes presented South Africa's intervention at the Joint Leaders Session, where he said: “As we have completed the first decade of Implementation of the AU Agenda 2063, primarily focussed on convergence, we now enter its second decade which puts emphasise on acceleration of implementation. We wish to reassure the Government of Indonesia of South Africa's commitment to the full and effective implementation of the AfCFTA, as one of the key components towards economic integration on the Continent.”
Deputy Minister Botes also reflected on the current state of multilateral cooperation, saying: “The global governance architecture is at a crossroads, as it struggles to manage [a myriad of] challenges afflicting humankind while governing relations between states and those between states and non-state actors. In the midst of these challenges, we commit to our Pan-African mantra, as espoused by the AU Agenda 2063 and to deepen solidarity with the Global South, including with Indonesia”.
The Deputy Minister also met with his counterpart, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Mr Pahala Nugraha Mansury, and discussed South Africa's enthusiasm to work closely with Indonesia to further expand and deepen political and economic relations.
The Deputy Minister concluded his visit by participating in a panel discussion themed, Connecting the South: Enhancing Logistics Connectivity to Support Trade in Developing Countries. Participants discussed measures to sustainably improve trade connectivity in the Global South and reflect on the effectiveness of international cooperation in addressing infrastructure development gaps.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Parole and correctional supervision comes under discussion
The Department of Correctional Services has appeared before the Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services to discuss the issues of correctional supervision and parole boards in South Africa.
During the engagement, the department told the committee that currently, the country only has 52 correctional supervision and parole boards (CSPB) to consider offenders who could be placed on parole and correctional supervision.
Furthermore, the department revealed that during the 2022/23 year financial year, at least 85 inmates applied for medical parole. Twenty-two of them died while awaiting finalisation of their applications, four were released on normal parole, 43 were successful in their applications, while 13 were not recommended.
“We have raised concerns. We noted that vacancies exist in some of these boards, which could be a contributing factor. The department will furnish us with further information we require,” Committee Chairperson Kgomotso Ramolobeng said.
The committee raised concerns about the medical parole of some inmates, who went on to live healthy lives years later.
The department acknowledged that such exceptional cases do occur and committed that it would provide statistics to the committee in that regard.
“The department will provide us with the statistics of such matters, but they have assured us in the meantime that that figure is generally low. We will engage once we receive the information requested,” Ramolobeng said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 11:10
Sapphire Coast Tourism is excited to welcome runners, spectators, and supporters to Amanzimtoti for the highly anticipated Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon on Sunday, 27 October 2024. This early qualifier for the Comrades Marathon, organised by Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, is a great opportunity for athletes and visitors to experience this coastal gem. “We can …
SA to transform economy into manufacturing hub
By Nosihle Shelembe
Beijing, China - President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa is working towards transforming the economy by turning the country into a “manufacturing hub”.
“We plan to move from being a large importer of manufactured products to being a major exporter,” the President said on Wednesday.
Addressing the South Africa-China Business Forum on the occasion of the State Visit to China, President Cyril Ramaphosa said Chinese companies will find there are innumerable business opportunities to manufacture products in South Africa using the country’s excellent industrial experience.
“We have seen this happen in our automotive industry. We have ambitious plans to modernise our infrastructure by investing in the expansion of ports, rail and road networks.
“We are on a path to revolutionise our energy sector in pursuit of low-carbon, climate resilient development,” the President said.
He said South Africa is actively seeking investment in the energy sector, with a particular focus on renewables and green hydrogen.
“China has a proven track record in developing innovative renewable energy solutions.
“Together, we can create sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions that benefit both our countries.
“By working together, we can create value chains that are mutually beneficial, leading to job creation and economic growth.
There is also vast untapped potential in technology,” President Ramaphosa said.
He said South Africa and China can collaborate to promote innovation, technology transfer and skills development.
“By leveraging our respective strengths and exploring new avenues of collaboration, we can create mutually beneficial partnerships.
“Our focus must now be on building stronger business relationships, promoting cultural exchanges and tourism, and creating a favourable business environment.
“The growth of the South African economy will support the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which opens access to a market of over 1.3 billion people,” the President said.
He said African economic integration is fast becoming a reality that creates enormous opportunities to expand production on the continent and to stimulate much greater economic activity.
“We are a country with enormous potential for growth and development. We are advantageously placed for companies looking to expand into the rest of the African continent.
“South Africa and China have vibrant, diverse and growing economies, with a wealth of opportunities for businesses wishing to expand into new markets,” the President said.
China is currently South Africa’s largest trading partner.
Bilateral trade between China and South Africa has increased by a third since 2019.
South Africa exports mainly minerals and agricultural products to China, and imports largely manufactured products from China.
“We are seeking to shift the structure of our trade profile and deepen our investment relationship.
“South Africa has one of the most advanced and diversified economies on the African continent. It has a vibrant business environment and a strong regulatory framework. It has a diverse, competitive and well-regulated financial sector,” the President said.
Since the start of South Africa’s major investment drive in 2018, Chinese companies have made investment pledges to the value of over R18 billion in the manufacturing, resources, finance and agro-processing sectors. This is the equivalent of US $1 billion.
“In the last six weeks, a number of Chinese companies have increased investments to support the expansion of their operations.
“These investment commitments are testament to the resilience of the South African economy and the many opportunities for foreign and domestic investors.
“It is up to us to seize these opportunities and take the economic relationship between our two countries to the next level,” the President said.
He said South Africa has investment opportunities in the electric vehicle sector, renewable energy, green hydrogen and energy storage.
It has further opportunities in infrastructure, manufacturing, mining, beneficiation of critical minerals, and the digital economy.
“Let us work together to seize this opportunity and continue to build a more prosperous future for our respective countries,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 13:10
Mahambehlala leads SA delegation to Africa Urban Forum
Human Settlements Deputy Minister Tandi Mahambehlala is leading a South African delegation to the inaugural Africa Urban Forum, which will be held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The forum is a continental platform that seeks to promote sustainable development in human settlements on the African continent.
The three-day forum, taking place from 4 - 6 September 2024, will be convened under the theme: “Sustainable Urbanisation for Africa’s Transformation: Agenda 2063”.
Established by the African Union Commission in 2022, the Africa Urban Forum is the only high-level continental platform that brings together African countries to collaborate and coordinate their efforts to address rapid urbanisation.
The objectives of the forum include raising the profile of urbanisation as an imperative for sustainable and resilient development in Africa.
It also aims to support inclusive and participatory human settlement development in Africa’s structural transformation and attainment of Agenda 2063 and facilitating dialogues and buy-in for sustainable urbanisation among Africa’s Heads of State and governments.
The department said South Africa has not been spared in the upward trend of rapid urbanisation, resulting in people emigrating to urban areas in search of economic opportunities.
“This emigration has put pressure on the government to provide affordable housing,” the Department of Human Settlements said.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Deputy Minister, Dr Dickson Masemola, and some members of the National Executive Committee Members of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) will form part of the delegation. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 11:23
Government welcomes positive GDP growth
Government has welcomed the country's positive economic growth, as reflected in the latest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures.
According to data released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), the GDP increased by 0.4% in the second quarter of 2024, following a 0.0% growth in the first quarter.
On expenditure, real GDP rose by 0.5% in the second quarter, an improvement from the 0.1% decrease in the first quarter of 2024. Household consumption emerged as the largest positive contributor to overall growth, demonstrating the renewed confidence and spending power of South African households.
From a production perspective, the finance, real estate, and business services industry played a pivotal role, contributing 0.3% to the overall GDP growth. Other notable contributors include the manufacturing sector, trade, and the electricity, gas, and water supply industry, which saw a remarkable growth of 3.1%, driven by increased electricity generation and water distribution.
Acting Government spokesperson, Nomonde Mnukwa, said the second quarter's economic growth was a clear indication that South Africa’s economy is on a solid path to recovery.
“The positive trajectory also speaks to the effectiveness of the measures that have been implemented to support recovery and growth. The absence of load shedding has played a crucial role in revitalising key sectors, particularly the electricity, gas, and water supply industry.
“The government remains committed to implementing policies that will sustain and accelerate growth, ensuring that the benefits are felt by all South Africans,” Mnukwa said.
Government further acknowledges that sectors such as agriculture, mining, and forestry and fishing are experiencing challenges, but work is being done to provide relief that will ultimately restore growth in these sectors.
Mnukwa said government continues to support and foster an environment that encourages sustainable economic development. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 11:14
SA boys’ team only had three days with their coach
Beneficiaries express gratitude for Green Tourism Incentive Programme
The Department of Tourism has invited eligible tourism enterprises to apply for support under the Green Tourism Incentive Programme’s (GTIP) 10th application window.
The window opened on 2 September 2024 and will remain open until 28 February 2025.
The GTIP was developed by the Department of Tourism in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) to enable and encourage tourism enterprises to improve efficiency in the utilisation of energy and water resources in their operations.
In this way, the programme not only promotes compliance with responsible tourism principles, but also offers a mechanism for enterprises to reduce operational costs so they can operate in a sustainable and competitive manner.
The GTIP has enjoyed much success from tourism enterprises who applied for support.
Mokgaetji Flora Phala from Mminanoko Eco Guesthouse in Limpopo said: “I was spending R2 500 on electricity costs per month. I now spend R500 a month, saving between R1 500 to R2000 a month following the installation of energy solutions. The GTIP is a great initiative that helps a lot and can be recommended to other businesses.”
Chris de Vries from Maribelle's B&B in Pretoria, Gauteng, said the amount spent on electricity was high before the installations, but it has gone down significantly.
“It is still too early to tell the exact amounts, but I have noticed a significant saving from the installations. I would definitely recommend other business to get access to this programme; it is very beneficial,” he said.
Meanwhile, Gugulethu Nogaya from Imvomvo Country Lodge in MaXesibeni, Eastern Cape, said energy consumption prior to the installation of energy solutions averaged at 24 000 kWh per month.
“Since the installation it has reduced our monthly energy consumption by half. We were spending approximately R60 000.00 on diesel during peak load shedding, but that has now dropped to less than R5 000 per month only when there are power outages. I would highly recommend the GTIP programme for all lodges, B&B’s and other businesses as it significantly improves margins by reducing cost and increases customer satisfactions,” he said.
The GTIP offers partial grant funding on the cost of retrofitting tourism facilities with energy and water efficiency equipment and systems. The application process to access the GTIP is done through two phases:
• Phase 1: The applying Tourism enterprises undergoes a resource efficiency audit during which appropriate efficiency measures and solutions are recommended. The cost of this audit is fully covered under the GTIP programme.
• Phase 2: Eligible applicants (who completed phase 1) are able to apply for grant funding support of between 50% and 90% on the cost of installing relevant technologies and equipment recommended during the Phase 1 (capped at a maximum of R1 million per applicant).
The GTIP is administered by the IDC and all applications are received, processed and managed by the IDC on behalf of the Department of Tourism.
Since inception in November 2017 and June 2024, the GTIP has had nine application windows from which 216 applications were approved at a total grant value of more than R140 million.
Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, said initiatives such as the GTIP are contributing immensely to greening the tourism sector and in the process helping to sustain the future of this sector.
“Conserving our scarce natural resource is crucial to the sustainability of the tourism sector. As we work towards the attainment of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), programmes such as the GTIP become critical in reinforcing and supporting tourism enterprises to adopt responsible tourism practices.
“Accordingly, the GTIP aims to support tourism enterprises to retrofit their facilities with green technologies such as solar PV panels and water saving measures. I therefore encourage businesses to apply for funding support under the GTIP,” the Minister said.
Tourism enterprises can visit www.tourism.gov.za or www.idc.co.za to read more on the requirements, eligibility and qualifying criteria and the application processes for the GTIP. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:33
Springboks vs All Blacks: Park and ride for free around CT on Saturday
The City of Cape Town is rolling out an expanded free park and ride service on Saturday, 7 September 2024, as the Mother City hosts four-time Rugby World Cup champions, the Springboks, for their Castle Lager Rugby Championship game against New Zealand at the DHL Stadium.
A sold-out crowd is expected at the DHL Stadium for the 5pm kick-off as the Springboks return to play in Cape Town for the first time since their victory against Wales in front of a 52 000 strong crowd in 2022.
It is also the first time the Springboks go head-to-head with the All Blacks in the Mother City since 2017.
“Cape Town is a city united in pride and excitement as we prepare to host our world champion Bokke for this historic clash against our greatest rivals. To support this major event, the city is pleased to announce an expanded and free MyCiTi shuttle service for spectators,” said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
This will cover fans from Century City, the University of Cape Town (UCT), Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Thibault Square and Civic Centre stations.
Stadium gates are expected to open at 12:30pm ahead of the curtain raiser between the Springbok Women against the Barbarian Women at 1:30pm.
The first shuttle from all pick-up points will depart at 12pm.
At the Civic Centre, the city will open its 475 parking bays for ticketed rugby fans on a first-come, first-served basis from 11am.
The free parking areas are accessible from Hertzog Boulevard and Civic Road.
The shuttle service from UCT’s Upper Campus and Century City Steelbridge E-parking will operate until 4:45pm to ensure that all spectators get to the event before the kick-off of the Springbok game at 5pm.
At UCT, spectators can park on the Upper Campus and catch the shuttle at the UCT Shuttle North Stop (beside the dam).
Century City Steelbridge E-Parking will have 500 free parking bays for match ticket holders on a first-come, first-served basis. The parking area on Century Boulevard will be monitored by security but is at the owner’s risk.
On-street parking in the CBD is available for free from 1pm.
The last return bus from the stadium to the pick-up points leaves at 9:30pm.
“With the game sold out, we anticipate our roads will be congested on match day. But working with the event organiser, we have provided alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles to ensure people avoid being stuck in traffic.
“We would like to encourage spectators to make use of the park and ride system to alleviate the pressure on the roads,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
However, according to Smith, parking around the stadium is limited and people are discouraged from parking illegally in the residential areas.
“Illegally parked vehicles will be fined and/or towed away. We are deploying our safety and security personnel to work with SAPS in taking care of safety at this event. This is a wonderful occasion that a lot of people have been anticipating for some time. Let’s work together to make it a seamless and memorable experience for all,” Smith added.
Meanwhile, a dedicated e-hailing area will be established on P13 on Greenpoint Main Road between York Road and Wigtown Road.
Residents and motorists are advised that several roads will be closed and restricted on Saturday. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:07
Waterval Stadium in Limpopo is still incomplete though at least R28-million has been spent
“Our students and staff can no longer depend on a dying municipality” says vice-chancellor
Protesters block R334 in Kariega after the accident
Security guards employed by Golden Security Services in Heideveld say they are owed money
Minister Malatsi removes two USAASA Board Members
In a bid to restore stability and good governance at the Universal Service and Access Agency of South Africa (USAASA), Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi has removed two board members.
In a statement on Monday, the Minister said he informed Daphne Kula-Rantho and Boitumelo Mabusela of his decision to remove them from the board.
“I have removed the individuals, who are currently employed as civil servants, for failing to obtain approval and to provide evidence of permission from their employers to conduct additional remunerative work outside their official roles, as is required by law,” Minister Malatsi said.
The decision for their removal is in line with Clause 13 of the Governance Agreement, in relation to the Section 83 of the Public Finance Management Act that empowers the Minister to dismiss board members due to financial misconduct.
Minister Malatsi said that over the past few weeks, he has repeatedly engaged with both individuals and given them opportunities to submit evidence which would indicate that they have upheld the prescripts of the law, however, they have failed to do so.
“I went further and engaged their employers to request proof of any approvals to earn additional renumeration, outside of their official roles.
“The responses indicate that no such approval was given. Prior to that, my predecessor Mondli Gungubele, proactively pursued the same request but was not provided such,” he said.
Furthermore, the Minister said the Auditor General has flagged that all board fees earned by the duo will be categorised as irregular expenditure and has indicated that the Department of Communications and Digital Technology (DCDT) should recover these monies.
To date the two individuals have collected R1 651 960.89 in board fees which they were not legally entitled to.
The breakdown is as follows:
• Ms Kula-Rantho received R1 288 966.87 over period March 2021 to July 2024.
• Ms Mabusela received R362 994.02 in board fees over period October 2023 to July 2024
“Let me be clear, we will not tolerate the abuse of public funds for the benefit of individuals who fail to uphold the laws of our country. I have instructed the Director-General of the DCDT to immediately initiate processes to recover the money.
“At the same time, I have instructed the DCDT to work with the acting CEO of USAASA, Luyanda Ndlovu, to conduct an independent investigation into on the veracity of allegations of abuse of state resources against another board member, Simphiwe Thobela,” the Minister said.
Minister Malatsi added that a process to replace the two board members will immediately be initiated in order to restore stability and strengthen good governance at USAASA, which is entrusted to promote universal access and universal service to every woman, man and child across the length and breadth of South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 10:19
In a world often divided by differences, the Sounds of Celebration concert stands as a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire. This extraordinary event, featuring a diverse array of talented musicians from across South Africa, will take place on 10th September at the WITS Linder Auditorium. The concert will feature a …