Man who was assaulted by police dies three months later
Ugochukwu Emmanuel Nnoli’s family suspect the assault played a role in his death
2024
Ramokgopa sets sights on accelerated transmission line expansion
Ramokgopa sets sights on accelerated transmission line expansion
Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says government is targeting to expedite the expansion of transmission lines to the Cape provinces in order to potentially unlock at least 2 335MW of energy in the short-term.
He was speaking during an engagement with business stakeholders in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday.
Ramokgopa explained that there are renewable energy projects that are already producing electricity but the lack of transmission lines is hampering their ability to add to the ailing grid.
“In the short-term, we can unlock about 2 300MW of stranded electrons. That is the route that we are taking and as the Minister, I’ll be making the necessary announcement. We already know the corridors where we are going to get this 2 335MW. It’s in Upington, the Juno Gromis 400kV line and all that in the Nama transformer in Upington (sic).
“Once we make those interventions, we get an additional 2 300MW. We don’t have to wait for 10 years. It’s the interventions that we are making now but we need to design a bespoke financing solution to help us to address the issues of transmission,” he said.
In the longer-term, some 14 000km of new transmission lines are to be built in South Africa to connect renewable energy projects and further strengthen the grid.
Turning to demand side management, Ramokgopa said the appetite – from both private persons and business – for rooftop solar has grown exponentially since government announced tax incentives and financial support to those willing to invest.
He said connected rooftop installed capacity has grown from some 983MW in 2022 to 4 412MW by mid-2023.
“Our anticipation is that the rate of growth will exceed what we would have seen in the previous calendar year. Two things are an impediment to an aggressive rollout of roof top solar. Firstly, it’s the availability of equipment.
“South Africa, compared to many countries in the world, has had the biggest import of solar panels. We have had conversations with some of the biggest manufacturers across the globe – invariably from China – to localise production here. We are confident we are going to do that.
“The second impediment is the skills to install these solar panels. We will be recruiting about 25 000 people to be able to install. In every crisis, there is an opportunity and that opportunity must be taken. We are looking to industrialise and… we are looking to create these new skills so that we get people into jobs,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:31
436 views
Community development practitioners to be recognised
Community development practitioners to be recognised
Community Development Practitioners who remain vital in changing the living conditions of poor and vulnerable communities will be honoured in a graduation ceremony on Wednesday.
“Rural and township communities depend largely on community development programmes and services to better their lives,” the Department of Social Development said in a statement.
The Department of Social Development will host the ceremony in collaboration with the Health and Welfare Sector Education Training Authority (HWSETA), in Worcester, Western Cape.
The ceremony is a partnership between the department and other stakeholders, including, the South African Council for Social Service Professionals that is in the process of professionalising Community Development Practice.
Other stakeholders that are part of this the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) include the HWSETA, Education Training Development Practice Sector Education Training Authority (ETDPSETA), and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) such as University of Western Cape, University of Free State, and the University of Johannesburg.
The department said the primary purpose is to recognise Community Development Practitioners who passed their Community Development Practice at NQF Level 5 at institutions of higher learning.
“Given high levels of unemployment in the country which affects many South Africans, especially, the youth, the graduation will not only serve as a recognition ceremony, but also assist graduates to apply for work opportunities and advance their career development through the acquired certificates,” the department said.
To date, 555 Community Development Practitioners have graduated across the country, and the last cohort of 26 graduates will be from the Western Cape. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:04
457 views
R113.2 million Gauteng Health PPE tender declared invalid
R113.2 million Gauteng Health PPE tender declared invalid
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed a Special Tribunal judgement declaring the R113.2 million Gauteng Department of Health personal protective equipment contract awarded to private company LNG as invalid and unlawful.
The company has also been ordered to repay the profits earned from the tender.
The SIU had applied to the Special Tribunal to have the contract scrapped following an investigation into the affairs of the department.
“On 24 April 2020, the then Chief Financial Officer of Gauteng health department took a decision to procure 500 000 N95 masks at R55,50 each, 1 000 000 three-ply surgical masks at R18.00 each and 250,000 boxes of 100 sterile, powder-free surgical gloves at R270 per box.
“An SIU investigation in the affairs of Gauteng health department has found that [a] competitive bidding process was not followed and deviation from this process was not duly approved, and the contracted prices were high.
“Furthermore, the SIU found that LNG was not registered on the government’s Central Supplier Database for the supply of PPE [personal protective equipment] when it was awarded the multimillion-rand contract,” the unit said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:47
1316 views
Two sentenced to 60 years in prison
Two sentenced to 60 years in prison
Two suspects have each been sentenced to 60 years in prison on several charges, including two counts of attempted murder, murder and the possession of illicit firearms.
The two, Sakhiwo Khala (42) and Siyabulela Mcelu (37) were sentenced in the Khayelitsha Regional Court in the Western Cape on Monday.
According to the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (Hawks), the sentences emanate from a 2015 incident where an SBV cash vehicle arrived at Nolungile Railway Station in Khayelitsha.
It is alleged that when SBV crew members came back from collecting the money they were attacked and shot by three unknown suspects.
The crew returned fire and one suspect was fatally wounded during the ordeal and two other suspects were wounded but fled the scene on foot.
The suspects were charged for fatally wounding one of their own co- suspects. The crew members also sustained injuries during the shootout. The wounded suspects were traced and arrested.
The two were found guilty of the counts on 08 November 2023.
The accused were sentenced as follows:
Count 1: Attempted robbery with aggravating circumstances, sentenced to 12 years imprisonment each.
Count 2: Attempted murder, sentenced to six years imprisonment each.
Count 3: Attempted murder, sentenced to six years imprisonment each.
Count 4: Murder, sentenced to 22 years imprisonment each.
Count 5: Possession of illicit firearms, sentenced to 12 years imprisonment each.
Count 6: Unlawful possession of ammunition, sentenced to two years imprisonment each.
The court ordered that counts 1,2,3 ,5 and 6 run concurrently with count 4.
Effectively each accused will serve 22 years direct imprisonment.
In terms of Section 103 (1) and (2) of the Firearms Control Act, Act 60 of 2000, both accused were declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in the Western Cape Major General Mathipa Makgato commended the team and was delighted that justice has been served. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:51
274 views
Continent’s green future in focus as Africa’s Green Economy Summit approaches
CAPE TOWN, 19 February 2024: Thought leaders, policy makers and investors with an interest in Africa’s green economy transition are gathering in Cape Town ahead of this week’s Africa’s Green Economy Summit, taking place in the city from 21-23 February 2024. The summit, now in its second year, is centred around connecting the global investment …
N West making progress in eliminating mud houses
N West making progress in eliminating mud houses
Acting North West Premier Nono Maloyi has during his State of the Province Address (SOPA) announced that the province has allocated R198 million to eradicate 1 356 mud houses.
The Acting Premier said on Tuesday that of these, 579 units have already been delivered.
Although there are still challenges, Maloyi said the province has experienced unprecedented levels of development in the last 30 years.
He told the provincial legislature that the number of households had increased from 591 145 in 1996 to over 1.14 million in 2022.
This means that 88% of houses in the North West are now considered formal housing.
“Honourable Members, from 2019 to 2023, we have constructed 19 307 houses. By the end of 2023, we had delivered 2 768 houses,” he told them.
In addition, he announced that the provincial government has now cleared all the hurdles that delayed the Deelpan floods project and reported that 104 houses will be completed at the end of next month.
The Acting Premier said 317 more houses would be built following the donation of land by Kgosi Kogodi Molete of Bakolobeng and his traditional council.
He was also looking forward to launching the R2.6 billion N14 mixed-use development project in Ventersdorp in the coming weeks.
The development will see the installation of bulk services for 400 sites and create over 600 jobs for locals.
“The small town of Ventersdorp which comes from a bad history of occupation by a right-wing racist group called AWB will never be the same again. We are restoring the dignity of our people,” he said.
Meanwhile, the integrated accelerated service delivery approach, Thuntsha Lerole Programme, has to date delivered 6 283 title deeds to beneficiaries across the four districts.
Water
In addition, over 80% of households in the province have access to piped water either inside their dwellings, yards or community stands, as compared to only 20% in 1996.
Last year, the provincial government, in cooperation with the Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, launched the R106 million Dinokana Water Supply Intervention Project.
Maloyi said the North West was pushing ahead with the construction of a R36 million bulk water sewer pipeline at Agisanang township in the Tswaing Local Municipality is due for completion this year.
“We can report to the people of Madibeng Local Municipality that the Brits Water Treatment Plant will be completed by May this year,” he said.
The completion of this project is expected to bring an additional 20 mega-litres that will ensure the provision of water in Oukasi, Mothotlung, Damonsville, Mmankau, Brits, Elandsrand, Letlhabile and Sonop.
The pipeline from Mafenya to Tlhabane will be completed in April.
He told members that the 25 mega-litre Tlhabane reservoir is 99% complete and will be handed over within the next two weeks.
Meanwhile, additional boreholes have been drilled and equipped for both the Rooigrond Waste Water Treatment Plant and water augmentation project to address water provision challenges in Mahikeng.
“The communities of Ramosadi and Seweding in Mahikeng have for the past few months been subjected to inhumane sewer spillage in their households and locality.
“We have intervened and a contractor has now returned to the site to complete the project of constructing a new pipeline to be delivered by Mahikeng Local Municipality and funded by Ngaka Modiri Molema District.”
Maloyi also confirmed that all water leaks at Tigane and Hartebeesfontein have been fixed and now there is a stable water supply.
The construction of the over R200 million water pipeline from Pudumoe to Huhudi began in September last year to improve the bulk water supply. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:52
196 views
New Season Of The Met: Live In Hd Features Nine Sumptuous Operas From The Met Stage To The Big Screen, Exclusively At Ster-Kinekor Cinemas
The Met: Live in HD, the Metropolitan Opera’s award-winning series of live high-definition cinema simulcasts, is into its 17th season exclusively at select Ster-Kinekor and Cinema Nouveau cinemas. Still to come in the 2023–24 Live in HD season are new productions of Bizet’s Carmen and Verdi’s La Forza del Destino; and revivals of Gounod’s Roméo …
SAPS beefs up highway patrols
SAPS beefs up highway patrols
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has ordered the maximum mobilisation of resources along Gauteng highways and other strategic locations during peak hour traffic.
This is after a video and voice note emerged on various platforms depicting suspects allegedly robbing motorists.
“The SAPS has also bolstered the deployment of the Highway Patrol, SAPS Airwing and Gauteng Flying Squad units to monitor and conduct regular patrols along the identified routes,” said the SAPS in a statement on Tuesday.
By Tuesday afternoon, no cases had been reported yet and the SAPS encouraged anyone that has fallen victim to this alleged crime to call the Johannesburg Central Police Station Commander on 0823325016 for better coordination and prompt dispatching of resources.
“Engagements with the JMPD [ Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department] and other law enforcement agencies are ongoing in an effort to curb further incidents.
“SAPS tracking teams are on the ground searching for these suspects,” said the police. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:59
64 views
Gauteng to establish solar park
Gauteng to establish solar park
The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) will go ahead with plans to establish a solar farm park which is expected to harvest at least “800 megawatts of solar power and supply it to the electricity grid”.
This was revealed by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi during the State of the Province Address delivered in Johannesburg on Monday.
“We are pleased to announce that the long term plan with Sibanye-Stillwater Board, has approved the land leases of the appointed six independent power producers who will develop a photovoltaic power station, also known as a solar farm cluster, in the Merafong Local Municipality.
“This is designed to harvest at least 800 megawatts of solar power and supply it to the electricity grid, which will be a game changer for our province,” he said.
Furthermore, the province is expected to add at least 100MW to the grid from April.
“This is an initiative of the GPG implemented by City Power on our behalf using the Open Cycle Gas Turbine technology facilities in Johnware and Durban Street. This will be available from the 1st of April 2024.
“We will continue to expand to 300 megawatts in the new financial year. This investment combined with smart metres can generate the megawatts needed to cushion our residents against two stages of load shedding, a critical step toward energy stability for the nation’s economic hub,” he said.
Other interventions
In the immediate term, the province has moved to protect some 21 healthcare facilities from load shedding with the installation of Solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage systems.
A pilot project for a microgrid in Alexandra township is also being rolled out which, the Premier said, will “provide a stand alone solution to meet basic power needs for low-income households within townships and informal settlements”.
The project is expected to expand to 13 other communities.
“Having identified the hardship of many of our communities languishing in the dark, some for up to three years due to illegal connections, cable theft, vandalism, and chronic non-payment, we intervened to address the situation,” Lesufi said.
The Premier added that the provincial government, together with Eskom and City Power, partnered to deliver some 429 transformers to communities.
“To date, 333 have already been installed and switched on, benefitting no less than 32 000 township households. We have impacted the communities of Kagiso, Boiphelong, Doornkop, Orange Farm and others.
“We will intensify this programme until every township and household has been legally switched on, especially Evaton, Ivory Park, Winterveld and many other communities,” he said.
Lesufi reflected on the effects that load shedding has on residents and the economy.
“The protracted electricity crisis has caused significant hardship for people in our province and has had a detrimental effect on the growth of Gauteng’s economy. Power shortages have a negative impact on the availability of healthcare services, food and water, the level of crime, and unemployment rates, amongst others.
“Although energy is not a competency of the province, load shedding’s crippling effect on the functionality of the state and its impact on broader society compelled us to intervene,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 11:37
297 views
One year and counting: The Supreme Court of Appeal has still not handed down judgment in the vital Tafelberg case
Court says judgment should be delivered within three weeks
Stats SA records decrease in number of employed persons
Stats SA records decrease in number of employed persons
The Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) results for the fourth quarter of 2023 by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) indicate that the number of employed persons decreased by 22 000 to 16.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 when compared to the third quarter.
Addressing a media briefing on Tuesday in Pretoria, Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said the number of unemployed persons increased by 46 000 to 7.9 million compared to quarter three.
“Additionally, the number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 218 000 to 13.4 million, while discouraged work-seekers decreased by 107 000 in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to the third quarter of 2023. This resulted in a net increase of 111 000 in the not economically active population.
“The above changes in employment and unemployment resulted in the official unemployment rate increasing by 0.2 of a percentage point from 31.9% in the third quarter of 2023 to 32.1% in the fourth quarter of 2023.
“The unemployment rate according to the expanded definition decreased by 0.1 of a percentage point to 41.1% in Q4: 2023 compared to Q3: 2023,” Maluleke said.
Formal sector employment decreased by 128 000 in Q4: 2023, while informal sector employment increased by 124 000 over the same period.
The industries that contributed to the net employment decline include community and social services (down by 171 000), construction (down by 36 000), agriculture (down by 35 000), trade (down by 28 000) and manufacturing (down by 1 000).
However, finance (up by 128 000), transport (up by 57 000), mining (up by 37 000) and private households (up by 18 000) recorded the largest employment gains.
“Provincially, employment losses were recorded in Eastern Cape (111 000), Limpopo (40 000), North West (30 000) and Northern Cape (2 000). The largest employment increase was recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (62 000), followed by Mpumalanga (48 000) and Western Cape (23 000) during the same period.
“The youth (15–34 years) remain vulnerable in the labour market; the fourth quarter of 2023 results show that the total number of unemployed youth increased by 87 000 to 4.7 million while there was a decrease of 97 000 in the number of employed youth to 5.9 million. This resulted in an increase in the youth unemployment rate by 0.9 of a percentage point from 43.4% in Q3: 2023 to 44.3% in Q4: 2023,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 12:01
149 views
Over 83 000 land claims settled
Over 83 000 land claims settled
Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, says a total of 83 067 land claims have been settled since the inception of the Land Restitution Programme in 1995 to 2023.
Didiza said the number equates to 94% of the old-order claims that have been successfully settled, with about 2.3 million people having benefitted from the restitution.
Presenting the research findings on the evaluation of South Africa's Land Restitution Programme on Monday, Didiza said a total of R25 billion was spent on the purchase and transfer of 3.9 million hectares.
“An additional R22.5 billion has been spent on financial compensation for those beneficiaries who elected for financial compensation. Between 2019 and 2023, a total of 1 494 claims were settled, largely fuelled by the department's interventions in fast-tracking the settlement of claims,” Didiza said.
The study, which started in 2018 and included 2 664 households and 3 378 people, who were sampled and interviewed, found that the economic power of the restitution beneficiaries increased by 16%, measured in per capita per month, relative to the control sample.
The Restitution of Land Rights Act of 1994 is among the first laws passed by the democratically elected government.
This was done with the conscious acknowledgement that land justice is paramount, and restoration of Black people’s dignity and freedom is central to a democratic dividend, said the Minister.
The Restitution of Land Rights Act made provisions for the restitution of rights in land to people or communities dispossessed of such rights after 1913.
The constitutionality of land restitution is preserved in Section 25(7) of the Constitution of South Africa which states that “a person or community dispossessed of property after 19 June 1913 as a result of past racially discriminatory laws or practices is entitled, to the extent provided by an Act of Parliament, either to restitution of that property or to equitable redress”.
Didiza said families of forced removal victims were fragmented for decades, and conflicts that arose at post-settlement claims were a function of a lack of social cohesion and trust created during a lengthy period of disintegration.
The Minister said investments in communication and social cohesion programmes would assist in mitigating the information gap and building trust among beneficiaries.
She said from the study findings, the department can draw some policy insights.
“Firstly, the study findings are enlightening us to understand that land restitution is not only about financial and economic justice but also psychological and social restoration, a lesson we should bear in mind when we evaluate the success or failures of land restitution projects.
“Secondly, over and above the post-settlement support and skill training, which we are already providing to beneficiaries as the government, there is an additional need to formulate community integration programmes,” Didiza said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 10:49
27 views
Win a Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT Vehicle at the Absa DASH YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K
Celebrating its second anniversary in the friendly city on Sunday 07 April 2024, all entrants of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K will have the exciting chance to win a brand-new Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT Vehicle valued from R279 000. “We are thrilled to announce that every participant in the Absa RUN YOUR …
Health dismisses viral clip
Health dismisses viral clip
The Department of Health has hit back at a misleading voice note making the rounds on social media platforms claiming that people who vaccinated against COVID-19 are dying due to the vaccine.
The voice note, which is also circulating on WhatsApp, promotes the use of an unregistered over-the-counter product called Nature’s Choice Activated Charcoal as a solution to “prevent” such deaths.
As per the department, there have been no deaths reported that are causally linked to COVID-19 vaccines, except for the three cases that the department had reported early last year.
Members of the public are being urged to ignore any erroneous social media content.
“The voice note has the potential to cause significant confusion, anger, and anxiety, especially amongst those who lost their loved ones due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There is no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 vaccines are now claiming lives,” the statement read.
The public has since been urged to ignore this recording and distance itself from the use of Nature’s Choice Activated Charcoal to prevent death from the COVID-19 jab.
This product, according to the department, is not registered with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), which establishes and regulates the safety, efficacy and quality of all medicines distributed in the country.
The department explained that activated charcoal is used after alcohol binges and the ingestion of poison, while some people drink it to relieve flatulence.
Meanwhile, if a person is on treatment, activated charcoal may bind to the active ingredient, reducing the medication's effectiveness.
“Abuse of activated charcoal may also interfere with absorption of nutrients in the diet. The department advises the public to use any over-the-counter and unscheduled health products with caution, and on advice of a registered health professional.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 09:31
219 views
PRASA welcomes SIU probe on corruption
PRASA welcomes SIU probe on corruption
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has welcomed the Presidential Proclamation authorising the Special Investigating Unit to investigate allegations of corruption, malpractice and maladministration within the agency, as well as improper and unlawful conduct by any PRASA employees.
“PRASA-Proclamation 153 of 2024 empowers the SIU to probe offences that were committed in relation to the award of tenders to Swifambo Rail for the supply of locomotives, and the supply and maintenance of an integrated security access management system to Siyangena Technologies in terms of the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities of 2004,” the agency said on Monday.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will also investigate fraudulent liability claims processed and paid by PRASA’s Group Insurance Department, and allegations regarding ghost workers at the organisation.
“These two issues were already the subject of internal investigations. PRASA’s Board of Control believes that the investigations will further enhance clean and effective governance within the entity and eradicate corruption within the organisation.
“The Board believes that a great deal of progress has been made in eradicating corruption within the entity and promoting behaviour that is professional and lawful,” PRASA said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 08:28
103 views
Shabbat against genocide held at Nelson Mandela Foundation
The evening was co-hosted with South African Jews for a Free Palestine
Green Point “Tent City”: Homeless camp’s days are numbered
Relocation options unsatisfactory for many of the occupiers
President gives go-ahead to dig into corruption at PRASA
But it’s four years late, says activist
Load shedding to be suspended during the day
Load shedding to be suspended during the day
Eskom has announced that load shedding will oscillate between Stage 2 and no load shedding until further notice.
This after the power utility faced serious challenges over the past 10 days, with load shedding reaching Stages 5 and 6 – leaving consumers without power for up to four hours per shedding period during the day.
Now, the power utility says consumers will have power between 5am and 4pm during the day, with Stage 2 load shedding kicking in from 4pm to 5am every day.
“This alternating pattern of suspending load shedding from 5am to 4pm and Stage 2 load shedding from 4pm to 5am will be repeated daily until further notice.
“While the available generation capacity has been sustained, the need to replenish emergency reserves for the upcoming week necessitates an increase in the stage of load shedding. Eskom will closely monitor the power system and communicate any changes to load shedding, should it be required,” the power utility said.
By Sunday afternoon, at least 13 350MW of generating capacity was unavailable due to breakdowns, with planned maintenance rendering some 8 476MW offline.
“Eskom Power Station General Managers and their teams continue to work diligently to ensure that additional generating capacity is recovered by bringing units on unplanned outages, and planned maintenance back to service. A total of 3 300MW of generating capacity is anticipated to be returned to service by [today].
“We would like to thank those who do heed the call to use electricity sparingly and efficiently, including switching off geysers and pool pumps from 5pm to 9pm or when the load is limited. This lowers demand and helps in alleviating the pressure on the power system, contributing to lower stages of load shedding,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 10:10
635 views
AU launches 50-year blueprint for Africa’s socio-economic development
AU launches 50-year blueprint for Africa’s socio-economic development
African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government have launched the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan of the AU’s Agenda 2063: “The Africa we want”.
Agenda 2063 serves as a 50-year blueprint for Africa’s socio-economic development and integration.
It was adopted by the AU Member States at the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) this weekend, after extensive consultations across the continent.
President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded his participation at the summit on Sunday.
“A key flagship project of Agenda 2063 in which South Africa is playing a leading role is the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (the AfCFTA), that serves as a milestone development in the evolution of the AU,” said the Presidency.
The AU Assembly met under the theme: “Educate an Africa fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa”.
The assembly also discussed the status of peace and security on the continent and the Report of the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC).
“The discussion took place against the backdrop of great concern regarding the state of peace and security in Africa. The ongoing and concerning trend of unconstitutional changes of government that have occurred in West Africa as well as the ongoing conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sudan, South Sudan and Mozambique,” said the Presidency.
President Ramaphosa presented a report on the continent’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the state of readiness against future health threats, in his capacity as the Champion of the AU’s COVID-19 response.
As the pandemic is waning on the continent, said the Presidency, South Africa intends to work with the AU Commission and the Africa Centre for Disease Control towards expanding the role of the President to include all other health pandemics that are affecting the continent.
President Ramaphosa said: “Although the Africa CDC has classified COVID-19 as no longer a public health emergency of international concern, it remains an ever-evolving endemic virus. Furthermore, the effects of the pandemic continue to reverberate across our continent and beyond.
“The COVID-19 crisis was an opportunity for us as Africa to bolster our manufacturing sector. We were able to draw in an impressive USD 1.1 billion in financial and technical investments, in addition to the USD 1 billion advanced market commitment from GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance.”
The President praised the concerted efforts and collaboration demonstrated by the continent during the COVID-19 pandemic. He further urged the gathered leaders to continue improving the levels of alertness of their countries against future pandemics.
“Despite these successes, we are still at the delicate juncture of recovery. There is the threat of future pandemics. Our rapid and precise interventions have averted further crises, and for this, we must continue to sharpen our vigilance.
“The adoption of a strong Common Africa Position on Pandemic Preparedness and Response (CAP PPPR) is non-negotiable. It will define our roadmap to safeguarding our people, with a keen focus on critical issues,” he said.
Addressing the summit leaders on positive masculinity and the need to support the development of the AU Convention on Violence against Women and Girls, the President expressed his gratitude for the effort of Champions on Positive Masculinity and all Member States that have been part of the continental movement.
The President called on the assembly to forge a strong and enduring commitment to protect and uplift those who have suffered from violence against women and girls.
“We must now launch the AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Campaign, championing continent-wide consultations and ensuring that the journey to developing this critical instrument is shared by citizens across our vast continent.
“Developing the AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls is more than a political act. It is a moral imperative to redefine our societies, to confront the legacies of colonialism, patriarchy and racism, and to champion equality, freedom and self-determination for every African.
“As President of South Africa, I hereby commit to support the development and timely adoption of a comprehensive convention that is backed by resources and institutional mechanisms to ensure its efficacy,” said President Ramaphosa.
On the margins of the AU Summit, President Ramaphosa held several bilateral meetings with Heads of State and Government. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 10:32
571 views
SIU to investigate Home Affairs and PRASA
SIU to investigate Home Affairs and PRASA
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is expected to launch a probe into allegations of serious maladministration in the affairs of the Department of Home Affairs and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA).
This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed proclamations authorising the corruption busting unit to investigate the department and PRASA.
The SIU said it will also probe “improper or unlawful conduct by officials or employees of the State entities and…recover any financial losses suffered by the State”.
“Proclamation 154 of 2024 empowers the SIU to probe serious maladministration in connection with the affairs of Home Affairs relating to the issuance of permanent residence permits; corporate visas; business visas; critical/exceptional skills work visas; study visas; retired persons’ visas; work visas; and citizenship by naturalisation, contrary to the Immigration Act, 2002; the South African Citizenship Act, 1995; manuals, guidelines, circulars, practice notes or instructions applicable to Home Affairs; or manuals, policies, procedures, prescripts, instructions or practices of or applicable to the Department,” the SIU said.
The unit said it will also investigate “improper or unlawful conduct by officials or employees of Home Affairs in relation to the installation of T200 firewalls”.
“The Proclamation also empowers the SIU to investigate any irregular, unlawful or improper conduct by officials or employees of Home Affairs or any other person or entity, in relation to the allegations being investigated.
“The Proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that took place between 12 October 2004 and 16 February 2024, the date of the publication of the Proclamation or before 12 October 2004 and after the date of the Proclamation that are relevant to, connected with, incidental to the matters or involves the same persons, entities or contracts investigated,” the SIU said.
PRASA
The SIU explained that in relation to PRASA, the unit will investigate allegations of corruption related to the awarding of tenders for the supply of trains.
The proclamation covers a period from 1 January 2010 to 16 February 2024.
“Proclamation 153 of 2024 empowers the SIU to probe offences that were committed…in relation to the award of tenders for the supply of various train locomotives to Swifambo Rail Leasing Pty Ltd, and the supply and maintenance of an integrated security access management system at various train stations to Siyangena Technologies Pty Ltd.
“The SIU will also investigate serious maladministration in the affairs of PRASA relating to fraudulent liability claims processed and paid by PRASA’s Group Insurance Department, including claims paid as one time vendor payments. The probe will also extend to employment of ghost employees identified by PRASA’s Project Zivese in August 2021,” the anti-corruption unit said.
The SIU said it will also “identify system failures and make systematic recommendations to improve measures to prevent future losses”.
“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.
“The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 11:54
650 views
DPCI determined to deal with national priority offences
DPCI determined to deal with national priority offences
Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, says members of the DPCI are determined to deal with national priority offences.
“Their persistence led to securing the attendance in court of at least 724 suspects, which is made of 705 natural persons and 19 juristic persons,” Lebeya said.
Briefing media in Pretoria on Monday to outline progress made in the third quarter of the 2023/24 financial year, Lebeya said 229 accused persons, which is made of 220 natural persons and nine juristic persons, were convicted and sentenced.
“The top five national priority offences that contributed a high number of arrests are 156 for fraud, including 15 companies; 64 for precious metals and diamonds; 67 for narcotics; 51 for non-ferrous metals and 51 for corruption,” Lebeya said.
Lebeya said during the arrests, the DPCI seized various exhibits, including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R102 614 521.89.
“Out of the 229 convictions, fraud contributed the highest number of convictions, with a total number of 63. Precious metals and diamonds are the second highest, with a total number of 45 accused persons.
“Over and above arrests and convictions, the Directorate, in collaboration with the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), secured 92 orders with a monetary value of R39 642 652.71,” Lebeya said.
Lebeya used the opportunity to warn criminals attacking police officers that the law will not have mercy on them.
“An attack on police official is an attack on the State, and the death of one police official, who is the protector of all the people in South Africa, is unacceptable,” he said.
Lebeya said 22 police officials were murdered in the third quarter, 12 off duty and 10 on duty, and that 12 arrests were effected.
As part of successes in apprehending those that are attacking police officers, three accused persons were convicted and sentenced to share four life imprisonment and 38 years imprisonment terms.
“This sentence serves as a deterrent to other would-be criminals that under the doctrine of common purpose, not only will the accused be held liable and charged for the murder of police officers, but also for the murder of their accomplices who died during a crossfire with the police.
“The crimes that your co-perpetrator commits are imputed on you. If the crimes committed results in the death of a co-perpetrator, the surviving co-perpetrator will be charged with the death of his or her co-perpetrator, regardless of the fact that the death may have been inflicted by the victim,” he said.
Crimes against the State
With regards to crimes against the State, Lebeya cited an incident which took place in July 2021, where a video clip inciting people to burn and loot the Brookside Mall in Pietermaritzburg was circulated on social media platform. The perpetrator was arrested on 28 August 2021.
The Hawks initiated investigations and identified the author of the video clip as Mdumiseni Khetha Zuma (36). He was arrested in KwaZulu-Natal, where his bail was also denied.
Zuma was sentenced to10 years imprisonment for the first count, of which two years was suspended for five years, on condition that he is not convicted of the same offence during the period of suspension.
He was further sentenced to six years imprisonment on a second count, of which two years is to run concurrently with the sentence on the first count.
“We may recall that 65 alleged July unrest instigators were secured to appear in court on charges of conspiracy to commit public violence, incitement to commit public violence and incitement to commit arson.
“A charge of terrorism has been added. All the accused are on bail and the case is postponed to 8 April 2024 at the Durban Local Division of the High Court,” Lebeya said.
With regards to illegal miners, Lebeya said there have been some successes. On 24 November 2023, three suspects -- Progress Bayeni Mlambo (42), Leornard Moyo (46) and Kocanai Sithole (26) -- were arrested by a team comprising Welkom-based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Hawks’ Head Office Precious Metals & Diamonds (PMD) team, Public Order Police and Protea Coin Security.
“Information about the accused exchanging gold for cash between the Free State and Gauteng led the investigators to seek a search and seizure warrant. They had their eyes set squarely on a certain house in Parys, where these illegal activities were said to be taking place.
“The suspects appeared before the magistrate in Parys on 27 November 2023 for contravention of the Precious Metals Act 37 of 2005, and again on 29 January 2024,” Lebeya said.
Lebeya described human trafficking as modern-day slavery and a crime against humanity.
“South Africa has not been spared this twin-pandemic of trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants,” he said.
During this reporting period, 19 potential victims of trafficking in persons were rescued. Three foreign nationals were convicted, while four suspects were arrested.
Lebeya said 16 awareness campaigns were pro-actively conducted and 17 disruptive operations were reactively conducted. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 12:31
514 views