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South Africa’s potential for oil and gas ‘significant’ – Mantashe

Location: News

South Africa's potential for oil and gas 'significant' - Mantashe

Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe says the discovery of gas and condensate from two exploration wells in the South Outeniqua Basin are proof that South Africa’s underexplored deep waters have significant potential for oil and gas.

The Minister was speaking during Africa Oil Week held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

“In the past two years, TotalEnergies, Shell and Galp have made eight discoveries across three blocks in Namibia’s Orange Basin, representing an estimated 3.5 billion barrels of potentially recoverable oil. 

“These discoveries have led to a huge interest by major petroleum companies since it is believed that the Namibian discoveries may be extending southwards into South Africa.

“The discoveries of gas and condensate from two exploration wells drilled in Block 11B/12B offshore in the South Outeniqua Basin have also proven that South Africa’s under-explored deep waters have significant potential for oil and gas, and thereby signalling a need to accelerate exploration efforts,” Mantashe said.

Commenting on the withdrawal of international energy giant, TotalEnergies, from offshore Block 11B/12B and 5/6/7, Mantashe insisted that development on the block still remains viable.

“[There] remains a good potential for other oil and gas players to partner with the remaining operator – MainStreet - and develop the block. 

“Contrary to the view that suggests that TotalEnergies withdrawal from the block is tantamount to lack of confidence, it is encouraging that the company is a major shareholder in 3 blocks North of South Africa’s Orange Basin in the deep to ultra-deep waters, and a 100% shareholder of another larger block that is 3 times the size of the 11b/12b in Southern Outeniqua,” he said.

According to the Minister, several exploration projects in the South African Orange Basin are “gearing up for development”. These include:
•    Preparation work for drilling exploration of the Deep-Water Orange Basis (DWOB) block operated by TotalEnergies.
•    Proposed drilling of an exploration well, with the option to drill up to four additional wells in Block 3B/4B.
•    The Northern Cape Ultra-Deep-Water Block has started with environmental authorisation processes for drilling.
•    The notable progress made on Block 5/6/7 with a potential to start drilling exploration in the block in 2026 targeting large oil and gas resources.

Mantashe said the risk for these projects is litigation against exploration and production.

“This has already affected two major seismic surveys to date, including Shell, which abandoned their survey and went on to discover oil and gas in Namibia, as well as ENI, which after being taken to court 47 times, left and went to discover oil in huge quantities in Côte d'Ivoire.

“The successful 3D seismic data acquisition in April this year by Searcher on South Africa’s west coast has proven that exploration of petroleum resources can be done successfully without any harm to the environment,” he highlighted.

The Minister gave a nod to the approval, by the Competition Commission, of government’s acquisition of the various assets that comprise the SAPREF [a joint venture between Shell Refining SA and BP Southern Africa] refinery, which is located in Durban.

“Government has, through the Central Energy Fund (CEF), concluded a transaction on the sale of assets at the SAPREF precinct. This acquisition has since been approved by the Competition Commission, thus reinforcing our efforts that seek to guarantee sufficient supply of petroleum products in the period where several refineries have been shut down prematurely. 

“Like Chevron and Petronas, Shell’s decision to divest from its downstream business operations in South Africa provides an opportunity for another investor, or major oil company, to take over the assets as the downstream sector will remain attractive for the foreseeable future, given the rise of hybrid vehicles.

“We appeal to the delegates at this conference and the investment community to continue investing in the development of oil and gas to enable a prosperous energy outlook for Africa, and promote sustainable development,” Mantashe said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 10/08/2024 - 11:13

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Read moreSouth Africa’s potential for oil and gas ‘significant’ – Mantashe

Four arrested for bypassing electricity meter

Location: News

Four arrested for bypassing electricity meter

Eskom has welcomed the arrest of four contractor employees who were allegedly paid R10 000 by a resort owner to bypass an electricity meter.

According to the power utility, the four were arrested “for facilitating the unlawful consumption of electricity without payment” and face charges of electricity theft and meter tampering.

“These actions not only constitute a serious criminal offence but also place a financial strain on Eskom and in turn its ability to return to profit and remove itself from being dependent on the fiscus. We strongly condemn such illegal activities as they violate the law and undermine efforts to provide reliable and sustainable electricity,” Eskom said.

The power utility explained that the scheme was halted following a report from a member of the public.

“Eskom commends the member of the public who reported the incident, our internal security team for their thorough investigation, and the South African Police Service for their swift action in arresting the suspects. Such cooperative efforts are crucial in the fight against crime and corruption.

“Eskom reminds all customers that tampering with electricity meters is punishable by law, and anyone found guilty may face prosecution, fines, or imprisonment. Customers are urged to report any suspicious electricity-related activities, theft, illegal connections, meter bypasses, and other illegal operations on the network,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 10/08/2024 - 11:29

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Read moreFour arrested for bypassing electricity meter

President condemns killing of Eastern Cape community patrollers

Location: News

President condemns killing of Eastern Cape community patrollers

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic killing of six community patrollers in Tina Falls/Godini near Qumbu in the Eastern Cape on Sunday night. 

The patrollers were reportedly preparing for duty at their base at Lugongozo Senior Secondary School when attackers struck with an assortment of firearms.

In addition to the six fatalities, four other patrollers were injured in the attack.

The President offered his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and extended wishes for a speedy recovery to the injured. 

He condemned the violence, describing it as a grave loss to the community and an assault on the efforts of ordinary citizens to maintain safety in their area.

“Our thoughts are with the families of these community members who died in the course of playing their part to keep their area safe. Following so soon after an equally tragic shooting at Lusikisiki, this new incident saddens and outrages us,” President Ramaphosa said on Tuesday.

Last month, in the same province, 18 people lost their lives in a mass shooting in Ngobozana village, in Lusikisiki. In that tragedy, the President assured the grieving families that the South African Police Service (SAPS) had mobilised all available resources to bring the perpetrators to justice. 

READ | Condolences for Lusikisiki mass shooting victims’ families

In his statement on Tuesday, the President vowed that justice would be served, warning that criminals, along with anyone who sheltered or protected them, would face the full might of the law.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to working with communities to ensure safety in homes, neighbourhoods, and public spaces.

“However, it should also add to our resolve to stop criminals from terrorising communities in the mistaken belief that they’re untouchable. They will be brought to justice alongside anyone who harbours such criminals and does not report information to the authorities.

“Government will continue to work with communities to ensure our homes, neighbourhoods and public spaces are safe and that criminals know they will pay for their deeds.”

The President welcomed the progress made in the investigation into the incident by the police, which has reportedly yielded a positive lead in the case. 

Police update

This as the National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, said he was confident that police were following a positive lead in apprehending suspects linked to the killing of the six community patrollers.

Masemola visited the crime scene on Monday. 

In a statement, the police said a team of specialised detectives from the district office of the SAPS in Mthatha, were hot on the heels of the suspects wanted in connection with the incident. 

“The investigation is ongoing, and arrests are imminent in this regard; as the detective leads are pointing at ongoing stock theft related matters between the affected village and other neighbouring villages,” said Masemola.

With regards to last month’s killing of 18 family members, police said investigations “are at an advanced but sensitive stage in relation to the arrest of the suspects linked to the gruesome murder of 18 family members and relatives in Lusikisiki last week”.

A multi-disciplinary team and detectives from specialised operational environments has been on the ground, since last week and significant progress has been made.

“To date, the joint provincial and national teams are working around the clock to apprehend the wanted suspects and to maintain law and order in the affected areas.” -SAnews.gov.za
 

DikelediM
Tue, 10/08/2024 - 09:47

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South Africa and the African Union (AU) Commission to Hold Consultative Meeting on the G20

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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The Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr Zane Dangor, who serves as South Africa's G20 Sherpa, will host consultations on the G20 with his African Union Commission (AUC) counterpart, HE Ambassador Albert Muchanga, G20 Sherpa and Commissioner of Economy, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM). The meeting will take place on Thursday, 10 October 2024, in Pretoria.

It is expected that the two sides will exchange views on:

  • Approaches to the G20 and identify areas of mutual cooperation on the draft outcomes of the Leaders' Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
  • The envisaged priorities of South Africa's G20 Presidency, which South Africa will assume on 1 December 2024
  • Other possible areas of cooperation during South Africa's G20 Presidency.

Director-General Dangor will be joined by senior officials from various government departments.

At the recent G20 High-Level Opening Session in New York, held on the margins of UNGA79, President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated the timeliness and necessity of the G20's “Call to Action on Global Governance Reform”, highlighting South Africa's commitment to the revival and strengthening of multilateralism, and the reform of global governance institutions to make them more representative.

South Africa will assume the G20 Presidency from 1 December 2024.

South Africa's Presidency of the G20 presents a unique opportunity to place Africa's developmental priorities at the top of the agenda, as well as advocating for economies of the Global South Africa. It will enable South Africa to build on the efforts and successes of the Indonesian, Indian and Brazilian G20 Presidencies.

The G20 Summit held in India in September 2023 granted the AU permanent membership of the G20. Thus, the inclusion of the AU will allow African countries to own and influence decisions on key issues on the agenda of the G20.

South Africa has been the only African member of the G20 and advocating for the interests of Africa in the G20. The inclusion of the AU in this important forum will no doubt boost Africa's voice.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Read moreSouth Africa and the African Union (AU) Commission to Hold Consultative Meeting on the G20

KZN Premier commends arrest of unscrupulous officer

Location: News

KZN Premier commends arrest of unscrupulous officer

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has commended the swift response of law enforcement agencies, which led to the arrest of a police officer for theft and fraud charges.

The constable, stationed at Cato Manor, was arrested on Friday morning during a raid at his home in Seaview after being found in possession of a bank card stolen from a hijacking incident, which left an 11-yer-old girl, Zarah Ramsamy, dead in Malvern last month.

According to the KZN police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the constable was arrested after he was found in possession of a bank card, which belongs to the owner of the vehicle that was hijacked during the incident.

At the time of the hijacking, the police constable was on duty in the Cato Manor policing precinct where he is stationed. When the hijacked vehicle was recovered in the Cato Manor area, the same constable was called upon to drive the vehicle to the Malvern station.

It was during that time that the constable got hold of the bank card and stole it.

The police officer is facing charges of theft and fraud for stealing and using the bank card of the victim's family after the hijacked vehicle was recovered.

Ntuli said while the officer’s actions tarnish the integrity of the police force, the successful operation, led by the Hawks Provincial Tracking Team and other units, demonstrates the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to root out corruption within their ranks.

Ntuli warned that the provincial government will not allow rogue officers to undermine the public’s trust in the South African Police Service.

“Officers, who abuse their position to engage in criminality, have no place in our police force. The arrest of this dishonest constable is a clear message that no one is above the law," Ntuli said.

The Premier also commended the collaborative effort of the numerous law enforcement units involved in the operation and reiterated government’s commitment to fighting crime in the province.

As the officer faces internal disciplinary action, Ntuli has invited all stakeholders -- religious groups, private businesses, neighbourhood watch groups, and community leaders -- to join hands with the provincial government to combat crime and restore trust in law enforcement.

“The provincial government remains committed to ensuring that justice prevails, not only for the Ramsamy family but for all victims of crime in KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli said.

Netshiunda said the police officer will also face internal disciplinary process proportional to the crimes with which he has been charged. – SAnews.gov.za  

GabiK
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 15:15

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Agriculture dept oversees surveillance programme for African citrus greening disease

Location: News

Agriculture dept oversees surveillance programme for African citrus greening disease

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) has announced a planned surveillance programme for African citrus greening disease in and around Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape.

The surveillance programme is an official process conducted to determine pest presence or absence in an area.

The planned surveillance programme follows the African strain of the disease, which was recently detected in the residential areas of Gqeberha.

African citrus greening disease is a bacterial disease of citrus trees, which is primarily spread or transmitted by the insect vector African citrus psyllid (Trioza erytreae).

The most characteristic symptoms on leaves of affected trees include blotchy mottling and yellowing of leaf veins.

The disease reduces the quality of fruit, making it unsuitable for sale as fresh fruit or for processing.

The department said during the planned surveillance programme, a delimiting survey will be administered to determine the geographic distribution of citrus greening (African strain) in the area as a basis for further consideration of whether the pest is widely distributed or not.

This is to enable the implementation of effective and efficient phytosanitary measures.

“For this survey, DALRRD will collaborate with Citrus Research International (CRI) to survey citrus trees for suspicious symptoms, and samples might be taken for laboratory analysis,” the department said in a statement.

The department has since informed nursery owners, including citrus growers and community members in and around Gqeberha, about the planned surveillance programme.

The department has urged the residents of Gqeberha and surrounding areas to cooperate with DALRRD and CRI officials, who will be working in and around their areas for surveillance activities.

Residents are also urged not to tamper with any of the department’s yellow sticky traps, as they collect valuable information.

Citrus greening is under official control in terms of the Control Measures R.110 of 27 January 1984 of the Agricultural Pests Act (APA), 1983 (Act No. 36 of 1983).

The intra-provincial movement of citrus propagation materials from infested areas to non-infested areas in the Eastern Cape is prohibited.

Infested areas include the districts of Alfred Nzo, OR Tambo, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (Wards 1-10, 15, 16, 18, 19, 27-29, 31, 46, 47 and 50), Great Kei (Ward 1), and Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (Wards 1-15, 32 and 39).

Some of the non-infested areas include the districts of Ukhahlamba, Amathole, Chris Hani, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality (wards 16-31; 33-38; 40-60) and Cacadu.

“It is against this background that nursery owners, informal traders, citrus growers and community members are encouraged not to move plants and plant propagation material from infested areas to non-infested areas, unless such movement is authorised by means of a removal permit, in terms of the Agricultural Pests Act,” the department said.

Steenhuisen to launch national food survey launch

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen will on Wednesday launch the findings of the National Food and Nutrition Security Survey (NFNSS) in Pretoria.

This after the DALRRD commissioned the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) to conduct the NFNSS between 2021 and 2023.

The survey was conducted in all nine provinces, with 10 reports produced, including one for each province and one national report.

The department said the survey’s findings offer insights into the current state of food and nutrition security in the country at the district sphere.

“The aim of the survey was to generate baseline data that government will utilise to provide targeted support interventions to households. Support to households is aimed at providing access to adequate food and nutrition towards food security,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 11:25

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Another drug mule nabbed

Location: News

Another drug mule nabbed

Every week in the last month, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested at least one drug mule at OR Tambo International Airport, with the 14th drug mule to be arrested in recent weeks, nabbed on Sunday. 

“Every week in the last month, SAPS has arrested at least one drug mule at OR Tambo International Airport. This week alone, police arrested three drug mules, including two Dutch traffickers, who were found with 80kg of Khat. Today’s (Sunday's) arrest is the 14th drug mule to be arrested in recent weeks,” the police said in a statement released at the weekend. 

In Sunday’s arrest, the SAPS in collaboration with officials from the South African Revenue Service (SARS), arrested a 43-year-old drug mule from Paraguay who had landed from São Paulo when he was arrested by police officials at the airport.

“A medical examination confirmed that he had swallowed multiple foreign objects and has so far released more than 20 bullets suspected to contain cocaine. This brings the total number of drug mules arrested at this airport in the last couple of weeks to fourteen,” said the SAPS.

Last month, a 21-year-old South African woman became the eleventh person arrested for drug trafficking at the OR Tambo International (ORTIA) Airport.

At the time, the police said she was intercepted as she was arriving on a flight from São Paulo, Brazil.

She was taken to a local hospital where an X-ray confirmed that she had foreign objects in her stomach.

In that arrest, the National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, commended the vigilance of members of SARS and SAPS at the airport.

On Sunday, 22 September 2024, a 30-year-old Namibian drug mule was arrested after arriving from São Paulo. 

READ | South African woman arrested for drug trafficking at OR Tambo

On Friday, 13 September 2024, a Nigerian drug mule was arrested after he was found in possession of cocaine that was concealed in aircraft head phones. He had just landed from São Paulo.  -SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 09:53

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Read moreAnother drug mule nabbed

Natjoints monitoring Cosatu strike

Location: News

Natjoints monitoring Cosatu strike

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) through its National Coordination Centre (NCC) is monitoring the nationwide Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) strike, taking place today. 

The structure, which is responsible for the policing of major events and large gatherings, has mobilised all its resources working closely with all law enforcement agencies - including traffic officials - to ensure the safety of workers who will be taking part in the strike. 

The NATJOINTS urged workers to gather and demonstrate peacefully within the confines of the law.

“The Natjoints will not tolerate any lawlessness, blocking of roads and any disruptions,” it said in a statement.

COSATU has embarked on a nationwide strike to highlight issues of unemployment and economic challenges facing the country.  

Planned marches and pickets are expected across the country, including at Parliament, the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Discovery Place, Business Unity South Africa, the Department of Employment and Labour and the Reserve Bank.

The National Day of Action, during which Cosatu promised to “paint the country red”, coincides with the International Day of Decent Work. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 10:15

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Four suspects nabbed in Limpopo for possession of illicit cigarettes, dealing in drugs

Location: News

Four suspects nabbed in Limpopo for possession of illicit cigarettes, dealing in drugs

Four male suspects, aged between 26 and 38, have been apprehended at separate locations during routine operational duties conducted by various police units across the Capricorn District in Limpopo. 

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), a foreign national was nabbed on Friday at Lebowakgomo RDP, Zone F for possession of 28 plastic bags containing dagga estimated at R28 000 and a substantial amount of cash.

The SAPS said the operation was led by the members of the Lebowakgomo police with the Polokwane SAPS, Tactical Response Team (TRT) and Public Order Policing (POP). 

Then, at around 2pm on the same day, members of the POP received information about a 38-year-old foreign national male who was allegedly dealing in illicit cigarettes at a local Spaza shop in the Lebowakgomo complex.

“Police responded to a tip-off that resulted in the illicit cigarettes, valued at R300 000, being discovered inside the shop and further confiscated a white Mercedes Benz motor vehicle belonging to the owner suspected to be the transporter.” 

In addition, a 32-year-old male suspect was nabbed by the Provincial Organised Crime Intelligence Unit in Polokwane central business district (CBD) while in possession of heroin and crystal meth with an estimated street value of R1 700. 

The Provincial Crime Intelligence Cluster Coordination Narcotics Task Team jointly with the Provincial Organised Crime Unit arrested a 26-year-old male suspect along Indian Centre in Polokwane at about 7:20pm for possession of drugs.

“The suspect was immediately arrested for possession of 50 sachets of nyaope and eight sachets of crystal meth drugs with an estimated value of R2 500.” 

The suspects are expected to appear before the Lebowakgomo and Polokwane Magistrate’s Court soon, as police investigations continue. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sun, 10/06/2024 - 11:46

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Read moreFour suspects nabbed in Limpopo for possession of illicit cigarettes, dealing in drugs

Seventh administration to promote peace, security in Africa

Location: News

Seventh administration to promote peace, security in Africa

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, has assured South Africans that the current administration will not stray from the African Agenda and will continue to push for peace and security on the continent.

Delivering his remarks at the Africa Peace and Security Dialogue hosted by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation on Saturday in Magaliesburg, the Minister said: “I am here to say that the seventh administration remains committed to the African Agenda. We are not deviating from it, we pursue our agenda in the spirit of genuine partnership, not hegemony as some would claim.”  

The annual dialogue is dedicated to finding practical solutions to the peace and security challenges facing the continent.

“Evidence suggests that when all variations are put, it is said that more than 120 conflicts are playing themselves out on the world, while 60% of the United Nations Security Council peacekeeping budget focuses on African conflicts and peacekeeping.”

According to the Minister, the two most worrying conflicts which have led to devastating humanitarian crises are in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sudan.

Lamola stressed that the Government of National Unity (GNU) was working around the clock to end these wars with the Deputy President Paul Mashatile being the envoy for South Sudan and President Cyril Ramaphosa focusing on Sudan.

“Unfortunately, both have not received adequate attention from the international community compared to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, the devastating war in Gaza and recent tensions between Israel and its Arab neighbours.”

He raised his concern that Africa has experienced a resurgence of coups in the past few years, while six member states remain suspended from the African Union (AU) because of unconstitutional government changes.

“I hope this conference will help us find a solution to legitimate concerns of West Africa about colonial vintage still haunting most parts of the continent.”

However, he said the Global South would continue to work in harmony and revive the AU and regional economic communities, the building blocks of African integration.

He said the resurgence of violence in the Sahel region “should concern us all” and the terrorism and violent extremist acts in Cabo Delgado were a security threat for Mozambique and the wider Southern African region.

“The threat of terrorism and violent extremism is one of the most pressing peace and security challenges that the continent is dealing with as it has spread to more regions of the continent, including Southern Africa.”

In addition, he stressed that South Africa would continue to support the leaders and people of South Sudan in their transition process towards a stable democracy.

South Africa has placed the issue of financing peace operations on the continent through the UN’s assessed contributions on the Security Council agenda.

He told the guests that South Africa will use its Chairpersonship of the G20 to action the pact of the future as adopted by the UN General Assembly, reform the global financial architecture, inclusive governance and refocus on the implementation of the sustainable goals to put forward Agenda 2063 on the global pedestal. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Sun, 10/06/2024 - 10:29

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Read moreSeventh administration to promote peace, security in Africa

778 newly qualified Constables add boots on the ground

Location: News

778 newly qualified Constables add boots on the ground

Deputy Minister of Police, Polly Boshielo, on Friday addressed 778 newly qualified Constables at the Bhisho South African Police Service (SAPS) Academy, as the police held six parallel passing out parades across the country.

The other parades were held at Bishop Lavis Academy in the Western Cape, Mankwe Academy in the North West, Moloto Academy in Mpumalanga and Graaff Reinet and Mthatha academies in the Eastern Cape.  

The Eastern Cape province received a total 274 new Constables to bolster its crime fighting initiatives.

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene said: "Out of these newly qualified Constables who are passing out today, the Eastern Cape will receive a total of 274, just in time for the Festive Season Operations. We expect to receive more new Constables by December this year.”

During her address, Boitshelo said government remained committed to ensuring South Africa achieves the United Nations recommendation of one police officer for every 220 people.  

“As of 2023, the police-to-population ratio is 1:423, which means we still need to work harder to recruit more police officers,” she said.

The new Constables successfully completed the six-month introductory Police Development Learning Programme, with qualifications in the field of Law, Policing and Criminology.

They will add more boots on the ground to combat and prevent emerging crime trends.

The members will be deployed to various police stations and specialised units, such as Public Order Police (POP), Visible Police (Vispol), and the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit.

The parallel parades were attended by several stakeholders, families and friends of the newly qualified Constables. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Janine
Sun, 10/06/2024 - 10:13

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President Ramaphosa pays homage to Lesotho

Location: News

President Ramaphosa pays homage to Lesotho

President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the solidarity, and “heroic sacrifices” made by the people of Lesotho in support of the fight for a free and democratic South Africa during the apartheid era.

The President was speaking during the 58th Lesotho Independence Day and Bicentennial Celebrations held in the Mountain Kingdom on Friday.

President Ramaphosa highlighted that the relationship between the two Southern African countries is “forged through a collective past and shared aspirations for the future”.

“I stand here today, representing my government and the people of South Africa, deeply aware of the heroic sacrifices Basotho made in support of the struggle against apartheid. Against enormous odds and at a great cost, the people of Lesotho extended a hand of friendship and solidarity. They offered refuge to our freedom fighters.

“As Basotho, you stood with our people even as the brutal apartheid armed forces crossed the border to kill and maim. We mourn the many Basotho who lost their lives alongside those of their South African sisters and brothers. We will remain forever grateful for these acts of selfless solidarity,” he said.

READ | President Ramaphosa undertakes working visit to Lesotho

Reflecting on the relationship between the nations, President Ramaphosa said it “has reached even greater heights today”.

“Both countries continue to work together in many areas of mutual interest for the benefit of our respective peoples.

“As we gather here today on this historic occasion, we extend once again our congratulations to His Majesty King Letsie III and the government and people of the Kingdom of Lesotho.  Your achievements are to be celebrated with joy. A glorious future beckons for this great nation and its people.”

The President paid homage to King Moshoeshoe I, who founded the Basotho nation.

“We pay homage to his vision, his wisdom and the bravery with which he fought for the liberty of his people. He formed a unified nation that today still embodies his commitment to peaceful coexistence.

“Morena Letsie III, you have under your rule and stewardship continued this great tradition with vigour, wisdom, compassion and love of the people of the Kingdom.

“As your neighbours in Southern Africa and across the African continent, we appreciate your excellent leadership, your commitment to peace and development and your contribution to the cause of humanity,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

NeoB
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 14:22

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President wishes the Jewish community well over the High Holy Days

Location: News

President wishes the Jewish community well over the High Holy Days

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished South Africa’s Jewish community a festive and mindful celebration of the High Holy Days, also known as Yamim Noraim or the Days of Awe, which began this week with Rosh Hashanah and will end next week with Yom Kippur.

“The South African Jewish community forms an essential part of the spiritual and cultural diversity of our nation. 

“We wish the Jewish community at home and abroad a year of good health, strong family bonds, fellowship and success in all domains of life,” said the President on Saturday.

“This 10-day period leading up to Yom Kippur is a time for reconciliation and coming together, an occasion for us to engage in teshuvah, tefillah and tzedakah, and an opportunity to pray and work for peace in all corners of the world.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sat, 10/05/2024 - 13:23

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Read morePresident wishes the Jewish community well over the High Holy Days

Deputy President concludes working visit to the United Kingdom

Location: News

Deputy President concludes working visit to the United Kingdom

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has on Friday concluded his weeklong working visit to the United Kingdom. 

The Deputy President was in the United Kingdom for the second leg of his working visit to improve trade and investment relations between the nations and woo investors following his travels to Ireland.

“The purpose of the visit was to identify new trade and investment opportunities to grow the South African economy in partnership with the United Kingdom,” the Presidency said in a statement. 

Some of the areas of interest he touched on during his engagement include government’s strategic priorities in several sectors including trade, investment, skills development, science, innovation, tourism and the Just Energy Transition.  

“Following the successful conclusion of elections in both countries, the establishment of new governments allowed for reaffirming bilateral relations at all levels for the two strategic partners,” the statement read. 

During the working visit, the Deputy President engaged with representatives from several organisations. These include Bloomberg Media, Brand South Africa, the London Stock Exchange, Investec, Standard Bank, JP Morgan, Citibank, Goldman Sachs and the South African Chamber of Commerce.

The talks also focused on showcasing South Africa as an investment destination of choice, by highlighting investment opportunities in the country.

He stressed the stability of South Africa’s political landscape as a result of the newly established Government of National Unity (GNU) and highlighted its significant demonstration of democracy at work and how it can serve as a model for other democracies around the world.

The Deputy President also had an opportunity to deliver an address on South Africa’s upcoming G20 Presidency, set to commence on 1 December 2024, at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). 

“The Deputy President affirmed that the country will advocate for the needs of developing nations, to place Africa’s development at the forefront of the global agenda.”

The Deputy President met with British government leaders including the Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Ed Miliband, and Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth and Development David Lammy. 

He further paid a courtesy visit to Prince Edward, His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.

“Our numerous meetings with potential investors have revealed a shift in their attitudes and perceptions towards South Africa, indicating a positive look. Our alliance is based not on personal sentiments but on the aspiration to enhance South Africa and, consequently, the lives of our citizens, and be useful in sustaining the GNU administration for five years,” said the Deputy President.

The Deputy President was accompanied by the International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola, the Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, the Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa and Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Mcpherson. 

He was also with the Deputy Minister of Agriculture Rosemary Capa, the Deputy Minister of Finance Dr David Masondo, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenneth Morolong and the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Andrew Whitfield. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Sat, 10/05/2024 - 13:42

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Ramaphosa Wishes Jewish Community Well Over the High Holy Days

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa wishes South Africa's Jewish community a festive and mindful celebration of the high holy days, also known as Yamim Noraim or the Days of Awe, which began this week with Rosh Hashanah and will end next week with Yom Kippur.

President Ramaphosa said: “The South African Jewish community forms an essential part of the spiritual and cultural diversity of our nation. 

“We wish the Jewish community at home and abroad a year of good health, strong family bonds, fellowship and success in all domains of life.

“This ten day period leading up to Yom Kippur is a time for reconciliation and coming together, an occasion for us to engage in teshuvah, tefilah and tzedakah, and an opportunity to pray and work for peace in all corners of the world.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read moreRamaphosa Wishes Jewish Community Well Over the High Holy Days