Roads are littered with potholes and overgrown grass in this Soweto community
City promises the roads will soon be resurfaced as a temporary solution
2024
Government makes progress in recovering rail services
Government makes progress in recovering rail services
While commuter rail services have deteriorated due to criminal syndicates over the years, government is making significant strides in restoring passenger rail services that are reliable, safe, modern and affordable.
“To date, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has restored 31 of the 40 lines nationally, with over 263 of the 463 stations that were vandalised refurbished to basic functionality,” Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said on Friday.
The Minister made these remarks after taking a trip on a train from the Nancefield to Johannesburg line, which was reopened recently.
In Gauteng, PRASA has recovered six more lines that were targeted for the 2023/24 financial year.
Trains are now running from Hercules to Belle Ombre, Pretoria to Kaalfontein, Leralla to Germiston, Germiston to Johannesburg, Germiston to Elsburg, Johannesburg to Naledi, Johannesburg to Nancefield, Johannesburg to Florida, connecting the three great municipalities of Gauteng: Pretoria, Ekurhuleni, and the City of Johannesburg - all the way to the West Rand.
“I am also pleased to tell you that since the recovery of the passenger rail services in the 2020/2021 financial year, over 70 million passenger trips have been made to date, from a low base of 7.4 million passenger trips made in the 2020/21 financial year. That is more than a tenfold increase and that makes us proud.
“Since the recovery of the Nancefield line, this service alone is making over 1 000 passenger trips per day. Though we are not where we should be, this marks a significant improvement, and illustrates the demand for the service. It also tells the story that people are gradually choosing rail as their preferred mode of transport,” the Minister said.
PRASA anticipates that the numbers will steadily increase as more lines and stations are reopened.
“With the reopening of the Nancefield to Johannesburg railway line, we are seeing the transformative power of commuter rail services.
“Residents from Klipspruit, Mlamlakunzi, Sebokeng, Orange Farm, can now travel to industrial parks in Braamfontein, Germiston and various destinations by train. We are connecting people to places of work and economic opportunities - affordably.
“For soccer fans who enjoy watching games at the stadium, they can now travel to their favourite stadium via the Orlando station,” she said.
Chikunga said commuters have expressed that they are relieved now that the trains are back and can get to their various destinations on time, without the stress and uncertainty that came with the old PRASA train services.
“The people I have interacted with through this recovery journey appreciate the new high-tech trains, Isitimela Sabantu that we are rolling out on our corridors, proudly manufactured right at our backyard in Dunnottar, Gauteng.
“The people love the security features that come with the trains, they love the automated doors, the voice command that tells them of the next stopping stations and the air-conditioning system. More importantly, they appreciate the savings they make on travelling costs. They can now put more money back into their pockets,” the Minister said.
Chikunga said by providing affordable and efficient transportation options, government has empowered marginalised groups, improved access to opportunities, and fostered greater social and economic inclusion.
“Our people now have access to comfortable, modern trains that get them to their various destinations on time with the comfort of knowing that there is security onboard the train and on the station platforms.
“Work continues on these lines and the stations. Soon, residents from Katlehong, Springs, Midway, Roodepoort to Residentia, will be able to access these services.
“Our work now is to increase the frequency of the trains and reduce the waiting times for the next train to arrive. It is what they are asking for. The National signalling project has started in earnest,” the Minister said.
The new modern signalling system will ensure that trains run frequently and safely and this is while work continues to rehabilitate the stations.
“As national government, we made a commitment to not only empower our people but transform their lives. The investment made through our capital projects ensure that the economy continues to be the beacon of hope for many South Africans.
“Through the passenger rail capital projects, around R30 billion has been invested over the last two years to stimulate the economy, and over 5000 jobs have been created nationally just this last financial year,” the Minister said.
Another 312 jobs were created just on the rebuilding of the Nancefield line and16 local Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) appointed, boosting the local economy in these areas.
“The skills and on-job experience acquired go a long way in improving the lives of our people. The reopening of train services has also breathed in new life to the secondary/informal economy that was almost decimated when train services were suspended.
“Traders can now earn a living at our stations selling their products to commuters and visitors of various stations. We are making a positive impact on their well-being,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 11:14
508 views
Kubayi talks tough on lawlessness and poor-performing contractors
Kubayi talks tough on lawlessness and poor-performing contractors
The days of contractors abandoning government housing projects are over and people invading private properties must come to an end.
This was the warning from Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, during a recent community engagement and hand over of title deeds at the Dan Tloome Mega Human Settlements Project in Johannesburg.
Kubayi’s tough stance on lawlessness followed as the qualifying beneficiaries complained about not being allocated houses, while their houses are being invaded.
“We are acting against invaders of private properties. Please do us a favour and move out of a house or property that does not belong to you,” Kubayi told illegal occupants.
Regarding the projects that have not been completed on time, Kubayi warned contractors that the days of not completing work on time and within budget are over, saying it has cost the government millions with already limited resources “thus denying people of their constitutional rights of access to adequate housing”.
“My appeal to all contractors is please help us to hand over finished houses to beneficiaries [and] if you are subcontracting, please do the work. My mandate is to deliver a finished house,” Kubayi said.
While this development is a step in the right direction, Kubayi was adamant that there should not even be a single project that is delayed or blocked due to contractors not honouring their contractual obligations.
Gauteng Human Settlements and Infrastructure Development MEC, Lebogang Maile, issued a stern warning to poor-performing contractors, saying their actions work against government’s commitment to provide housing for the poor.
“We cannot have a contractor that fails to deliver and still be kept onsite. The resources we use belong to the people and must be used for their benefits, nothing else,” Maile said.
Before the community engagement where title deeds were issued to several beneficiaries, Kubayi, Maile and the City of Johannesburg Mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda, launched two social housing projects, named the Ekhaya Gardens and Fochville Social Housing.
Ekhaya Gardens has a total of 333 units and is close to Roodepoort Central Business District, while the Fochville Social Housing, with a capacity of 258 units, is strategically placed within the mining and industrial sectors of the greater West Rand Municipality.
The two social housing projects will provide much-needed decent and affordable rental accommodation to people earning between R1 850 and R22 000 per month.
The launch comes a few days after the successful launch of Townlands in Tshwane, the current largest social housing project in the country with 1 200 units.
Between 2019 and 2024, the Department of Human Settlements through its agency, the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA), has managed to deliver over 13 000 units resulting in close to 50 000 rental and affordable units delivered over the years. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 11:22
497 views
Phaahla condemns acts of violence at Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga
Phaahla condemns acts of violence at Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, says he has noted with concern and has condemned the acts of anarchy, violence and criminality targeting healthcare facilities to disrupt the provision of essential health services and depriving patients of lifesaving treatment.
This comes after members of a local business forum who were disgruntled about procurement processes recently allegedly attacked healthcare workers at Themba Hospital in Kabokweni, Mpumalanga.
Reports suggest that the hospital had to be closed for almost three weeks due to the unrest which forced doctors to down tools.
According to Phaahla, these acts that threaten the safety and security of the health workers, patients, service providers and infrastructure are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“We welcome the swift response and interventions by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies to normalise the situation to enable the health workers to perform their lifesaving duties in a safe and protected environment without disruption and acts of violence.”
According to the Minister, government will continue to respond proportionally to these criminal acts to protect those who need help in the hospital, the healthcare workers and the infrastructure.
“We are already working with the SAPS to ensure that healthcare service continues undisrupted and prevent future incidences. We want to assure the healthcare workers and community at large that similar acts will not happen unattended and will be responded with speed and appropriately,” said Phaahla.
The department and the SAPS signed a Memorandum of Agreement in 2019 committing to cooperate to ensure the security and safety of patients, workers in the health facility and the entire infrastructure.
“The SAPS in response to criminality in the health facility will deploy a dedicated team to ensure the security of the facility.”
Phaahla has called on anyone with evidence of unethical behaviour by health officials and who has concerns about the level of service delivery or operations to raise them through proper channels instead of resorting to violence and intimidation.
“We will not entertain any form of anarchy and feeling of entitlement in our facilities because we follow normal procurement processes like any other public institution.
“We implore people to exercise their constitutional rights to protest peacefully within the confines of the law, without infringing the rights to life by others and access to healthcare,” he stressed.
In addition, the Minister confirmed that no life has been lost at the facility due to the recent violent incidents.
However, several patients could not access their chronic medication and some planned surgeries had to be rescheduled, while other patients were transferred to nearby hospitals and stable patients were discharged.
“The situation is now under control and the hospital is fully operational. Staff members are back at work.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 14:08
438 views
Power outage sparks days of protest in Joburg
Protests started on Tuesday, culminating with major roads to Orlando East, Pennyville, and Noordgesig being blocked on Thursday
Gauteng MEC engages commuters on route dispute by JHB taxi associations
Gauteng MEC engages commuters on route dispute by JHB taxi associations
Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics Kedibone Diale-Tlabela intends to implement special measures - including the closure of routes and taxi ranks that are being disputed between the Witwatersrand African Taxi Association (WATA) and the Nancefield Dube West Taxi Association (Nanduwe) – following incidents of violence.
Tensions between WATA and Nanduwe arose early this month when the two associations did not agree on operations on routes along Dube to Jeppe Station Rank, Makhetha Garage (Phefeni) Taxi to Jeppe Station Taxi Rank as well as Uncle Toms Hall Taxi Rank to Jeppe Station.
This gave rise to violence that resulted in several deaths in the area.
As part of her broad consultation with communities, the MEC expressed her intention to invoke section 91 of the National Land Transport Act during a meeting on held Thursday at Uncle Toms Hall in Orlando West, Soweto.
The Act gives the MEC powers to implement special measures, including the closure of routes and taxi ranks that are being disputed between the two associations.
“Our approach to resolving this crisis has always been people centric. We believe that commuters and the community affected by the conflict between the associations are the first priority in whatever we do as the government. My visit to Soweto was to explain in detail our interventions aimed at ensuring that we safeguard the lives of commuters and taxi operators,” Diale-Tlabela said.
As part of resolving the dispute, the provincial government is planning on amending the contested routes and its operating licenses to avoid duplication of these routes. This intervention is the first of its kind since these routes were formulated.
"By amending these routes, we are dealing with the core issue in the long-standing dispute. We are also collaborating with other government entities to deal with outstanding operating license renewals. We will soon announce an end-to-end process that will assist in regularising operators that have taken legitimate steps to renew their documents," Diale-Tlabela said.
The provincial government has increased police visibility on the disputed routes as part of preventing further violence, while a resolution is being negotiated with WATA and Nanduwe through their mother body, the Gauteng National Taxi Alliance.
“I would like to send a word of appreciation to the Gauteng taxi industry leadership for their stewardship and support as we deal with this complex challenge. We will continue to extend our hand to both WATA and Nanduwe as we take a special interest in the taxi industry,” the MEC said.
Diale-Tlabela emphasised the key role that the taxi industry continues to play in powering the economy of Gauteng as the largest people mover.
The provincial government continues to support initiatives to modernise and corporatise the industry. These include the establishment of the taxi fund, which coordinates several empowerment opportunities for the industry. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 14:14
404 views
Minister Zizi Kodwa reveals nominees for 17th Annual South African Sport Awards
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture is thrilled to announce the 17th edition of the South African Sport Awards (SASA). This year's awards are themed “Celebrating 30 years of freedom through sporting excellence”. The #SASA17Edition is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 5th May 2024 at the Sun City Superbowl, North-West.
The 30th anniversary of celebrating freedom and democracy through sporting excellence has positioned South Africa on a global stage as a Winning Nation across all sporting disciplines. The three decades of the nation's sporting journey have seen history-making achievements, from the dismantling of apartheid through negotiations and reconciliation to the establishment of a constitutional democracy founded on the principles of equality, justice, and human rights.
Over the past 30 years, South Africa has achieved more through sport than almost any other area. South African Sports were excluded from international sporting scene during the apartheid era and only started to compete at the beginning of our democracy. However, our nation's sportsmen and sportswomen, from all walks of life, united on and off field to foster a sporting culture within South Africa that pushes the nation to unite in its diversity. South African sport has played a pivotal role in influencing the country to be a Rainbow Nation and in making each South African to be proud of their flag.
This year's edition of the awards with the hashtag #IzinjaZegame / #SASA17Edition carry a total of 19 categories, including the Sport Star of the Year, People's Choice and Journalist of the year. All categories are beamed to recognise performances from individuals, teams, and administrators of the SA sporting landscape for the period under review (i.e.) 01 September 2022 - 31 August 2023.
“The SABC (South African Broadcasting Corporation) is proud to be the host broadcaster for the 17th SA Sports Awards. SABC Sport has always been the ultimate sporting home to the nation and has brought unforgettable sporting events over the years. We are very excited that we are part of this historic moment of honouring key sport talent in the country and we wish the nominees all the best. We are looking forward to broadcasting this event live on our platforms” Nomsa Chabeli SABC Group CEO.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa says, “The 17th edition of the South African Spors Awards take place in a significant time in South Africa's history. We celebrate 30 years of democracy, and our national athletes and teams have been raising the nation's flag sky high. In the South African Sport Awards, we celebrate the role sport continues to play to unite our diverse people, and in lifting the nation's mood.”
The Minister adds, “South African sport is enjoying unprecedented success. Our athletes and sports teams have made us all so proud with their performances. I congratulate all the nominees for the 17th edition of the South African Sport Awards.”
The #SASA17Edition / #IzinjaZegame Nominees and categories are listed as follows:
SPORT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
Mark Alexander
Sibongile Fondini
Louis Polome
SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
Kisten Neuschafer
Tatjana Smith
Laura Wolvaardt
SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR
Andrew Birkett
Eben Etzebeth
Sivenathi Nontshinga
SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR WITH A DISABILITY
Mpumelelo Mhlongo
Donald Tebogo Ramphadi
David Watts
SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR WITH A DISABILITY
Simone Kruger
Kat Swanepoel
Kgothatso Montjane
COACH OF THE YEAR
Jacques Nienaber
Rocco Meiring
Jason Sewanyana
SPORTS JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
Khanyiso Tshwaku
Sihle Ndebele
Vaylen Kirtley
SPORT PHOTO OR VISUAL JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR
Samuel Shivambo
Vincent Matlou (Vino Snap)
Kirsten Olivier
NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR
Gerald Coetzee
Manie Libbok
Karabo Cassius Morapedi
Elanza Jordaan"
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Hubert Oliphant
Beka Ntsangwese
Zelma Basson
SPORTS STAR OF THE YEAR
Siyamthanda Siya Kolisi
Tatjana Smith
Simone Kruger
TEAM OF THE YEAR
Springbok
T20 Women Cricket team
Sheep shearing
FEDERATION OF THE YEAR
South African Rugby Union
Cricket South Africa
Cycling South Africa
RECREATION BODY OF THE YEAR
Amandal WC
Vakhegula-Vhakhegula
Made 4 More
INDIGENOUS GAME TEAM
KZN Kho-Kho Male Team
LP Nvuca Team
GP Diketo Team
SCHOOL TEAM OF THE YEAR
Hoer Lanbouskool Oakdale - Tug of War 560kg Men
Afrikaanse Hoer Meisieskool – netball
Clapham High School - football
DEVELOPING SCHOOL OF THE YEAR
Edendale Technical High School -under 15 girls - Sihle Basi sportchairpern
MM Sebitloane Special School - mr bitso
Hlabi School
Technical Official of the year
Sean Rapaport
Reinet Barnard
Aimee Barrett-Theron
PEOPLE'S CHOICE Nominees (this category Sport fans are encouraged to participate by voting for their athlete of choice by SMS 120*32020# followed by an alphabet representing their athlete of choice. The nominees are:
A: Eben Etzebeth
B: Gerda Steyn
C: Siyamthanda “Siya” Kolisi
D: Percy Tau
E: Kirsten Neuschafer
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Republic of South Africa (DSAC).
SA supports efforts for consolidating peace in South Sudan
SA supports efforts for consolidating peace in South Sudan
The South African government will continue to support the government and people of South Sudan as their country works towards “consolidating peace, democracy and development”.
This according to Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, who was delivering remarks on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa during his working visit to the Northeast African country.
“We are here to express our support to the leadership and people of South Sudan on the ongoing efforts to consolidate peace, democracy and development, at this critical moment of the country’s history,” Pandor said.
The Minister commended South Sudan on the “historic” Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) which was signed in 2018 – bringing an end to conflict in that country which “almost derailed the prospects of building a stable, peaceful and prosperous country”.
“It has been five years since this peace agreement was signed. We are encouraged by the progress achieved thus far. The ceasefire agreement is holding and threats to the country’s peace and stability have been reduced. We believe that with the ongoing work in the establishment of the unified security forces for the country, the security situation will further improve.
“We are encouraged that the parties remain committed to the Revitalised Agreement as the most viable vehicle to address the root causes of the conflict and building sustainable peace in South Sudan,” Pandor said.
Upcoming elections
South Sudan is expected to hold national elections following a transitional period.
Ahead of this, the country’s National Elections Commission, Political Parties Council and the National Constitution Review Commission have been reconstituted.
Pandor said the elections will be a key moment for South Sudan.
“The people of South Sudan are eagerly waiting for the general elections which will bring the end of the transitional period. These elections will be a watershed moment in the country’s transition to democracy.
“I understand that parties are engaged in a dialogue in order to agree on the necessary conditions for the holding of credible elections. This will require addressing the outstanding provisions of the Revitalised Agreement such as the adoption of the permanent constitution and the security arrangements.
“Lasting peace, stability and development will depend on how the collective leadership navigate the challenging times ahead. The Revitalised Agreement is a very comprehensive commitment on how to take the country forward and the Parties to it must be applauded. Progress in the implementation of the provisions of the R-ARCSS is laudable. However, more work is still outstanding,” she said.
The Minister added that South Africa offers its support for the country.
“[We] are hopeful that the parties will continue to dialogue and find consensus on outstanding issues of the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement so that the people of South Sudan can look forward to a peaceful and democratic end to the transitional period.
“On behalf of my government and people of South Africa, we reiterate our commitment to support the South Sudanese as they go through the transitional period.
“We will provide every support possible within our means to ensure a democratic and peaceful end to the transitional period,” Pandor concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 14:16
395 views
Minister Joe Phaahla on state of public health service
Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla notes with concern and condemns in strong terms the acts of anarchy, violence and criminality targeting healthcare facilities with the intention to disrupt the provision of essential health services, depriving patients of life-saving treatment.
The recent acts of violence committed in Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga which threatened the safety and security of the health workers, patients, service providers and infrastructure is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. These acts disrupt the provision of essential health services, threaten the safety and security of health workers, patients, and health infrastructure.
We welcome the swift response and interventions by members of the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to normalise the situation to enable the health workers to perform their life-saving duties in a safe and protected environment without disruption and acts of violence, and at the same time enable the patients to access essential health service including life-saving treatment.
The government will continue to respond proportionally to these criminal acts to protect those who need help in the hospital, the healthcare workers and the healthcare infrastructure we have. We are already working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that healthcare service continues undisrupted and prevent future incidences. We want to assure the healthcare workers and community at large that the similar acts will not happen unattended and will be responded with speed and appropriately.
The National Department of Health (NDOH) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have signed Memorandum of Agreement in 2019, at which have committed to cooperate to ensure security and safety of patients, workers in the health facility and the entire infrastructure. The SAPS in response to criminality in the health facility will deploy a dedicated team to ensure security of the facility.
We call upon anyone with evidence of unethical behaviour by health officials or concerns about the level of service delivery, operations of the health facility or whatsoever, to raise them through proper channels instead of resorting to violence and intimidation because that will not be tolerated, and the law will take its course.
We will not entertain any form of anarchy and feeling of entitlement in our facilities because we follow normal procurement processes like any other public institution. We implore people to exercise their constitutional rights to protest peacefully within the confines of the law, without infringing the rights to life by others and access to healthcare.
We can confirm that no life has been lost in the facility due to the recent unfortunate violent incidents, but a number of patients couldn't access their chronic medication, while some planned surgeries had to be rescheduled. Other patients were transferred to nearby hospitals, while stable patients were discharged. The situation is now under control and the hospital is fully operational. Staff members are back at work.
Human Resources for Health
The Department of Health continues with efforts to address the challenge of unemployment of health professionals, including medical doctors who completed statutory community service programme. We are working closely with Provincial health departments focused on all critical vacant posts to strengthen healthcare delivery to adequately respond to the needs of our people. We are making progress in the recruitment of the qualified health professionals across the country. Let me dispel the myths by some critics and allay fears that the department is dragging its feet to recruit and appoint unemployed health professionals.
There are 2012 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors on the health sector establishment at the current moment across nine provinces which require R2,4 billion to fill them. This numbers excludes other categories of health professionals like nurses, pharmacists, radiographers, dentists et cetera. We are happy to announce that a total of 2066 health professionals have been appointed between January and March 2024 across the country.
This consists of 1121 medical officers on Grade 1 of entry level, 579 professional nurses, 127 Allied Health workers, 100 pharmacists, 91 Radiographers, 23 Dentists Grade 1 and 9 Environmental Health Officers. The recruitment processes are continuing in provinces to finalize more appointments scheduled to enable the successful candidates to assume duties in May 2024.
The Ministry continues to work closely with the provincial Health MECs to activate unfunded vacant posts using the allocated additional budget to enable recruitment of more health workers. It is our wish to employ as many health professionals as possible to play a meaningful role in the public health system of the country. It is important to emphasize that the filling of posts is done in line with the employment guidelines as issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration. This means the applicants should not limit themselves to the provinces or districts of their residence.
Cholera Update
The country has recorded more than 150 suspected cholera cases, 12 laboratory- confirmed cases and one death between 1 January and 18 April 2024. Eleven of these cases were recorded in Limpopo and one in Gauteng. Three of these cases are imported from Zimbabwe, with no definite history of contact with other confirmed cases. The demised patient was a 48-year-old male South African citizen from Musina, in Vhembe District who experienced diarrhoeal symptoms and was admitted in hospital on 16 March, unfortunately he passed away on 21 March 2024 in Pietersburg hospital.
The risk of both imported cases and local transmission remains high due the cross- border movements to and from both Zimbabwe and Mozambique. We appeal to the organisers of social gatherings including religious and traditional events to ensure strict compliance with personal hygiene (including handwashing) especially during food preparation and serving, and ablution facilities to prevent possible transmission of cholera and other foodborne and waterborne diseases.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Health.
Health addressing 2 000 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors
Health addressing 2 000 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors
There are currently 2 012 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors in the health sector across nine provinces and government requires R2.4 billion to fill them.
This number excludes other categories of health professionals such as nurses, pharmacists, radiographers, dentists and so on.
However, Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, has assured citizens that the department is working around the clock to address the challenge of unemployed health professionals including medical doctors who have completed statutory community service programmes.
“We are working closely with provincial health departments focused on all critical vacant posts to strengthen healthcare delivery to adequately respond to the needs of our people. We are making progress in the recruitment of qualified health professionals across the country,” he said in a statement on Friday.
“Let me dispel the myths by some critics and allay fears that the department is dragging its feet to recruit and appoint unemployed health professionals.”
Meanwhile, the Minister said he was pleased to announce that a total of 2 066 health professionals have been appointed between January and March 2024 across the country.
According to Phaahla, the number consists of 1 121 medical officers at Grade 1 entry level, 579 professional nurses, 127 allied health workers, 100 pharmacists, 91 radiographers, 23 dentists and nine environmental health officers.
“The recruitment processes are continuing in provinces to finalise more appointments scheduled to enable the successful candidates to assume duties in May 2024.”
The Minister said he continues to work closely with the provincial Health MECs to activate unfunded vacant posts using the allocated additional budget to enable recruitment of more health workers.
“It is our wish to employ as many health professionals as possible to play a meaningful role in the public health system of the country. It is important to emphasize that the filling of posts is done in line with the employment guidelines as issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration.”
This means the applicants should not limit themselves to the provinces or districts of their residence.
Cholera
Shifting his focus on cholera, he said South Africa has recorded more than 150 suspected cases, 12 laboratory-confirmed cases and one death between 1 January and 18 April 2024.
Eleven of these cases were recorded in Limpopo and one in Gauteng.
“Three of these cases are imported from Zimbabwe, with no definite history of contact with other confirmed cases.”
According to Phaahla, the deceased was a 48-year-old male South African citizen from Musina, in Vhembe District who experienced diarrhoeal symptoms. He was admitted on 16 March and passed away on 21 March in Pietersburg Hospital.
“The risk of both imported cases and local transmission remains high due to the cross-border movements to and from both Zimbabwe and Mozambique,” the Minister explained.
He appealed to the organisers of social gatherings including religious and traditional events to ensure strict compliance with personal hygiene including handwashing, especially during food preparation and serving, and ablution facilities to prevent possible transmission of cholera and other foodborne and waterborne diseases. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 14:31
289 views
Pandor welcomes Egypt into family of BRICS nations
Pandor welcomes Egypt into family of BRICS nations
International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, has welcomed Egypt into the family of BRICS nations.
“This development further enhances the role the South plays in global matters,” she said on Friday.
The BRICS grouping of major emerging economies – Brazil, India, China, South Africa and Russia – has admitted four new members. These include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.
Pandor was speaking in Pretoria where she was co-chairing the 10th Session of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) with her counterpart, Egypt Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sameh Shoukry.
Meanwhile, Pandor said South Africa and Egypt need to exponentially increase trade and investment.
“In this regard, partnerships between our private sectors and Sstate-owned entities are crucial. This also entails the need to formally establish and launch a Business Council,” she said.
The Minister announced on Friday that a decision on the Business Council has been taken and once operational, this structure will go a long way in coordinating and galvanising trade and investment opportunities.
She also asked her counterpart to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which will facilitate easier trade.
“As an important blueprint and contributor to integration, the AfCFTA lessens the barriers towards trade, promotes preferential trade and provides an enabling framework, which will be mutually beneficial to both our two countries and the continent in general.”
She stated that long bonds of friendship, solidarity and collaboration underpin their relationship.
Pandor also paid tribute to Egypt for supporting the country’s anti-apartheid movement, which eventually led to the demise of the old order and the creation of a democratic and free South Africa.
Pandor believes that the depth and impact of the bilateral relationship is very important. “The Cape to Cairo nexus should not only be one of our guiding lights but should highlight the importance of regional integration.”
JCC
Meanwhile, Pandor said the framework provided by the JCC entails that the constituent committees cover a wide range of areas of bilateral cooperation.
These include trade and investment, agriculture and agro-processing, infrastructure development, water resources management, health, financial services, tourism, transport, information technology, communications, women and people with disabilities, judicial matters, sport, arts and culture, people-to-people links and consular issues.
She also announced that several Agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be concluded during the session.
Conflict
She highlighted several conflicts and wars that have erupted and called on the international community to be vigilant and redouble its efforts to promote peace, stability and development.
“The United Nations, our premier guarantor of global order as enshrined in its charter, and the regional organisations should remain seized and be decisive in addressing these matters.”
However, Pandor said the world was witnessing an attack on the global system of multilateralism and its institutions of governance.
“The world is seeing the rise of unilateralism and impunity that threatens to erode the very foundations of multilateralism, international law and the creation of a just and equitable world.”
South Africa, she said, is deeply concerned about the unfolding tragedy that has befallen the people of Palestine.
“The catastrophe that is happening before our eyes in the Gaza Strip, with the destruction carried out by the occupying state of Israel, and the humanitarian disaster therein, is a collective blemish on the moral conscience of the world.”
She also spoke about the unresolved plight of the Saharawi people.
“Silencing the Guns on our continent is a pressing challenge that the African Union and the Regional Economic Communities should continue to address.”
She reiterated South Africa’s position, which views dialogue, mediation and negotiations as vital for the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
“In this regard, it is important not to further delay the reforms needed to transform the United Nations, particularly the United Nations Security Council, and for it to reflect the realities of today. In this endeavour, although North-South collaboration remains important, the Global South should remain united in ensuring that its voice is resoundingly clear.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 15:32
83 views
Corruption accused Edwin Sodi’s company still not blacklisted by Treasury
City of Tshwane asked for Blackhead Consulting to be put on the list of restricted suppliers more than two months ago
Programme to assist KZN small-scale farmers to become sustainable commercial businesses
Programme to assist KZN small-scale farmers to become sustainable commercial businesses
KwaZulu-Natal small-scale farmers have been afforded an opportunity to grow into sustainable commercial businesses through a holistic, integrated programme, which will provide mechanisation, infrastructure and sector expertise.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube led the provincial launch of the Integrated Agricultural Development Programme, where a total of 1 128 tractors, worth R17 million, and other implements were allocated for the small-scale farmers.
During the launch in Richmond on Thursday, Dube-Ncube, together with Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) MEC, Super Zuma, also handed over ownership certificates to community projects.
Dube-Ncube said through this initiative, the provincial government aims to strengthen the ability of farming groups to maintain, take responsibility and care for their assets.
She said additional mentorship and mechanisation training will be provided to community projects that are experiencing challenges in their farming activities to ensure self-sufficiency.
“Sustainable mechanisation is critical in the development of value chains and food systems, and through this programme, we are ensuring that even our small-scale farmers are given an opportunity to be competitive.
“They will be able to sufficiently cultivate land, be more efficient, effective and environmentally friendly in their operations,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier also emphasised that food security is a priority for the province, and the provincial government remains committed to opening the market for provincial farmers, through government’s Radical Agrarian Socio-Economic Transformation (IRASET) Programme.
She said the provincial government wants the farmers to be game changers of the market, as per the commitment made during the State of the Province Address to assist farmers to meet demands of the province.
“We want them to supply major markets locally and eventually service cross borders markets and we are ready to assist them to meet any criteria. Today we have officially handed over a cheque and equipment to SyaJay Agricultural Services, a project we are most proud of.
“SyaJay Agricultural Services (Pty) Ltd, is a 100% Black-owned business and the two beneficiaries are graduates of the Owen Sithole College of Agriculture. The project was approved for a total funding of R5.6 million from the Agricultural Development Agency (ADA) and 10 hydroponic tunnels, a cooling and irrigation systems have been completed. A mobile pack house will be ready at the end of May,” Dube-Ncube said.
Sya Ngcobo, one of the beneficiaries, said over and above becoming a sustainable business that is making profit, their vision is to create an information hub.
Ngcobo said they partly want to function as a demonstration site, where small-holder farmers would sharpen their skills and gain crucial sectorial knowledge.
“In many instances, you find that some farmers struggle once they have penetrated the market. Even though they may have good quality produce, vegetables do not sell because of incorrect packaging.
“We want to teach our farmers and give them an opportunity to come and see how it is done from the work we will be doing,” Ngcobo said.
Dube-Ncube said the items will at a later stage be distributed to all the districts when champion MECs roll out the programme. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 12:20
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El Niño effect on Southern Africa to be addressed by government agencies, partners
El Niño effect on Southern Africa to be addressed by government agencies, partners
Southern Africa is in the grip of an urgent crisis, according to the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN).
According to the FANRPAN, a record-breaking dry spell lasting over 30 days is scorching countries – Angola, Botswana, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
“El Niño and climate change are fuelling this disaster, inflicting severe damage on crops and livestock over the past five years,” the institution said.
The FANRPAN is a pan-African network that provides independent evidence to inform policy processes at national and regional levels.
Its mandate is to co-ordinate policy research and dialogue and recommend strategies for promoting food, agriculture and natural resources sectors in Africa.
“The situation is dire and demands immediate attention. Widespread crop failure looms in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Livestock are dying at alarming rates due to a lack of water and vegetation.
“The movement of desperate people and animals is spreading diseases, including those transmissible to humans.”
Meanwhile, over 9 000 cattle deaths have been reported since October 2023.
“This is a humanitarian crisis demanding immediate action. Without urgent intervention, the suffering of affected communities will only worsen.”
The FANRPAN and its partners will have a media briefing on Tuesday, 22 April 2024, at the Agricultural Research Council in Hatfield, Pretoria, to address the matter.
The media briefing will shed light on the scale of the drought in Southern Africa and the steps governments, donors, and international actors must immediately take to save lives and avoid further catastrophes. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 12:49
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Nxesi calls on all spheres of government to work together to fight unemployment
Nxesi calls on all spheres of government to work together to fight unemployment
Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, says government spheres must do away with a “silos mentality” as it prevents service delivery programmes from reaching ordinary citizens.
In an effort to eradicate unemployment in South Africa, particularly among the youth, Nxesi engaged several potential employers and work-seekers at the Saldanha and Vredenburg areas in the Western Cape on Thursday.
The Department of Employment and Labour is hosting a two-day jobs fair and service delivery initiative, where Nxesi has paid a visit to work-seekers at the local Vredenburg Sports Ground.
The two-day event commenced with an Employer Breakfast Session where the Minister led discussions on labour market issues and addressing unemployment in the province.
Nxesi said unemployment and employment have nothing to do with politics.
“I want to repeat this, employment or no employment knows no politics. It is a crisis facing our young people. Therefore, when we deal with the issue of unemployment, we must know that we are dealing with a crisis, which is facing our young people.
“And we are saying, we are interacting with all the Premiers, but our intention is very simple because the Premiers have the authority to talk with their departments and their municipalities. At the end of the day, if we want these programmes to be relevant they must come to the district and local municipalities and that is our logic,” he said.
He is of the view that the problem with the state is not allowing each sphere of government to conduct programmes in provincial, district and local government.
“The District Development Model (DDM) says we must come down to the people to talk with them. The President said he wants integration and coordination of all the programmes between national and all spheres of government.
“We should do away with the silos. The problem with government is silo mentality and territorial,” he added.
The department and the Minister have since embarked on the initiative to provide a platform for employers to share information, engage with stakeholders and develop partnerships.
The jobs fair initiative is championed by the department’s Public Employment Services (PES) branch and seeks to create opportunities for work seekers and provide a platform to interact with prospective employers.
“These efforts should be understood against President [Cyril] Ramaphosa’s 2019 Budget Speech in which he committed government to the roll-out of a new integrated district-based approach – popularly known as the DDM tailored to promote and support local businesses and local communities.”
Nxesi raised concerns about the unemployment rate on the West Coast, which he said was “alarmingly high”.
“In an attempt to mitigate this, the department has considered the Jobs and Careers Fair as a useful platform where the unemployed, especially the youth, can meet with prospective employers from different sectors to access both jobs and learning opportunities,” said the Minister.
The inter-departmental jobs fair involves the Departments of Small Business Development and Higher Education, Science and Innovation.
The session also provides a platform where people can get access to career information and employment counselling; registration of work-seekers and exhibitions by various departments; registration of vacancies and or recruit work-seekers on the Employment System of South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 09:09
259 views
Elandsfontein drowning in sewage and buried by rubble
City of Ekurhuleni has not helped the residents who have reported the issues for nearly a year
Inaugural CSA Professional Domestic Women’s League Concludes With Resounding Success
JOHANNESBURG: The inaugural season of the Cricket South Africa (CSA) Professional Domestic Women’s League has drawn to a thrilling close,...
The post INAUGURAL CSA PROFESSIONAL DOMESTIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE CONCLUDES WITH RESOUNDING SUCCESS first appeared on Cricket South Africa.
KZN political parties commit to peace, stability ahead of elections
KZN political parties commit to peace, stability ahead of elections
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, says the commitment by political parties to free, fair and peaceful elections is a clear indication of the great strides made by the people of the province in entrenching stability and cementing lasting peace.
The Premier was speaking at the signing of the pledge by various political parties in the province, committing themselves and their supporters to ensuring that the upcoming general elections will be free and fair, and devoid of any illegal or violent incidents.
Various political parties from the province made the commitment in an event organised by the Electoral Commission (IEC) at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre this week.
South Africa will go to the polls on 29 May 2024.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dube-Ncube noted the major strides made in establishing peace and tolerance as a way of life in the province.
“As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of our democratic breakthrough, we commend the maturity displayed by various political parties through the signing of this pledge. Unlike most of our sister provinces, we know the brutality of political intolerance and the social devastation that this wreaks havoc on our people.
“Therefore, this commitment by political parties is much more than just appending signatures to a pledge, but a solemn promise to our people that they will not allow the elections to take us back to the days of instability,” Dube-Ncube said.
WATCH I
The Premier said conservative estimates put at 20 000 the number of people who have died because of political violence in KwaZulu-Natal, from the late 1980s to way beyond the democratic moment in 1994.
Through the efforts of all stakeholders, including political leaders, community members, religious leaders, amakhosi and non-governmental organisations, peace was finally achieved in KwaZulu-Natal.
“Following the attainment of peace, ours has been one of the best performing provinces in terms of service delivery and investment attraction, to mention but a few. This confirms the correctness of our long-held view that peace and development are inseparable and that one cannot be achieved in the absence of the other.
“Therefore, all of us have the responsibility to strive for peace, stability and tolerance, even beyond the elections so that our province can continue on its upward and forward growth trajectory,” Nxesi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 10:06
43 views
Shelters for homeless families a rarity
The Somerset West Family Shelter is one of few in the country
52 Players from 11 Countries to Compete in Basketball Africa League Nile Conference in Egypt
2024 BAL Season (BAL.NBA.com) Continues Friday, April 19 with Nile Conference Group Phase in Cairo; 24 Players with NBA, NBA G League and NCAA Experience to Feature on Nile Conference Rosters; Tickets on Sale Now at BAL.NBA.com and Tazkarti.com; Fans Can Save Up to 35% On Group Packages.
Download document: https://apo-opa.co/4d5ATpa
The Basketball Africa League (BAL) today announced the 52 players from 11 countries across Africa, Europe and the U.S. who will compete in the 2024 Basketball Africa League's (BAL) Nile Conference group phase, which will take place from Friday, April 19 – Saturday, April 27 at the Hassan Mostafa Indoor Sports Complex in Cairo, Egypt*.
The four teams (https://apo-opa.co/3T0x5w8) competing in the Nile Conference group phase feature seven players with NBA and NBA G League experience, 17 former NCAA Division I players, four current NBA Academy Africa prospects, two NBA Academy Africa graduates, six former Basketball Without Borders (BWB) campers, nine players who have participated in the FIBA Basketball World Cup, and 28 players with FIBA AfroBasket experience.
The opening game of the Nile Conference group phase will feature first-time BAL participants Al Ahly Ly (Libya) and Bangui Sporting Club (Central African Republic) facing off at 4:00 p.m. local time / 10:00 a.m. ET. In the second game, home team and defending BAL champion Al Ahly (Egypt) will begin its title defense against two-time BAL participant City Oilers (Uganda) at 7:00 p.m. local time / 1:00 p.m. ET. The complete game schedule is available at BAL.NBA.com.
Tickets are on sale now at BAL.NBA.com and Tazkarti.com, starting at 75 EGP with up to 35% off single game ticket prices by purchasing group packages by emailing BalTickets@thebal.com.
Following the Nile Conference, the 2024 BAL season will continue with the Sahara Conference group phase, which will take place from Saturday, May 4 – Sunday, May 12 at the Dakar Arena in Dakar, Senegal, and feature 2022 BAL champion US Monastir (Tunisia), home team and 2023 BAL runner-up AS Douanes (Senegal), 2021 BAL participant Rivers Hoopers (Nigeria), and first-time BAL participant Armée Patriotique Rwandaise Basketball (APR; Rwanda). Tickets for the Sahara Conference group phase are available at Teewtickets.com, with up to 20% off single game ticket prices when purchasing packages for two, four or all 12 games.
Fans who purchase tickets will also have free access to BAL Fan Zones at the arena in each market.
FUS Rabat Basketball (Morocco; 3-1) and Petro de Luanda (Angola; 2-2) finished as the top two teams at the inaugural Kalahari Conference group phase in Pretoria, South Africa last month. The top two teams from each conference and the top two third-place teams from across the three conferences will travel to BK Arena in Kigali for four seeding games followed by an eight-game, single-elimination Playoffs and Finals from Friday, May 24 – Saturday, June 1. Ticket sales information for the Playoffs and Finals will be announced in the coming weeks.
The 2024 BAL season is reaching fans in 214 countries and territories in 17 languages through free-to- air and paid TV broadcast partnerships with the African Union of Broadcasting, American Forces Network (AFN), Canal+, NBA TV, Tencent Video, TSN, TV5 Monde, Visionary TV and Voice of America (VOA), and livestreaming on the NBA App (https://apo-opa.co/43eJtgR), NBA.com, BAL.NBA.com and the BAL's YouTube channel (https://apo-opa.co/43gfoxt).
Linked here (https://apo-opa.co/4d5ATpa) please find select Nile Conference group phase player and coach storylines.
*Rosters are subject to change and will be updated in real-time on the team roster pages on BAL.NBA.com.
View Nile Conference Group Phase Rosters (https://apo-opa.co/3T0x5w8)
Basketball Africa League Season 4 Nile Conference Hype Video (Credit: Basketball Africa League) (https://apo-opa.co/4avTsAM)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Basketball Africa League (BAL).
Contact:
Edwin Eselem
Basketball Africa League
+221 78 615 42 87
EEselem@theBAL.com
About the BAL:
The Basketball Africa League (BAL), a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that will tip off its fourth season in March 2024. Headquartered in Dakar, Senegal, the BAL builds on the foundation of club competitions FIBA Africa has organized across the continent and marks the NBA's first collaboration to operate a league outside North America. Fans can follow the BAL (@theBAL) on Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3IryMxW), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/48G8a76), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/49zyG3f), X (https://apo-opa.co/3wLTzd4), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/43gfoxt) and register their interest in receiving more information at www.BAL.NBA.com.
Elections 2024: A party for the children is a party for the future
All political parties should prioritise early childhood needs
Luxury Unveiled: Art Trader and RED! the gallery Present an Exclusive Auction Event in Cape Town
Cape Town, 18 April 2024: Brace yourselves for an evening of cultural immersion as Art Trader and the esteemed RED! the gallery proudly announces their collaboration to host an unparalleled art auction extravaganza. David Endean and Lisa King extend a cordial invitation to art enthusiasts far and wide to join them for an unforgettable soirée …
Motherwell Freedom Run to Celebrate 12 Years
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CSA T20 Women’s Club Championship Returns For Another Season
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is thrilled to announce the second season of the T20 Women’s Club Championship, set to...
The post CSA T20 WOMEN’S CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP RETURNS FOR ANOTHER SEASON first appeared on Cricket South Africa.