Gugulethu Protesters Demand Update on New Hospital
While most residents agree they desperately need a new hospital, some don’t want to lose a popular sports field
2024
Human Rights Commission appears before Parliament’s justice committee
Human Rights Commission appears before Parliament’s justice committee
The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development has expressed concern over allegations of a “toxic” environment in the office of the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
This following the suspension of the commission’s CEO Vusumuzi Mkhize as well as other complaints brought before the committee against the SAHRC chairperson Reverend Chris Nissen and Commissioner Philile Ntuli.
In a statement, the committee said calls are mounting for the removal of the three, through Section 194 of the Constitution.
However, committee chairperson, Xola Nqola, said issues at the SAHRC had not reached that point.
“We are not there yet, at Section 194. We want to stabilize the institution so that it can focus on its core mandate of service to our people. Now it seems it is rather hamstrung by those opposing the current leadership,” Nqola said.
Further in a statement, the committee said it held a “frank and robust discussion” with the SAHRC on Friday.
“Rev Nissen told the committee that all the new allegations and information before the committee made no sense as it referred to his former public life, which is well known. He said he was vetted several times by various sectors and twice by Parliament and he was never found wanting. The committee noted that prior to Rev Nissen’s appointment as Chairperson of the SAHRC, Parliament called for public input into his suitability, and none was received.
“The committee expressed its concern over the toxic environment in the office of the SAHRC, stating that the situation is further deteriorating and seemingly it has been like that for some time.
“The committee has noted utterances Ms Ntuli made that the attack on her is of a political nature accusing senior staff of the Commission and former commissioners of working together to have her and Rev Nissen out. She now fears for her safety and the committee resolved that the SAHRC must request that a risk assessment be done by security agencies,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the committee said it heard allegations that former members of staff were sowing divisions within the commission and “created factions in the SAHRC by having meetings outside the commission”.
On allegations against Mkhize, the committee was told of alleged disparaging remarks he had made during a meeting.
“The committee heard that Mr Mkhize, during a hybrid meeting of the SAHRC, unaware that he was not muted made some remarks about white people and about the Government of National Unity.
“He allegedly later “unlawfully” instructed a junior official to delete the recording of a meeting, breaking the protocol.
Furthermore, the SAHRC said other concerns were raised prior to this regarding, amongst others, procurement, consequence management and him only accepting instructions from the interview panel that appointed him.
“The committee further heard that concerns were raised about Mkhize’s appointment process when a report from the Public Protector on the Guptas' citizenships said he violated the Constitution during his employment at the Department of Home Affairs,” the statement read.
The committee chairperson vowed that the commission will be taken to task if any wrongdoing is found.
“We decided to adopt the Commission; we conditionally support it. When it does good work, it will have our support, but when we hear of shenanigans, we will take them to task.
“We will do unannounced visits to its headquarters as well as to provinces to ascertain the real conditions in the institution,” Nqola said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 10:00
115 views
Let’s ensure a safer festive season
Let's ensure a safer festive season
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has called on communities to assist in ensuring a safer festive season for all through Operation Shanela.
The weekly multi-disciplinary, high-density operation, which commenced on Monday, 28 October 2024 until Sunday, 3 November 2024, executed in the five districts of the Northern Cape, resulted in the apprehension and arrest of 334 suspects, and the confiscation of numerous items.
Safer Festive Season Operations are in full swing in all districts throughout this period and beyond, encompassing high-density operations, which include regular roadblocks, stop and searches, the tracking and tracing of wanted suspects and heightened police visibility aimed at preventing and combating serious and violent crimes during the holiday season and beyond.
Numerous vehicle check points (VCPs) and roadblocks were conducted across the province, during which a total of 2 247 vehicles and 4 136 persons were stopped and searched.
Compliance inspections at second-hand dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, private security, firearm dealers, formal and informal businesses, as well as farms were conducted, including community awareness campaigns.
Operational successes achieved include the arrest of 280 suspects for murder, attempted murder, assault, burglary, illegal dealing in liquor, illegal firearm and ammunition, theft of or out of motor vehicle, malicious damage to property, driving under the influence of alcohol, robbery, rape, possession of dangerous weapons, dealing in and possession of drugs, illegal immigrants, stock theft and other crimes.
Police in De Aar tracked down a robbery suspect and recovered stolen property, including bank cards, clothing and traveling bags, and managed to link the suspect to several other cases.
Fifty-four wanted suspects were traced and brought to book by detectives for evading court appearances and contravention of court orders.
The police confiscated large volumes of alcoholic beverages, drugs, dangerous weapons, fuel, copper and cash that is believed to be the proceeds of crime.
The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Kholiswa Otola, expressed her gratitude to all law enforcement agencies for the collective efforts and actions executed during this period.
Otola reiterated that no one will be left behind when it comes to fighting crime as it involves the robust involvement and support of community structures.
She urged everyone to be alert and vigilant, and report any suspicious criminal activity immediately to the police using the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or on the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 10:02
63 views
KZN launches Provincial Integrated Youth Development Strategy
KZN launches Provincial Integrated Youth Development Strategy
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has unveiled the Provincial Integrated Youth Development Strategy, marking a transformative step towards empowering the province’s youth.
Launched at the Coastlands Conference Centre in Umhlanga, the strategy, spearheaded by the Department of Social Development (DSD), seeks to shift from a welfare-based approach to a development-focused model. The model is aimed at building a brighter future for young people in the province.
The vision of the Integrated Youth Development Strategy is to create a system that equips young people to be socially responsible, economically active, resilient, and self-reliant.
By prioritising skills development, economic participation, and personal empowerment, the strategy addresses the unique challenges faced by youth in the province and seeks to foster their growth into engaged and contributing members of society.
Ntuli emphasised the importance of the initiative, noting that youth empowerment is central to the province’s vision for sustainable development.
He expressed confidence that the strategy would inspire a generation of young leaders who can drive positive change and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.
“This strategy represents our commitment to investing in the potential of our youth. By empowering young people to be resilient and self-reliant, we are building a foundation for a stronger and more prosperous KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli said.
The Premier reaffirmed the provincial government’s dedication to supporting initiatives that offer meaningful opportunities for youth, and its commitment to a development-driven approach that builds a sustainable future for all. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 10:21
75 views
Weather warning for KZN, Eastern Cape
Weather warning for KZN, Eastern Cape
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of severe thunderstorms and snow along the Eastern Cape escarpment from Monday until Tuesday.
“Snowfalls are expected over the high lying areas due to a high-pressure system ridging from far south of the country, with a southerly to south easterly wind, resulting in cold to very cold and wet conditions over the province over the Chris Hani and Joe Ggabi District Municipalities; and Dr Beyers Naude, Blue Crane Route, Matatiele, Umzimvubu, Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipalities,” the weather service said.
These conditions will result in difficult and dangerous driving conditions.
Motorists can expect disruptions to traffic routes, due to slippery roads and reduced visibility, as well as road and pass closures for a short period.
There is a likelihood of loss of crops and livestock and disruption to services.
The Eastern Cape can also expect severe thunderstorms on Monday due to an approaching upper trough combined with a ridging surface high.
There is a possibility that the expected storms can become severe and may result in damaging winds, hail, downpours and excessive lightning.
The affected areas include Senqu, Elundini, Sakhisizwe, Matatiele and the Umzimvubu Local Municipalities.
The impact of these weather conditions will include localised damage to settlements and temporary structures, localised and short-term disruption to power supply, localised damage to vehicles and falling trees blocking roads.
In KwaZulu-Natal, residents can expect widespread showers and thundershowers over most parts of the province but scattered to isolated in the north, except the extreme north-eastern parts on Monday.
“Some of these thunderstorms may become severe over the southern parts of KZN and may be accompanied by strong, damaging winds, excessive lightning, large hail/large amounts of small and heavy downpours,” SAWS said.
As a result of these weather conditions, there could be falling trees blocking major roads, disruption of services due to power surges, danger to life (humans and livestock) due to excessive lighting as well as damage to structures due to hail and wind. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 10:57
21 views
Residents Help Free State Municipality Restore Electricity
Dozens of people from affected villages helped officials for several days to erect fallen electricity pylons
Blooming Good: How a Desert Garden Is Saving Endangered Plants
The Richtersveld Desert Botanical Garden is a lifeline for plants species endemic to the region
President congratulates President-Elect Duma of Botswana
President congratulates President-Elect Duma of Botswana
President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his warm congratulations to His Excellency President-Elect Duma Boko and the government and people of the Republic of Botswana on the success of the recently concluded elections.
During his telephone call with President-Elect Boko, President Ramaphosa once again commended the Umbrella for Democratic Change coalition on its success in the election under the leadership of President-Elect Boko.
According to media reports the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) won the elections in a landslide victory as the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), which had been in power since independence in 1966, won only four parliamentary seats as of Friday afternoon.
Elections in Botswana were held on 30 October 2024.
President Ramaphosa welcomed the immediate establishment of transitional plans between the outgoing administration was led by President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the incoming administration of President Boko.
“The success of the elections in our sister nation and the seamless transition that is already underway affirms the demonstration of democratic maturity in our region and on our continent. As South Africa, we look forward to deepening our fraternal relations and cooperation with the Republic of Botswana, with outcomes that will benefit both our nations," President Ramaphosa said on Saturday. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 09:19
251 views
Police arrest 225 illegal miners in the North West
Police arrest 225 illegal miners in the North West
Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya has welcomed the arrests of 225 illegal miners in the North West province.
The arrests were made when the illegal miners resurfaced from underground in Orkney, as a result of starvation and dehydration.
“These 225 illegal miners are part of others believed to be hundreds if not a thousand illegal miners who are stuck underground with no food, water and necessities because the Vala Umgodi teams,” said the police.
The teams are led by the SAPS and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) who are “blocking routes used to deliver food and necessities to these illegal miners.”
“Just earlier this week, SAPS and members of the SANDF blocked communities in and around these abandoned mining shifts in Orkney from delivering food parcels, water and necessities to these illegal miners,” the police said.
The act of stamping the authority of the state eventually forced these illegal miners to resurface.
“This operation is ongoing, and the SAPS and the SANDF are still monitoring these old abandoned mine shafts as more and more illegal miners resurface,” the SAPS said on Saturday.
Sibiya said Operation Vala Umgodi is yielding positive results across the country.
“We are closely monitoring the situation that is unfolding in the North West province, we are not backing down until all those illegal miners resurface and are arrested. Since its inception in December 2023 to date, more than 13 691 suspects have been arrested in the seven provinces that are hotspots for illegal mining.
"We have seized R5 million in cash and uncut diamonds worth R32 million through Operation Vala Umgodi,” said the Lieutenant General.
The majority of those that have been arrested are inclusive of South Africans, Mozambicans, and Basotho nationals. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 10:23
180 views
Call to champion disability rights
Call to champion disability rights
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD), Sindisiwe Chikunga, has called for a disability-inclusive society that upholds a better quality of life and the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.
This call marks the beginning of Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), which is observed from 3 November to 3 December 2024.
“This month provides an important platform to champion disability rights and to work toward a South Africa where dignity and equality are universal. Whether disabled or able-bodied, all individuals must be empowered to contribute toward an inclusive society,” the Minister said on Saturday.
DRAM is taking place under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: Creating a Disability-Inclusive Society for a Better Quality of Life and the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”
This month-long campaign underscores the universality, interdependence, and fundamental rights of persons with disabilities, advocating for the full enjoyment of these rights without discrimination.
It aims to drive awareness, inclusion, and empowerment of persons with disabilities across South Africa.
“Aligned with the 2024-2029 Medium-Term Development Framework, which seeks to address current socio-economic challenges, DRAM2024 serves as a bridge uniting South Africans to build a disability-inclusive, barrier-free society.
“It envisions a South Africa where persons with disabilities actively contribute to socio-economic empowerment within their communities.
“Government also urges all members of society to participate in the significant process of domesticating the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, facilitated by the South African Law Reform Commission. This process will contribute to the development of the Disability Rights Bill,” the DWYPD said.
The purpose of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 10:51
100 views
Mpumalanga High Court to open for business
Mpumalanga High Court to open for business
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD) has advised the public that the Mpumalanga High Court will be open for business on Monday.
The Mpumalanga High Court was recently closed after an inspection by the Department of Labour and the subsequent findings that highlighted health and safety issues with the building.
On Saturday, the DOJ&CD met with the Departments of Employment and Labour (DEL), Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), Independent Development Trust (IDT) and the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) to determine a course of action in response to issues identified during a recent inspection of the Mpumalanga High Court conducted by DEL.
The prohibition notice was issued on 30 October 2024.
“Following representation made by the departments in relation to the areas identified to be addressed, it was resolved that the prohibition notice shall be suspended for a period of seven working days commencing on Monday, 04 November 2024.
“The suspension of the implementation of the prohibition notice will provide an opportunity for the department to address the issues raised in the prohibition notice,” DOJ&CD said.
The concerns raised by DEL relate to the following specific three areas:
• Ensuring proper ventilation.
• Provision of a report confirming the integrity of the structure.
• Provision of the occupancy certificate.
The departments provided extensive feedback to DEL on matters relating to the prohibition notice and progress thereof.
“It is on the basis of the above that the extension was granted. The department remains committed to resolve the issues raised by DEL including ensuring the safety of staff, judiciary and members of the public.
“The discussions are still ongoing between the parties including the exchange of expert and technical reports to find a long-term solution to matters that were raised. During the suspension period, the department wishes to advise the public that the court will remain open on Monday, 04 November 2024,” DOJ&CD said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 11:12
71 views
Eskom saves R13.7 billion on diesel
Eskom saves R13.7 billion on diesel
Due to load shedding being suspended for over seven months, Eskom’s diesel savings have reached R13.7 billion year-on-year.
In a statement on Friday, Eskom said load shedding has remained suspended for over seven months (219 consecutive days) since 26 March 2024.
“Investments in the Generation Recovery Plan have been instrumental in maintaining a stable power supply across South Africa, driving efficiencies, and achieving R13.7 billion in year-on-year diesel savings.
“On Monday, 28 October 2024, Eskom achieved a significant milestone in operational efficiency, moving closer to its goal of a 70% Energy Availability Factor (EAF) by end March 2025.
“This achievement is marked by a reduction in unplanned outages, which are measured by the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF) and Other Capacity Loss Factors (OCLF), to 7 299MW. The last time Eskom reached a comparable UCLF milestone was four years ago,” the power utility said.
This achievement follows Eskom’s recent milestone of delivering the longest stretch of uninterrupted power supply in five years, reaching Day 206 of loadshedding suspension on Saturday, 19 October 2024.
“The reduction in unplanned outages means that more generation capacity is available to meet the country’s electricity demand. Additionally, it provides Eskom with the necessary capacity to conduct more planned maintenance activities, which are crucial for further improving the reliability and stability of the generation fleet,” Eskom said.
Eskom’s EAF increased to an average of 65 % over the past week and 63.1% year-to-date, with top-performing stations — including Grootvlei, Camden, Medupi, Lethabo, and peaking facilities — achieving over 70% EAF.
Five other power stations recorded EAFs above 60%.
“By Monday evening, an additional 4 030MW is expected to return online, with six units on cold reserve this weekend to manage supply and demand balance,” Eskom said.
In August, Eskom shared its Summer Outlook for the period from 1 September 2024 to 31 March 2025, predicting a likely scenario of a load shedding-free summer due to structural generation improvements. This outlook remains unchanged.
Illegal connections
While load shedding remains suspended, Eskom continues to face network overloading issues in certain local areas due to illegal connections, vandalism, meter tampering, unauthorised network operations, theft of network equipment, and purchasing electricity from unlicensed vendors.
“To prevent public safety hazards and the risk of network overloading which can lead to load reduction measures and extended unplanned power outages, Eskom strongly urges customers to avoid illegal connections, as this can negatively impact the entire local community. It is also essential for customers to ensure they purchase electricity only from authorised vendors,” the power utility said.
Eskom urged the public to help protect the integrity of the power network by reporting any illegal activities to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 112 722 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323.
Meter updates
In addition, as the 24 November 2024 deadline approaches, Eskom has reminded customers to update their pre-paid meters to avoid them expiring and losing electricity.
READ | Eskom calls on prepaid customers to update meters before 24 November deadline
The simple, DIY process involves buying credit tokens from authorised vendors. Customers will receive two 20-digit codes to enter into their meters for the update. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 11:40
1 view
GCIS to brings services closer to communities
GCIS to brings services closer to communities
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) will host its annual Government Exhibition Day (GED) in KwaZulu-Natal.
The exhibition day will bring government services closer to communities.
“The Government Exhibition Day is a continuation of the commitment by government to ensure that critical information regarding government services and their provision is accessible to all citizens,” the GCIS said on Saturday.
The event, which will take place on Wednesday, 06 November in Umgababa, highlights the work of Thusong Service Centres, which are a one-stop-shop for government services as a means to centralise service provision for communities that are far flung.
It will take place at the Umnini Thusong Centre from 9: 30 am.
At the GED, relationships with community members will be strengthened by facilitating face-to-face conversations and delivery of essential services that include:
• Department of Home Affairs: Assistance with ID issuance, birth certificate registration and other identity-related services.
• Department of Labour: Consultation on labour related matters.
• SASSA: Registration for grants, including social grants and enquiries on grants-in-aid.
-SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 10:32
14 views
Committee welcomes prevention of R3.47 billion in financial losses
Committee welcomes prevention of R3.47 billion in financial losses
The Standing Committee on the Auditor-General (AG) has welcomed the recovery and prevention of the R3.47 billion in financial losses by the Office of the Auditor General (AGSA) through the Material Irregularities (MIs) process.
This as the committee received a briefing from the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) on its integrated annual report for the 2023/24 financial year.
“The AG has recovered R1.55 billion in financial losses; R1.14 billion in financial losses in the process of recovery and has prevented the financial loss of R0.78 billion for government departments, municipalities and entities.
“These successes show the importance of the execution of the new powers of the AG obtained through the amended Public Audit Act. In the year under review, the AG identified 626 MIs on non-compliance and suspected fraud,” the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on the Auditor-General Wouter Wynand Wessels said on Friday.
This resulted in 500 MIs on material financial loss, 51 MIs on substantial harm to the general public, 66 MIs on substantial harm to public sector institutions and 9 MIs on misuse on material public resource.
An MI is any non-compliance with legislation, fraud, theft or breach of fiduciary duty that could result in a material financial loss, misuse of public funds or substantial harm to a public sector institution or the public.
The amended Public Audit Act introduced the concept of MIs and expanded the powers of the AG to refer the MIs to relevant bodies for investigation if the accounting officer or authority does not take appropriate action to address them.
“The committee welcomes the AGSA's culture shift strategy. This entails plotting auditees not only according to mere compliance, but also focusing on service delivery performance. This shows that 23% of government departments and entities and 45% of municipalities are currently doing harm, while 40% of departments and entities and 43% of municipalities are not doing the basics.
“The committee commends the AG for receiving a clean audit opinion for the year under review. A functional office of the AG is important as it results in a positive shift towards accountability and public sector performance,” Wessels said.-SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 10:09
55 views
Man sentenced to life in prison for raping relative
Man sentenced to life in prison for raping relative
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the life imprisonment sentence handed down by the Giyani Regional Court to a 31-year-old man for raping his 10-year-old relative.
The court heard that the victim's mother left her daughter with her cousin whilst going to a local shop.
“The mother returned from the shop and found her daughter naked. Upon questioning her, she told her that the accused took her (daughter) to his bedroom… forcefully put his private part into her mouth and thereafter raped her.
“The matter was immediately reported to the police and a case of rape was registered and transferred to Giyani Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for further investigations,” the SAPS said on Saturday.
The case docket was allocated to Detective Sergeant Maropeng Mashapa. The accused was traced and successfully arrested.
The accused was sentenced on Thursday for raping his cousin at Phikela village in Giyani on 13 November 2020.
Subsequent to police investigations, the accused was found guilty of all charges against him and sentenced to life imprisonment for rape.
"We commend the investigating officer for tirelessly working on the case and all other role players who participated, for the job well done," said Lieutenant General Hadebe. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 09:41
33 views
Deputy Minister Letsike addresses Village Economy Indaba
Deputy Minister Letsike addresses Village Economy Indaba
Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Letsike, says more than 60% of jobs and 25% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the African continent comes from the agricultural sector which is rooted in the rural areas.
“This presents an opportunity for boundless growth through the potential that is inherent in the rural economy and for expansion to industries that ordinarily have not proliferated in rural areas,” Letsike said.
Speaking at the Village Economy Indaba ceremony held in the North West province, Letsike said over half of the population resides in rural regions, yet these areas often face higher poverty rates, lower access to basic services and limited economic opportunities.
“This divide is not only a matter of geography, it concerns social justice, economic necessity, and national progress.”
Letsike said rural areas in South Africa hold an enormous but often overlooked potential for lifting people out of poverty.
“When we invest in rural economies, we create jobs and boost incomes in areas where they are needed most. Imagine empowering smallholder farmers with access to better technology, training, and markets.
“Not only could they increase their production, but they could also improve their livelihoods, leading to better education, healthcare, and overall well-being for their families and communities,” Letsike said on Friday.
The Deputy Minister said it was reported that about 75% of food produced on the continent is from small farms of less than 20 hectares, while 80% of the 51 million farms on the continent have an area less than two hectares.
“Developing rural economies helps curb urban migration. Every year, thousands of people leave rural areas, hoping for better opportunities in the big cities.
“By creating viable economic opportunities in rural areas, through initiatives such as The Village Economy Indaba whether in agriculture, renewable energy, tourism, or small-scale manufacturing, we can reduce the strain on our cities while enhancing quality of life in the countryside,” the Deputy Minister said.
Letsike said vulnerable groups such as women, youth, LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender or intersex), persons and persons with disabilities are the hardest hit by climate change.
“Therefore, renewable energy projects, like solar and wind farms in areas such as the Northern and Eastern Cape, to eco-tourism in Limpopo and the Western Cape, rural South Africa holds immense potential for green growth and sustainability, particularly as we engage the Just Energy Transition.
“By focusing on sustainable practices, we can preserve our environment for future generations while creating jobs today.
“Many of us who have a rural background will understand that even our indigenous agricultural practices such as companion planting have been proven to promote soil health and maximise production on small pieces of land and it is still used by many farmers in rural areas,” Letsike said. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/01/2024 - 14:03
55 views
Deputy President participates in Soweto Marathon
Deputy President participates in Soweto Marathon
Deputy President Paul Mashatile is today participating in the African Bank Soweto Marathon.
Sunday’s race has an estimated 25 000 participants in various race categories.
“The Deputy President will participate in the 10km category, whereas the Soweto Marathon has other categories such as the main marathon (42km) and half marathon (21km). He will later take part in the prize-giving ceremony at the close of the marathon,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The marathon is taking place at the NASREC Precinct.
In addition to the Deputy President taking part in the race, the men and women in blue are also partaking in the marathon.
“SAPS Gauteng has 123 members from stations and units across the province who are participating in The People’s Race. SAPS encourages members to partake in sports to stay physically fit and mentally alert in the commission of their duties,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in post on social media platform, X. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 09:21
48 views
President Ramaphosa Congratulates President-Elect Duma Boko of Botswana During Telephone Call
Today, 2 November 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa held a telephone call with President-Elect Duma Boko and offered his warm congratulations to His Excellency and the government and people of the Republic of Botswana on the success of the recently concluded elections.
President Ramaphosa once again commended the Umbrella for Democratic Change coalition on its success in the election under the leadership of President-Elect Boko. President Ramaphosa welcomed the immediate establishment of transitional plans between the outgoing administration was led by President Mokgweetsi Masisi and the incoming administration of President Boko.
“The success of the elections in our sister nation and the seamless transition that is already underway affirms the demonstration of democratic maturity in our region and on our continent.
As South Africa, we look forward to deepening our fraternal relations and cooperation with the Republic of Botswana, with outcomes that will benefit both our nations", said President Ramaphosa.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Castle Occupiers Removed
The group had been living on the grounds since 2020 but the high court recently granted an order to evict them
Council indaba to zero-in on climate resilient build environment
Council indaba to zero-in on climate resilient build environment
The Council for the Built Environment (CBE) is on track to convene its second Built Environment Climate Change Indaba (BECCI) next week.
“The CBE’s 2024 BECCI is centred on building a climate-resilient built environment for South Africa while acknowledging and incorporating the Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) in the entire construction lifecycle, and processes and legislations of national, provincial and local government,” said the council in a statement on Thursday.
The CBE is public entity of the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure and is a regulatory body established under the Council for the Built Environment Act 43 of 2000 (the CBE Act) that coordinates six councils for the built environment professions including architecture and engineering.
The two-day indaba is set to be held in the Mandeni Local Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal next Thursday and Friday.
This, as KwaZulu-Natal has experienced adverse weather in recent years.
“These natural disasters are worsened by poor drainage and building standards, especially in low-income areas. There was significant damage to over 13 000 homes, disrupted water supply, impassable roads, and destroyed bridges. Additionally, the recent snowfall in KwaZulu-Natal… underscores the growing severity and unpredictability of South Africa's weather patterns.
“The snow and icy conditions led to the closure of the N3 highway between Gauteng and KZN, stranding numerous travellers, which highlights the vulnerabilities in our infrastructure amid extreme climate events, necessitating urgent policy and planning responses.”
READ | Condolences to family of victim affected by freezing weather conditions
The indaba will be held under the theme: “Co-creation of spaces and places that respond to just transition.”
The council said the indaba will together stakeholders from the engineering and the built environment sector, disaster management and the South African Weather Service (SAWS) to co-create sustainable, resilient, and equitable spaces that address climate change and socio-economic disparities.
“The Indaba is particularly critical in the context of the CBE’s mandate to transform the built environment, promote sustainable development, and contribute to inclusive socio-economic growth.”
The BECCI will bring together stakeholders from the engineering and the built environment sector under one roof to discuss and enhance climate resilience in South Africa’s built environment “by fostering collaboration to generate new knowledge and insight geared towards reducing and mitigating the impact of climate change in the sector.”
The outcomes and resolutions from the BECCI 2024 are expected to feed into the operations and functions of the CBE’s and its stakeholders on numerous levels. Furthermore, the BECCI will aim at addressing climate change related challenges facing the South African Built Environment and vulnerable communities at large.
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson and Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala, among others, are expected to attend the indaba. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/01/2024 - 09:30
233 views
President Ramaphosa Appoints Members of Special Tribunal
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed the Tribunal President and Judges of the Special Tribunal which has a statutory mandate to recover public funds syphoned from the fiscus through corruption, fraud and illicit money flows.
President Ramaphosa has made these appointments in terms of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunal Act of 1996 and following consultation with Chief Justice Mandisa Maya.
The President has appointed Judge Margaret Victor as Tribunal President with effect from today, Friday, 1 November 2024, for a period of three years.
The President has also appointed the following additional judges for a period of three years starting today, Friday, 1 November 2024:
(i) Judge Thandi Victoria Norman, of the Eastern Cape Divisron of the High Court;
(ii) Judge David Makhoba, of the Gauteng Division of the High Court;
(iii) Judge Brian A Mashile, of the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court;
(iv) Judge Andre Henry Petersen, of the North West Division of the High Court; and
(v) Judge Chantel Moira Jennifer Fortuin, of the Western Cape Division of the High Court
Special tribunals differ from ordinary civil proceedings which are adversarial in nature.
The Special Tribunal adopts a more flexible and expeditious approach to legal actions. Its proceedings are inquisitorial in nature and characterised by extensive pre-trial investigations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Maintenance defaulters’ days are numbered, warns Minister
Maintenance defaulters' days are numbered, warns Minister
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Thembi Simelane says the days of those who have been shirking their responsibilities and not paying maintenance are numbered.
“We are indeed coming for them,” said Simelane, who was speaking at the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Maintenance Online Listing of Defaulters held in Johannesburg on Friday.
She said the signing was historic, as it heralded a new era in the quest to ensure that maintenance defaulters have no place to hide.
“There is no doubt that the failure to pay maintenance has a negative impact on the best interests of our children and it also undermines the child’s right to be maintained.
“The Constitution protects and provides in section 28(2)... that ‘a child’s best interests are of paramount importance in every matter concerning the child.’
“Section 15(3)(a) of the Maintenance Act creates an obligation on both parents to support their children proportionately in accordance with their financial means.
“However, and notwithstanding this provision, many parents still fail to support their children and this failure negatively impacts on the children’s rights to maintenance, which includes the provision of food, accommodation, education, health and clothes,” the Minister said.
She said a person who fails to make a particular payment, in accordance with a maintenance order, is guilty of a criminal offence and liable, on conviction, to a fine or to imprisonment.
“Parents are therefore fully entitled to lay a criminal charge against a person who is obliged to pay maintenance in terms of a court order if he/she fails to stick to the terms of the order. Although this step will likely result in a person’s arrest, it will not necessarily result in receiving payment.
“Judging by the numbers of the long queues at the maintenance service centres, it is crystal clear that the enforcement of maintenance payments is a highly problematic area. Often, people liable to pay maintenance either refuse or simply neglect to fulfil their obligation.
“South Africa’s commitment to child welfare is embedded in our laws, and our obligations, as a signatory to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, stand as a testament to this. We are duty-bound to take every measure necessary to ensure that the maintenance for children is not only an ideal but a reality,” Simelane said.
The Minister said the signing of the memorandum signalled government’s dedication to protecting and empowering the future generation.
Simelane explained that the Maintenance Online Listing Project, which is the subject of the memorandum of understanding, will create a structured, transparent framework where maintenance obligations are tracked, enforced and integrated within our financial systems.
“The strength of this project lies in the powerful partnership between the public and private sectors. The Department of Justice, the Social Justice Foundation and the Consumer Profile Bureau have come together to drive this initiative forward.
“Each partner brings a unique strength: legal oversight, community engagement, and data-driven solutions, ensuring that this initiative reaches every corner of our nation and stands as a model of efficiency and accountability,” the Minister said.
The Minister further explained that the project was not merely a tool for enforcement, but it was also a commitment to fairness.
“This approach is not just punitive in nature but serves as a fair reminder that support for our children is non-negotiable,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/01/2024 - 12:02
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President Finally Appoints Judges to “Collapsed” Special Tribunal
Retired Judge Margaret Victor has been appointed president of the Tribunal