Crucial penguin conservation plan heads to court
Minister accused of placing fishing industry interests above the survival of penguins
2024
Projects commissioned to improve KZN water supply
Projects commissioned to improve KZN water supply
The eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal has started the commissioning of two vital projects to improve water supply to some parts of the northern areas.
The project includes the new Northern Aqueduct Augmentation (pipeline) and a water rising main (pipeline) from Hazelmere to the Grange Reservoir.
Municipality’s Water and Sanitation Unit Deputy Head, Jabulani Mayise, said the commissioning of the 600mm diameter pipeline, which is 4.3 kilometres from Hazelmere to the Grange Reservoir, has been completed.
Mayise said since its completion, there has been noticeable improved water supply to areas, including Grange, Everest Heights, Redcliff, and the Osindisweni Hospital area.
Mayise added that the commissioning of the new Northern Aqueduct, which is currently underway, is set to improve water supply to areas, including Verulam and Phoenix, amongst others.
“The new Northern Aqueduct Augmentation pipeline interconnects to the existing old aqueduct and aims to improve [the] flow of water supply to areas in the north. This will also help cater for new developments.
“For now, we are commissioning for Verulam, Phoenix, and surrounding areas. Once we are done with this part, the pipeline will be commissioned to supply areas such as Cornubia and uMhlanga.”
The old Northern Aqueduct is a network of bulk supply pipelines that conveys water from the Durban Heights Treatment Works and supplies water to reservoirs in the north.
The pipeline has been operating at a maximum capacity, and with the increased developments, including residential and commercial, there was a need for the implementation of the aqueduct augmentation.
“Areas such as Verulam have been struggling to receive consistent water supply because their main reservoir, Mount View Reservoir, is at the end of the old Northern Aqueduct. The Mount View Reservoir supplies other downstream dependent reservoirs namely Trenence 1 and three reservoirs.”
While the city implements medium-term interventions to improve the situation, Mayise said the permanent solution to water supply challenges will be the commissioning of the Umkhomazi Dam, currently underway, which will increase water volumes throughout the city. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:16
679 views
Cabinet will work together to thrash out policy – Ntshavheni
Cabinet will work together to thrash out policy - Ntshavheni
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has moved to clarify that any policy or significant decision will be taken through Cabinet first before a decision on implementation can be taken.
The Minister was speaking at a media briefing a day after the swearing in ceremony of the Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the seventh administration on Wednesday.
The ceremony heralded in the Government of National Unity formed by members of eleven different political parties.
The eleven parties to the GNU include the African National Congress, Democratic Alliance, Patriotic Alliance, Inkatha Freedom Party, Good Party, Pan Africanist Congress of Azania, Freedom Front Plus, United Democratic Movement, Al Jama-ah, Rise Mzansi and the United Africans Transformation.
During the briefing, Ntshavheni was at pains to explain that policy is not decided upon by individual ministers but through Cabinet.
“It should be stressed that both the President and individual ministers are duty bound to take the issues of policy, significant decisions such as decisions with financial consequences exceeding a department’s approved budget and any other matter…. they must take those matters to Cabinet.
“Failure to do so could undermine the validity of such a decision. So there is no single minister who can expropriate a decision of Cabinet or that policy decision to themselves because then that policy will not be valid in terms of the laws of the Republic…as provided for in the Constitution,” she said at Thursday’s briefing in Cape Town.
WATCH | Media briefing on the Government of National Unity
Doubling down on her emphasis, the minister said as head of the National Executive, President Ramaphosa “exercises the executive authority of the Republic together with other members of the Cabinet and members of the Cabinet are only ministers”.
“In this regard, the President, with the Cabinet he is responsible for, and I’m quoting directly from the Constitution, implementing national legislation unless the Constitution or an Act of Parliament provides others.
“Two, developing and implementing national policy. So, the national policies are not of individual ministers but of Cabinet.”
Ntshavheni noted that although the Constitution provides that Cabinet take collective responsibility, it gives leeway for determination on which matters can be left to individual ministers.
“[It] allows the Cabinet and the President to determine the way and procedures by which they work together, including leaving certain matters or kinds of matters to be dealt with by a single member of Cabinet, meaning a minister.
“Therefore, if a matter is not a routine matter or departmental specific matter or function, it must first be referred to Cabinet as must all matters that Cabinet itself has decided should come to it. In general, if a matter is not a routine matter it must be referred to Cabinet for its consideration by way of a Cabinet Memorandum,” she explained.
The Minister said the President can also determine when a decision that has been referred to him should be discussed in Cabinet first.
“This envisages that the President himself may determine that a President’s Minute referred to him for signature…should in fact go to the Cabinet first and, accordingly, refer it back to the Minister to take to the Cabinet.
“This is an approach which is accepted by the Cabinet as its way of “acting together with the President” when he exercises executive authority under the Constitution,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:27
416 views
ANEW unveils large-scale conference hotel addition
ANEW Hotels & Resorts is thrilled to announce the latest addition to its collection of properties, ANEW Hotel & Convention Centre OR Tambo Johannesburg. This marks an important step into the group’s large-scale conferencing and convention sector. The premises previously known as The Lakes Hotel & Conference Centre is located on the banks of Swan …
Setting priorities for the seventh administration
Setting priorities for the seventh administration
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has outlined the process that the Government of National Unity (GNU) will undertake to set government’s priorities and programme of action for the seventh administration.
This comes after the swearing-in ceremony of the new members of the National Executive that took place on Wednesday, 3 July 2024.
Addressing a media briefing on Thursday, the Minister said the government’s priorities and programme of action will be articulated in the Medium-Term Strategic Framework (MTSF), which is normally guided by the election manifesto of the governing party. However, in this case of the GNU, a unique case for government, this will be guided by the election manifestoes of the 11 parties to the GNU.
WATCH | Media briefing on the GNU
To give effect to the signed Statement of Intent as signed by parties to the GNU, the Forum of South African Directors-General (FOSAD), which is chaired by the Director-General in The Presidency, has undertaken the work of analysing the manifestoes of parties to the GNU.
After thorough scrutiny, the Directors-General will then submit a proposal for consideration and adoption at the Cabinet Lekgotla scheduled for Thursday to Friday (11-12 July).
NDP: A compass to guide
The Minister explained that the ultimate "filter" that determines the priorities of government will be the goals as articulated in the National Development Plan.
“The choice of priorities is guided by their alignment to the attainment of the goals of the National Development Plan (Vision 2030) as adopted by Parliament in 2012. As a country, we adopted the NDP in 2012, which was widely consulted [on], and it came to parliament for adoption. This is our plan to deliver a better South Africa for all by 2030.
“Later, the United Nations (UN) developed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are closely linked to that plan. As we implement the NDP, we are also implementing the SDGs,” the Minister said.
Following steps
The two day Lekgotla will deliberate on the proposals of the Directors-General, after which the programmes and priorities of government will be announced.
“The adopted programme of action (MTSF) will be announced by the President at the Opening of Parliament on Thursday, 18 July 2024. After the adoption of the MTSF, the individual departments will then develop their Strategic Plans linked to the MTSF and Annual Performance Plans for implementation of the MTSF targets.
“Departments present both their strategic plans and Annual Performance Plans to Parliament and [the] Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) for oversight. The National Treasury will fund the implementation of the MTSF through the National Budget that is tabled and approved by Parliament,” Ntshavheni explained.
The DPME is responsible for overseeing and reporting on the implementation of the MTSF (the consolidated government view), and the Annual Performance Plans and submits the reports of alignment and performance to both the President and the Cabinet.
We wear a Government cap
“As we are in a GNU, the decisions that we collectively agree on as the programme of action is the programme of action of government. We are collectively responsible for implementing that programme of action,” the Minister said.
"As we go into government, we do not wear a party cap, but a government cap."
Appointment of Ministers
On the issue of when Ministers of the sixth administration ceased to be Ministers, Ntshavheni said when the President of the seventh administration assumed office or took the Oath of Office, Ministers of the sixth administration ceased to be Ministers.
“This means all the executive authority powers moved back to the single executive authority, which is the President. No Minister of the sixth administration could make a pronouncement or a commitment or sign anything after the President took his oath of office.
READ | The oath has been taken, President Ramaphosa is inaugurated
“Similarly, the Ministers of the seventh administration only assumed office yesterday, 3rd July 2024 when they took their Oath of Office.
“Consequently, the priorities of the seventh administration are only going to be adopted at the scheduled Lekgotla and Ministers will be using this period until the Lekgotla to receive briefings from their departments and consult on how to shape the direction of the discussions at the Lekgotla,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:40
302 views
Gauteng government abandons hundreds of homeless people in Tshwane shelters
Organisation that provided food and social services owed R2.9-million
Make a positive impact this Mandela Day
Make a positive impact this Mandela Day
With commemorations set to be held for the birthday of late President Nelson Mandela this month, individuals, communities, and organisations are once again reminded to make a positive impact in their own communities.
This as Nelson Mandela International Day was launched in recognition of Nelson Mandela’s birthday on 18 July 2009 via a unanimous decision of the United Nation’s General Assembly.
“It was inspired by a call Nelson Mandela made a year earlier, for the next generation to take on the burden of leadership in addressing the world’s social injustices when he said, ‘it is in your hands now.’ Every year, on the anniversary of Madiba’s birthday, the global community honour his life’s work by taking part in initiatives that make a difference in the lives of their communities,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation said.
This year’s Nelson Mandela Month and the International Mandela Day on 18 July will be celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.”
The Nelson Mandela Foundation has published a list of 10 things to do this Mandela Day to honour Mandela.
Volunteer, collaborate, and come together:
- Take part in a street clean up in your neighbourhood. Cleaning the environment benefits the entire community in different ways. It provides a sense of dignity and safety.
- Spend time with the children or elderly people at an orphanage or old age home. Your presence playing games, reading to them, or just having a conversation could really brighten their day. This is about remembering everybody in your community, and reminding marginalised people that they belong.
- Collaborate with a school to paint the walls. Many schools in South Africa are in a poor state, and students have to learn in uninspiring, undignifying environments. Painting the walls is a great way of contributing to the students' success.
- Collect sanitary towels for disadvantaged women and girls in your community. You can even just join a sanitary towel drive through your local Dischem.
Donate, give, and share:
- Donate food to homeless people. The homeless crisis in South Africa is worrying; keeping homeless people fed gives them a chance to escape their situation.
- Give old bedding, clothes and toys to an orphanage. Many orphanages are underfunded and are in dire need of resources. Donating resources could meaningfully contribute to the well-being of the people staying there.
- Plant a community garden with your neighbours, or donate trees to a needy area. Having access to good food and clean air significantly improves the lives of people living in your community.
Other kinds of support:
- Spread awareness of the campaign by boosting posts online through engagement. Use the hashtags, share people’s work, and be a cheerleader, even if you can’t contribute yourself.
- Come to the Mandela Day Walk and Run on 20 July at Wanderers Stadium with your family. Being a part of a community activity is an excellent way of honouring the values that Tata Madiba stood for - ubuntu, community, and giving back.
- Help fund social justice organisations. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in South Africa are severely underfunded and the work they do for people in South Africa is life-changing. Consider donating funds to your favourite NGO.
-SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 13:49
204 views
Teen in hot water over viral video of assault on grandma
Teen in hot water over viral video of assault on grandma
A 19-year-old has been taken into custody for attacking his grandmother - the incident of which was recorded and went viral on social media.
In the 55 second video, the teenager from the Western Cape is seen slapping the grandmother on the face and hitting her head in the kitchen.
The elderly woman then falls to her knees before gathering the strength to stand up as her grandson continues to threaten her.
“The grandson of the victim was arrested at his residence in Wallacedene last night and he is scheduled to make his court appearance in Blue Downs Magistrate’s Court once he has been charged,” a South African Police Service (SAPS) statement read.
According to the police, the suspect was found in Wallacedene, Kraaifontein, Cape Town, where he lives with his relatives.
The grandmother is said to be in hospital for an ailment unrelated to the assault and declined to submit a statement, the SAPS said.
The police’s initial investigations revealed that the incident occurred last month at the residence of the victim.
“The police were summoned to the scene, but it is said that the family took the matter into their own hands and refused police assistance.
“The severity of the matter was realised when a video of the incident was circulating on the internet, and on this basis, SAPS intervened and opened a case docket on behalf of the victim.”
The police said crimes against women and children are on top of the SAPS’ priority list and that they will not turn a blind eye to any form of violence in this regard. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 14:07
227 views
NHLS apologises for blood result delays
NHLS apologises for blood result delays
The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) has announced that while all its laboratories are operational following a cyber-attack, the issuing of test results to clinicians remains an issue.
“Under normal circumstances, the laboratory reports are automatically generated and sent to clinicians or made available on WebView, this incident has disabled that functionality. However, all urgent results are communicated telephonically to requesting clinicians,” the NHLS said in a statement on Wednesday
The NHLS announced late last month that it was hit by a cyber-attack, which compromised its systems and infrastructure.
READ | National Health Laboratory Service hit by cyber attack
In the meantime, the State-owned diagnostic pathology service provider said it was still implementing alternative plans and steps to maintain business continuity.
The NHLS has since distributed a critical test list to all health facilities.
“This is done to limit the volume of test requests, allowing laboratories to cope with the workload. However, this does not imply that routine tests will not be performed.”
In addition, the service provider had to come up with ways of making tuberculosis (TB) and HIV viral load historical test results available to clinicians.
“More tests, prioritising those on the critical test list, will be made available. In addition, we are in the process of developing an electronic registration system for registering new samples and providing test results electronically. Access to laboratory results will be the same as the historical TB and HIV viral test results.”
According to the NHLS, its current focus is to bring all its systems back online by the estimated mid-July to ensure end-user access remains.
“The NHLS is handling this challenge with extreme urgency to ensure the timely and secure recovery of all affected operations.”
Meanwhile, the organisation has since opened a case with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and informed all the relevant regulatory bodies about the breach.
“The NHLS views this attack in a serious light with significant worry and is treating the situation with great urgency. The breach has endangered the safety and well-being of millions of public health patients.”
The Board and its leadership team have apologised for the inconvenience caused by this occurrence and assured the public that the organisation is taking all necessary steps to resolve the situation.
“Despite the incident, the NHLS remains fully committed to providing high-quality diagnostic services to the public. The NHLS appreciates all stakeholders’ patience and the support we continue to receive during this difficult time.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 11:43
231 views
New shelter for homeless people in Muizenberg
The site for a 60-bed “Safe Space” is still being finalised
Lesufi announces Gauteng Cabinet
Lesufi announces Gauteng Cabinet
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced his Cabinet that will lead the seventh administration of the provincial government.
The new provincial Cabinet was announced on Wednesday evening.
“Today, we bring to you the new leadership and Members of the Executive Council (MEC), assigned to steer the ship towards a better Gauteng.
“The team, will from this week, start their work of consolidating the election manifestoes of our different parties so that we can develop a shared vision for Gauteng, a shared vision of prosperity, a shared vision of service delivery, a shared vision to eliminate crime, corruption and lawlessness,” he said.
The new MECs are:
- MEC for e-Government is Bonginkosi Dlamini.
- MEC for Finance and Economic Development is Lebogang Maile.
- MEC for Education and Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation is Matome Chiloane.
- MEC for Health and Wellness is Nomantu Nkomo Ralehoko.
- MEC for Roads and Transport is Kedibone Diale-Tlabela.
- MEC for Human Settlements is Tasneem Motara.
- MEC for Social Development is Faith Mazibuko.
- MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development is Vuyiswa Ramokgopa.
- MEC for Infrastructure Development and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is Jacob Mamabolo.
- MEC for Environment is Sheila Mary Peters.
Lesufi explained that the formerly stand alone Department of Community Safety will now move to the Office of the Premier in a bid to strengthen the fight against crime.
“The fight against crime is going to be the centre of this government. We are migrating this responsibility to the Office of the Premier so that we can lead and champion the fight against crime, corruption and lawlessness.
“We can’t surrender our province to criminals. We can’t be scared of our own shadows and convert our own houses to be prisons because criminals are doing as they wish. We strongly believe the utilisation of creative ways of technology, innovation and the increase of personnel to fight crime in our province must be a priority.
“If there is one priority for the seventh administration and the government of Gauteng in the next five years, it’s our relentless efforts to confront and fight crime head on,” he said.
Government of Provincial Unity
The provincial executive is constituted of members from different political parties – forming a Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).
The political parties represented in the provincial cabinet are the African National Congress, the Inkatha Freedom Party, Rise Mzansi and the Patriotic Alliance.
According to Lesufi, other political formations party to the GPU “chose to use the Gauteng Provincial Legislature as their terrain of operation”.
The formation of the GPU was necessitated after no political party received an outright majority following the National and Provincial Elections in May.
The Premier emphasised that although the MECs hail from different parties, they remain committed to serving the people of Gauteng.
“We accept, without any conditions the outcome of our elections and the desires of our electorate that all political parties must work together to run our provincial government. In doing so, we must be matured; we must be sober; we must understand each other at all times. These are uncharted waters; these are opportunities that are presented to us by our voters.
“We’ve been asked to work together - to work together we will do. We’ve been asked to combine our thoughts for a better Gauteng - to combine our thoughts, we will do, together. We’ve been asked to leave no one behind. Today, we all declare that no one, will be left behind unless they choose not to be part of the [GPU].
“I want to emphasise this: there is no door that is closed. This door will be permanently open and those that want to join [the GPU] will be free to join it,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 10:13
298 views
Crown Relocations South Africa Joins the Fight Against Period Poverty by Supporting #GirlDontSkipADay Initiative
Johannesburg, July 2024 – Leading global relocations company, Crown Relocations South Africa, has taken a crucial step towards ensuring that no girl child is unable to attend school due to a lack of menstrual hygiene products. Through their Crown Africa Coronets Group, they have donated 230 sanitary pads to the Foundation for Special Needs Children …
CoGTA welcomes its new Minister and Deputies
CoGTA welcomes its new Minister and Deputies
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) and its entities, have extended their congratulations and welcomed Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, Deputy Minister Dickson Masemola and Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe to the portfolio.
This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced his Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet on Sunday.
“The staff and management in the department look forward to working with the new Minister, Deputy Minister Masemola, and the returning Deputy Minister Burns-Ncamashe.
“Their experience working with both the local government and traditional leadership sectors will go a long way in ensuring that the departments achieve their constitutional mandate.”
The new leaders have already convened a meeting this week with the Executive Committees (Exco) of the ministry.
The meeting also included the CEO and the Deputy Directors-General (DDGs) of the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) as well as the CEO of the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB).
“The primary purpose of the meeting was to facilitate a meet and greet session and to provide a high-level introduction to the department’s programmes to the new executives. The Directors-General of the departments led the session, pledging their commitment to work with the Minister and Deputy Ministers in fulfilling the departments’ mandates,” the department explained.
Speaking at the session, Burns-Ncamashe briefly highlighted the challenges faced by the institution of traditional leadership.
He expressed his commitment to supporting the Minister in promoting cooperative governance and strengthening traditional affairs.
His colleague, Masemola indicated his eagerness to work with both the Minister and Deputy Minister, as well as the CoGTA team, to address the challenges faced by local governments.
“He emphasised the importance of stabilising and supporting municipalities to ensure they can deliver on their constitutional mandates. Additionally, he called for increased collaboration with traditional leaders to advance South Africa’s development.”
Hlabisa expressed his gratitude to the Deputy Ministers for their support so far.
“He assured that he and the Deputy Ministers are committed to working closely with the department’s officials, using their experience in local government and with traditional leaders.”
The Minister stressed the need to respond rapidly to challenges at the local government level by leveraging all experiences.
The Minister spoke of a proactive and diligent approach, emphasising the importance of striving to “do things right the first time”.
The department also took the time to thank the former Minister, Thembi Simelane and Deputy Minister Parks Tau for their efforts that have enabled the departments to deliver on their constitutional mandate.
Simelane is the new Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, while Tau was appointed Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 07/04/2024 - 10:24
31 views
Khayelitsha women want to start a clothing factory
“We want others to see that as women, we can create our own opportunities and succeed,” says founder of sewing business
Good news for motorists as fuel prices decrease
Good news for motorists as fuel prices decrease
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has announced a decrease in prices for all grades of fuel for July, bringing much needed relief to consumers.
This is the second month in succession that a fuel price decrease has been implemented.
The fuel prices for July are adjusted as follows:
- Petrol 93 (ULP and LRP): R1,05 decrease.
- Petrol 95 (ULP and LRP): 99c decrease.
- Diesel (0.05% sulphur): 30c decrease.
- Diesel (0.005% sulphur): 24c decrease.
- Illuminating Paraffin (wholesale): 18c decrease.
- Single Maximum National Retail Price for illuminating Paraffin: 24c decrease.
- Maximum LP Gas Retail Price: 22c decrease
In a statement, the department attributed the decrease in prices to several factors in the international market.
“The average Brent Crude oil price decreased from 82.98 US Dollars (USD) to 82.24 USD per barrel, during the period under review. The main contributing factors are the increased production by the US and other non-OPEC countries amid slow economic growth globally.
“The average international product prices of petrol decreased following the lower Brent Crude oil prices during the period under review. The movement in product prices has led to a lower contribution to the Basic Fuel Price (BFP) of petrol by 93.66 - 99.65 c/l, diesel by 17.55 – 23.80 c/l and illuminating paraffin by 16.87 cents per litre,” the department stated.
Furthermore, the Rand’s strength against the dollar also influenced prices.
“The Rand appreciated slightly, on average, against the US Dollar (from 18.46 to 18.44 Rand per USD) during the period under review when compared to the previous one. This led to lower contributions to the Basic Fuel Prices of all products by about 1.50 cents per litre on all products,” the department added.
The adjusted prices are to take effect from Wednesday, 03 July 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 09:17
797 views
Telkom recognised as a top South African brand by Brand Africa
3 July 2024, Johannesburg: We are thrilled to announce that Telkom has been honoured as one of the 30 most admired South African brands that have significantly shaped South Africa’s global reputation and competitiveness over the past 30 years. This prestigious recognition was awarded at the Brand Africa 100 annual rankings of the best brands …
KZN issues warning on fake job adverts
KZN issues warning on fake job adverts
The KwaZulu-Natal Office of the Premier has noted with concern the recent circulation of misleading job advertisements sent through various social media and other platforms purporting to be newly issued by the provincial government.
The Office of the Premier said upon close examination, the job advertisements mirror the references and appearance of the original job advertisements issued by the provincial government in August 2023, under the Sthesha Waya-Waya provincial recruitment drive.
“Those advertisements have closed, and the recruitment processes have been concluded and they are not being re-advertised. All approved provincial government vacancies are advertised on the provincial government e-recruitment system or departments’ websites.
“At this juncture, the Office of the Premier categorically states that these social media advertisements are not sanctioned by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and are the work of unscrupulous and mischievous individuals seeking to exploit the aspirations of honest South Africans who are diligently searching for employment or considering career changes,” the Office of the Premier said.
The Office of the Premier has urged all citizens to exercise extreme caution and discernment when applying for any vacancies.
“We strongly advise against engaging with such fraudulent adverts and emphasise that any legitimate government vacancies will be formally advertised through credible newspapers as well as the official KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government e-recruitment system, http://kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs.
“The Office of the Premier and KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government remain committed to transparency and integrity in all its recruitment processes. We encourage the public to verify the authenticity of any job postings and to report any suspicious advertisements to the appropriate authorities,” the office said.
The Office of the Premier added that the goal is to protect the interests and well-being of all South Africans and ensure that all opportunities are accessed fairly and legitimately. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 11:13
440 views
Solutions sought to tackle the killing of KZN Amakhosi
Solutions sought to tackle the killing of KZN Amakhosi
In efforts to address the concerns about the safety of Amakhosi in the province, KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has directed the department to find urgent solutions to tackle the killing of Amakhosi.
Buthelezi made the call during his first meeting with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial House of Traditional and Khoisan leaders held in Durban.
The meeting was also attended by representatives from the local houses across the 11 districts in the province.
During the meeting, Amakhosi, through the House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Chairperson, Inkosi Shinga, presented a list of issues they felt the MEC needs to look into, as he continues with his duties.
Buthelezi emphasised that Amakhosi in the province have a critical role to play in shaping the discourse around the institution of traditional leadership in the country.
“Our aim is to ensure that Amakhosi are treated with utmost respect, while being allowed to champion development for the communities. We will amass the requisite legal expertise to assist us in this process,” Buthelezi said.
The MEC also assured Amakhosi that the issues raised will be dealt with extensively at a meeting between the Premier and all Amakhosi of the province, where the details on what the seventh administration has in store for the institution, will be shared.
Buthelezi further announced that he has instructed the department to employ 241 Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers to assist with the cleaning of the Traditional Administrative Centres.
In January 2024, traditional leaders in the King Cetshwayo District called on government to come up with urgent solutions to curb the killing of Amakhosi and Izinduna in the province.
A total of 55 traditional leaders have been killed in the province since 2019. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:29
281 views
Nelson Mandela Bay Cross Country Legacy Series Update
The third league of the Nelson Mandela Bay Cross Country Legacy Series will be held on Saturday 6 July, at Varsvlei, in Bethelsdorp. EP Athletics cross country commission chair, Zolani Mqoqi, applauded the clubs and schools who have supported the previous two league cross country events, with over 500 athletes participating at each event. “We …
Judge Makhubele is not fit to be a judge, says #UniteBehind
Judicial Conduct Tribunal prepares to wrap up hearing into possible gross misconduct
Top contenders announced for the Engen Ballito Downwind surfski race
The return of the Engen Ballito Downwind to the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill brings with it some serious competition as top paddlers from the Eastern Cape, brothers Matthew (22) and Joshua (24) Fenn, take on the top local competitors this Sunday, 7 July. This doubles surfski race, from Blythedale to Tiffany’s beaches, forms part …
Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in
Now the work begins: DP, Ministers and Deputy Ministers sworn in
The new Deputy President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers of the seventh administration have been sworn into office in Cape Town.
The cohort took their oath of office or solemn affirmation in a ceremony officiated by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on Wednesday.
WATCH |
President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile watched on and congratulated the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers that he appointed in terms of the powers vested in him by the Constitution.
Addressing members of the media following the swearing-in ceremony, President Ramaphosa said the ceremony was a historic moment.
“It has been a very difficult and complicated process. It’s now come to an end and to a start. It’s a fresh start for all of us in South Africa. Today was a historic moment in constituting the Executive of our country in the form of Ministers and Deputy Ministers, who have all collectively been assuring me… that they are going to work and they are going to make South Africans proud.
“The trust that our people have invested in all these men and women... We will not waste time. We will work very hard to take our country forward,” he said.
The first to take the oath of office was Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
In taking the oath, the Deputy President said: “In the presence of everyone assembled here, and in full realisation of the high calling I assume as Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, I, Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, swear that I will be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and will obey, observe, uphold and maintain the Constitution and all other law of the Republic; and I solemnly and sincerely promise that I will always promote all that will advance the Republic, and oppose all that may harm it;
- be a true and faithful counsellor;
- discharge my duties with all my strength and talents to the best of my knowledge and ability and true to the dictates of my conscience;
- do justice to all; and
- devote myself to the well-being of the Republic and all of its people
“So help me God."
Then it was the turn of the newly minted executive to take the oath of office or solemn affirmation.
The oath or affirmation compels them – amongst others – to be faithful to the Republic of South Africa and to uphold the Constitution and all other laws while in office.
See our Special Feature | Meet the new Cabinet
New path
Unlike previously, the new Ministers and Deputy Ministers are from an array of political parties as a result of the formation of the Government of National Unity.
The cohort boasts some of South Africa’s youngest minds to enter office, including the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, 34; new Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, also 34; Finance Deputy Minister Ashor Sarupen, 36 and 32-year-old Deputy Minister of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi.
On social media platform X, Gwarube said: “Thank you all for the well wishes! Being appointed the Minister of Basic Education is a massive responsibility that I do not take lightly. The future of the country rests on how well this department that I lead does its work.”
New faces to the Cabinet include Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen, Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber and Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi.
In a post on X, Schreiber said: “It is my honour to be appointed as Minister of Home Affairs for the Republic of South Africa. I pledge to serve you to the best of my abilities and in a spirit of collaboration, to demonstrate that South Africans can fix even the most intractable problems when we work together.”
There are some returning faces to South Africa’s Cabinet and deputy ministries.
These include Sihle Zikalala, who will be serving as Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI).
Zikalala served as Minister of that department during the sixth administration.
“As we continue this work, we do so with a steadfast commitment to put maximum efforts towards bettering the poor and work with all stakeholders.
“Together, we must make relentless strides to address unemployment, poverty and inequality. I congratulate the new Minister of DPWI, Dean MacPherson, and wish him all the best in his new assignment and look forward to working with him,” Zikalala said in a statement.
At the end of the swearing-in ceremony, Director General in the Presidency, Phindile Baleni, wished the leaders of the seventh administration well.
“Congratulations to the new National Executive and the Deputy Ministers on your appointment. We wish you well in your duties and endeavours to create a better South Africa and a better world,” Baleni said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:34
228 views
Hacked Healthcare: New KnowBe4 Report Shines a Spotlight on Cybersecurity Crisis in Sector
KnowBe4 (www.KnowBe4.com), the provider of the world's largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, released its International Healthcare Report. The report takes a closer look at the cybersecurity crisis currently experienced by the healthcare sector, in particular hospital groups, across the world.
Africa was the global region with the highest average number of weekly cyberattacks per organisation in 2023. One in every 19 organisations on the continent experienced an attempted attack every week. Although South Africa's healthcare sector has managed to avoid a major attack since 2020, the alarming escalation of attacks in other sectors within the country suggests that it's only a matter of time before the next attack strikes, making it a question of "when" rather than "if".
Hospitals have become increasingly attractive targets for ransomware attacks due to their comprehensive patient databases, sensitive information, and their interconnectedness between systems and equipment. Moreover, poor security measures have made hospitals vulnerable to cyber threats. When attacked, cybercriminals can potentially take control of entire hospital systems, and gain access not only to patients' health information but also their financial and insurance data.
Hospitals are severely impacted by cyberattacks (https://apo-opa.co/4csCXH4), which can lead to a reduction in patient care, loss of access to electronic systems, and a reliance on incomplete paper records. This can also result in the cancellation of surgeries, tests, appointments, and, in some cases, even loss of life.
Some shocking facts discussed in the report include:
- In the first three quarters of 2023, the global healthcare sector experienced a staggering 1,613 cyberattacks per week, nearly four times the global average, and a significant increase from the same period the previous year.
- The healthcare sector has seen a dramatic surge in cyberattack costs over the past three years, with the average cost of a breach reaching nearly $11 million, more than three times the global average. This makes healthcare the costliest sector for cyberattacks.
- Ransomware attacks have been the most prevalent type of cyberattack on healthcare organisations, accounting for over 70% of successful attacks in the past two years.
- The majority of cyberattacks (between 79% and 91%), across sectors, begin with phishing or social engineering tactics, which allow cybercriminals to gain access to accounts or servers.
- According to KnowBe4's 2024 Phishing by Industry Benchmarking Report (https://apo-opa.co/4csuiEB), healthcare and pharmaceutical organisations are among the most vulnerable to phishing attacks, with employees in large organisations in the sector having a 51.4% likelihood of falling victim to a phishing email. This means that cybercriminals have a better than 50/50 chance of successfully phishing an employee in the sector.
“The healthcare sector remains a prime target for cybercriminals looking to capitalise on the life-or-death situations hospitals face,” says Stu Sjouwerman, CEO of KnowBe4. “With patient data and critical systems held hostage, many hospitals feel like they are left with no choice but to pay exorbitant ransoms. This vicious cycle can be broken by prioritising comprehensive security awareness training to empower employees and cultivate a positive security culture as a strong defence against phishing and social engineering attacks."
The report examines the state of cybersecurity in the healthcare sector in North America, Europe, the United Kingdom, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America. In addition it also highlights some of the most prolific global ransomware attacks that occurred between December 2023 and May 2024, the aftermath thereof and what healthcare organisations can do to protect themselves from cyberattacks.
To download a copy of KnowBe4's International Healthcare Report, click here (https://apo-opa.co/3xIjjaY).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KnowBe4.
About KnowBe4:
KnowBe4, the provider of the world's largest security awareness training and simulated phishing platform, is used by more than 65,000 organizations around the globe. Founded by IT and data security specialist Stu Sjouwerman, KnowBe4 helps organizations address the human element of security by raising awareness about ransomware, CEO fraud and other social engineering tactics through a new-school approach to awareness training on security. The late Kevin Mitnick, who was an internationally recognized cybersecurity specialist and KnowBe4's Chief Hacking Officer, helped design the KnowBe4 training based on his well-documented social engineering tactics. Organizations rely on KnowBe4 to mobilize their end users as their last line of defense and trust the KnowBe4 platform to strengthen their security culture and reduce human risk.
Cape Town school shortlisted for World’s Best School Prize
Cape Town school shortlisted for World's Best School Prize
The independent school Christel House, which made the top 10 shortlist for the World’s Best School Prize for ‘Overcoming Adversity,” has received a congratulatory message from the Western Cape Education Department.
The school, which is situated in Ottery in Cape Town, serves learners from disadvantaged communities.
Christel House’s mission is to help children break the cycle of poverty, realise their hopes and dreams, and become self-sufficient members of society.
Most of the learners at the school must face gang warfare, drugs, alcoholism, hunger and abuse to make it to school every day.
Christel DeHaan, a German American businesswoman and philanthropist, founded the school, which offers Grades R through 12.
Western Cape MEC for Education, David Maynier, congratulated Christel House for being a finalist in the World’s Best Schools competition for 2024.
“The school is doing excellent work supporting learners from poor communities to receive a world-class education, and it is fitting that they have been selected as a finalist in the ‘Overcoming Adversity’ category. We wish them all the best in the next phase of the competition, and we are holding thumbs for the announcement of the top three in September.”
Christel House joins the Western Cape’s list of previous top 10 and top three finalists in the World Best School Prize.
In 2022, Pinelands-North Primary School achieved the top three position in the category ‘Overcoming Adversity’, while the West End Primary School featured in the top 10 position in the same category.
Last year, the Rustenburg Girls High School scooped the top 10 position in the category for ‘Supporting Healthy Lives’.
The top three finalists for each of the five World’s Best School Prizes - for Community Collaboration, Environmental Action, Innovation, Overcoming Adversity, and Supporting Healthy Lives - will be announced later this year.
After a public advisory vote, the winner of each prize will be chosen based on rigorous criteria by a judging academy comprising distinguished leaders across the globe including academics, educators, non-government organisations (NGOs), social entrepreneurs, government, civil society, and the private sector.
“We are delighted that Christel House will have the opportunity to showcase their ‘best practice’ to the world and are rooting for them to make the finals.”
The World’s Best School Prizes are the world’s most prestigious education awards, giving inspirational schools a share of the $50 000 (R 924 816.50) award and a global platform so others can replicate their best practices.
This year’s list features Afghanistan’s only school helping students with all kinds of disabilities to a school in Poland set up for Ukrainian refugees.
On the list, there is also a school from Italy tackling bullying and a London school confronting knife crime. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 11:51
290 views