Elections 2024: What the independent candidates have to say
We put five questions to each of the five independent candidates
2024
Play your part to consolidate democracy
Play your part to consolidate democracy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on citizens, political parties and civil society to work together to ensure that this year’s election is a “success in our ongoing journey of democratic consolidation”.
The President was addressing the nation through his weekly newsletter.
The 2024 National and Provincial Elections are expected to be held on 29 May this year.
“It is up to us all, whether as government, political parties, candidates, voters, the media or civil society organisations, to play our part by ensuring that our actions and words inspire faith in our democracy. We must continue to work together to ensure that nothing undermines the integrity of our elections.
“Above all, it is up to us all to ensure that this hard-won right to vote, for which so many sacrificed so much, is exercised by every eligible citizen in a climate free of intimidation and all forms of violence,” President Ramaphosa said.
This year’s elections will be the seventh held since the dawn of democracy 30 years ago.
As highlighted by the President, the country’s electoral processes together with the rights enjoyed by citizens and political parties to organise, campaign and contest, “are among the greatest strengths of our constitutional order”.
Valuable rights
President Ramaphosa reminded South Africans that in this country, politicians are free to contest and media freedom to report is guaranteed with the courts administering justice “without fear or favour, including an Electoral Court that oversees the work of the Independent Electoral Commission [IEC] and the conduct of elections”.
“As the country counts down to the election, the vibrant and robust campaigning that is taking place reflects how South Africa’s politics continues to evolve and mature. It is also a reflection of the many different views in our society and the variety of choices that voters have.
“In a democracy such as ours, we should not be worried about differences, even when sharply expressed. That is because the vast majority of South Africans value and respect the democratic process. They have faith in the rule of law and know that any disputes can be resolved through the courts and other legal avenues.
“Over the past 30 years we have held elections that are not only free and fair, but also peaceful and free of intimidation. Dire predictions of South Africa ‘regressing into violence’ or ‘democratic backsliding’ that regrettably remain a common feature of some reportage and analysis have been proven wrong time and again,” he said.
The South African voter
President Ramaphosa said that according to research, most South Africans “recognise the importance of their vote and believe they have a duty to vote” with the IEC commissioned research finding that some 57% of South Africans having expressed belief that voting is their duty.
“While youth apathy is often cited as a problem in our country, some 55% of 18-24 year olds saw it as their duty to vote. It is significant that young people accounted for over 78% of new voter registrations last year. The IEC research also found that the majority of respondents agreed that democracy is preferable to other kinds of government.
“Despite its many challenges, our democracy is in good health. Even as political and other forms of contestation continue in the run-up to this year’s polls, they are taking place under the broad umbrella of a constitutional order characterised by fundamental freedoms and human rights,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 09:57
450 views
KZN activates disaster teams
KZN activates disaster teams
Disaster teams have been activated in all KwaZulu-Natal municipalities following a level 5 warning of disruptive rains expected in eThekwini Metro and the south coast on Monday, which could result in localised flooding.
According to the warning from the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the heavy downpours may result in some areas receiving rainfall accumulation of more than 200 millimetres over a 24-hour period, which may lead to flooding of settlements and roads, damage to houses, and the displacement of communities over the extreme south-eastern part of the province.
In a statement issued on Monday, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs said areas that are likely to be affected include eThekwini Metro, Umdoni, Umzumbe and Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipalities on Monday.
The department said disaster teams reported that flood damage occurred in Margate town on Sunday night, which was caused by severe thunderstorms.
The department said businesses and public infrastructure, including roads and houses, have been severely damaged.
“No injuries or fatalities have been confirmed at this stage. Our teams are currently conducting an assessment. Updates will be communicated in due course.
“The public is advised to take precautionary measures by moving to safer places and avoid travelling to mitigate risk. These thunderstorms may cause localised damage to settlements, vehicles, livelihood, livestock and power surges due to excessive lightning,” the department said.
The department has also warned the public of the dangers of lightning and advised communities to seek shelter in safe places.
“Public facilities, such as community halls, are open as safe havens for those in need of shelter. Our teams may have to evacuate people should they foresee high risk of danger due to the inclement weather.
“Motorists are strongly advised to avoid travelling during this period, as bridges may become flooded, posing a risk to life,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 12:06
305 views
Last interfaith service for Dean of the People’s Church
Michael Weeder, who has spoken out against Israel’s bombardment of Palestine, retires as Dean of St George’s Cathedral
Government activities for the week 15 to 19 April 2024
Government activities for the week 15 to 19 April 2024
On Monday, 15 April, the Mpumalanga Premier, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, unveils an in-patient treatment centre in Delmas, Victor Khanye Local Municipality.
On Tuesday, 16 April, the Deputy Minister of Health together with the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation will interact with young people in KwaZulu-Natal as part of ongoing youth engagements and dialogues to tackle health-related challenges facing young people with potential to affect their academic journey.
On Thursday, 18 April, the Department of Tourism hosts a community engagement in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality to share information on government’s programmes and opportunities that serve to empower SMMEs and create robust and sustainable local economies in the Free State.
Janine
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 12:18
36 views
Telkom Netball League 2024: Unveiling the Future Stars of South African Netball
The stage is set, and the players are ready, as the highly anticipated 2024 Telkom Netball League (TNL) gears up for its grand kick-off at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg. With its inaugural power week from 26 April – 5 May 2024, followed by a series of electrifying matches running through May and June, …
SAHPRA recalls two batches of Benylin paediatric cough syrup
SAHPRA recalls two batches of Benylin paediatric cough syrup
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has recalled two batches of Benylin pediatric cough syrup.
On 10 April 2024, the Nigerian National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) reported to the concerned party that a batch of Benylin paediatric cough syrup had high levels of diethylene glycol detected in it.
According to the SAHPRA, diethylene glycol is toxic to humans when consumed and can prove fatal.
Toxic effects can include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state, and acute kidney injury that may lead to death.
“SAHPRA immediately contacted the South African manufacturer, Kenvue, formerly Johnson and Johnson, for a response. Following engagements with the manufacturer and in the best interest of the public, it was resolved that affected batches would immediately be recalled while an investigation is ongoing,” the local drug watchdog explained.
SAHPRA, in collaboration with Kenvue, has identified the affected batch numbers as 329304 and 329303.
These affected batches have been distributed to several countries including South Africa, Eswatini, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria.
SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela, said as a national regulatory authority, the recalling of medical products is a crucial measure to address safety concerns or quality issues so that they protect the health of the public.
“SAHPRA is recalling these two batches from the market due to reported high levels of diethylene glycol, with the potential to cause serious adverse events,” Semete-Makokotlela explained.
Benylin paediatric is a bright red syrup with a raspberry smell and taste, packaged in a 100ml amber glass bottle with a plastic measuring cup.
It is used to relieve cough and congestive symptoms and treat hay fever and other allergies affecting the upper respiratory tract.
“SAHPRA wishes to inform the public not to panic, as the matter is being handled with priority. Batch recalls are batch-specific and do not necessarily apply to other batches or similar products. The manufacturer is a SAHPRA-licenced manufacturer and complies with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP),” said Semete-Makokotlela.
The drug watchdog stressed that the recall is limited to two batches and that the public should not panic regarding the range of products bearing the same name.
“SAHPRA is alerting healthcare professionals and the public to discontinue the use of the two batches mentioned, remove them from their inventory and return them to their normal distribution channels immediately,” said Semete-Makokotlela.
The recall is classified as a Class 1, Type A recall, which is associated with a serious product quality concern that may have severe consequences.
According to SAHPRA, this is a countrywide recall.
The product is being recalled from hospitals, retail outlets, healthcare professionals, authorised prescribers and individual customers or patients.
Those who have consumed these two batches and experienced any adverse reaction or witnessed it in children should consult their healthcare professional and report this using the Med Safety App or send an email to adr@sahpra.org.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 10:02
243 views
IEC to provide details of Elections Timetable
IEC to provide details of Elections Timetable
With the 2024 National and Provincial Elections getting closer, the Electoral Commission (IEC) will brief the media on key aspects of the Elections Timetable in the run-up to Election Day.
“The briefing will cover, among other things, special vote applications, a list of voting stations, notification to vote out-of-country, and a breakdown of the candidates contesting in the 2024 national and provincial elections,” the IEC said.
The briefing is set to be held on Tuesday.
These elections coincide with South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of freedom and democracy.
This year marks 30 years since millions of South Africans cast their ballot in the first democratic election of 1994.
The 30-year celebrations is premised on celebrating the gains, achievements, and the milestone of 30 years of democratic rule as well as living in a free and democratic society.
South Africans will once again get an opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote on 29 May 2024.
Annually, the month of April is designated as Freedom Month in South Africa. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 10:00
205 views
President Ramaphosa expected to visit Uganda, South Sudan
President Ramaphosa expected to visit Uganda, South Sudan
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to undertake a Working Visit to the Republic of Uganda to meet with President Yoweri Museveni.
In a statement, the Presidency said the two leaders are expected to discuss security in that region of Africa “including the situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo”.
Following that visit, President Ramaphosa is expected to visit the Republic of South Sudan in order to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
“The President will also use the visit to receive a detailed briefing from President Salva Kiir Mayardit, and all other stakeholders, on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan [R-ARCSS] which was signed on 12 September 2018,” the statement read.
The agreement comes to an end in February next year and elections must be held in December this year.
“It is in this context that President Ramaphosa has designated Deputy President Paul Mashatile, as his Special Envoy, to provide practical and political support to the parties to the R-ARCSS and the Revitalised Transitional Government of National Unity [R-TGoNU], towards achieving the measures set to achieve a democratic and peaceful end to the transitional period.
“To this end, Deputy President Mashatile has visited South Sudan and based on his engagements with stakeholders, recommended a follow-up visit by President Ramaphosa. South Africa has always been walking with South Sudan on its path to reconstruction and development since the dawn of independence in 2011.
“South Africa has participated in various conflict resolution and mediation mechanisms, State building, capacity building of State institutions and programmes for post-conflict reconstruction and development,” the Presidency statement said.
Official bilateral relations between South Sudan and South Africa were signed into establishment in September 2012 and are conducted through the General Cooperation Agreement.
“South Africa is also the Chair of the African Union High-Level Ad-hoc Committee for South Sudan (also known as C5), which has been mandated by the African Union to support South Sudan in its transitional process.
“South Africa enjoys cordial bilateral relations with South Sudan and the two countries have a long-standing historical relationship that pre-dates South Sudan’s independence on 9 July 2011,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 09:02
204 views
HR Professionals ready to embrace AI in the face of burnout
While training concerns around AI exist, HR professionals believe the technology will ease workload, boost competitiveness, and create jobs The freeing up of time through AI and tech will also dramatically improve job satisfaction 15 April, 2024 – A new global report from Sage reveals that HR professionals welcome AI to ease the burden of …
A Full five months after police were filmed assaulting a barber, they have been charged
Juma Igiranieza was brutally assaulted during an unexpected raid
Massive training of unemployed set to be rolled-out nationally
Massive training of unemployed set to be rolled-out nationally
The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Labour Activation Programme (LAP), which is set up to provide training for employment and entrepreneurship programmes, is up-and-running and set to be rolled-out in other provinces, says Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi.
Addressing an employer’s breakfast session at the Kempton Park Civic Centre on Friday, Nxesi said South Africa finds itself in the throes of an ever-changing technological era, and this calls for adaptation.
“We are living in a technological era. This massive training is now needed to be implemented on a large scale to multi-skill the unemployed [so they can] adapt to the ever-changing world of technology,” Nxesi said.
Last week, Nxesi announced that the Department of Employment and Labour, through the UIF’s LAP,has launched a R23.8 billion programme to fund the training for employment and entrepreneurship programme.
Nxesi said government plans to help business, especially small enterprises, because the “big employer is small business”.
The Minister appealed for partnerships at district level to ensure integrated interventions as part of the District Development Model (DDM).
“It is unacceptable that Gauteng, as the country’s economic hub, has a high unemployment rate and this situation could be even be worse in other provinces,” Nxesi said.
During the employer breakfast, a number of service providers were handed certificates confirming their participation in the programme.
Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, who shared the podium with Nxesi, reiterated the role of partnerships.
Ndabeni-Abrahams said the National Development Plan (NDP) envisioned the creation of 11 million new jobs by 2030 and that most of these should come from small business.
She said that the only way to make South Africa work is to grow small business.
“We have to also look at developing new industries. We are continuously advocating for more incentives to be given to business, especially those geared towards promoting small business,” the Minister said.
Ndabeni-Abrahams also emphasised the need to support informal businesses to transition to formal business.
The employer’s breakfast session was held alongside the Jobs and Careers Fair held in Tembisa.
The event is part of an initiative to engage with individuals seeking employment, providing them with the opportunity to interact with potential employers and gain insights into crucial career paths. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 04/12/2024 - 15:07
827 views
President to receive His Majesty King Mswati III for working visit
President to receive His Majesty King Mswati III for working visit
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to host His Majesty King Mswati III of the Kingdom of eSwatini for a working visit, the Presidency said on Sunday.
President Ramaphosa will receive His Majesty the King at Mahlamba Ndlopfu, the President’s Official Residence in Pretoria on Monday.
The visit follows a courtesy visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa to His Majesty King Mswati III in Lozitha, eSwatini on Wednesday, 03 April 2024.
“South Africa and eSwatini share strong historical bonds as well as mutually beneficial political and trade ties,” said the Presidency.
During his visit to Eswatini earlier this month, President Ramaphosa paid a brief visit to the Queen Mother, Her Majesty iNdlovukazi, before proceeding to meet with His Majesty the King.
According to the Presidency statement at the time, the two discussed the “historical bonds” of the two Southern African nations while also affirming their commitment to strong historical bonds between their two countries, including growing political and trade ties. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 14:26
562 views
Deputy President to address House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders
Deputy President to address House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to participate and deliver a keynote address at a dialogue convened by the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders.
The Deputy President in his capacity as Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on matters of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, will address the session which will be held on Tuesday at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House, Pretoria.
“It is expected that during the dialogue, representatives will discuss the work of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team which was established to address pertinent issues raised by the institution of traditional leadership such as the transfer of land, rural development, tackling substance abuse, the fight against gender-based violence and femicide,” said the Presidency on Sunday.
The dialogue is a follow-up session to the address by President Ramaphosa during the official opening of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders in February 2024.
“The dialogue marks the last engagement with the sixth administration. Additionally, the dialogue presents an opportunity to take stock of the progress of the Institution, to celebrate some of the milestones achieved thus far, to reflect, to account and to chart the way forward.”
During his keynote address, the Deputy President will highlight the significance of the partnership between the house and government in working together to address the socio-economic challenges facing South Africa. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 14:49
484 views
Concern over hostilities in the Middle East
Concern over hostilities in the Middle East
The government of South Africa has expressed its serious concern regarding the ongoing events in the Middle East, particularly in light of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s retaliatory actions against Israel.
This comes after Israel launched an attack on Iran’s Embassy located in Damascus, Syria, on 1 April 2024.
As a response to the attack, Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles against Israel last night.
According to reports, Iran fired about 300 “killer drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles” in its first direct attack on Israel.
Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres has stated, that there is a “very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation”.
“In this context, South Africa emphasises that all parties must exercise the utmost restraint and avoid any act that would escalate tensions in a particularly fragile region.
“South Africa has continuously stressed that irrespective of whether states believe that their use of force is lawful, it is never wise to resort to war as inevitably, it is ordinary people who bear the brunt of conflict,” the Department of International and Relations Cooperation (DIRCO) said on Sunday.
Meanwhile, DIRCO has called on the international community and the United Nations Security Council to act in pursuit of sustainable and just peace for all people.
“While we turn our attention to these developments, let us not forget that the war in Gaza continues with devastating humanitarian consequences for its people.
“An immediate ceasefire and urgent humanitarian access are required. The proliferation of global conflicts will continue if we, as the international community, do not commit ourselves to the ending of war and the establishment of conditions under which justice and respect for international law are maintained.”
However, the department said that as long as there is impunity for unlawful acts, war and injustice will continue. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 15:53
442 views
President Ramaphosa to receive His Majesty King Mswati III for a working visit
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Monday, 15 April 2024, host His Majesty King Mswati III of the Kingdom of eSwatini for a working visit at Mahlamba Ndlopfu, the President's Official Residence in Pretoria.
The visit follows a courtesy visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa to His Majesty King Mswati III in Lozitha, eSwatini on Wednesday, 03 April 2024.
South Africa and eSwatini share strong historical bonds as well as mutually beneficial political and trade ties.
Official media will deliver to all media platforms pictures and video footage.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
South Africa concerned at possible escalation of hostilities in the Middle East
The Government of South Africa is gravely concerned at developments in the Middle East following the retaliatory action by the Islamic Republic of Iran against Israel following Israel's attacks on Iran's Embassy in Damascus, Syria, on 1 April 2024.
As the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres has stated, there is a “very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation”.
In this context, South Africa emphasises that all parties must exercise the utmost restraint and avoid any act that would escalate tensions in a particularly fragile region.
South Africa has continuously stressed that irrespective of whether states believe that their use of force is lawful, it is never wise to resort to war as inevitably, it is ordinary people who bear the brunt of conflict.
The international community and the United Nations Security Council, in particular, must act in the pursuit of sustainable and just peace for all people.
While we turn our attention to these developments, let us not forget that the war in Gaza continues with devastating humanitarian consequences for its people. An immediate ceasefire and urgent humanitarian access are required.
The proliferation of global conflicts will continue if we, as the international community, do not commit ourselves to the ending of war and the establishment of conditions under which justice and respect for international law are maintained.
As long as there is impunity for unlawful acts, war and injustice will continue.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Nzimande appoints new NSFAS administrator, addresses other matters
Nzimande appoints new NSFAS administrator, addresses other matters
The Minister of Higher Education and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande has announced the appointment of Sithembiso Freeman Nomvalo, as the administrator of the National Student Fund Financial Aid Scheme while also explaining the reasons for dissolving the scheme’s previous board.
At a media briefing held in Pretoria on Sunday, the Minister said Nomvalo possesses extensive knowledge and an impeccable record of accomplishment in public finance and government processes.
He has been tasked to take over the governance, management, and administration of NSFAS for 12 months depending on progress made.
His task also involves resolving the data integration challenges as a matter of urgency, finalising all the necessary funding decisions and outstanding payments including student accommodation, and overseeing the opening of the 2025 online applications process.
Nomvalo has over 25 years of working experience, 17 of which were at senior level both in the public and private sector.
He was the first African and longest-serving Accountant-General of a democratic South Africa.
Responsibilities
In explaining the reasons for dissolving of the board of the National Student Fund Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), the Minister said the board had failed in carrying out its “basic” responsibilities.
“Through various formal engagements, as Minister, I have consistently raised my concerns and unhappiness with the outgone NSFAS Board, about the inability of NSFAS to carry out and implement some of the most basic responsibilities allocated to it,” he said.
READ | Nzimande dissolves NSFAS board
He said the board has faced several challenges. One of the critical issues pointed out by him was the termination of the contracts of direct payment service providers, who were appointed without following due process. The board was dissolved on 11 April 2024 and the scheme was placed under administration the next day.
The decision was also made due to the board’s failure to oversee the timely payment of student allowances by the management.
“This has resulted in unnecessary stress for students and their parents, and also continues to threaten the very stability of some of our TVET [Technical Vocational Education and Training] colleges and universities.”
He pointed out that the Board has been unable to resubmit an accurate annual report to Parliament, manage and finalise the close-out report, and address significant capacity deficiencies within the organisation, including the non-functional call centre, which is still not functional.
According to Nzimande, the Board also failed to respond to student queries in a timely and efficient manner and consult on the guidelines for the missing middle funding.
“In an attempt to resolve these challenges or mitigate their impact, as Minister, I engaged the board on several occasions on various solutions, including a turnaround strategy, which has not been achieved within agreed timelines.
“Despite several engagements with myself, NSFAS continues to face serious challenges in its business processes, IT [information and technology] systems, capacity, and policies and controls,” he explained.
The Minister is of the view that this has impacted the well-being of students negatively but has also brought serious reputational damage to NSFAS, the department and government.
NSFAS achievements
Nzimande said the institution has supported more than five million beneficiaries since its inception, producing hundreds of thousands of skilled professionals and the middle class, especially from within the poor and working-class sections of society.
“This is definitely one of the most important achievements of this government over the past 30 years of our democracy and this must be celebrated as such.
“Flowing from this, I am also sensitive to the public expectation on NSFAS, as it relates to its role in enabling poor and working-class families to give their sons and daughters the gift of education.”
Continuity
The Minister said the dissolution of the board will not affect the normal functioning of NSFAS, including all payments that have to be made.
“The decision to dissolve the NSFAS board was not a light one and I wish to assure the public that, in taking this decision, I have considered all possible implications, including the impact that it might have on NSFAS employees and the students.”
However, he said he aimed to ensure that deserving students receive the necessary financial support and that NSFAS remains focused on its mandate, which is to provide financial assistance to students from poor and working-class backgrounds. -SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 17:13
41 views
New Tiger Brands facility a sign of confidence in SA
New Tiger Brands facility a sign of confidence in SA
Tiger Brands’ new R300 million state-of-the-art peanut butter manufacturing plant is a sign of confidence in the South African economy, said Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Nomalungelo Gina.
The Deputy Minister was speaking during the official launch of the company’s facility in Chamdor, Krugersdorp in Gauteng.
In a statement on Friday, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) said the plant is located on more than 8000 square meters of land within Mogale City, with 62 full time employees.
“The company says up to 70% of the peanuts used in the production process are procured locally and the remaining 30% from markets outside South African due to local farmers not being able to meet the actual need,” said the dtic.
Gina also commended Tiger Brands for its commitment to the economic transformation agenda and growing Small Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMME) through Enterprise Supplier Development (ESD).
“As government, we insist on this policy direction because we know that SMMEs contribute 34% to the national GDP [gross domestic product]. As the country, we are under pressure to maximise employment in this country as we are pursuing [the] re-industrialisation of the economy. SMMEs will remain an important aspect of growing our economic base. Big corporates have an obligation to use the ESD model effectively through empowerment measures such as ESD mechanisms,” she said.
Gina further urged Tiger Brands and South African based companies to fully utilise the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCTA) to ensure their own advancement and those of the South African and African economies.
The African Continental Free Trade Area creates the world’s largest free trade area by number of countries, and has the potential to bring transformative change and tremendous opportunities to African economies and businesses. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 15:56
248 views
Over 281 000 people intercepted from unlawfully entering SA
Over 281 000 people intercepted from unlawfully entering SA
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has successfully intercepted and prevented more than 281 000 people from unlawfully entering South Africa since the initial deployment of border guards last year.
“It is in this celebratory mode of 30 years of democracy, coupled with the first anniversary of the BMA that we are presented with an opportunity to reflect on the benefits of moving away from a multi-agency approach to an integrated border management platform under a single command and control,” said Commissioner of the BMA, Dr Mike Masiapato.
The BMA celebrated its first anniversary on 1 April this year.
“To this end, the BMA has taken full control of all immigration, health, agricultural and environmental functions across all ports of entry, with the departments retaining responsibility for policy and legislation,” Masiapato said at a media briefing held on Sunday.
However, the access control function across the ports of entry remains co-implemented between the border guards and the South African Police Services (SAPS) due to the capacity challenges confronting the BMA.
Masiapato presented the report on the authority’d 2024 Easter plan, which ran for 10 days starting from 26 March to 4 April 2024.
During the Easter period, the BMA facilitated 1 136 250 travellers across South Africa’s 71 ports of entry. This was a 24% increase, with 222 391 more travellers facilitated and registered compared to last year.
Operations
The Commissioner revealed that 3 841 people attempting to enter South Africa illegally were intercepted.
He said that there was a decrease in the number of undocumented and unaccompanied minors arriving at ports of entry during the Easter period of 2024.
Although this was a positive development, the agency intercepted five children at the Beitbridge port of entry on 28 March 2024.
The children were handed over to the Department of Social Development and have since been returned to their home country.
He also shared about the incident involving a child at the Grobler’s Bridge port of entry where a woman was attempting to exit South Africa to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) via Botswana.
“The supposed ‘mother’ did not have a passport but was carrying an Emergency Travel Document, which was issued by the embassy of the DRC and the child was completely undocumented. They were both handed over to the colleagues of the Department of Social Development who processed and took them to the place of safety within Limpopo.”
In addition, eight penalties were issued to some bus companies found transporting illegal migrants in various ports of entry to the value of R270 000.
“At this point, we would like to send a stern warning to all conveyers to desist from transporting illegal migrants in or out of South Africa.”
The border guards also managed to intercept and deny entry to about seven cargo consignments of meat worth about R9 294 551 which were destined to enter South Africa through the port of Cape Town due to non-compliance.
They also seized about 748 kg of non-compliant regulated agricultural products at various ports of entry.
In the period of 10 days, BMA health specialists screened about 91 743 travellers for various infectious and or communicable diseases and seized about 120 tablets, 57 658 mg of medications, 59 530 ml of cosmetics and about 50 insulin injections.
The guards working with the SAPS arrested about 143 individuals for committing various crimes and transgressions within the ports of entry and the border law enforcement area.
“The majority of these individuals served as facilitators of illegal activities around the ports of entry and were therefore charged for aiding and abetting. Interestingly, one individual was arrested at Lebombo port of entry to Mozambique while in possession of 13 passports attempting to bribe an immigration specialist with some banknotes which were placed in between the pages of the individual passports.”
In addition, about R641 of dagga with the value of R2 602 500 was seized and destroyed in both Grobler's Bridge port of entry to Botswana and Caledonspoort port of entry to Lesotho.
Another joint operation by officials of the SAPS, South African Reserve Service (SARS) and BMA included 217 master cases of counterfeit cigarettes with the value of R3 351 690 at the Lebombo port of entry from Mozambique en route to South Africa.
Other operations include the interception of 573 items of counterfeit alcohol, 272 pairs of counterfeit clothing and parts of a Toyota Hilux 4 x 4 worth R150 000.
“As the BMA, we remain committed to robustly confront the complex challenges associated with border management across all modalities, ranging from sea, land and air,” said the Commissioner. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 12:17
384 views
Deputy Ministers to handover upgraded Limpopo sewer pipeline project
Deputy Ministers to handover upgraded Limpopo sewer pipeline project
The Deputy Ministers of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), and Water and Sanitation, are expected to hand over the upgraded main sewer pipeline project in Extension 5 and 6 of Mookgophong on Monday.
CoGTA Deputy Minister, Parks Tau will be joined by his Water and Sanitation counterpart, David Mahlobo in the project which falls under the Modimolle Mokgopong Local Municipality situated within the Waterberg District in Limpopo.
Limpopo MEC of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) Basikopo Makamu, the leadership of the province and the municipalities, will join the Deputy Ministers.
“Due to the growth in Mookgopong, particularly in Extension 5 and 6, the bulk sewer pipelines were in an incapable state of performing which resulted in sewer spillages over the years.
“The municipality was challenged to address the issue due to budgetary constraints and technical capacity needed until the Department of Water and Sanitation, through their Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG), provided funding for the sewer project,” the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs explained.
The Department of Cooperative Governance played a crucial role in this partnership towards the success of the project through the provision of technical support via the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA).
“The project, which is in Ward 4, addresses the bulk sewer challenges at Ext 5 and 6 where spillages were prevalent. The sewer lines also connect to Ext 3, which is adjacent to the project area. Through the project, Ward 4 community members have access to and are using adequate and reliable functioning sewer system and the sewer spillages, which were prevalent, have been addressed.”
The project handover is planned to take place at 9 am at the Mookgophong Community Hall. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 12:38
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Over a million travellers processed over Easter period
Over a million travellers processed over Easter period
The Border Management Authority (BMA) facilitated about 1 136 250 travellers across the country’s 71 ports of entry over the Easter period.
This represents a 24% increase or 222 391 more travellers than last year, the BMA announced on Sunday.
This as the BMA’s Commissioner, Dr Mike Masiapato, announced the results of the 10-day Easter plan implementation that ran from 26 March to 4 April 2024.
Masiapato identified OR Tambo International Airport, the Lebombo port of entry to Mozambique, and Beitbridge port of entry to Zimbabwe as the top three ports that processed the majority of travellers with a total of 528 042 individuals.
“In fact, OR Tambo facilitated the most travellers at 217 855, followed by Lebombo at 157 069 and Beitbridge at 153 118 travellers,” he said at a media briefing held at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) head office in Pretoria.
He added that at the Cape Town harbour had seen an increase in the number of holiday makers boarding cruise ships for various destinations, according to border law enforcement officials.
The BMA also processed about 36 675 private vehicles, 1 893 minibus taxis, 1 309 buses and over 2 621 aircrafts at various international airports.
It also handled 252 vessels across seaports of which 119 were for crew changes through the off-port limit mechanism.
“This has to do with the facilitation of crew changes for vessels that have not docked at the port. During the implementation of this plan on people movement, we deployed proactive preventative measures for the speedy detection of non-compliances on the set port protocols.”
The Commissioner revealed that 3 841 people attempting to enter South Africa illegally were intercepted.
Of the 3 841, about 2 403 did not have any documents, 1 019 were refused entry for being “undesirable”, while about 419 were found to be “inadmissible” to enter the country due to various reasons.
“The majority of those arrested without documents were intercepted at the vulnerable segments of the borderline. They were processed, declared undesirable for five years, and were deported.”
According to Masiapato, most of the “inadmissible” individuals had invalid passports, fraudulent visas or simply failed to produce relevant documents such as valid yellow fever certificates.
“We would like to indicate that the success of this Easter operations can be attributed to the consistent implementation of all proactive measures and those include effective corridor management which was done in full collaboration with the respective local traffic authorities. As such, none of our key arteries leading to any of the land ports of entry experienced any kind of congestion.”
He also expressed his gratitude to all motorists for observing traffic laws and adhering to the instructions of traffic authorities.
He also applauded the Stockpoort port of entry for processing and recording data of all passengers who were on the bus en route from Botswana to Moria in Limpopo for the Easter pilgrimage.
“Despite our limited resources, our officers continue to work tirelessly to ensure the smooth flow of legitimate travellers while upholding the highest security standards. We are extremely proud and appreciative of the resilience of our border officials in rendering a stable service in very difficult conditions,” he said.
Earlier this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Botswana counterpart, President Mokgweetsi Masisi visited the site of the bus crash which claimed the lives of 45 Botswana nationals.
The only survivor of the crash was an eight-year-old child. SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 11:39
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Call for a National Register of Polluters
Call for a National Register of Polluters
Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, has vowed to tackle the pollution of the environment and water sources as the Vaal River coues to battle with invasive alien plants.
Mchunu said the country needs to have a National Register of Polluters to deal with the pollution of the environment and water sources across South Africa.
He said a National Register of Polluters was necessary to make people account for their transgressions.
“We want those in positions of authority, Mayors, CEOs of companies to have their names in the register so that they account for the neglect that leaves our rivers polluted,” he said on Friday.
The Minister was speaking at a workshop held at Emerald Resort and Casino in Vanderbijlpark.
Several stakeholders attended the workshop, including mayors of Mafube, Ngwathe and Metsimaholo Local Municipalities, Rand Water Board Chairperson Ramateu Monyokolo, and representatives from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.
He announced the establishment of a sectoral forum of experts to urgently address the situation and devise practical solutions that will ensure that the current state of the Vaal River System becomes a thing of the past.
“The Vaal River is not just a vital water source. It is a lifeline for our communities, industries and ecosystems.
“Its health is under threat from various sources, including wastewater discharge and we must collaborate effectively to mitigate these impacts and protect this invaluable resource for future generations,” the Minister stressed.
The Minister is also expected to hold a meeting with the Mayors of Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Tshwane and Mogale City to look at the state of Centurion Lake and tributaries affecting the state of the lake.
Mchunu believes all spheres of government need to have the upper hand in the resolve to deal with the pollution of water sources and the environment.
He took the time to highlight some of the interventions, including introducing measures to prevent the spread of alien invasive species, raising awareness among the public, and enforcing regulations on the importation and sale of potentially invasive species.
The Minister also spoke about the early detection and development of monitoring programmes to detect invasive species early on and implement rapid response measures to control their spread.
He discussed restoring native vegetation and ecosystems to rehabilitate areas affected by invasive species.
“This can help to restore the ecological balance of the river and improve its overall health.”
Government will also be working with its agencies, non-governmental organisations, and local communities to develop new and improved methods for controlling invasive species and restoring native habitats. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 10:11
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Stellenbosch University senate members call for ceasefire in Gaza
Thuli Madonsela is one of more than 100 signatories