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Fresh from his triumph in ‘The Friendly City’ at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K earlier this month, Kenya’s Vincent Langat is set to make a return to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series on Sunday, 12 May 2024. This time, he has his sights set on the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE …
President Ramaphosa bestows National Orders
President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid homage to the South African citizens and others who received their National Orders today – calling them an invaluable part of South Africa’s history.
The 32 recipients, some posthumously, were honoured and bestowed during a ceremony held at the Sefako M. Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Tshwane on Tuesday.
READ | National Orders: Heroes and heroines receive SA’s highest honour
The prestigious National Orders – the highest awards in South Africa – are the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.
“This year marks 30 years since we attained our freedom. This would not have been possible without the bravery, fortitude and noble acts of those the preamble of our Constitution recognises as having suffered for justice and freedom in our land.
“The men and women we honour here today have played an invaluable role in giving birth to the free South Africa that we all enjoy today. Our nation owes each of them a great debt.
“By bestowing these National Orders, we want to ensure that their contributions are recognised and spoken of by generations to come,” President Ramaphosa said.
The awards
The Order of Mendi for Bravery recipients were anti-apartheid activists who received the honour posthumously.
“They lived at a time when apartheid repression was at its zenith, and they displayed the utmost courage. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten and their memories live on,” said President Ramaphosa.
This year, the recipients of The Order of Luthuli was awarded to South Africans who contributed to “the struggle for democracy, human rights, nation-building, justice and peace”.
“Several of the recipients of this year’s Order of Luthuli were brutally killed by the apartheid regime. One of them is Ms Nokuthula Simelane, who was abducted and tortured by the apartheid Security Branch. Her remains were never found.
“This is a wound that will never heal for her family, like the scars of many other South Africans whose loved ones disappeared during the repressive years of apartheid. By honouring those fallen heroes with National Orders we are saying that no matter how great the passage of time, they have not been forgotten,” President Ramaphosa said.
South Africans who excelled in the arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport were honoured with The Order of Ikhamanga.
“In this, the 30th year since we achieved our freedom, we also celebrate the democratic gains we have made in enshrining the principle of a free and independent media.
“Among those being honoured today are legendary journalists who were the voice, words and conscience of an oppressed people during the darkest periods in our history. The standard they set for media ethics and freedom are embodied in today’s generation of journalists and media workers,” the President said.
On the recipients of The Order of the Baobab, President Ramaphosa said: “As we strive to bring about social and economic transformation in South Africa, we are keenly aware of the importance of every endeavour, be it in business, in science or in innovation, being put in the service of social justice for all”.
He praised the recipient of The Order of Mapungubwe who “undertook valuable research in the aerospace field and set a standard that today’s generation of researchers will strive to emulate for time to come”.
The Order of the Companions of OR Tambo recognises those who are not from South Africa who stood in solidarity and cooperation with South Africa’s struggle for liberation.
“We honour journalists who helped amplify the voice of the liberation movement abroad, campaigners and fundraisers for the anti-apartheid movement, and activists who played an important role in the sports boycott against the regime,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President hailed the heroism and personal endeavours of this year’s recipients.
“The recipients of the National Orders are chosen by the South African people themselves. It is the South African people who makes nominations for consideration. This is most appropriate because the recipients are the heroes and heroines of the entire nation.
“The truest test of heroism is that these acts are not done for the sake of name, prestige, fortune or fame. They are done out of conscience and an unwavering sense of responsibility. They are born of a burning quest for social justice. They are anchored in the belief that the achievement of equality and human dignity for all is the highest aspiration of humankind.
“Congratulations to all who are being honoured today and to their families. The recipients shall henceforth be honoured as esteemed Members of the Orders. The people of South Africa salute them all,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 12:39
Kinola Pather, the newly-appointed CEO of bespoke employee rewards, loyalty and incentive programme company Randgo, is driven by a profound mission: to empower consumers, members, and employees to live beyond their paycheques through tailored incentive and loyalty rewards programmes. Pather brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to accomplishing this mission. Her ability to …
JOHANNESBURG: White-ball head coach Rob Walter has today announced the 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 to...
According to the UN, SMMEs represent more than 98% of formal business, while The Brenthurst Foundation reports that these enterprises employ 50-60% of our labour force and contribute 34% towards GDP. However, despite their crucial role, South African SMMEs face numerous challenges, including access to funding, market saturation, and regulatory complexities. The UN reports that …
Condolences for black business visionary, Dr Sam Motsuenyane
President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to revered black business pioneer, Dr Sam Motsuenyane, who has died at the age of 97.
Motsuenyane was the co-founder of the pivotal National African Federated Chamber of Commerce (NAFCOC) and played a leading role in the establishment of African Bank – both at the height of apartheid.
“The passing of Dr Sam Motsuenyane 60 years after the establishment of NAFCOC is a profound reminder of the breadth, durability and longevity of his vision and passion for self-reliance and development.
“The remarkable sweep of his life as an entrepreneur, leader of organised business, parliamentarian and diplomat among other roles embodied our resilient national character and values of ubuntu.
“His philosophy of self-sufficiency is today entrenched in the constitutional right each of us enjoys to freely choose our trade, occupation or profession and in the socio-economic rights that our constitution safeguards,” the President said in a statement on Tuesday.
The businessman was a Member of Parliament and served as South Africa’s first ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
He was also an Esteemed Member of the National Order of the Baobab (Gold) in recognition of his significant personal achievements
The President passed his condolences and those of government to Motsuenyane’s family, friends and associates.
“Dr Motsuenyane’s passing on the eve of the 2024 National Orders Ceremony [to be held on Tuesday] causes us to recall the honour bestowed on him in 2002 as the nation paid tribute to an outstanding patriot and source of inspiration for our then fledgling democracy.
“May his soul rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 04/30/2024 - 09:22
Democracy restored the dignity of South Africans
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the advent of democracy in South Africa 30 years ago allowed all South Africans to reclaim their dignity.
The President was addressing the nation through his weekly newsletter on Monday.
On Saturday, 27 April, South Africa celebrated 30 years of democracy when millions of South Africans – most voting for the first time – cast their vote in 1994 to remove the racist apartheid government from power.
This as the President led the 2024 Freedom Day national celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Saturday.
“At times of difficulty in the life of our nation, some have found themselves tempted to question whether life has really been better under democracy. For all who experienced apartheid, there can be no doubt that democracy has restored the dignity of every South African,” the President said in the newsletter.
He called apartheid and its “bureaucratic pettiness” a “national humiliation”.
“[27 April 1994] was the day on which the country turned its back on apartheid. Beyond the great wrong that was apartheid, it was a system designed to deny people their dignity.
“This national humiliation and degradation ranged from bureaucratic pettiness like whites-only benches, restaurants and beaches, to the brute force that saw families torn apart and forcibly moved from their houses and land. People were tortured, imprisoned, exiled and killed. The so-called solution of ‘separate development’ resulted in nothing but underdevelopment for the country’s majority,” he explained.
Children of democracy
President Ramaphosa expressed joy at how people born after 1994 exude confidence “secure in the knowledge that their dignity is both respected and protected”.
“Democracy’s children are self-assured about their human rights, in their citizenship, of their role and place in society, and of their own potential.
“During apartheid, Bantu education was served up to the country’s black majority as a reminder that there was no place for them ‘above the level of certain forms of labour’. In South Africa today, equal access to quality education has enabled black children to become CEOs of companies, professors, engineers, and fighter pilots.
“Young South Africans, our nation’s future, are making their mark in the workplace, in arts, culture and music, in academia, in the high-growth tech and IT sectors, and in serving their communities,” he said.
The President said a great sense of gratitude engulfs him when observing those South Africans born post-1994.
“I am grateful that they will never have to endure the humility and indignity of previous generations, of being forced to sit on separate park benches, dispossessed of their land, denied opportunities for advancement and of being pariahs in the land of their birth,” he said.
Moving forward
Reflecting on the journey to rebuilding the nation, President Ramaphosa acknowledged that “we are not as far as we had hoped to be”.
He added that while government has done much to unravel apartheid’s legacy, many local and global challenges have hampered progress.
“In recent years, as we sought to recover from more than a decade of low growth and the era of state capture, our progress was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the loss of more than 100 000 lives in our country and caused the greatest contraction of our economy in decades.
“The public unrest in July 2021 and the catastrophic floods in parts of the country the following year led to further loss of life and destruction of property and infrastructure.
“While these events severely hampered our collective efforts to rebuild the country, they also showed the resilience of the South African people. Despite these great difficulties, we have persevered with the task of reform and recovery, to grow an inclusive economy and create jobs,” he said.
The President said government remains committed to resolving the challenges that the country faces.
“We have continued to work together to overcome the crises of unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment. These challenges impact on the lives of millions of people and undermine the dignity that we have worked throughout our democracy to restore.
“And yet we maintain our resolve to move forward with optimism. We have come a long, long way. And we are determined to go further to achieve the free, just and equal South Africa for which millions voted on Freedom Day 30 years ago,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 09:17
Presidency 'rejects' narrative on BHP, Anglo American proposed deal
The Presidency has moved to dismiss media speculation and reports that BHP Billiton’s proposed takeover of Anglo American, excluding South African assets, is a sign of reluctance to invest in the country.
This is according to Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya who was briefing the media in Pretoria on Monday.
Anglo American mines diamonds, Platinum Group Metals (PGM) and iron ore in South Africa.
“Some analysts and sections of the media have sought to portray this market activity as a vote of no confidence on South Africa. The Presidency rejects the notion that a commercial approach by BHP Billiton equals to a hostile environment for investors,” he said.
Magwenya said the issues cited in media that impact doing business in South Africa are being resolved “with the participation and partnership of business”.
“In June 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa along with members of his Cabinet and senior business leaders agreed to establish a partnership to reverse the economic downturn and rebuild confidence in the country’s trajectory.
“Three priorities were identified as undermining investor and societal confidence, namely: load shedding, the challenges in the freight logistics sector as well as crime and corruption.”
Magwenya said the collaborative government-business partnership has resulted in many initiatives including the Joint Initiative on Crime and Corruption (JICC).
“The [JICC] was established to drive collaborative efforts to tackle the most serious forms of crime and corruption and support government’s efforts to remove South Africa off the FATF [Financial Action Task Force] greylist. The [JICC] is an example of government’s commitment to work with social partners to foster a safer and a more ethical South Africa,” he said.
He told the media that government’s own efforts to rebuild the credibility of critical law enforcement has resulted in, among others, appointing new leadership in the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Hawks, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the State Security Agency (SSA) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS).
This has resulted in significant progress in the fight against corruption and crime including:
“While much still needs to be achieved to turn the tide around completely, the significant steps taken to rebuild credible institutions have begun to bear fruit and set the stage for further progress. President Ramaphosa will continue leading a multi-stakeholder effort to accelerate existing government interventions to address the scourge of crime and the impact on the economy.
“This partnership should reassure both local and foreign investors that considerable resources and expertise are being leveraged in government and in the private sector to curtail crime, continue improving the functionality of our ports and enable an investor and societal environment that fosters inclusive economic growth and prosperity,” he said.
Investment appetite
Magwenya pointed towards the success of the SA Investment Conference which, over five years, reached R1.5 trillion in investment pledges as an indicator of investment appetite in South Africa.
“President Ramaphosa also finds it satisfying that both domestic and international investors continue to demonstrate confidence towards South Africa through their continued investments as evidenced in the last few years and in exceeding the investment targets set at the beginning of the term. President Ramaphosa is confident that the rebuilt capacity of the state remains firm and focused on responding to crime and corruption.
“The Presidency would implore the investor community to note the optimism expressed by the business community in various publications and platform on the progress achieved across the three focal areas. This should reassure investors that momentum is building and will be maintained to reduce crime and corruption, continue improving energy supply and resolve logistic backlogs,” Magwenya said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 15:00
R35m in irregular payments recovered by SA Tourism
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says R35 million linked to irregular payments for services not rendered has been returned to the SA Tourism account.
Several irregular payments were made for services not rendered by South African Tourism’s US and South Africa offices.
SA Tourism is the official tourism marketing agency of South Africa and an entity of the Department of Tourism.
As part of its mandate, SA Tourism has hub offices in key source market countries around the world to enable officials to interact with key partners in executing their duties of promoting and marketing South Africa as a top travel destination.
“I was recently informed by SA Tourism that there had been a number of irregular payments and invoices noted, which do not meet the definition of compliant and valid or internal control verification standards.
"A number of irregular invoices were created about three days before the previous financial year end, which ended on 31 March 2023 and processed piecemeal to override banking controls,” De Lille explained.
Executives who are no longer working for the agency, the Minister said, processed these payments, from the United States and South Africa offices of SA Tourism at the end of March 2023.
“This discovery was triggered by a review by SA Tourism, which confirmed that a significant portion received by a media agency during March 2023 and signed off by the then Acting Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operations Officer and the then Acting CEO were for services not yet rendered at the time of disbursement,” De Lille said.
The service provider was notified and acknowledged that they had received a significant sum of money, which was approved by the former Acting Chief Financial Officer, Acting Chief Executive Officer, and the then COO of SA Tourism.
However, it was discovered that the services for which the payment was made were not provided.
“These irregular payments are completely shocking and it is unacceptable that officials entrusted with public funds continue to act with such contempt of public finance laws and regulations. We will not leave this matter unaccounted for. The internal audit report is being finalised and the matter has also been reported to the Auditor-General of South Africa to investigate,” De Lille said.
Communication ensued with the respective media agency to pay back R35 million for services not rendered.
“We are relieved that all the money has been recovered from the irregular payments. I can also confirm that the Auditor-General of South Africa is in the process of finalising a delegation from the AG’s office to do an audit on the SA Tourism New York office,” she added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 15:03
SA heads to the polls in a month's time
With one month to go, the Electoral Commission (IEC) is in the final stretch of preparations for the seventh democratic elections, which are believed to be the most contested in the history of the country.
South Africans will go to the polls on 29 May 2024 to the elect the leadership for the seventh administration out of the 70 political parties and 11 independent candidates that were published by the IEC as final contestants in these elections.
In total, there are over 14 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.
“The finalisation of the list of candidates contesting seats in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) means that the Commission can now go ahead with the printing of ballot papers for the elections. The 27.79 million registered voters will receive three ballot papers to elect candidates to represent them in the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures.
“In consort with the provisions of the election timetable, the Electoral Commission has also published the list of addresses of the 23 292 voting stations that will be used in these elections. The route for mobile voting stations has also been published,” the IEC said recently.
The highest number of voting stations will be in Kwazulu-Natal (4 974), then the Eastern Cape (4 868) and Limpopo (3 216). All voting stations are now contracted with lease agreements concluded with landlords or owners.
A list of the voting stations can be found on the Electoral Commission’s website.
Special votes
For those who would like to apply for special votes, for the purposes of home visits and voting station visits, there is still time to do so as the deadline for applications is on 3 May 2024.
“Home visits are intended for those voters who are unable to travel to voting stations whilst special votes at voting stations are for everyone who is unable to be at the voting station on Election Day. Special voting will be conducted on the two days preceding Election Day, on 27 and 28 May 2024,” the IEC said.
Special votes may be accessed using one of the following modalities:
Special votes will also be administered at South Africa’s diplomatic missions abroad to service 58 000 registered voters. These voters will be provided for at the diplomatic missions of the Republic.
Security plan
Government has, meanwhile, assured citizens that the elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.
“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars. We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS [Justice, Crime Prevention and Security] Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said.
Government also urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or IEC offices.
“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes.
“Prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 11:36
Government activities for the week 29 April – 03 May 2024
On Monday, 29 April, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, will hand over a media laboratory to Naledi Primary School in Ottosdal, Ngaka Molema Modiri District, in the North West province.
On Monday, 29 April, Eastern Cape Premier, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, together with the Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonkqubela Pieters, will announce a new cannabis investor at the Coega SEZ.
From Monday, 29 April, to Tuesday, 30 April, the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, will visit the uThukela District to inspect water infrastructure in the area and engage community members on water and sanitation issues.
On Tuesday, 30 April, the NYDA, APRM and PAP will host the Democracy and Development Intergenerational Dialogue at the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand.
Also on Tuesday, 30 April, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, officially launches the DHET Community Colleges Infrastructure Programme at the site of the W&RSETA's second Skills Development Centre in Reitz in the Free State.
Janine
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 10:35
Blue light gang suspects shot dead
Three blue light gang suspects who were allegedly terrorising motorists on the N3 freeway were shot dead by a multidisciplinary team of law enforcement officials on Sunday.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), this is after information about the gang, which allegedly committed blue light robberies on the N3 between Villiers and Heidelberg using a white Toyota Hilux, was received.
“A multidisciplinary team was mobilised and traced the suspects to [the] N3 highway, Grootvlei in Mpumalanga. The vehicle was spotted with blue lights on.
“The suspects saw the police and sped away, resulting in a high-speed chase towards Zonkizizwe, Ekurhuleni. The suspects started shooting at the team and the team retaliated,” said the Gauteng SAPS in a statement on Monday.
Three suspects were fatally shot, while one gang member managed to flee the scene on foot.
The police seized two unlicensed firearms and ammunition, blue lights as well as the vehicle the suspects were in.
The multidisciplinary team included SAPS National Head Office Counter Intelligence, Secunda Crime Intelligence, Gauteng Tactical Response Team, Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit, DPC Tracking Team, Johannesburg K9, CAP Specialised Operations, Tracker Connect, ICB Insurance Crime Bureau, MZ Werke Security and Telesure Insurance Investigation.
“Crime Scene Management team combed the crime scene for more evidence while the vehicle was taken to the Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit for further analysis," said the SAPS. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 10:24
The President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body of Rugby across Africa, Herbert Mensah, will explore the business of sport in a panel discussion at the 2024 Africa CEO Forum (www.TheAfricaCEOForum.com) on Thursday, May 16 in Kigali, Rwanda.
In partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) (www.IFC.org), the Africa CEO Forum is the largest annual gathering of the African private sector. Each year, the Africa CEO Forum gathers more than 2,000 African and international captains of industry, public decision-makers and leading visionaries to debate the continent's most pressing priorities and set its business agenda.
Founded in 2012, the Africa CEO Forum has enabled dialogue between the public and private sector, bringing together business leaders, CEOs, investors and heads of state to highlight the driving role of the private sector in the development of the continent. Previous speakers include H.E. Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, President of the Republic of Mozambique and H.E. Dr. Mokgweetsi E.K. Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana.
Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa (www.NBA.com), will join Rugby Africa President, Herbert Mensah to delve into the business potential of Africa's sporting industry in the panel discussion at the Africa CEO Forum. Amid the success stories of the Basketball Africa League, Morocco's joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup, the establishment of the CAF Champions League, South Africa's Springboks victory as fourth time champions of the Rugby World Cup and the highly anticipated return of Formula 1 to the continent, Africa's sports industry is witnessing a boom. Given the global sports market's estimate of over $600 billion and a steady growth rate of 5% annually, Africa is seeking opportunities to transform and expand the sports industry.
The President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah, continues to emphasize the business potential of rugby across Africa. Since his election, Mensah has called for a change of mindset from African governments and international organizations to increase investment in rugby across Africa. President Mensah has served as a keynote speaker at the Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa 2023 and the 2023 Africa Investment Forum.
Watch the video of the Bloomberg New Economy Gateway: https://apo-opa.co/4bdaPql
Watch the video of the Africa Investment Forum: https://apo-opa.co/49UxCGt
The annual two-day Africa CEO Forum will commence on Thursday May 16 to Friday May 17 under the theme “At the Table or on the Menu? A Critical Moment to Shape a New Future for Africa” in Kigali, Rwanda.
Read more information about the Africa CEO Forum: www.TheAfricaCEOForum.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
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Security plan in place for upcoming elections
With just 30 days left until South Africans head to the polls, government has assured citizens that the seventh National and Provincial Elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.
“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that the law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said on Sunday in Pretoria.
Addressing a media briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, the Minister emphasised that no one has a right to intimidate and prevent others from exercising their Constitutional right to vote for a party of his or her choice.
“We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” the Minister said.
The 2024 General Elections are believed to be the most contested in the history of this country. Overall, 70 political parties are contesting the elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52.
In total, there are over 14, 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.
“Our approach as the JCPS Cluster is to ensure coordinated and intelligence-led planning and operations pre-, during, and postelections where multi-departmental teams work together to ensure that all South Africans exercise their Constitutional rights without fear of intimidation or violence.
“This coordination is managed by National and Provincial JOINTS [ Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] structures of the JCPS Cluster and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). Inter-departmental Priority Committees were established in 2023 at both the National and Provincial levels to safety and security planning.
“Our law enforcement agencies have led in developing the national security plan which has been approved by the Ministers of the JCPS Cluster. NATJOINTS [National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] has done a thorough threat and crime pattern analysis to inform the development of a security plan and they want to ensure that nothing is left to chance,” the Minister said.
Fit-for purpose
Based on the threat and crime pattern analysis, NATJOINTS has recommended a fit-for-purpose deployment plan that will deal with any potential threats of crime and violence in and around voting stations and national and provincial results centres.
“We have also put measures in place to protect all public facilities that will be used for voting, national key points and other essential infrastructure that might be targeted by criminal elements. In addition, the Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015 states that any person who tampers with or damages essential infrastructure is guilty of a criminal offence and he/she can be sentenced to a maximum of 30 years if found guilty
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) Ministry and SAPS management have conducted several oversite roadshows in all provinces where they met with the station commanders of all police stations and district commissioners to assess the SAPS state of readiness and preparedness to ensure safety and security.
“The management of SAPS and Ministry are satisfied with the level of readiness of all the provinces and districts to provide policing services pre-, during and post-the elections,” Modise said.
The elections will be policed within the relevant prescripts and laws and police officers will enforce the law accordingly.
“We want to reiterate that the security plan will be constantly reviewed as the situation changes and we will adapt as required. As the JCPS Cluster leadership, we want to send a clear message to the public that no incitement to violence, lawlessness, destruction of infrastructure, or barricading of roads will be tolerated. Anyone who participates in any form of criminal activity will be dealt with.
“We therefore reiterate to all South Africans that political rights for citizens are guaranteed and should not be violated. The JCPS will ensure that all the rights enshrined in the Constitution are not violated,” she said.
Among these rights are the rights to freedom, security, and protection from all forms of violence from either public or private sources.
“Although the Constitution allows all citizens to participate in protests, pickets and present petitions, those who participate in these activities must do so peacefully and not violate the rights of those who do not want to participate. Anyone who is found to have contravened these critical provisions of the Constitution during this period will be met with the full authority of the state,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:18
Public urged to report crimes related to elections
Government has urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or Electoral Commission (IEC) offices.
“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said on Sunday in Pretoria.
Addressing a media briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, the Minister said prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote.
“Individuals who use social media and electronic platforms to send threatening messages, incite violence, or cause harm to others will be charged. When an individual creates a video or share a post to the public and where the post contains words, speech or conduct that may encourage others to commit public violence, the aforementioned post will make one guilty of the offence of inciting public violence and police will not hesitate to track the person down and hold you accountable,” Modise said.
The Minister appealed to political and community leaders to exercise caution when speaking on public platforms.
“Do not make inflammatory or threatening statements as you will be breaking the law and may also encourage others to carry out criminal activities.
“We urge the public to exercise caution before sharing the information with others. Ensure that you double-check the accuracy of the information and be aware of the unintended consequences of your actions. Members of the public should report any inflammatory statements to law enforcement agencies,” the Minister said at the briefing held in Pretoria.
She warned the public against sharing false, unverified information, rumours, or threats online or in person as that can have serious consequences.
It can incite violence, confuse voters, and undermine the democratic process.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) has activated provincial disaster management teams to identify risks and put mitigation measures in place for any disasters that may occur pre, during and post the elections.
“The NDMC is working closely with the South African Weather Service to monitor the situation, early warning messages will be issued when necessary. On the day of the elections, these teams will be deployed for 24 hours to monitor the situation,” the Minister said.
Collection of Identity Documents
To assist voters with the process of application for new Identity Documents and Temporary Identity Certificates and the collection of these documents, the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has opened its offices from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays from 06 April to 25 May 2024.
“In addition, Home Affairs will open its offices on voting day. Mobile offices are also scheduled to be opened in remote areas to assist with the application and collection processes. The department will engage with councillors and other community leaders to decide on the dates, times and venues of the operation of mobile offices.
“Citizens can also use the Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which is available on the DHA website to book appointments to collect their Smart ID Cards and Green barcoded ID books. We encourage clients who have applied for identification documents and have received their SMS notifications, to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents.”
Modise encourage all eligible voters to go out in their numbers to the different voting stations on 29 May 2024 to cast their votes.
The 2024 General Elections are believed to be the most contested in the history of this country.
“Overall, 70 political parties are contesting these elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52. In total, there are over 14, 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures. Ensuring the safety and security of all voters and officials are of paramount importance,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:49
Special Provincial Official Funeral for Dr Pheko
Liberation struggle veteran and former Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) President, Dr Ernest “Motsoko” Pheko will be honoured with a Special Provincial Official Funeral.
Dr Pheko passed away on 19 April at the age of 93.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa has designated the funeral of Dr Motsoko Pheko as a Special Provincial Official Funeral. The designation of the funeral follows a request from Premier Panyaza Lesufi to the President,” said the Gauteng provincial government in a statement on Friday.
The provincial government said that Pheko had dedicated his life to fighting for a liberated South Africa.
“We will remember this son of the soil as a true Pan African to the end of his life. His teachings through his writings will continue to inspire us to move forward in improving the lives of all South Africans,” said Premier Lesufi.
Following the dawn of democracy Pheko served as a Member of Parliament for ten years and served in different portfolio committees, including Foreign Affairs and Safety and Security. He also served as the PAC representative to the United Nations.
Dr Pheko was a renowned lawyer, author of 45 books, theologian, academic and historian.
“He documented his political party history very well including what happened at Robben Island during the Apartheid regime,” said the provincial government adding that the Pheko family will communicate all memorial and funeral details.
President Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the passing of liberation struggle veteran. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:13
Celebrating freedom in language
With South Africa today commemorating Freedom Day, the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) has highlighted the importance of individuals being able to express themselves in languages they understand.
“Today as we celebrate this remarkable milestone, it is essential to recognize that for democracy to flourish, linguistic diversity must be valued as a reliable guide towards the future. Engaging people in a language they understand is critical for genuine participation in democracy,” Chief Executive Officer of the PanSALB, Lance Schultz said on Saturday.
On 27 April 1994, South Africa changed forever as millions of people went to the polls to cast their vote in the first democratic elections.
Schultz’s comments come as President Cyril Ramaphosa led the 2024 Freedom Day national celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
“As we mark three decades since the transition from apartheid to democracy, it is worth celebrating the incredible progress we’ve made in recognizing and promoting linguistic diversity,” said the CEO.
He added that South Africa’s expansion from two official languages during the apartheid era to 12 in the new dispensation is a restatement to the great strides that have been made in safeguarding language rights.
“There is no doubt that one of the key aspects of democracy is engaging and communicating with people in languages that they understand and for the past 30 years, the right to use one’s own language has been protected,” said Schultz.
The PanSALB is entrusted with the Constitutional responsibility to ensure that all official languages enjoy priority of esteem and elevate the status of indigenous languages to be recognised as languages of science, technology, and business.
“Furthermore, it is PanSALB’s duty, within the socio-political system of South Africa to promote greater democratic participation by creating an environment where people engage in discussions over linguistic authority, knowledge production and self-determination through their use of language.”
Celebrated Under the theme: “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth,” this year's Freedom Month celebrations hold special significance as they also coincide with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 14:38
Call to vote in upcoming elections
With the upcoming 2024 National and Provincial elections around the corner, a member of a Danish choir has encouraged citizens to participate in the polls.
South Africans will once again get an opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote on 29 May 2024 as the country holds its seventh democratic elections.
“If you do not vote, your voice will not be heard. Voting is a way to have your voice heard in a democracy. It is importance to participate in a democracy by voting. It is key,” Papaya choir member Lilian Andresen said on Saturday.
The choir specialises in singing South African songs in Denmark.
Speaking to SAnews during the National Freedom Day celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, Andresen congratulated South Africa for reaching the historic milestone of 30 years of freedom and democracy.
“Coming to the country as it celebrates 30 years of freedom… is very special. In Denmark we have had democracy for a while and you can tend to take it for granted. Therefore, to come here and see how much it is appreciated is remarkable,” she said.
Hundreds of people gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to celebrate the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democratic dispensation following the country’s first democratic elections on 27 April 1994.
President Cyril Ramaphosa led the Freedom Day celebrations at the national event under the theme “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth.”
While acknowledging the challenges faced by many in the country, Andresen said transformation is a journey.
“You still need to fight for your rights. It is a process. You need to keep going and never lose track of where you want to go,” she said.
With energy, enthusiasm and musical intensity, Papaya sings everything from wedding songs and Zulu war songs to the story of a South Africa that through generations of time has found courage, strength and community through music.
“We have been a choir since 1986. We come here… meet with other choirs, performing groups and dance groups. We share the culture and the music. That is how we learn.
“We then go back to Denmark to share the music and the stories with our Danish audience. The audience is very much moved and touched by it. We love the people, music, culture, the stories and history. It is so rich as the country has had struggles. It is very unique,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 15:55
Minister Lamola reflects of 30 years of freedom
A then 10-year-old Ronald Lamola watched with joy as his parents went to cast their votes in South Africa’s first democratic elections in April 1994.
“I also saw on the television long queues of people ushering in our new freedom when they were voting,” Lamola said on Saturday.
Fast-forward to today and Lamola is South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Correctional Services.
The Minister’s comments come as hundreds of people gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to celebrate the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democratic dispensation following the country’s first democratic elections on 27 April 1994.
President Cyril Ramaphosa led the National Freedom Day celebrations at the Union Buildings under the theme “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth.”
Reflecting on growing up in apartheid South Africa which oppressed the majority of its population at the time, the Minister said as a young boy who grew up on a farm in Komatipoort in the then Eastern Transvaal which today is known as Mpumalanga province, he could not attend the same schools as the white children on the farm.
“We could not play or … have the same dreams of being engineers, astronauts or being lawyers. Today, I stand before you as an LLB (Bachelor of Laws) graduate of the University of Venda who was funded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Our country’s biggest breakout of generational poverty.
"I speak with conviction when I say I am a Tintswalo. Every household in this country has a Tintswalo. Freedom made the dreams of many black kids like myself possible to be whoever we wanted to be. [Whether it be] engineers, astronauts, etc which was not possible under apartheid,” the Minister said.
First referred to by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his State of the Nation Address (SONA) in February, Tintswalo is a child born at the dawn of freedom in 1994. Tintswalo grew up in a society that was worlds apart from the South Africa of her parents, grandparents and great-grandparents.
As a child who went to university in a democratic South Africa, the Minister completed his studies with the assistance of the NSFAS which provides financial aid to South African students using funds provided mainly by the government.
“Freedom made it possible for many black kids like me to be whoever we wanted to be… The sky is the limit. Freedom came through the blood and sweat of our struggle heroes. On this day 30 years ago, a new dawn was ushered in through the first democratic elections. Some of the freedoms that we take for granted today were reserved for only white people before 1994," the Minister explained.
Nation building
He said nation building was at the core of the vision and a central piece to the democratisation of South Africa.
"This was reaffirmed by our 1996 Constitution, which is the supreme law of our country that affirms the democratic values of human dignity, equality, and freedom.
“It placed on the state the obligation to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the human rights that are enshrined within our Bill of Rights. We moved from parliamentary sovereignty to a constitutional democracy.
“We now have the freedom to love whoever we want to love. We now have the freedom to go wherever we want to go. We now have the freedom to study whatever we want to study and we now have the freedom of trade.”
He said these freedoms came at a “sacrifice”.
“As a country, we have a responsibility to continue to fight against injustice anywhere in the world.”
While the country had previously been under 300 years of colonial rule, government has laid a solid foundation to build a better life for all.
With South Africa due to hold its seventh democratic elections on 29 May 2024, Lamola has encouraged citizens to exercise their democratic right to vote.
“In our country, our appreciation for freedom has seen growth in our electoral participation and uncensored voices…space for civil society has been maintained and should be commended as progress.”
“[However,] we must ensure [to exercise our right to freedom of speech] with responsibility. We should ensure that the polls that are coming now are credible, non-partisan and aimed at enhancing our democracy.
“Democratic participation should therefore be embraced and enforced by all citizens, we must all go and vote on 29 May to build on our transformatory journey and to build on our freedom.”
This year's Freedom Month celebrations hold special significance as they also coincide with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land.
"With this freedom, the 1996 constitution envisaged a country that is sovereign, a democratic state that is guided by principles of constitutionalism, the rule of law, democracy and accountability, separation of powers and checks and balances [as well as] cooperative governance," the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 14:49
Reflecting on 30 years of democratic gains
While South Africa’s democracy is young, the significant strides made by government to improve the the lives of its people since 1994, cannot be denied.
Marking the historic milestone of reaching 30 years of democracy, President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africans should not let detractors, whether they are abroad or in the country to diminish what government has achieved in 1994 and in the years that have followed.
“Over the course of three centuries, the dignity of the black inhabitants of this land had been deliberately and cruelly denied, first by colonialism and then by apartheid. Millions of black South Africans – African, coloured and Indian – were at the mercy of laws and practices that were enforced to serve the interests of a white minority.
“Their land was taken, their labour was exploited, their prospects were stunted,” the President said on Saturday in Pretoria.
On 27 April 1994, South Africa changed forever as millions of people went to the polls to cast their vote in the first democratic elections.
“Exactly thirty years ago on this day, freedom’s bell rang across our great land. On that day, as we cast our votes for the first time, a great heaviness lifted from our shoulders. Our shackles had been cast off. The weight of centuries of oppression was no longer holding us down,” the President said at the commemoration of Freedom Day held at the Union Buildings.
Today, thirty years later, the people of South Africa gathered as a united people of all races at the same Union Buildings that once symbolised pain and oppression.
“The progress that has been made in a relatively short period of thirty years is something of which we can and should all be proud. We have established a society founded on the rule of law and the premise of equality before the law.
“We have built democratic institutions and have rid our statute books of racist and sexist apartheid laws. As the democratic state, we have worked to restore the dignity of all the South African people, particularly the dispossessed, the marginalised and the vulnerable,” the President said.
To achieve this, government has sought to implement policies and programmes that advance equality and human dignity in areas like economic empowerment, education, health care, social support, and the provision of basic services.
Addressing challenges
“Although there have been setbacks, although we have faced challenges both beyond our borders and at home, our economy has tripled in size since 1994. While unemployment still remains our greatest and most pressing challenge, the number of South Africans in employment increased from eight million in 1994 to over 16.7 million now.
“Through affirmative action, broad-based black economic empowerment, worker share ownership programmes and progressive labour laws, we have brought about transformative change in South Africa’s boardrooms, in workplaces and on the shop floor,” the first citizen said.
In South Africa today, more than half a million workers are part-owners of the companies they work for. This is about one in every 20 workers in the formal private sector.
“The proportion of black people in senior management position in both government and business has increased many times over. Today, our social development system benefits all, providing vital support to the poor and vulnerable, women and children.
“The democratic state has, through its health care programmes, brought down child mortality, improved life expectancy and made important strides towards overcoming the HIV/Aids pandemic. Working together, we have opened the doors of learning and culture.
“We have invested in improving and building new schools, colleges and two new universities. We have vastly increased the number of matriculants, graduates and young skilled people. Although we have much further to go, we have worked to ensure that poverty is no barrier to a decent education,” the President said.
Government has also introduced no-fee schools and the school feeding programme. In addition, it has expanded funding to students from poor and working class families and are now focused on early childhood development.
Equality
“In South Africa today, our Bill of Rights is the foundation for a society rooted in equality regardless of race, gender, sex or sexual orientation. Women in South Africa today enjoy full equality before the law.
“As a society, we have made significant advances in giving effect to the rights of women. We have worked together to ensure that women are empowered in the home, in communities, in society and in the economy. [Women] have fought for equal representation in positions of responsibility in the state, in academia, in business, in sport, in culture,” the President said.
Close to half of the Members of Parliament, judges and magistrates are women. More than 60 % of public servants are women.
“In South Africa today, girls learn alongside boys in our primary and secondary schools and receive equal education. South Africa is a beacon of hope for the protections it affords to the LGBTQI+ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and intersex] community. Although we have much further to go, we have worked to overcome prejudice throughout society.
“We have sought to affirm the rights and improve the circumstances of persons with disabilities. We are still working to remove the barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from realising their full potential and living lives of comfort, security and material well-being,” he said.
Progress
Since the advent of democracy, government has pursued land reform, distributing millions of hectares of land to those who had been forcibly dispossessed and providing security of tenure to many others who had lived on the land for generations.
“We have built houses, clinics, hospitals, roads and bridges. We have brought electricity, water and sanitation into millions of homes.
“All those who cast their vote for a better South Africa in 1994 laid the foundation for a democracy that enhanced South Africa’s standing in the international community and opened up opportunities for engagement and cooperation,” the President said.
As a democratic country, the new South Africa was able to build alliances, negotiate trade agreements and participate in international organisations to advance the interests of its people.
Various sectors of society attended the celebrations including musicians Yvonne Chaka Chaka, PJ Powers as well as Ministers and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi. Lesufi joined the President in dancing to the tunes of Grammy Award winners Ladysmith Black Mambazo who entertained the crowd at the festivities. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 13:24
Freedom Day
By Nomonde Mnukwa
The South Africa we embrace today, where individuals are allowed to move freely, speak without fear and associate with whomever they want, would not be possible without the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom. This year, as we commemorate 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy on the 27th of April, we will reflect on our journey thus far and our progress in advancing our democracy.
Our struggle to be free was brought about by many unsung heroes and heroines who were instrumental in the fight against apartheid and its unjust pass laws and discriminatory systems, such as Bantu education. Many in the liberation struggle were imprisoned, and some even lost their lives whilst in the pursuit of a nation that would be free from the shackles of oppression.
Today we have broken the barriers that once divided us and celebrate living in a nation where we are indeed free and have the freedom to choose, participate, be heard and be counted as citizens in a democracy. Our freedom holds even greater significance as we prepare to cast our votes for our nation’s seventh democratic elections.
Freedom Day serves as a reminder of our country’s very first democratic elections held on 27 April 1994. The historic first free and fair election of 1994 resulted in Nelson Mandela becoming the first black president and he declared that “to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others”.
The democratic values of equality, freedom and human dignity is the foundation upon which the South African constitution has been built and this year we commemorate the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the constitution as the supreme law of our country.
The South African constitution has not only been instrumental in protecting our constitutional rights but has also played a vital role in forging a new national identity that protects our rich cultural heritage and diversity. It has also been influential in allowing for the redress of past imbalances.
Transformation through laws, such as Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment, Affirmative Action, Preferential Procurement, and plans such as the Reconstruction and Development Plan, were government’s initial attempts to reduce socio-economic disparities.
Over the years, there have been significant improvements to citizens’ lives as much work has been done to advance basic services.
From 1994 to date, approximately 12 million households have electricity, which is seven million more households than in 1994. Approximately 93 percent of South Africans now have access to potable water compared to 62 percent in 1994. Eighty percent of households now have access to decent sanitation compared to 50 percent in 1994.
The number of citizens in employment have increased substantially from eight million in 1994 to over 16.7 million in 2024. We have also prioritised providing social assistance through grants that support over 18 million poor and vulnerable South Africans.
Our social assistance programme is at the heart of government’s poverty alleviation programme and central to restoring the dignity of our people. Through it, we continue to improve the living conditions of poor, vulnerable and underprivileged South Africans.
However, despite these achievements much work still remains in ensuring that we eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030 as envisioned through the National Development Plan.
It is now up to every one of us to continue the journey started in 1994. Together we can inspire hope for a better tomorrow and build a better nation for everyone.
*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS
Neo
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 09:17