Dutywa Health Centre Lacks Valid Fire Compliance Certificate
The Eastern Cape facility’s incinerator room, which was used to store hazardous material, was gutted by fire on Saturday.
African
Minister of Justice pays tribute to outgoing Chief Justice Zondo
Minister of Justice pays tribute to outgoing Chief Justice Zondo
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, has vowed that the recommendations that Chief Justice Raymond Zondo made following the State Capture Commission will be implemented and justice will be served to the people of South Africa.
The Minister was delivering remarks during a Special Ceremonial Sitting of the Constitutional Court in honour of the outgoing Chief Justice.
Chief Justice Zondo was the chairperson of the commission which exposed corruption, malfeasance and the looting of public funds.
“As we bid farewell to Chief Justice Zondo, we make a solemn commitment that the recommendations from the commission that took so much of his time and public resources will never have been in vain.
“The recommendations of the Zondo Commission will be implemented without fear or favour. Justice will be done even if it means heavens must fall,” the Minister vowed.
Simelane said that the course of South African history was changed forever by the State Capture Commission, the revelations that were made during its life and its aftermath.
“We know what the pre-Zondo Commission… was a chapter that was defined by colleagues who had no accountability and it had impunity. It is a chapter that had no consequences for the looting of state resources. But the second chapter…it is built on the findings and the recommendations from the Zondo Commission.
“This is a chapter we must commit today and beyond, that we must keep open to learn from everyday of what should never be repeated. Most importantly, this is a chapter that should…be a toolkit on how to deal with corruption, malfeasance and related tendencies,” she said.
The Minister thanked the Chief Justice for his unwavering commitment to the judiciary in a career which spanned some 27 years on the bench.
“Chief Justice Zondo, the South African nation owes you a huge debt of gratitude for your unquestionable fidelity to our constitution and our democracy. We applaud you Chief Justice for your selfless dedication to the people of South Africa.
“As you bow out, we wish you the very best and I know you are looking forward to spending quality time with them. Once again, we will never let your sacrifices to have been in vain. When we see you somewhere outside the courtroom, we will point and say, ‘there is a man who did his job well, he served his nation with distinction and he was not vainglorious’,” Simelane concluded.
The tenure of Chief Justice Zondo at the helm of the Constitutional Court comes to an end on August 31st and a historical era will begin in September when Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya becomes the first woman to head up South Africa’s apex court. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 14:55
117 views
Hlengwa elevates gender equality in aviation
Hlengwa elevates gender equality in aviation
As South Africa commemorates Women’s Month, Deputy Minister of Transport, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, has advocated for gender equality in the aviation sector.
Addressing the National Aviation Gender Summit in Durban, Hlengwa said gender equality in the aviation sector can only be accomplished through strategic planning and a commitment to achieving these objectives.
“It is important that we remain accountable to ensure that we achieve our long-term vision for gender equality in aviation. Empowering women has a significant ripple effect, not only within our organisations, which are key drivers of economic growth and critical components of international trade and tourism, but also at the grassroots level, impacting the very fabric of our society,” the Deputy Minister said on Wednesday.
He said gender parity needs new innovative ways to bring women into formal employment.
“In South Africa, out of the 25 830 licensed personnel at the end of July 2024, only 5 067 are female. This includes pilots, engineers, air traffic officers and cabin crew. Of course, we must celebrate this improvement, [with] almost 20% of women occupying technical roles in the industry but we have a challenge here.
“In a country greatly affected by unemployment and its affects being continuously higher amongst women, especially the youth, the aviation sector is presented with a unique opportunity to empower young women from all walks of life who wish to be a part of this sector.
“We truly can make a difference as decision makers and as citizens in our immediate environments, at home, at work and everyday interactions. South African women are strong, capable and dedicated,” Hlengwa said.
Over 60% of women in Africa are currently working in the informal sector. That's more than half of our continent’s talent pool.
“At the current rate of progress, it will take 102 years to close the gender gap in Sub-Saharan Africa. This is a statistic that should awaken our fires to act I think that we often find acting a mammoth task, but it begins with all of us implementing change in our immediate environments, every day wasted is a day added to 102 years,” he said.
Skills development
The Deputy Minister said he is encouraged by the ongoing bursaries, mentorship and skills development programs that have been initiated by all the aviation entities to encourage a new generation of professionals, especially in previously disadvantaged communities.
“We acknowledge the efforts from entities such as the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), who have dedicated funds and personnel in creating initiatives such as the career awareness programmes, where there has been a concerted effort to drive and promote female participation in this industry.
“Proactive measures are crucial in reshaping a sector that has traditionally been dominated by men. The dedication to creating opportunities and fostering a more inclusive environment is commendable and marks a significant step forward.
“Across the broader transport sector, encompassing taxis, railways, and bus operations - aviation stands out amongst the leading modes of transport in its commitment to gender diversity and inclusion,” the Deputy Minister said.
He said transformation in the aviation sector is crucial not only for industry to grow, but the economy to grow.
“It is crucial that we move from having exemplary laws on paper to realising tangible results on the ground. To this end, we will work tirelessly to bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that our aviation sector not only meets but exceeds expectations in all areas and set mandates. Even on matters of diversity and inclusion, I pledge my support in every way that matters,” the Deputy Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 13:44
111 views
SuperC Energy and SuperSport Schools Team Up to Energise Young Athletes Across South Africa
SuperC Energy Drink, a trusted South African brand, is proud to announce its exciting partnership with SuperSport Schools, South Africa’s leading school sports platform and exclusive channel on DSTV Channel 216. This collaboration aims to fuel the athletic performance of young sportspeople nationwide, while promoting active lifestyle choices through education, community engagement, and product sampling. …
Witnessing the value of democracy
Witnessing the value of democracy
By Khanyisile Rasmeni and Sinovuyo Mfiki
Tshibiso Morao of Makwane village in Qwa Qwa, Free State, has seen the positive impact of democracy in his community.
“We observed changes resulting in our children attending school for free. The children of our community are also provided with breakfast and lunch at school daily," he said.
He added that after three decades of democracy, there was improvement in the delivery of low cost housing, benefiting those who struggled to access dignified housing.
Moroa spoke recently to the Vuk’uzenzele team which was aboard the Democracy Bus.
The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with the South African National Roads Agency, recently launched the Democracy Bus, which travels around the country to drum up citizen participation in celebration of the country's 30 years of democracy.
In the Free State, the Democracy Bus visited Namahadi and Makwane villages and brought government services closer to people.
For Ephraim Mojsoane, who was 14 years old in 1994, democracy means being able to have basic human rights.
“Democracy has greatly benefited South Africa, we now have human rights and the Bill of Rights,” he said.
Mojsoane testified that during the 30 years of freedom and democracy, there has been progress in workplaces, business and the economy.
He added that the government still needed to work hard to better the lives of South Africans.
Magauta Mohobeleli, originally from Bloemfontein, but currently residing in Kgotsong, said she currently has land thanks to the principles of democracy.
“Democracy has brought numerous positive changes, we can easily access all government services. Our children have access to scholarships, and efforts are being made to combat gender-based violence,” she said.
Sibongile Makubo from Namahadi village, expressed gratitude for the positive effects of democracy over the past 30 years.
“Democracy has led to significant changes such as improved access to government services without the need for transportation, and the provision of housing and land,” she concluded.
The Democracy Bus travels to different parts of South Africa and promotes dialogues with communities. The initiative is part of the country's milestones of the 30 years of democracy.
*This article first appeared in Vuk’uzenzele
Janine
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 13:21
61 views
South African Airways Becomes Airline Partner for the Africa Football Business Summit 2024 in Nairobi
The Football Foundation for Africa (FFA) (https://FootballFoundation.Africa/) is proud to announce South African Airways (SAA) as the (official) airline partner for the Africa Football Business Summit 2024, taking place in Nairobi on 24-25 October 2024.
The summit will bring together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and football enthusiasts from across the globe to explore the intersection of football, business, and social impact.
Through SAA's codeshare agreement with Kenyan Airways, participants in the Business Summit are expected to have access to discounted international, regional and domestic airfares when travelling to and from Nairobi.
SAA Regional Manager, East Africa and Middle East, Dr Austin Nyawara, said, “Sustainable and cost-effective air travel is a crucial ingredient in the growth of the sports economy across Africa. As we bring together stakeholders from all corners of the continent for the Summit in Nairobi, we are thrilled to offer delegates up to a 15 per cent discount on SAA's already competitive prices. This partnership underscores our shared commitment to connecting and uniting Africa—an endeavour that SAA has championed through its tagline, “Connecting Africa One Flight at a Time.”
As the proud flag carrier of South Africa, SAA has just celebrated a significant milestone—90 years of service—solidifying its status as one of the oldest and most resilient airlines in the world.
Football, much like air travel, has the power to unite people and communities across Africa. This partnership with SAA aligns perfectly with the broader FFA agenda of fostering connections and driving socio-economic development through football.
SAA's rich history of investing in sports, including its past sponsorship of South Africa's Springboks and its recent partnership with the South African Football Association as the official carrier of the national football teams, makes it an ideal partner for the Africa Football Business Summit.
“We look forward to working closely with SAA not only during the Summit but also in the future as we strive to create a sustainable and thriving sports economy across Africa,” concluded Brian Wesaala, founder and CEO of The Football Foundation for Africa.
Book your flight to the Africa Football Business Summit here. https://apo-opa.co/3YSWfS1
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Football Foundation for Africa.
Note to Editors:
The Africa Football Business Summit 2024 will be held at the Weston Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. It will bring together key stakeholders in football, sports business, and social innovation from across Africa and beyond.
For more information, please contact:
Brian Wesaala
Founder & CEO
afbs@footballfoundation.africa
https://AFBS.FootballFoundation.Africa
About South African Airways (SAA):
South African Airways is the national airline of South Africa, with a rich history of 90 years in aviation. SAA is committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and connecting Africa to the world with safety, reliability, and excellence.
About The Football Foundation for Africa (FFA):
The Football Foundation for Africa is dedicated to unlocking Africa's youth potential through the power of football. Through initiatives like the Africa Football Business Summit, FFA seeks to drive social innovation, economic development, and unity across the continent.
Award-Winning PR Maven Apaphia Lefatle Joins Decode
Strategic reputation management powerhouse has appointed Apaphia Lefatle, an award-winning Public Relations maven, as Senior Account Manager. Apaphia’s extensive experience and deep passion for PR promise to significantly impact her new role, especially as she takes the lead on Decode Communications’ major accounts, such as loveLife and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. Her expertise spans …
Tailored Support for Women Entrepreneurs Will Raise SA’s Job Creation and Economic Growth Prospects
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Eskom removes illegally connected transformers in Gauteng
Eskom removes illegally connected transformers in Gauteng
Eskom, in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, has removed over 35 illegally connected transformers in Gauteng’s Diepsloot Extension 6.
“This joint operation is part of Eskom’s ongoing efforts to reclaim its network and alleviate the strain caused by unauthorised and illegal electricity connections,” the State-owned power utility said of Tuesday’s removal.
In the 2022/23 financial year, Eskom said it suffered non-technical losses of around R5 billion due to illegal connections, meter bypasses, and other electricity-related criminal activities within its supply area.
The utility has lamented that these unauthorised practices undermine its financial health and its ability to provide a reliable electricity supply to lawful customers.
Meanwhile, according to Eskom, illegally connected transformers not only destabilise the network, causing frequent supply interruptions, extended outages and substandard service for paying customers, but it also poses significant safety risks to their technicians working on the system.
Eskom’s Group Executive for Distribution, Monde Bala, expressed deep appreciation for the collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), Joburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), Red Ants, Eskom Protective Services, and the private security companies in ensuring the success of this operation.
“These efforts are crucial in safeguarding Eskom’s assets, ensuring public safety, and mitigating the severe energy losses caused by illegal connections, meter bypasses, and acts of theft and vandalism,” Bala added.
While most employees are dedicated and committed to delivering their daily job outputs and striving to enhance Eskom’s performance, the organisation stated that it maintains a clear stance of zero tolerance towards crime and corruption.
“Consequently, we are currently investigating allegations from community leaders that some Eskom employees are allegedly involved in the sale of illegal transformers. We will update community leaders on the outcomes of these investigations once they are concluded.”
Eskom has since called on all communities to refrain from engaging in any illegal activities related to electricity.
Members of the public are encouraged to report illegal connections, meter bypasses, and any suspicious activities to the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323.
Additionally, anyone with information regarding the involvement of Eskom employees in illegal activities is urged to report anonymously for further investigation. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 10:44
6 views
SAPS celebrates its women in blue
SAPS celebrates its women in blue
This year, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is observing Women's Month by celebrating its women in blue, who do not only bring inclusivity and empathy to the table, but who also go beyond the call of duty to serve and protect the people of South Africa.
Today, SAPS introduces the nation to Sergeant Silindile Njilo, a crime prevention member attached to the Ntuzuma police station in KwaZulu-Natal.
Njilo and baby “Tholakele” captured the hearts and minds of the nation when a video clip of them trended on social media platforms earlier this year. Loosely translated, the name Tholakele means ‘being found'. The real identity of the toddler is being withheld.
Little did Njilo know how her day shift would unfold when she reported for duty on 05 May 2024 and found an abandoned baby girl at the Client Service Centre (CSC). The baby was brought to the police station during the previous shift by the owner of a local tavern after the biological mother had left the baby at his establishment.
Wasting no time, Njilo went home to get a wash basin and returned back to the police station where she bathed Tholakele, changed her into a new set of clothes and fed her while waiting for social services to arrive.
It was as if the baby instinctively realised that she was safe in the arms of Njilo and a bond immediately formed between them.
Baby Tholakele, a name Njilo gave her, has since been placed at a place of safety. Njilo visits often and says she continues to love and care for Tholakela as if she were one of her own.
Njilo, a devoted wife and mother of two, also says her act of humility that day was merely a reflection of her humble upbringing as she knows how it feels to 'come from nothing'.
Her mother single handedly raised Njilo and her siblings with no steady income. Njilo says she will never forget her late mother's words: "Be a light and take care of those who need help".
She often takes out money from her own pocket to buy basic essentials and food to support poverty-stricken community members.
Joining the Service 14 years ago was a dream come true for Njilo, as she believes there is no greater calling than to be of service to her community.
As a crime prevention member, her duties include dealing with general enquiries and complaints lodged by the public, attend to crime scenes, effecting arrests and detaining suspects as well as carrying out patrol duties.
"I urge our community members to support and stand alongside members of the South African Police Service. Because, together we can achieve more towards a safer country for all," said Njilo.
Nothing short of a heroine, Sergeant Njilo continues to be a shining light in the community she serves. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 08/21/2024 - 10:16
27 views
Enhancing Local Government Service Delivery in the South African Context
By Dr Daniel Govender (Academic Head- School of Law and Administration at Regent Business School) Local government in South Africa suffers from challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies, lack of resources, and widespread corruption, which together often hinder local government’s ability to meet the dire needs of the community effectively. Regent Business School’s Academic Head of …
Dafabet Announced As CSA’s Official Team Associate Sponsor
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is thrilled to announce Dafabet as the official Team Associate Sponsor for the Proteas Men’s...
Emerging Hip-Hop Artist James Hadi Drops Anticipated Single ‘Ebaleni’ Featuring Mthunzi
Johannesburg – Emerging hip-hop sensation James Hadi releases his highly anticipated single “Ebaleni” featuring SAMA award-winning artist Mthunzi. With a unique sound that blends effortlessly, James Hadi brings a fresh perspective to the game, weaving together stories of deep-kasi that resonate with listeners. Stream “Ebaleni” now: (https://youtu.be/0h3qYidd1P0?si=XLDclZ2i_3N98_rC) At its core, “Ebaleni” is a joyful celebration …
Government committed to media responses
Government committed to media responses
Government has, in a statement on Tuesday, said it noted concerns about non-responsiveness or late responses from government communicators to media queries.
This follows a media article published by BusinessTech on Monday, where they reached out to all government ministries for comment via email and only received a 37.5% response rate.
“The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) as the custodian of sound relations between government and media is committed to continuous improved relations with various media houses, journalists and media bodies such as the South African National Editors Forum, (SANEF), Association of Independent Publishers (AIP), National Community Radio Forum ( NCRF) and the Press Council,” said the GCIS.
It said the concerns raised by various stakeholders on the non-responsiveness or late responding to media queries have been taken seriously and engagements have been held to ensure a harmonious environment.
“…However this work continues as often communicators and media liaison officers move between different organisations, thus leading to a possible lapse of communication during transitioning of personnel.
“The GCIS is committed to addressing this challenge by ensuring that all communicators are oriented and au fait with good media relations practices as outlined in the government communications policy approved by cabinet in 2018,” the organisation said.
It urged media who experience challenges with media queries to contact its media engagement officials who will assist in ensuring that communicators are responding timeously with reasonable engagement between them and the journalists about deadlines and adequate responses. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 14:03
148 views
African Development Bank Group Supports Study Tour to Brazil to Inspire African Cities
From August 5 to August 13, 2024, representatives from seven African cities visited the Brazilian cities of Sao Paulo, Fortaleza and Curitiba, to discover inspiring solutions being implemented by local authorities to promote sustainable urban development.
The Study Tour, organised as part of the African Development Bank's African Cities Program (ACP) (http://apo-opa.co/3Azu2pl), launched in 2020, was financed by the South-to-South Cooperation Trust Fund (SSCTF) in collaboration with the Bank Group's Urban and Municipal Development Fund (UMDF), with the participation of the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (http://apo-opa.co/4fUnhyo).
The trip was inspired by the idea that peer exchanges between cities in the Global South can enrich the urban planning approaches and strategies of decision-makers in African municipalities.
"Africa's rapid urban transition has many similarities with that experienced by Latin America in the 1950s and 60s,” said Darline Tognia, UMDF Coordinator and leader of the delegation. “By visiting Brazil today, we can see firsthand, and with hindsight, how cities have absorbed this growth; which solutions have worked, and which have not.”
The delegation consisted of 19 high-level municipal staff drawn from planning departments, finance departments, transportation services, and others, working in eight African cities which are already benefiting from the Urban and Municipal Development Fund and C40: Nairobi (Kenya), Beira (Mozambique), Tshwane (South Africa), Lomé (Togo), Dakar (Senegal), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) and Freetown (Sierra Leone).
The visit started in Sao Paulo, the largest city in South America, where innovation and sustainability coexist with complex urban and environmental challenges. At Parque Bristol, a popular neighbourhood, participants visited a publicly run multipurpose facility for children, which benefits from a “School Feeding Program”, a large-scale municipal effort to promote healthy eating, while also supporting urban agriculture.
As part of the tour, the group also met with waste recycling cooperatives, visited an electric bus maintenance center, learnt about public transport by river-boats, and how informal settlements are being upgraded by the municipality trough the provision of basic infrastructure, improved transport integration, social housing programs and environmental protection measures.
In Fortaleza, a coastal city in north-east Brazil, and the second leg of the tour, the delegation saw various initiatives that have significantly improved the cityscape; in sustainable mobility, youth engagement and climate resilience.
The tour came to an end in Curitiba, a city of 2 million inhabitants, renowned for its innovative approach to sustainable development and urban mobility. The delegation learnt about the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system implemented by the city, as well as its slum upgrading, urban planning and solid waste management programs.
The Urban and Municipal Development Fund envisioned the trip as a means of consolidating a network of African cities interested in adopting urban solutions with an inclusive and human-centered approach.
The Brazil tour follows previous ones organized in 2022 to Copenhagen (Denmark) and Malmo (Sweden) (http://apo-opa.co/4fKPMih), to discover the renowned sustainable urban planning strategies of Nordic countries.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Tributes continue for Prof Muxe Nkondo
Tributes continue for Prof Muxe Nkondo
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Prof Blade Nzimande, has expressed his shock and great sadness at the news of the passing away of Professor Muxe Nkondo.
Nkondo, who passed away at the age of 83 on Sunday, has been described as a friend, colleague, and fellow intellectual in the struggle against apartheid and the development of the democratic order in the post-1994 period.
“Prof Nkondo has a special place in the history of both the struggles leading up to the fall of apartheid and the emergence of a democratic order in the early 1990s.
“I remember him as a radical scholar, organic intellectual, activist, and a leading figure amongst the first generation of Vice-Chancellors who led our higher education system through its difficult first decades of transformation,” the Minister’s statement read.
According to Nzimande, Nkondo placed great importance on the recognition of African liberation as a process of not only overcoming the legacies of political disempowerment but one of cultural, social, economic and intellectual emancipation.
“In other words, for him, attainment of formal, political rights must be matched by transformations in all other aspects of human life.”
The Professor was said to be deeply influenced by radical post-independence and liberation thinkers such as Walter Rodney, Franz Fanon, Amilcar Cabral, CLR James and Steve Biko.
“He framed the importance of cultural and intellectual freedom at the centre of his work – an orientation that perhaps explains his lifelong commitment to higher education and intellectual work which spanned a wide range of fronts, from higher education, arts and culture, public administration, rural development civil society and economic development.”
The late academic occupied senior roles as Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of the North and Vice-Chancellor of Venda University.
He was also a leading figure in the association of historically Black universities and campaigned relentlessly for recognition of their distinctive role and place within the higher education landscape, and redress and equity.
At the University of Venda, according to the department, Nkondo pioneered a vision emphasising the rural development mission of the university, rooted in its social context.
He also promoted a science, technology and innovation agenda of the university that tackled pressing development issues such as water security, food production, sanitation, small business development and cultural production, working closely with local communities.
Indigenous Knowledge Systems
The Professor also served as Chairperson of the technical team and reference group that drafted the Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) National Policy for the Department of Science and Technology (DSI).
“It is hard to pigeon-hole the intellectual contribution of Prof Nkondo as he was truly a polymath, whose contributions spanned a stunning range of areas including science and technology, higher education, arts and culture, public administration, human settlements, tourism, and rural development.”
According to the Minister, he was not only an African intellectual focusing on the local and national questions of development in South Africa but was also, par excellence, a pan-African intellectual who worked actively across the continent to advance a new African agenda for the African Union (AU) and New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).
He was among 500 African scholars invited by the AU in 2004 to Dakar, Senegal, to speak on the role of intellectuals in Africa’s development.
“The Department of Science and Innovation will surely miss his seminal contributions to our understanding of the role of science and technology in the emancipation of South Africa’s most marginalised communities.”
Nzimande stated that his contributions to IKS continue to resonate in the DSI’s White Paper on Science and Innovation and Decadal Plan.
READ | President Ramaphosa mourns passing of Prof Muxe Nkondo
“I wish to join our President, Cyril Ramaphosa, in expressing my heartfelt condolences to the wife of Professor Nkondo, Professor Olga Nyondo and their children and extended family,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 10:32
259 views
Outsourced CFO Wins At Annual African Excellence Awards
Outsourced CFO wins Best Global CFO & Accounting Services Provider at the African Excellence Awards, for their commitment to exceptional financial solutions. Outsourced CFO, a leading provider of financial and accounting services, is proud to announce its recognition as the Best Global CFO & Accounting Services Provider 2024 by the Seventh Annual African Excellence Awards. This …
South African Police Service celebrates its women in policing during Women’s Month
This year, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is observing Women's Month by celebrating its women in blue who do not only bring inclusivity and empathy to the table, but who also go beyond the call of duty to serve and protect the people of South Africa.
Today, we introduce the nation to Sergeant Silindile Njilo, a crime prevention member attached to the Ntuzuma police station in KwaZulu-Natal.
Njilo and baby “Tholakele” captured the hearts and minds of the nation when a video clip of them trended on social media platforms earlier this year. Loosely translated, the name Tholakele means ‘being found'; the real identity of the toddler is being withheld.
Little did Njilo know how her Day Shift would unfold when she reported for duty on 05 May 2024 and found an abandoned baby girl at the Client Service Centre (CSC). The baby was brought to the police station during the previous shift by the owner of a local tavern after the biological mother had left the baby at his establishment.
Wasting no time, Njilo went home to get a wash basin and returned back to the police station where she bathed Tholakele, changed her into a new set of clothes and fed her while waiting for social work services to arrive. It was as if the baby instinctively realised that she was safe in the arms of Njilo and a bond immediately formed between them.
Baby Tholakele, a name Njilo gave her, has since been placed at a place of safety. Njilo visits often and says she continues to love and care for Tholakela as if she is one of her own.
Njilo, a devote wife and mother of two, also says her act of humility that day was merely a reflection of her humble upbringing as she knows how it feels to 'come from nothing'.
Her mother single handedly raised Njilo and her siblings with no steady income and adds by saying that she will never forget her late mother's words: "Be a light and take care of those who need help". She often takes out money from her own pocket to buy basic essentials and food to support poverty-stricken community members.
Joining the Service 14 years ago, was a dream come true for Njilo as she believes there is no greater calling than to be of service to her community.
As a crime prevention member, her duties include dealing with general enquiries and complaints lodged by the public, attend to crime scenes, effecting arrests and detaining suspects as well as carrying out patrol duties.
"I urge our community members to support and stand alongside members of the South African Police Service. Because, together we can achieve more towards a safer country for all," said Njilo.
Nothing short of a heroine, Sergeant Silindile Njilo continues to be a shining light in the community she serves!
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Police Service.
Leading researchers to be acknowledged at 2024 NRF Awards
Leading researchers to be acknowledged at 2024 NRF Awards
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, will address the prestigious National Research Foundation (NRF) Awards at the Sun City Resort, North West, on Thursday.
The NRF, an entity of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), funds research and the development of high-end human capacity and critical research infrastructure to promote knowledge production across all disciplinary fields.
This year’s event is significant as it marks 25 years of the NRF promoting research, innovation and partnerships that contribute to building an inclusive, knowledge-based society in South Africa.
The annual awards are a highlight of the academic calendar, drawing together the leading lights of local and international academia.
The ceremony recognises the scientists behind groundbreaking research conducted at South Africa’s higher education institutions.
The awards are presented in two categories, these include the special awards that recognise extraordinary contributions to the South African knowledge base.
The finalists in this category include three DSI-NRF Centres of Excellence – Human Development, Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, and Biomedical TB Research.
The second category is the NRF ratings-based awards, which are based on a rigorous peer review system that evaluates the research impact of nominees over the past five years.
“Each year several researchers have their research output peer-reviewed and are given ratings by the NRF,” a statement by the department read.
These ratings fall under the categories of A (leading international researchers), B (internationally acclaimed researchers), C (established researchers), P (prestigious awards) or Y (promising young researchers).
“These ratings recognise these researchers’ standing in their fields as well as the world-leading nature of their work. To obtain an A rating, a researcher must be recognised by their peers as a leading international scholar in their field.”
In addition, an A-rated researcher must be based on the high quality and high impact of their recent research output.
Meanwhile, the P rating is awarded to researchers who, based on exceptional potential demonstrated in research performance and output during doctoral and/or early post-doctoral careers, are considered likely to become future international leaders in their respective fields.
“Researchers who have received A and P ratings will be acknowledged at the NRF Awards.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 12:44
83 views
More than 100 attempts over three decades to finally reach Championship Boerewors Top 10
More than 100 attempts over three decades to finally reach Championship Boerewors Top 10 Whilst some were lucky enough to make it on first try, many of the Shoprite and Checkers 2024 Championship Boerewors competition finalists have been refining their recipes for decades, submitting a combined 100+ entries before finally landing their spots in the …
#WomensMonth: SAPS honours outstanding veterinary nurse
#WomensMonth: SAPS honours outstanding veterinary nurse
This year, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is observing Women's Month by highlighting the work of its women in blue, who are not only game changers in their respective fields, but who also go beyond the call of duty to serve and protect South Africans and visitors.
Today, the SAPS introduces the nation to Captain Mariaan Nel, a qualified veterinary nurse attached to the SAPS Veterinary Services in Bloemfontein, Free State.
The Veterinary Services is a specialised unit that resides within the component, Visible Policing and Operations.
Nel joined the service 13 years ago as a veterinary nurse at the rank of captain shortly after she obtained a National Diploma in Veterinary Nursing from the University of Pretoria. She also holds a degree in Accounting.
She is one of five female veterinary nurses in the Service and currently the only nurse based in the Free State province as part of a pilot project. In total, there are eight veterinary nurses nationwide in the SAPS.
As a veterinary nurse in the SAPS, Nel's duties include the following:
* Execute primary health care support to SAPS animals;
* Monitor the primary health status of SAPS animals and report epidemiological phenomena;
* Conduct veterinary inspections at SAPS K9 and Mounted Units; and
* Present veterinary and animal handling courses to SAPS members
Being based in Bloemfontein, Nel travels vast distances to ensure the welfare of 37 dogs and nine horses attached to the various K9 and Mounted Units within the Free State.
Police dogs and horses not only enhance police visibility but they are also deployed during crime prevention operations. They assist with investigations on crime scenes, trace suspects, detect narcotics and assist with search and rescue operations.
Nel says her profession may not place her at the forefront of fighting crime, but it gives her satisfaction to ensure the SAPS’s four-legged crime fighting heroes stay in tip top shape.
"I am passionate about the well-being of animals, in particular SAPS animals. I encourage girls and young women to pursue a career in the police, as it is rewarding to know your services make a valuable contribution towards a safer country for all," said Nel.
A dog may be a man’s best friend, but Captain Nel is certainly any SAPS dog and horse’s best friend. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 11:53
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President Ramaphosa to officiate signing of second Presidential Health Compact
President Ramaphosa to officiate signing of second Presidential Health Compact
President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday preside over the signing of the second Presidential Health Compact at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
The Presidential Health Compact is an initiative established by President Ramaphosa in 2019.
It is a framework of cooperation between critical sectors in South Africa that significantly influences good health outcomes.
According to the Presidency, it also monitors and evaluates components where roles and responsibilities are assigned to various stakeholders to support the strengthening of health systems and preparation for implementing the National Health Insurance (NHI).
READ | President Ramaphosa to officiate signing of the Presidential Health Compact
The second compact follows the 2023 Presidential Health Summit, which built on the inaugural summit of 2018 and brought together several stakeholders.
These include government, business, labour, civil society, health professionals, unions, service users, statutory councils, academia, and researchers to develop sustainable and inclusive solutions to challenges in the national health system.
The stakeholders involved in this framework are integral to supporting the Department of Health in improving the health system.
It initially consisted of nine pillars, with the 10th pillar added during last year’s summit.
These include the development of human resources, improving access to medicine, vaccines and health products, upgrading infrastructure, private sector engagement, quality healthcare, public sector financial management improvements, governance and leadership, community engagements, information systems and pandemic preparedness.
The signatories to the health compact are:
• The President of the Republic of South Africa
• The Minister of Health
• The Minister of Science and Innovation
• Independent Community Pharmacy Association (ICPA)
• South African National AIDS Council (SANAC)
• South African Medical Association Trade Union
• Democratic Nurses of South Africa
• Congress of South African Trade Unions
• Campaigning for Cancer- Patient User Groups
• South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)
• South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC)
• National Unitary Professional Association for African Traditional Health Practitioners of South Africa (NUPAATHPSA)
• Traditional Knowledge Systems and Allied Health
The signing of the second Presidential Health Compact will take place at the Union Buildings Courtyard, West Wing, Pretoria at 12:30 pm. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 09:44
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