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SA supports efforts to end plastic pollution
As government continues to consult the plastic industry on an internationally legally binding instrument to combat plastic pollution, Minister of Forestry Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy affirmed that South Africa remains resolute in supporting global efforts to end plastic pollution.
In 2022, South Africa supported the development of an internationally legally binding instrument to combat plastic pollution at the Fifth Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly.
“Consequently, on the domestic front, the South African negotiations rest on a firm base provided by our Constitution protecting the right to an environment that is not harmful to health, and to have our environment protected from plastic pollution.
“The reality is that plastics has been targeted for growth as part of our industrial policy and it is incumbent on us that we ensure that this plastic growth is socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable,” Creecy said during a virtual engagement on Friday.
The Minister made these remarks during a consultative stakeholder engagement meeting on South Africa’s negotiating position ahead of the 4th Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC4) on the development of the international legally binding instrument on curbing plastic pollution.
The consultation was intended to consolidate the country’s negotiating position at the INC4, which is scheduled to take place in Ottawa, Canada from 23 – 29 April 2024.
The Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) is mandated to develop an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution and marine litter, address the full plastic lifecycle and set out a series of provisions to be developed.
“The full life cycle of plastic manufacture, use, and disposal in the context of the Waste Act and National Waste Management Strategy, 2020 is key. The negotiations’ priority obligatory measures include supporting and strengthening waste management services to prevent plastic leaking into the environment.
“Emphasis is on waste collection and improving recycling systems through the development amongst others; extended producer responsibility schemes to collect, reuse and recycle plastic waste with the aim of promoting a circular economy in the plastic industry. Promoting public awareness and clean up campaigns to remove plastic waste from rivers, wetlands, and beaches,” the Minister said.
She said the plastic pollution affects the terrestrial and aquatic, including marine, environments.
“South Africa boasts a coastline that covers over 3 000 kilometres, and it is in the interest of environmental sustainability that South Africa is actively engaged in the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee process.
“The recognition of the threat plastic pollution poses to human health, ecosystem functioning, and the marine environment keeps the South African members of the INC hard at work.
“Given the versatility of the plastic product, the lifecycle approach requires a multi-stakeholder focus, and thus government is considering views of interested and affected parties in the negotiations of this internationally legally binding instrument on curbing plastics pollution,” the Minister said.
She said more action is warranted to tackle plastic pollution. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 04/12/2024 - 14:55
Etolls officially scraped
Government has officially switched off the gantries of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), popularly known as e- tolls.
“From this moment forth, road users will no longer be charged for using the GFIP network. This decision is a testament to our government's commitment to listen to and serve the needs of its citizens,” Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga, said in Centurion during a ceremonial switch-off.
The gantries were switched off on Thursday at midnight at the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) Central Operations Centre.
Although, the system of e-tolling was implemented after some consultation had taken place, it aggravated a lot of the public and concerned Cabinet.
“When e-tolls were first introduced, the intention was to provide the critical road infrastructure necessary to support Gauteng's thriving economy, one of the largest in our nation and on our continent. However, we have heard the pleas of Gauteng motorists, and after careful deliberation, we have responded.
“A three-member Cabinet committee, tasked by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2019, has diligently explored alternative funding solutions for the GFIP debt repayment and the backlog of maintenance and rehabilitation costs.
“The result is a Memorandum of Agreement that formalises these solutions and outlines the financial contributions from the Gauteng Province and the national government,” the Minister said.
She said government is committed to continually engaging with all stakeholders to explore adequate and sustainable funding solutions for road construction, maintenance, and upgrades, supporting economic development across our nation,” the Minister said.
“As government, we are still in discussion regarding the historical debt owed by motorists. For SANRAL, this significant milestone unlocks the ability to approach the private sector for funding, enabling the agency to execute its pipeline of capital expenditure projects. As we bid farewell to e-tolls, it is important to note that the benefits of improved roads remain,” Chikunga said.
The Minister reiterated that as of Friday, road users will no longer be charged for the use of the Gauteng e-toll routes
“Road-users will not be required to do anything when e-tolling is cancelled. Importantly, ‘current valid accounts’ can still be used for payments at toll plazas and other Value-Added Services (i.e. parking). This is critical for the ongoing, long-term benefit of inter-operability.
“The tag beeps will stop after [Thursday] midnight. The gantry lights and cameras will remain on for road safety purposes. The e-toll website will be updated with respect to the cancellation, including Mobility/Tag account functionality for services, i.e. interoperability and parking, etc.
“The e-toll stores will remain open as the tag can still be used for interoperability, account queries and other potential transport related services that will be determined in due course. The e-toll branding will be removed in phases,” Chikunga said.
E-toll invoices will be rolled up until the last day and issued up until this period.
Due to potential delays in the postal system, invoices will still be received some time after 12 April 2024. However, no transactions post-midnight tonight will appear on the invoice or statement. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 04/12/2024 - 10:08
Hollywoodbets, South Africa’s premier entertainment betting operator is thrilled to announce its newest Brand Ambassadors, Eben and Anlia Etzebeth. The dynamic husband and wife bring an unparalleled combination of talent, charisma, and expertise to the Hollywoodbets family. Anlia, a celebrated South African actress, has captivated audiences with her versatility and magnetism on screen. Known for …
Schalk Bezuidenhout will appear at the Savoy Theatre in Gqeberha from 4 to 9 June 2024. Ticket Info: https://myza.co.za/events/event/schalk-bezuidenhout-crowd-pleaser/ In the world of comedy, there are few names that shine as brightly as Schalk Bezuidenhout. Hailing from South Africa, this talented comedian has captured the hearts of audiences with his unique style, quick wit, and …
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in partnership with the Wireless Female Network (WFN) team up to launch first Period Art gallery in South Africa and on the African continent. The Wireless Female Network and the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) are thrilled by the concept of a Period Art gallery as this further dismantles the glass …
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Alibek Bakayev met with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of South Africa to the Republic of Kazakhstan Kiitumetzi Siipilo Tandeka Matthews.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation in the political, trade, economic, investment, cultural and humanitarian spheres.
Alibek Bakaev underscored the significance of advancing Kazakh-South African relations amidst the increasing role of the African continent on the global affairs.
South African Ambassador Matthews expressed confidence in the continued enhancement of mutually beneficial collaboration between Astana and Pretoria.
Both parties delineated plans to broaden comprehensive cooperation and reviewed the schedule of forthcoming visits and events at the high and highest levels.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Praise for measures to prevent Gauteng minibus shutdown
Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has commended the Gauteng Taxi Industry (GTI) for their proactive measures that prevented a planned shutdown of minibus taxi services operated by the Witwatersrand African Taxi Association.
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport received intelligence from law enforcement agencies warning of the intended shutdown scheduled for Wednesday, which posed a threat to the daily commute of residents, particularly in Dube, Nancefield, Jabulani and Zola.
The Department said the situation arose from the ongoing violent dispute between the Nancefield-Dube West Taxi Association (NANDUWE) and the Witwatersrand African Taxi Association (WATA) over routes in the area.
"We commend the GTI for demonstrating leadership and responsible governance, thereby averting disruptions to public transport in southern Johannesburg. Their intervention spared commuters significant inconvenience, enabling them to travel to their designated destinations without incident," the MEC said.
GTI comprises the South African National Taxi Association and the National Taxi Alliance.
“The collaborative law enforcement efforts, led by Gauteng Community Safety, Johannesburg Metro Police Department, South African Police Service as well as the Road Traffic Management Corporation, will continue as part of ensuring the safety of residents. Law enforcement remains prepared to swiftly address any potential resurgence of violence during this period,” the department said.
The department will continue to hold public meetings to keep residents informed of developments regarding the matter. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 08:22
KZN reaffirms commitment to provide essential services
KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Nonhlanhla Khoza, has reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to continue with its efforts to ensure that all communities have access to essential services.
Khoza made the commitment during Operation Sigalelekile (“We’ve arrived”), where she led various departments in a united force to provide vital services to the community of Ngudwini and Samungu’s Ward 05 in Umlalazi Local Municipality, under King Cetshwayo District Municipality.
Operation Sigalelekile is an initiative that serves as a beacon of hope for rural communities located in far-flung areas, remotely located from government services.
The community of Ngudwini was previously affected by faction fights, which robbed people of their lives and properties.
As government commemorates 30 years of service delivery, Khoza emphasised the need for strengthened strategies to bridge the gap in service delivery, particularly in rural communities.
Addressing the community during an event held this week at Esikhumbeni Sportsground, Khoza said regardless of location, government is committed to ensuring that essential services reach every citizen, with the aim of fostering a successful nation.
"We are deeply concerned that older persons have to use their grants to support grandchildren who cannot access child support grants due to lack of important documents. We have been made aware of this challenge, hence our visit to the area to address it.
“There are orphans, as a result of infighting within the communities and that robbed children of a better life. We have a responsibility to deal with social challenges affecting our communities," Khoza said.
Khoza also stressed the importance of reaching every corner of the province, adding that government is caring, as it responded to the plight of people needing access to government offices and services.
During the outreach, various departments, including Social Development, South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), South African Police Services, Health, Home Affairs, and the Electoral Commission, collaborated to address the pressing needs of the Ngudwini and Samungu communities.
The community members had an opportunity to make applications for important documents, including birth certificates and IDs, as well as access grants, with on-site assistance from SAPS for affidavits.
The MEC underscored the significance of these documents in unlocking opportunities for individuals and ensuring their inclusion in society.
She affirmed government's commitment to addressing challenges faced by the community, particularly regarding documentation for children and older persons.
"We are here to bridge the gap and ensure that every person, regardless of their circumstances, has equal access to essential services. The integrated effort by the KwaZulu-Natal Government exemplifies its dedication to uplifting communities and fostering inclusivity in service delivery," Khoza said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 14:27
With a bold approach to fresh, new, local, and sustainable, flavours and experiences In March 2024, Pullman Cape Town introduced a range of world-class, innovative dining experiences across ifs four in-house restaurants and bars. Spearheaded by Pullman’s new Director of Food and Beverage, Raynor Damons, and newly appointed Executive Chef Jerome Peters, this initiative reflects …
Discover secure property investment opportunities offering capital appreciation, rental income, and an escape to nature. South Africa’s economic landscape has undergone a period of significant change in recent times. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has implemented a series of interest rate hikes to combat inflation. While these hikes appear to be plateauing as inflation …
PEP mini Netball expands to three additional provinces April 2024, Johannesburg: Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to inspiring and empowering young girls, PEP, Africa’s largest single brand retailer in partnership with South African Schools Netball (SASN) has decided to expand the footprint of the PEP mini Netball programme to three additional provinces following on from last …
Shankara Chetty is accused of failing to act in the best interests of patients
Capetonian Paul Sampson has battled seemingly insurmountable odds to compete with the best in the world
In the dynamic landscape of South African businesses, efficiency is key. From managing fleets to handling finances, every aspect demands careful attention and streamlined processes. This is where modern software solutions step in, offering a plethora of tools to optimize operations and enhance productivity. Let’s delve into the world of software solutions tailored to the …
DURBAN: The Hollywoodbets Dolphins secured a narrow three-run win (DLS Method) against Momentum Multiply Titans at the Hollywoodbets Kingsmead on Wednesday....
Two teachers were given an inappropriately small fine by the South African Council for Education and left to continue teaching
Storing food in the right spots in the fridge, at the right temperatures, can help it stay fresh longer, leading to less food being thrown away. Preserving food in the fridge may seem like a common task, yet doing it correctly can significantly affect your health and food quality. Understanding the importance of proper food …
We sent questions questions on foreign policy to the ANC, DA, EFF, IFP, FF Plus, ActionSA, PA, MK Party and RISE Mzansi
TKZN will continue its international tourism drive in Cape Town this week at World Travel Market (WTM) Africa. It will position the province as a tourism investment destination as it presents a multi-billion-rand range of development opportunities to investors, funding agencies and financial institutions during the WTM Tourism Investment Forum. WTM Africa, which begins on …
It’s more than a trend…non-alcoholic pairings are becoming de rigueur in fine dining restaurants around the world. Chefs and sommeliers from FYN, Pier, The Living Room at Summerhill Estate, and Salsify talk about their experience of non-alcoholic pairings in a South African restaurant context. Fine dining and fine wines have been the preferred pairing since …
“Although the extreme weather is over, the public are asked to please be aware of potentially dangerous conditions in large parts of the province,” Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning said today.
During the Joint Operations Meeting hosted by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) it was highlighted that many secondary roads and low-level river crossings are still flooded. The following road safety aspects were highlighted for the public:
Rock falls and mudslides will remain a real danger for the next week or more, and the public are asked to remain vigilant in this regard.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde inspected the Bot River at the N2 earlier today which was washed away during heavy rainfall last year. He also visited the Buffelsjag River bridge near Swellendam which was overflowing as a result of the heavy rainfall. “I was relieved to see that the N2 at Bot River withstood the recent heavy rainfall. I appeal to the public to please exercise extreme caution on our roads following the severe weather.”
Premier Alan Winde said that the focus now shifts to humanitarian work, such as identifying people who lost their shelter and access to basic amenities during the storm. “Through the coordination of our Department of Social Development, we are working closely with the NGO sector, local municipalities, as well as national departments to ensure that affected people receive shelter and food.”
Municipalities will now start with damage assessments with the support of the Provincial Disaster Management Centre and relevant government departments. Once compiled, the PDMC will approach the National Disaster Management Centre for a disaster classification, which is the first step in applying for additional funding to repair damages.
In the Rarden Route, it was reported that most estuaries are subsiding from the very high levels reported yesterday. Gamkaskloof is still flooded, with reports of a total of 12 people possibly needing evacuation. The Gamkapoort dam, which reached a highpoint of 154% late last night, has already dropped to 146% early this morning. There will be focus today on evaluating the conditions of the Matjiesvlei and Huysrivier area, also with the possibility of some people being cut off from main access routes.
According to the South African Weather Services no additional weather warnings are being issued, although light rain during the day, and possible showers later in the afternoon will persist over parts of the Southern Cape today.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.
E-toll payments soon a thing of the past
By the end of this week, Gauteng road users will no longer be charged for the use of the e-toll network.
This comes after Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga published in the Government Gazette a notice concerning the withdrawal of the toll declaration of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), popularly known as e- tolls.
“This declaration will be effective on 11 April 2024 at 23h59, which means that from 12 April 2024, road users will no longer be charged for the use of the e-toll network.
“It is important to note that, while these roads are no longer going to be tolled, the benefits of improved roads remain and that the gantries that have been installed for use on this scheme will continue to be used for other functions, such as fighting crime,” Chikunga said on Wednesday in Centurion.
The Minister explained that the obligation to pay e-toll remains until midnight on 11 April 2024.
“Road users will not be required to do anything when e-tolling is cancelled. Importantly, ‘current valid accounts’ can still be used for payments at toll plazas and other value-added services (i.e. parking). This is critical for the ongoing, long-term benefit of interoperability.
“The tag beeps will stop after midnight on 11 April 2024. The gantry lights and cameras will remain on for road safety purposes. The e-toll website will be updated with respect to the cancellation, including Mobility/Tag account functionality for services, i.e. interoperability and parking, etc.
“The e-toll stores will remain open as the tag can still be used for interoperability, account queries and other potential transport related services that will be determined in due course. The e-toll branding will be removed in phases,” the Minister said.
E-toll invoices will be rolled up until the last day and issued up until this period.
Due to potential delays in the postal system, invoices will still be received some time after 12 April 2024. However, no transactions post-midnight on 11 April 2024 will appear on the invoice or statement.
Although, the system of e-tolling was implemented after some consultation had taken place, it aggravated a lot of the public and concerned Cabinet.
“It is a concern that led to the formation of a three-member committee – made up of the Minister of Transport, Minister of Finance and Gauteng Premier – charged by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2019 to find a solution to the impasse.
“Between myself, as Minister of Transport, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, we finally reached agreement towards the end of March on how to conclusively deal with the debt resulting from e-tolls.
“…As a result, we were able to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to formalise alternative funding solutions for the GFIP debt repayment and deal with the backlog of maintenance and rehabilitation costs.
“We agreed that the MoA would also regulate the financial and funding contribution towards the SANRAL liability in compliance with the policy objectives and institutional framework for road infrastructure management in South Africa,” the Minister said.
The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has resolved its long outstanding application for increased borrowing limits from Treasury.
This will allow the Agency to approach the market to unlock funding from the private sector to fund its existing pipeline of capital expenditure projects.
“We hope that the resolution of the GFIP funding and the resultant withdrawal of e-tolls will give Gauteng motorists and South Africans in general certainty after a long period of uncertainty.
“We understand that the resolution of this issue might have taken longer than some people wanted, but it involved complex negotiations, which were handled in a mature and professional manner by all concerned,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 11:16
30 years of freedom belongs to all of us - Kodwa
Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa says the achievement of 30 years of freedom in South Africa belongs to each and every South African.
The Minister was speaking during the National Dialogue on 30 Years of Democracy held at Freedom Park on Tuesday evening.
The celebration commemorates the eclipsing of the separatist agenda driven by the apartheid government and the ushering in of democracy and unity in the country.
Kodwa said democracy does not belong to any government or political party, but the entire population.
“Thirty years must be a celebration not of government, not of a governing party but of all South Africans because it is… South Africans who brought about this freedom. A South African who is in the villages, who is in town, who is in urban areas must feel part of the 30 years and must be given a voice,” he said.
The Minister said the dialogue is the beginning of a series of debates that will be held in the country to stimulate conversation around not only democracy but what defines a nation.
“One notion that we must always remind ourselves… is the notion of a nation. It’s only in our Constitution of 1996, which calls upon us to build a nation of all South Africans and the idea of a nation had never existed before.
“There are significant moments that define a nation, from a Sports, Arts and Culture perspective… we have seen what our national teams have done recently. We must celebrate significant moments that define us as a nation; one of which is the national flag.
“We are united around the flag. We are united around the national anthem. These are the important milestones that define this notion of a nation,” he said.
Turning to the upcoming National and Provincial Elections, the Minister emphasised the importance of the right to vote and the responsibility it bears.
“A right to vote is not just enough. It’s important that you must understand the manifesto of a party because… any party and leader that wins any election must give expression to the Constitution.
“Failure to give expression to the Constitution will result in issues… [of] people protesting, people just electing leaders on the basis of emotions, people electing leaders on the basis of populism and rhetoric. But it’s important that people must elect leaders who give expression to the Constitution…which states 'building a non-racial South Africa, which is united and all peoples belong to it'.
“People deciding not to vote must never be an option because an option to vote is a right that was denied for many years. I call upon all South Africans to exercise their right to vote and elect people that will give expression to the will and aspirations of the community,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 11:05