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Wet, cold weather expected to continue in Western Cape

Location: News

Wet, cold weather expected to continue in Western Cape

Cold and wet weather is expected to continue in the Western Cape this week with a series of cold fronts still to make landfall over the coming days.

“A series of cold fronts are still on track to make landfall, resulting in a week of wet and cold conditions. [Monday] will see the coldest daytime temperatures, and the next cold front with rain is expected to arrive on Tuesday.

“Between 10 and 20mm of rain is expected over the western parts, and between 40 and 60mm can be expected over the southern western mountains,” the Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning department said.

The department added that the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) is monitoring the situation.

“[The South African Weather Service] confirmed its outlook for strong to gale force west to north-westerly winds for the south-west coast and emphasised the high danger of runaway wildfires in the Garden Route District. The Department of Water and Sanitation continues to monitor river and dam levels, which are expected to rise significantly in the coming week.

“Eskom reported several outages over the past 48 hours caused by the severe weather. Cape Town, the West Coast and Overberg regions were hardest hit so far, and repair teams are attending to them as fast as possible,” the department said.

READ | Western Cape prepares for inclement weather

Disruptive weather

The department’s MEC Anton Bredell said since the first cold front made landfall over the weekend, the PDMC has received reports of damage and disruptions due in several areas.

“Widespread disruptions and damage, including loss of shelter in informal settlements, localised flooding, fallen trees, electricity outages, and road closures due to snow or flooding, were reported during our meeting [on Monday].

“The City of Cape Town, Overberg, Cape Winelands and West Coast Districts were hardest hit by the severe weather. As always, our focus remains on the safety of our residents and the humanitarian support that they need,” he said.

Significant rainfall has already been recorded in several towns in the Western Cape, including at Ceres, which received some 123mm and Elgin Grabouw which received 84mm of rainfall.

The provincial government and the national Department of Human Settlements are working together to assist those who have lost homes due to flooding.

Search and rescue operations are also ready for those communities cut off from main roads.

“Wuppertal and other communities in the Cederberg area will be reached by specialised 4x4 teams once a needs assessment has been conducted, and we will be ready for similar requests as the week unfolds,” Bredell said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:00

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Read moreWet, cold weather expected to continue in Western Cape

PSC applauds officials who refuse to accept a bribes

Location: News

PSC applauds officials who refuse to accept a bribes

The Public Service Commission (PSC) has applauded officials who refuse to accept bribes at the country’s ports of entry to South Africa.

“The integrity of officers at South Africa’s ports of entry plays a significant role in combating and preventing bribery and corruption in rendering customs, transport, and immigration services to the public,” said PSC Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya.

Addressing the media in Pretoria earlier today, Gxoyiya said this was demonstrated by officials from the South African Revenue Services (SARS) and the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) who refused to take bribes of R200 000 and R50 000 respectively, to allow a truck carrying 614 boxes of semi-manufactured tobacco worth over R6 million to enter the country. 

He said the display of integrity by officials promotes a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct.
“The PSC once more applauds the exemplary ethical behaviour displayed by the officials from SARS and the RTMC for refusing to take a bribe at the Beitbridge port of entry,” said the Commissioner.

“Bribery at the ports of entry manifest in various ways, including, but not limited to, facilitation payment, document falsification, preferential treatment and smuggling,” Gxoyiya said, adding that corrupt officials may cooperate with criminal networks to smuggle illicit goods and even enable human trafficking in exchange of bribes.

“In addition, the PSC would like to congratulate the Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille and officials in her department who were instrumental in the recovery of the R35 million in irregular payments made through SA Tourism's US and South Africa Offices, for services not rendered,” Gxoyiya said.

He said the recovery of the funds demonstrated their commitment in fighting corruption and ensuring that funds allocated to the department are used appropriately in line with the Public Finance Management Act.

“The PSC would like to encourage all public servants across the country to uphold the constitutional values and principles which calls for professional ethics and accountability. These actions will contribute towards building a professional, ethical, and capable public service,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:05

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Democratic dispensation necessitated a complete overhaul of state bureaucracy

Location: News

Democratic dispensation necessitated a complete overhaul of state bureaucracy

Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya says the transition from apartheid to a democratic dispensation necessitated a complete overhaul of the state bureaucracy.

“Though tailored to the South African context, South Africa’s public administration reforms – notwithstanding their debatable strengths and weaknesses – followed international trends, from Traditional Public Administration (TPA) through to variants of New Public Management (NPM),” Gxoyiya said.

Speaking in Pretoria earlier today, Gxoyiya said governments worldwide continuously reform to promote efficient public administration that is responsive to people’s needs and the countries’ social, economic and technical challenges.   

“Similarly, there is recognition that reforms vary from country to country, and in the case of South Africa, the transition from apartheid to a democratic dispensation necessitated a complete overhaul of the state bureaucracy,” Gxoyiya said.

He said the need for reflection on the historical and current factors that have shaped public service administration as it is known today became unavoidable at the tail end of 30 years of democratic governance in South Africa.

“The PSC has consistently argued that the realisation of the fundamental rights in the Constitution and the peremptory adherence to the Constitutional Values and Principles (CVPs) are central to public administration reform. 

“Simply put, one way of evaluating the public administration reforms in South Africa is to examine the public services provided and citizen’s perception of their efficacy,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:21

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Read moreDemocratic dispensation necessitated a complete overhaul of state bureaucracy

Municipalities’ R78 billion Eskom debt an ‘urgent task’ – Ramokgopa

Location: News

Municipalities' R78 billion Eskom debt an 'urgent task' - Ramokgopa

The R78 billion debt owed to Eskom by municipalities must be urgently addressed to protect the ability of the power utility to fulfil its mandate.

This is according to Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgop,a who addressed the media on Monday.

“Collectively, municipalities are owing Eskom R78 billion and…a lot of this is irrecoverable. There’s no possibility under the sun that we are going to collect that R78 billion. It’s important that we resolve this picture.

“This picture presents problems for Eskom. Eskom needs this money for it to be able to reinvest back into its own infrastructure. Municipalities have to pay that money…but on an objective ground, they simply don’t have the means to be able to pay,” he said at the briefing held in Pretoria.

Ramokgopa said the current trajectory of the debt owed to Eskom poses a threat to the existence of the power utility in the future.

“To give you the magnitude of the problem, if we don’t resolve this problem, our projection is that at the current rate, by 2050, Eskom will be owed R3.1 trillion. Eskom will collapse. Generation capacity is going to be compromised. So, it’s important that we resolve this question.

“This is the most urgent task that is confronting us. It is municipality related but we can’t fold our arms, we need to help them from a technical point of view.”

He emphasised that continued non-payment is affecting Eskom’s ability to address distribution infrastructure needs – leading to the implementation of load reduction.

Load reduction is implemented in areas when the demand is higher than the infrastructure is able to handle.

“In the solution, we must protect the interests of Eskom as a going concern, ensure that municipalities are able to collect [revenue] but also protect the interests of the user. Because when that distribution infrastructure fails that is providing electricity to 50 houses, there’ll be 10 to 20 houses that have been paying diligently but they are collateral damage.

“The biggest victims of all of that is the end consumer and, by definition, is the South African economy,” he said.

The Minister said the department, together with municipal leaders will address the challenge of electricity affordability and access to allow municipalities to be able to collect revenue.

“It is important that we must review electricity tariff models to enhance affordability and expand access. Everyone must have access to electricity and once they have access…make sure that they can afford it. That’s something that is going to receive our attention.

“Distribution is our albatross…it’s on a mode of self-destruction and the casualties are the poor. They are the ones that are subjected to conditions of load reduction in the main and even those who are diligent payers are subjected to load reduction.

“This can’t continue any further. It’s important that we arrest it so that we are able to ensure that the country is able to achieve its developmental objectives,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 12:22

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Read moreMunicipalities’ R78 billion Eskom debt an ‘urgent task’ – Ramokgopa

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation’s (FIBA) Basketball Without Borders Africa Camp to Return to South Africa for 20th Edition

Location: Sport
National Basketball Association (NBA)

The National Basketball Association (NBA) (www.NBA.com) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) today announced that the 20th edition of Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa will be held at the American International School of Johannesburg from Saturday, Aug. 3 – Tuesday, Aug. 6, marking the 16th time that the NBA and FIBA's global basketball development and community outreach program will be held in South Africa.  BWB Africa camps have also been held in Dakar, Senegal (2010 and 2019), Luanda, Angola (2016) and Cairo, Egypt (2022).  

BWB Africa 2024 will bring together 30 boys and 30 girls from more than 20 African countries to learn directly from current and former NBA, WNBA and FIBA players, legends and coaches and compete alongside their peers from across the continent.  The campers and coaches, who will be announced prior to the camp, will also take part in life-skills, leadership development and NBA Cares programming.

“Bringing Basketball Without Borders back to South Africa for its milestone 20th edition reflects the incredible momentum we're seeing for basketball in the country,” said NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi.  “We look forward to welcoming some of the most talented boys and girls from across the continent for four days of high-level basketball training, competition, and leadership development that will have a lasting impact on their on-court and personal journeys.”

“Basketball Without Borders continues to be a real lever for basketball on the continent,” said FIBA Africa Executive Director Alphonse Bilé.  “As part of our ongoing collaboration with the NBA in Africa, which also includes the Basketball Africa League (BAL), BWB continues to elevate our sport and provide invaluable opportunities and experiences for African youth and coaches, both on-and-off the court.  I would like to extend my thanks to NBA Africa and wish all the participants a rewarding and successful camp.” 

BWB Africa 2024 will be supported by Nike, a global partner of BWB since 2002, which will outfit participants with Nike apparel and footwear, and Gatorade, which will keep players and coaches hydrated throughout the camp.

Forty-one former BWB campers were among the record 125 international players (https://apo-opa.co/3LfzKib) on opening-night rosters for the 2023-24 NBA season, including 2022-23 Kia NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2011), who became the first former BWB camper to be named NBA MVP, and 2019 NBA champion Pascal Siakam (Indiana Pacers; Cameroon; BWB Africa 2012).  In total, 13 former BWB Africa campers have been drafted into the NBA since the first BWB Africa camp in 2003, including Ulrich Chomche (Cameroon), who was selected 57th overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2024 NBA Draft last month.  Sixty-three former BWB Africa campers have also been featured on BAL team rosters over the league's first four seasons.

BWB has reached more than 4,400 participants from 142 countries and territories since 2001, with 127 former campers advancing to the NBA or WNBA.  The NBA and FIBA have staged 75 BWB camps in 50 cities across 33 countries on six continents.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of National Basketball Association (NBA).

Contact:
Pawel Weszka
NBA Africa Communications
pweszka@nba.com
+27 10 007 2666

About NBA Africa: 
NBA Africa is an affiliate of the National Basketball Association (NBA), a global sports and media organization with the mission to inspire and connect people everywhere through the power of basketball.  NBA Africa conducts the league's business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), and has opened subsidiary offices in Cairo, Egypt; Dakar, Senegal; Johannesburg, South Africa; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya. The league's efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through youth and elite development, social responsibility, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, NBA Stores, the BAL, and more. 

NBA games and programming are available in all 54 African countries, and the NBA has hosted three sold-out exhibition games on the continent since 2015.  The BAL, a partnership between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and NBA Africa, is a professional league featuring 12 club teams from across Africa that concluded its fourth season in June 2024.  Fans can follow @NBA_Africa and @theBAL on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

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Read moreThe National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation’s (FIBA) Basketball Without Borders Africa Camp to Return to South Africa for 20th Edition

Arms cache, drugs discovered in Goodwood apartment

Location: News

Arms cache, drugs discovered in Goodwood apartment

A suspect who was arrested at the weekend during a routine stop and search procedure by members of the police’s Flying Squad will make his first court appearance in Athlone in the Western Cape on Monday.

The suspect was discovered with an arms cache and a substantial quantity of drugs and arrested in Goodwood.

According to a statement by the South African Police Service (SAPS), vigilant Flying Squad members were drawn to a suspicious silver Ford double cab bakkie, which prompted them to stop and search the vehicle and the occupant.

The search resulted in the discovery of an unlicensed 9mm firearm, drugs and a substantial amount of cash.

The 28-year-old driver was arrested and interrogated which led the SAPS to an apartment in the Bergzicht complex, situated in Goodwood.

There a further 19 firearms of various calibers were found, including an AK47 assault rifle, a shotgun and other automatic and semi-automatic firearms, as well as an assortment of drugs valued at R3 million.

“We have reason to believe that the apartment, which is leased in the suspect’s name, was never used as a residence, but rather a storing facility for the firearms and the drugs,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.

“As our investigation unfolds, the possibility that more suspects can be apprehended is not excluded. The arrest of the suspect and subsequent seizure are deemed a step in the right direction to tackle gangsterism in the Province,” the police said.

The Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile commended the members who effected the arrest and said detectives assigned to the case will dig deeper to uncover more as “this could be the tip of the iceberg” in their investigation. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 09:55

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Treverton pupil selected to play for Country District hockey team

Location: MyPR

Congratulations to Christopher Nel on being selected to play for the Country District’s U18 hockey team. We wish you every success! Education truly is an adventure. For further information please visit www.treverton.co.za CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za. Author: Treverton Treverton College from Angelfish PR & Events on behalf of Treverton College.

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President: 100 days of no load shedding no reason to relax

Location: News

President: 100 days of no load shedding no reason to relax

Even though South Africa recently reached the longest period without load shedding since 2020, there is no reason to relax, says President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“Our electricity system remains vulnerable and we cannot yet rule out a possibility of further load shedding.

“Rather, this milestone provides encouragement for us to do more and to work faster to ensure a secure supply of electricity now and into the future,” President Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter on Monday. 

On Friday last week, South Africa marked 100 days since the country experienced load shedding. 

This, according to the nation’s First Citizen, was a sign that the Energy Action Plan (EAP), which was launched in July 2022, was bringing some of the outcomes of collaboration between government, business, and other social partners. 

He welcomed Eskom’s Generation Operational Recovery Plan, which stepped up the maintenance schedule, with a marked improvement in the performance of the power stations that produce the bulk of South Africa’s electricity. 

The President also commended the State-owned power utility for successfully commissioning Unit 5 at the Kusile Power Station, adding 800MW to the grid last week. 

This means Eskom has returned three units at Kusile to service ahead of schedule. 

“The improvement in the reliability of power supply has been a relief for households, who have been able to go about their daily lives without the inconvenience of load shedding. It has also been a great relief for businesses.” 

The President cited the Bureau for Economic Research (BER) index which found that consumer confidence rose in the second quarter of this year because of the suspension of load shedding.

This improvement is also a boost to the national economy, which is reliant on the availability and reliability of electricity supply for growth. 

“There is cause for optimism that business and investor confidence will improve. Earlier this month, steelmaker ArcelorMittal announced that it would not go ahead with plans to close its operations in Newcastle and Vereeniging, citing improvements in the country’s electricity and logistics situations as among the factors behind its decision.” 

The South African Reserve Bank stated in its April Monetary Policy Review that “as electricity supply gradually improves, underpinned by the ongoing private investment in renewable energy generation and increased maintenance by Eskom,” South Africa’s near and medium-term growth outlook is set to improve.

“We are committed to continue and complete the far-reaching structural reforms we started during the sixth administration to resolve the immediate electricity supply challenges and lay the groundwork for energy security into the future.”

These reforms, he wrote, include the removal of the licensing threshold for new power generation projects, tax incentives for rooftop solar, opening more bid windows for renewable energy projects, and improving Eskom’s operational viability. 

He mentioned that the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTSA), which will own and operate the nation’s national electricity transmission system, started trading last week, marking the latest milestone in the structural reform process.

“This forms part of the reforms we have been driving to establish an electricity market that will enable competition, secure supply and revolutionise the energy sector.”

As the Government of National Unity (GNU) begins its work, he vowed that leaders will sustain this momentum. 

“For us to continue to implement the EAP and support the hard-working management and staff of Eskom, who are day by day helping to bring us out of this crisis, we must all pull in the same direction.” 

In addition, by focusing on the broader picture and scaling up what has already been achieved, he is of the view that the country was in a far better position to achieve the task they have set themselves to end load shedding and achieve an energy-secure future. 

“We have reached 100 days without load shedding by working together. This should encourage us to redouble our efforts and to strengthen the collaboration between all stakeholders in both the public and private sectors.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 10:07

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Illegal initiation schools shut in North West clampdown

Location: News

Illegal initiation schools shut in North West clampdown

Over 100 initiates were rescued when the North West Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) closed 17 illegal initiation schools throughout the province.

According to the provincial department, this was made possible through collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committee (PICC). 

“The shutting down of the schools follows the extensive oversight visits conducted by the PICC across the province, to clamp down on illegal initiation schools since the beginning of the 2024 winter initiation season in line with Section 15 of the Customary Initiation Act No 2 of 2021 (CIA),” the provincial department explained. 

The committee was monitoring compliance in terms of Sections 20, 21, 23 and 24 of the CIA, verifying the qualifications and credentials of initiation school practitioners, principals, caretakers and traditional surgeons. 

“They also inspected the facilities and resources to ensure they meet minimum standards as per Section 30 of the CIA.” 

These operations, the department said, have ensured the safety and health of numerous young initiates.

“The PICC has opened cases at various police stations and the school principals were arrested.” 

PICC Chairperson Kgosi Godfrey Ramosetlho Gasebone has expressed concern over the non-compliance of the initiation school principals which resulted in the increase of illegal schools and the deaths of two initiates. 

Kgosi Gasebone believes the proliferation of illegal initiations is driven by money and greed by individuals who want to extort money from the parents of initiates.

“During our capacity building session which occurred in April 2024, the PICC…[did] its best to engage the school principals across the province about the new customary initiation law and to follow it before establishing the initiations school. This was done to prevent the emergence of illegal initiation schools.

“We are happy that the school principals have been arrested and they will face the full might of the law. We will continue to work with the police to clamp down on these illegal acts until everyone follows the dictates of the CIA,” Kgosi Gasebone added.  

He has also condemned the recent attack on the PICC Deputy Chairperson Andries Stemmer’s son by those running illegal initiation schools. 

“This incident occurred following a community tip-off about illegal initiation schools in Lichtenburg and Coligny, where 13 initiates were found.” 

Other initiatives were rescued from schools in Moretele, Motla, Makapanstad, Kromkuil, Klipgat, Kgabalatsane, Hebron, Letlhabile, Tigane, Goedgevonden, Mahikeng, Mareetsane, Coligny, Boikhutso, Makouspan and Madibogo which were shut down. 

“The rescued initiates were taken to neighbouring clinics and hospitals for further check-ups and assistance.” 

Gasebone maintains that no initiation school will exist without following the prescripts of the CIA, which amongst others included medical check-ups of initiates and acquiring consent from parents of initiates. 

“What is happening is totally unacceptable. It is illegal and shows no regard for life. We appeal to communities to help the department and PICC stops these criminals who abduct schoolboys and initiate them without the knowledge and consent of their parents. The two deaths would have been avoidable,” said Gasebone.
 
Kgosi Gasebone has encouraged those who have been following the Customary Initiation Act to continue to do so and preserve this important tradition. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 13:22

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Creecy to deliver keynote address at transport conference

Location: News

Creecy to deliver keynote address at transport conference

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy will deliver the opening address at the Southern African Transport Conference (SATC) on Monday in Pretoria. 

The conference provides a platform for national and international dialogue on transport as a socio-economic development priority. 

The platform also facilitates discussion and information exchange on the implementation of transport policy, strategy, and technology applications for all aspects and modes of transportation. 

This year’s conference will focus on upskilling and reskilling the transport industry for current and future challenges.

The SATC, which attracts about 700 delegates each year, will take place at the CSIR International Convention Centre from 9 am. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 15:13

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Inquest into deaths of four SANDF members

Location: News

Inquest into deaths of four SANDF members

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has initiated an inquest into the deaths of four members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) who may have been poisoned by carbon monoxide.

The members were stationed on a 24-hour shift at Shaft 3, a dormant mining shaft in Orkney, North West, next to the abandoned Harry Oppenheimer stadium which has been a hotspot for illegal mining, according to the SANDF.

The deceased members are said to have been found inside a container structure which was used as a guard house for those on 24-hour duty on Saturday morning, 6 July 2024, when the next shift was taking over. 

The police were called and upon inspection of the scene, all four had died, with their rifles on them and their items still intact. 

“The district surgeon was called to the scene and examined the bodies and confirmed no injuries. A team from the Pretoria FSL Chemistry Unit, also attended the scene and preliminary findings are that the deaths of the members could have been caused by carbon monoxide poisoning, from a possible fire made by the members during the cold night inside the container structure,” the statement read. 

The bodies of the deceased were transported to the Klerksdorp State Mortuary for further investigation and post-mortem.

“The names of the deceased will be announced once the families have been informed and all processes and formalities have been completed followed by the announcement of the funeral arrangements.”

The Minister of Defence and MilitaryVeterans Angie Motshekga and Deputy Minister Bantu Holomisa, have extended their condolences to the families of the deceased and the entire defence family. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 15:41

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School of Government to host webinar on GNU

Location: News

School of Government to host webinar on GNU

The National School of Government (NSG) will host an important webinar on the new South African government system, a Government of National Unity (GNU) as well as coalition arrangements.

Monday’s webinar will focus on making coalitions and GNU work and the role of professional bureaucracies. 

“The webinar will provide a platform to discuss the likely impact of the GNU on the public administration and governance system, with lessons from countries abroad that have gone through power-sharing arrangements as well as in the country’s local government system where coalitions have also been in existence for a few years,” the NSG explained. 

The session will include local and overseas experts who will share their insights and experiences on the impact of coalition arrangements on public sector institutions. 

The speakers include former Advisor to Coalition Governments in Ireland Fergus Finlay as well as Jan Cornillie, Former Chief of Cabinet for various Belgian Ministers.

The attendees will also hear from Lesotho Institute of Public Administration and Management Administration Director-General, Nthabiseng Tlhomola, Chairperson of the Public Service Commission Professor Somadoda Fikeni and many more. 

Announcing his new Cabinet last month, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the establishment of the GNU in its current form was unprecedented in the history of the country’s democracy. 

The President said: “We have had to consider how to form the new government in a manner that advances the national interest, that gives due consideration to the outcome of the election and that makes use of the respective capabilities within each of the parties”.

The President added that all the political parties who were members of the GNU had committed to respecting the Constitution, promoting accountable and transparent governance, evidence-based policy and decision-making as well as the professionalisation of the public service, integrity and good governance.

The NSG has introduced a series of webinars and seminars over the past few years to exchange knowledge and promote a culture of continuous learning within the public sector. 

These sessions aim to ensure that public officials can benefit from the latest thinking from the global content and local levels’ experiences. 

Each session is addressed by a senior expert on the topic of focus and is generally attended by senior leaders from across the public sector both elected leaders and appointed officials.

President Ramaphosa and a range of Ministers have also previously participated in a webinar arranged by the school. 

The webinar will take place virtually on Monday from 9 am to 1 pm.

Click on this link to register https://thensg-gov-za.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_GvBAX8j5RRO-EQ1d7YfkOA#/registration. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 13:02

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Western Cape prepares for inclement weather

Location: News

Western Cape prepares for inclement weather

The Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Department says the province is expecting a series of cold fronts with adverse weather conditions starting this weekend and continuing into most of next week. 

Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) was briefed on Saturday by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) on the approaching weather systems.

The weather service has since issued several warnings for heavy rains and rains: 

  • A level 4 warning for heavy rain and potential flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape on Sunday.
  • A level 6 warning for high winds of between 80 and 90km/h over the western and south-western parts of the Western Cape on Sunday.
  • A level 4 warning for winds of between 50 and 70km/h for the Namakwa district as well as the central and eastern parts of the province.
  • A level 6 warning for waves between 6 and 8 metres along the coastline between Alexander Bay and Cape Agulhas from Sunday, spreading to Plettenberg Bay by the afternoon. 
  • A level 4 warning for disruptive snowfall over the mountains of the Western Cape as well as the southern high ground of the Namakwa District on Sunday. 

Bredell said the PDMC is on standby and the various municipal district disaster centres are ready to be activated if needed. 

“Emergency, rescue and social services are prepared to respond to any eventualities,” the department said in a statement.

Ready to assist

Meanwhile, provincial departments are represented at the PDMC and will be ready to provide support if needed.

“The Department of Water and Sanitation said catchments and dam levels are being monitored closely and regular updates will be made to the PDMC as the weather systems develop.”

According to Bredell, strong winds, combined with rain-saturated soil increase the risks of trees and tall structures being toppled. 

In addition, the provincial department said various government services may be affected by the inclement weather and residents are asked to stay informed by monitoring the latest weather reports through trusted local news platforms and the local municipality’s social media pages. 

“Services are also being activated to support the vulnerable and those impacted by the inclement weather,” the MEC added.

Other provinces

According to the SAWS, very wet, cold and windy conditions associated with an intense cold front and steepening upper-air trough are expected to start affecting the Eastern Cape, the Northern Cape, the North West and Free State, spreading along the Lesotho border on Monday.

“The public and small stock farmers are advised that very cold conditions and snowfalls are expected,” the statement read.

The SAWS also issued a warning about high fire danger conditions that are expected over  theFree State, eastern parts of the Northern Cape, western parts of North West, Eastern Cape, south-western parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

Call for caution

In the meantime, residents have been urged to stay warm and safe. 

“With the end of the school holidays, many people may be travelling home. We ask residents to please be extremely cautious on the roads.

“Due to the combination of high winds, heavy rain, and snowfalls over high mountains expected, we urge residents to please reconsider travel and outdoor activities next week and avoid unnecessary travel,” the MEC cautioned. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 11:44

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Women Ministry denounces acts of violence against the elderly

Location: News

Women Ministry denounces acts of violence against the elderly

The Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has welcomed the arrest of a 19-year-old man for allegedly assaulting his grandmother.

The teenager was arrested by the police in the Western Cape after being seen assaulting his grandmother in a video that went viral on social media.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the incident occurred last month at the grandmother’s home, and at that time, officers were summoned to the scene. However, the family refused police assistance.

“The suspect was traced to Wallecedene in Kraaifontein on Wednesday evening. He is expected to appear before the Blue Downs Magistrate’s Court on a charge of assault,” said police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe.

Chikunga said since the arrest of the perpetrator, the department has reached out to the Western Cape Department of Social Development to address the matter.

“Since then, the Department of Social Development has assigned social workers to the family for psychosocial support,” Chikunga said in a statement on Thursday.

READ | Teen in hot water over viral video of assault on grandma

Chikunga restated that an abuse of an older person occurs when any person, in a relationship where there is an expectation of trust, does something or fails to do something that causes harm or distress, or is “likely to cause harm or distress to an older person.” 

The department’s Deputy Minister, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, is expected to visit the grandmother to offer words of comfort at Karl Bremere Hospital on Friday, 5 July, at 3:30pm.

In line with the Older Persons Act, of 2006, South Africa joined global citizens in commemorating World Elder Abuse Awareness Day; to protect, promote and maintain the status, rights, well-being and security of older persons. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 10:16

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Read moreWomen Ministry denounces acts of violence against the elderly

Taking sibling rivalry to a new level at the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup!

Location: MyPR

Competition between brothers is nothing new but the Harris brothers have increased the stakes by competing for opposing countries at the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup. Pretoria-based brother Stef Harris, who relocated from Zimbabwe to South Africa in 2005, will be representing the South African side in this year’s polocrosse contest. Meanwhile, older brother …

Read moreTaking sibling rivalry to a new level at the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup!

Astronomical Union General Assembly 2024 to be held in SA

Location: News

Astronomical Union General Assembly 2024 to be held in SA

With just more than a month to go, South Africa is set to become the centre of international astronomy as scientists from across the world gather for the XXXII (32nd) General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) in Cape Town. 

The event is scheduled to take place from 6 to 15 August 2024. 

According to the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), this will be the first time that an assembly of its kind will be held on African soil. 

The gathering is expected to bring together over 2 000 international astronomers to address key topics in contemporary astronomy and assess the latest scientific progress in several specialised areas.

Led by the African Astronomical Society (AfAS), the IAU General Assembly is held every three years, with each event advancing the astronomical sciences through international collaboration.  

“It also celebrates the continent’s rich astronomical heritage and commitment to advancing the field,” the department explained. 

The hybrid event is being hosted by the National Research Foundation (NRF), supported by the DSI.  

The academic programme will include over 2 000 presentations scheduled across more than 300 sessions.

The General Assembly will include six symposia and 12 multi-session focus meetings.  

There will also be poster sessions and prize lectures given by recipients of prestigious awards in astronomy.  

“Alongside international scientific impact, this meeting will have a societal impact that goes beyond national barriers in a continent-wide celebration of astronomy – Africa Astro Month.” 

Meanwhile, learners, scientists, students and members of the public will be brought together for knowledge exchange and inspiration. 

There will be limited opportunities for media to visit key astronomy sites, including the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) in Sutherland, Northern Cape, and the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), MeerKAT Radio Telescope and SKA-Mid Site in Carnarvon, Northern Cape. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 11:31

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MoU to empower public servants

Location: News

MoU to empower public servants

The National School of Government (NSG) and the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to introduce a new three-year postgraduate Diploma in Public Affairs and African Governance for public servants in Africa.

In partnership with the African Management Development Institute Network (AMDIN), and supported by the European Union, the NSG developed the curriculum and content of the postgraduate programme in African Governance.   

According to the National School of Government, the intent of the programme is to strengthen governance on the African continent and to professionalise public servants of partner countries.

Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria, Principal of the National School of Government, Professor Busani Nqcaweni, said he is delighted at the partnership between the NSG and the Tshwane University of Technology.

 “We felt we needed to partner with an institution that can share our ideas,” Prof Nqcaweni said.

Prof Nqcaweni explained that the postgraduate Diploma is for African public servants.

“This qualification is the first on the continent and we trust that TUT will be able to deliver the programme,” he said, adding that  the signing of the MoU did not come easy for TUT - having been nominated from 26 universities.

He explained that the initiative is aimed at enhancing interaction among African public servants beyond formal high-level meetings which will bring together cohorts of students from across the continent encouraging a trans disciplinary approach to governance challenges.

 Prof Mashupye Herbet Maserumule, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the Tshwane University of Technology, said the relationship between the two institutions was long overdue.

“We are the most affordable and accessible university in South Africa and we attract more than 1000 foreign students,” he said, adding that the institution wants to be ready for the changing world of work.

“We are looking forward to this interesting relationship and partnership, and we as the institution have an obligation to share knowledge and education,” he said.

Professionalising the public service

The target audience for the course is public servants across the African continent but it will also be offered to the general public.

Participants will be expected to spend at least a week at a public service institution in another country in an exchange programme.   

The partnership between NSG and TUT is expected to significantly contribute to the professionalisation of the public service across Africa, enhancing governance and aligning with the continent's developmental goals.

The new programme seeks to bridge the gap between undergraduate and postgraduate education opportunities in member countries and to offer a regionally recognised qualification.

The conceptualisation and design of this programme is aligned to the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 to implement developmental programmes and to realise the aspiration for good governance in Africa.

Mandate

The NSG came into existence through a proclamation by the President which was gazetted on 21 October 2013, replacing the then Public Administration Leadership and Management Academy (PALAMA).

The NSG is mandated with the responsibility of ensuring that public servants comply with the provisions of established legislation, regulations and systems, and can exercise proper discretion and innovation in solving routine and complex delivery problems.

The NSG is furthermore expected to ensure service delivery impact by supporting institutional performance.

The work of the NSG has also been enhanced by the decision of government to make building a capable, ethical and developmental state the number one priority among the seven priorities outlined in the 2019-2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF).

The NSG offers training in the three spheres of government to all levels - from the cadet and foundation phase to middle and senior management as well as executive management. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 11:48

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South Africans Demand Accountability And Unity From New Government

Location: MyPR

Afrika Tikkun calls for the Government of National Unity to ensure accountability and serve national interests. 03 July 2024, Johannesburg, South Africa: – Responding to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet announcement, South Africans are demanding that the newly established historic coalition government must close the door on exploitation, delivering tangible change to a nation crippled by …

Read moreSouth Africans Demand Accountability And Unity From New Government