African

29 February 2024

South Africa and Netherlands recommits their cooperation in the water and sanitation sector

Location: News

South Africa and Netherlands governments have undertaken to forge more cooperation opportunities in the water and sanitation sector in efforts to strength the existing relations between the two states.

This undertaking was made on Tuesday, 27 February 2024 in Pretoria when the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr Senzo Mchunu, joined by Director-General, Dr Sean Phillips met with the Ambassador of Netherlands to South Africa, Joanne Doornewaard.

The meeting between Minister Mchunu and Ambassador Doornewaard was the first one since she was posted to South Africa in August 2023. Several issues were discussed, including the bilateral agreement on water management between the two countries as well as other collaboration opportunities in the water and sanitation sector.

Expanding on the existing relations between the two states, Minister Mchunu appreciated Netherlands expertise and the contribution that they are making in the water and sanitation space, saying that it has a significant impact. Acknowledging, the assistance from Netherlands government, he said the visit by the King and Queen of Netherlands to South Africa, as part of the Blue Deal Project, demonstrated the love they have for the people of South Africa.

Minister Mchunu outlined some challenges that the country continues to face includes the delipidating infrastructure at municipal level as well as water losses as a result of that.

“South Africa remains one of the driest countries in the world, yet we have a high rate of non-venue water at municipal level, losing so much water that we so need. We need lots of work around this matter, that is investing more on our water infrastructure, to ensure that we nip this in a bud”, he emphasised.

In addition, Minister Mchunu said that South Africa has more challenges on water services that it has on water resources, saying the dams are full but the ability to take that water to the taps. However, he said, there is no water crisis in the country, what is experienced, are isolated incidences that do not equate to a crisis.

Director General, Dr Phillips said the department and the sector at large is reaping the benefits of some programmes undertaken by the Netherlands government under the Blue Deal project, particularly in the supply chain management in the infrastructure procurement.

“We have had an internationally renowned expert in infrastructure procurement who has imparted so much knowledge that we are currently implementing to modernise our systems. This is going to make a huge improvement in our service delivery, and we want to take this to our water boards and municipalities to implement as well”, he said.

Ambassador Doornewaard outlined several projects that they want to undertake in Limpopo and other parts of the country as part of support to the country's water challenges and other sectors, saying they just want to lend a helping hand to the country.

South Africa and Netherlands signed a Blue Deal agreement which aims to support water management by exchanging knowledge and experiences, assist the national, regional and local organisations and cooperate with key stakeholders.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

29 February 2024

Cabinet confident SA will deliver successful G20 Summit

Location: News

Cabinet confident SA will deliver successful G20 Summit

Cabinet has expressed its confidence in South Africa's ability to host a successful G20 Summit, drawing upon its track record of successfully organising major events such as the BRICS Summit and the African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum (AGOA).

This is according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni who addressed a post-Cabinet briefing on Thursday in Pretoria.

The Minister told the media that Cabinet received and considered a report on the preparations for South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit in 2025 as well as taking over the Presidency.

“This is a momentous event for South Africa as it will be the first country in Africa to host such a gathering; not only unique because of the anticipated numbers but also of the enduring impact it is envisaged to make.

“Cabinet is confident that South Africa will deliver a successful G20 Summit, as it has done with previous major events such as the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa Summit and the African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum.

“The G20 Presidency presents South Africa with an opportunity to champion the aspirations of emerging markets,” the Minister said.

As it hosts the G20, Ntshavheni said South Africa’s participation in the forum will continue to be guided by the country’s commitment to advance national interests as well as those of the African continent.

37th African Union (AU) Summit

Cabinet has also expressed appreciation on the progress made at the 37th AU Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 17 and 18 February 2024, which outlined Africa's priorities for 2024 and beyond.

President Cyril Ramaphosa joined other African leaders in discussing key continental priorities including peace and security, climate change, economic development and Africa’s role in the wider global multilateral context.

The summit adopted the Second 10-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063, which will see the acceleration of flagship projects such as the African Continental Free Trade Area, in which South Africa is playing a leading role.

President Ramaphosa also presented a report on the continent’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the state of readiness against future health threats, in his capacity as the Champion of the AU’s COVID-19 response.

The summit also emphasised the importance of socio-economic recovery post-COVID-19 and lessons from the pandemic preparedness and response and continental security.

“The President called on African leaders to continue improving the levels of alertness of their countries against future pandemics and urged for the adoption of a strong Common Africa Position on Pandemic Preparedness and Response,” Cabinet said. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 12:49

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29 February 2024

Cabinet approves hosting of New Development Bank meeting

Location: News

Cabinet approves hosting of New Development Bank meeting

Cabinet has considered and approved the hosting of the annual meeting of the New Development Bank (NDB) to take place in South Africa in June 2024.

Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said it has been 10 years since Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) countries signed the Articles of the NDB at the 6th BRICS Summit in Fortaleza, marking the establishment of the “first multilateral development institution by emerging and developing countries”.

Briefing media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Ntshavheni said South Africa had so far contributed R25 billion towards the bank’s paid in capital.

“South Africa is looking forward to host the meeting on the NDB and commits to working hand-in-hand with the bank and its member countries to achieve sustainable development and create a better the African continent,” Ntshavheni said.

Social service professionals strategy approved

Cabinet has also approved the Strategy for the Employment of social service professionals (SSPs) strategy, as part of increasing the human resource capacity of government, including non-governmental organisations, and the private sector to proactively respond to social ills that are facing the country.

“The strategy is a collective commitment to building a social service sector that is responsive to the needs of our communities and overcome social ills such as crime, gender-based violence and femicide, teenage pregnancy, bullying, child-headed households, mental health and substance abuse.

“The strategy is also aimed at laying the foundation for a socially inclusive and resilient future and a caring society,” Ntshavheni said.

Comments sought on Green Paper on Comprehensive Social Security

Meanwhile, Cabinet has called on the public to submit comments on the revised Green Paper on Comprehensive Social Security for the country.

This follows Cabinet’s approval of the publication of the revised paper, which aims to introduce a mandatory social security pension system that provides retirement, disability, and death benefits to all workers.

Low income earners would have their contributions subsidised, in line with existing provisions.

“The paper further proposes the harmonisation of the tax treatment of older persons in the tax and social grant system to address the unequal treatment of older persons in the two regimes.

“In addition, the paper also seeks to propose institutional reforms to promote coherence in social security policy making for administrative efficiency, improved service delivery and ensure effective regulation, governance and oversight across all social security arrangements,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 12:07

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29 February 2024

KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination

Location: News

KZN continues quest to remain most favoured investment destination

While unemployment figures may cause despair, KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, says the rate of investment into the province is a sign that tomorrow will be better than today.

“As KwaZulu-Natal, we faced an uphill battle in ensuring that investor confidence is unwavering, despite challenges with load shedding, the civil unrest, ageing utilities' infrastructure, some of which could not withstand the recent floods. Yet we remain determined to continue in our quest to ensure that investors know that KwaZulu-Natal is and remains the most favoured investment destination in Southern Africa,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier made the remarks when delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) at the Oval Cricket Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on Wednesday.

Dube-Ncube said during the South African Investment Conference (SAIC) held last year, where President Ramaphosa’s target was exceeded by some R306 billion, KwaZulu-Natal’s share included 55 companies in the province, which invested over R300 billion.

Dube-Ncube said some of the investments are located in the province's Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Richards Bay and Dube Trade Port, and around the province.

“Targeted business expansion and retention support activities amounted to over R23 billion, resulting in 37 201 jobs being created. Added to this are investments attracted by Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal (TIKZN) over the last two decades, amounting to over R60 billion and creating over 95 000 jobs,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said KwaZulu-Natal is committed to the establishment of new leather and textile Special Economic Zones in the Newcastle and Ladysmith corridor, which are estimated at R600 million.

She said the two new SEZs will add to the two provincial SEZs of Dube Trade Port and Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ), and will create 4 500 employment opportunities.

According to the Premier, 35 Black Industrialists have been supported by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and for grant funding, and they will create approximately 4 000 jobs. She said the target is to support 10 new Black Industrialists in the coming financial year.

“KwaZulu-Natal has 35 small scale fisheries cooperatives comprising 1 000 small scale fishers registered by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Government has rolled out training to capacitate these fishers in the variety of Ocean Economy and Maritime technical skills,” the Premier said.

Dube-Ncube also highlighted some government-led projects to create jobs, including the Port of Durban's R1.34 billion investment programme aimed at upgrading port facilities to mainly increase port capacity. This created 1 328 jobs.

The Passenger Rail Agency South Africa (PRASA) has also spent over R900 million in KwaZulu-Natal through its capital programme on investment and infrastructure works.

“This includes projects on rolling stock upgrades, including the Bridge City Development with a new rail network, new access gates and CCTV cameras and stations, and the Dalbridge turnaround facility and general infrastructure station improvement. These were never there prior to this government.

“In 2023, the R2 billion Dr Pixley ka lsaka Seme Regional Hospital was officially opened with 500 beds and a full package of regional services provided. This hospital has changed lives, especially in the Phoenix, lnanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu (PINK) area, and created 5 312 jobs during construction,” Dube-Ncube highlighted.

The Premier acknowledged that government alone cannot address the enormous developmental challenges faced by the province.

“In order to accelerate development, we have partnered with the private sector to stimulate our economy. The public and private projects, worth over R129 billion, have created over 339 000 jobs,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 10:05

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29 February 2024

SA works on exiting FATF grey list

Location: News

SA works on exiting FATF grey list

National Treasury has noted that whilst South Africa is on track to address all the outstanding action items by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) with regards to the country’s grey listing, it remains a challenge to address all 17 of the remaining action items by February 2025.

“All relevant agencies and authorities will need to continue to demonstrate significant improvements, and also for such improvements are being sustained,” National Treasury said on Thursday.

The FATF is the international standard-setting body that oversees global compliance with anti-money laundering rules.

“The February 2024 FATF Plenary adopted a report by the Joint Group, confirming that five of the 22 action items are now addressed or largely addressed. These relate to the legal provisions criminalizing terrorist financing and underpinning South Africa’s targeted financial sanction regimes related to terrorism financing and proliferation financing, increasing the use of financial intelligence from the Financial Intelligence Centre to support money laundering investigations, and increasing the resources of AML/CFT [Anti-Money Laundering and the Combating of the Financing of Terrorism] supervisors,” National Treasury said.

The FATF grey listed South Africa at its February 2023 Plenary meetings where a jointly agreed Action Plan was adopted listing 22 action items linked to the strategic deficiencies identified in the AML/CFT regime.

The FATF grey list refers to the FATF’s practice of publicly identifying countries with strategic AML/CFT deficiencies. The FATF maintains two such lists with one being jurisdictions under “increased monitoring” that are actively working with the FATF to address strategic deficiencies in their regimes” and secondly “high-risk jurisdictions subject to a call for action” that are not actively engaging with the FATF to address these deficiencies.

South Africa is required to address all 22 to exit the FATF grey list.

“The deadlines for addressing the action items fall between January 2024 to January 2025. Should South Africa be assessed to have largely addressed all 22 Action Items in February 2025, the FATF will schedule an onsite visit in April/May 2025, to confirm that assessment and make a recommendation to the June 2025 FATF plenary.

“In this cycle of reporting, the FATF also considered that two further action items that were previously not addressed, have now been partly addressed, confirming that 14 of the 17 outstanding action items have now been partly addressed.

“Three action items still have not been addressed as yet. The deadline for South Africa to address (or at least largely address) four of the outstanding action items in the Action Plan, is May 2024,” National Treasury said.

The FATF will consider South Africa’s progress on these action items at its plenary meeting in June 2024. A further eight action items are due in September 2024, and the final five items are due in January 2025.

The process in addressing effectiveness deficiencies is distinct from the process in addressing technical compliance deficiencies (related to the adequacy of the country’s AML/CFT laws and policy frameworks).

“The October 2023 FATF plenary formally re-rated 18 of South Africa’s 20 deficiencies, based on the progress made by the South African authorities in the two-year period following the 2021 mutual evaluation. Of these, 15 were upgraded to a point where they are no longer deficient, as 14 Recommendations are now fully or largely compliant, and one Recommendation was deemed to be inapplicable to South Africa.

“Following these re-ratings, South Africa is now deemed to be fully or largely compliant in 35 of the 40 FATF Recommendations, including in five of the six core FATF Recommendations. South Africa will apply for further re-ratings of technical compliance deficiencies, for the consideration of the October 2024 FATF Plenary,” National Treasury said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 09:38

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29 February 2024

Tadalafil: Effective Treatment for ED Improvement

Location: MyPR

When it comes to the effectiveness of tadalafil for ED, numerous men have found a reliable ally in the small, yet powerful tablet. Developed by the reputable Eli Lilly and Company, Tadalafil, the essence of the brand Cialis®, distinguishes itself in the realm of erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment options. Its noteworthy pharmacological profile is characterized …

28 February 2024

African nations adopt digital and social media guidelines

Location: News

African nations adopt digital and social media guidelines

The Association of African Election Authorities (AAEA) has launched a set of principles and guidelines aimed at getting the most out of digital and social media, while mitigating its potential harms.

The guidelines, launched on Tuesday, emphasise the dangers of social media abuse, and call for responsible use and accountability from both platform owners and users.

The launch event was attended by 16 African Election Management Bodies (EMB) from countries that will hold elections in 2024 and 2025.

The guidelines encourage African EMBs to develop a clear and comprehensive plan for responsible social media use during election campaigns. It emphasises the critical roles governments and regulatory bodies can play in safeguarding electoral processes across Africa.

In addition, the guidelines encourage African states and regulatory authorities to refrain from imposing measures that might disrupt access to the internet, and to digital and social media.

Furthermore, they call on social media operators to treat political parties and candidates equitably and ensure that their online messaging, including that of their supporters, does not undermine electoral integrity or contravene human rights.

Speaking at the launch in Johannesburg, the AAEA President, who is also the Chairperson of the Mozambique National Election Commission, Reverend Carlos Simao Matsinhe, said the guidelines are an invaluable resource for protecting elections integrity and credibility.

He said the fight against disinformation is critical because left unmitigated, it can have a deleterious impact on the credibility of elections. He urged EMBs to socialise the guidelines in their respective countries.

South Africa, through grant funding by the African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund, played an important role in developing the guidelines.

In his keynote address, South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, pledged the country's support for socialising the principles and guidelines.

“The reality is that the political environment during elections is tense and volatile, and we should use social media with responsibility to ensure that the content we share is credible and accurate. I urge political parties that participate in robust debate on social media to uphold ethical standards and refrain from going too far in being unjust, deceptive, or hateful,” said Mashatile.

The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of South Africa, Mosotho Moepya, urged all stakeholders to play their role in ensuring that the guidelines are widely socialised and implemented, not only to increase voter confidence and trust in electoral processes, but also to ensure the deepening of democratic values.

Echoing Moepya's sentiments, the representative of the African Union Commission (AUC), Ambassador William Awinador-Kanyirige, said the adoption of the guidelines will play a huge role in the transformation and handling of elections in Africa.

“The existence of these principles and guidelines will go a long way in inspiring other countries to follow the same steps, thus promoting peaceful elections,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 10:23

570 views

28 February 2024

Transnet expands port to meet industry demands

Location: News

Transnet expands port to meet industry demands

In its ongoing drive for port expansion and operational performance improvement, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is repositioning its Western Region ports of Cape Town, Mossel Bay and Saldanha for the provision of world-class port infrastructure to support the regions’ booming shipping demand.

Projects in the pipeline include Phase2B of the Cape Town Container Terminal expansion at the Port of Cape Town.

“As part of the project, TNPA is currently finalising a detailed design of the rail infrastructure upgrade - a key deliverable that will enable the construction phase. The design work will be completed by December 2024. The project scope also includes container stack upgrade as well as a truck staging area and automation.

“The expansion will see a capacity increase from 1 million TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) to 1.4 million TEU, with an investment value of approximately R1.775 billion. Project commencement is planned for September 2025,” Transnet said on Monday.

TNPA is also reviewing and finalising precinct plans for the Culemborg Intermodal Logistics Precinct Development in the Port of Cape Town, and that will be followed by a request for proposals during the 2024/25 financial year.

“This project will culminate in the development of land parcels near the port to create additional back of port capacity. Key projects at the Port of Saldanha include the extension of the multi-purpose terminal and the development of berth 205, which will cater for rig repairs. The new berth will also provide additional capacity for break bulk operations,” Transnet said.

Meanwhile, strategic initiatives in the Port of Mossel Bay include the construction of the cruise reception facility to enable international cruise vessels to call to the port. The slipway rehabilitation project planned for 2024/25 financial year will increase the port’s slipway and cradle capacity from 200 to 500 tons.

“The execution of these projects is not only a demonstration of our commitment to investing in the creation of addition port capacity, but also critical for the Ports Authority to respond to the need to improve operational performance of the South African ports,” acting TNPA Managing Executive for the Western Region ports, Captain Vernal Jones said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 11:02

522 views

28 February 2024

Deputy Minister Sibongiseni Dhlomo on claims paid out to ex-mineworkers

Location: News

South African Government
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The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo has praised the North West Province for registering massive progress in the provincial department's endeavour to trace and track ex-mineworkers who left work without claiming their benefits. Accompanied by the North West Health MEC Madoda Sambatha at Westvaal Hospital, the Deputy Minister found out that a total of 20 798 ex-mine workers were successfully traced, with 2669 claims processed and paid a combined figure of R76.9 million. All this was achieved between August 2022 when the project was launched and the end of 2023.

The North West Province ex-mineworkers compensation project was launched by the Deputy Minister of Health, Premier of North West Province and the MEC for Health in August 2022.

The aim of the intervention is to provide ex-mineworkers and their beneficiaries with access to compensation benefits for occupational lung diseases and other social protection funds which were left unclaimed.

Speaking at Westvaal Hospital in Orkney and after receiving a report and assessment of the center, the Deputy Health Minister, Dhlomo congratulated the North West Province, the provincial health department and all stakeholders including the Mining Council and the interim Ex-Mineworkers leadership structure for the commitment shown in tracing deserving ex-mine workers.

“The province and the Department has done extremely well if you consider that between 2017 and 2021, the total value of the payouts were ranging from between 10 and 11% but in one year of 2023 the province was able to pay R76.9 million. It's a massive success though there are still many ex-mineworkers to be traced and compensated”, said Deputy Minister Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo

All stakeholders in attendance immediately convened to discuss strategies for accelerated tracing and tracking. The target is all Ex-mineworkers who are estimated at 168,000 and their beneficiaries who reside in the North West Province.

As stakeholders deliberated on ways of improving the project output, MEC Madoda Sambatha made a commitment to integrate the Ex-mineworkers programme in the HAST programme of the Department. “We already have community health workers who are doing a good work of ‘loss to follow-up' because they track and trace people who miss their TB treatment. When we integrate this programme, we will be able to utilise this resource to track and trace ex-mine workers”, said MEC Sambatha.

The Ex-Mineworkers Council Interim Provincial Secretary, Mr Mr Tana Mahlophe suggested the use of two ex-mineworkers per region who can be contracted for a short period to assist in tracing deserving ex-mineworkers while the Mineral Council of South Africa committed to assist should this option be implemented.

Meanwhile the Department of Health has committed to ensure that all ex-mineworkers centers in the four districts remain operational and accessible to all ex-mineworkers. The centres are: Westvaal Hospital for Dr Kenneth Kaunda District, Old Vryburg Hospital for Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District, Mahikeng Provincial Hospital for Ngaka Modiri Molema and Job Shimankana Tabane Hospital in Bojanala District.

MEC Sambatha concluded the deliberations by assuring stakeholders that the Department is committed to conclude outreach in the remaining districts between March and May 2024 as this will raise awareness to ex-mineworkers especially those in deep rural areas who might not be aware of the project.

All the key stakeholders in the projects were highlighted as essential for its success and they include the Provincial Leadership, Local government structures, the Minerals Council SA, TEBA Bank, the National Department of Health MBOD/CCOD, XDS call centre, IP Capital, Rand Mutual / CCMS, Tshiamiso Trust and the Traditional Leadership. They will be consulted throughout all the project implementation phases to ensure its success.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

28 February 2024

Congenital Heart Disease Babies at Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital – First to Receive Voice and Heartbeat Recording Devices

Location: MyPR

February is a time when hearts are in the spotlight. It is a time earmarked for raising awareness on congenital heart disease (CHD). According to studies it’s classified as the most common type of birth defect1,2 with up to 3.12 million babies born with CHD in 20193. To commemorate the annual CHD calendar awareness week, …

28 February 2024

Empact Group Hosts Power-Packed Session on Marketing, PR, and Social Media for Small Businesses

Location: MyPR

Empact Group, a purpose-led, 100% South African-owned company, continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering small businesses through its Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programme. The most recent ESD training session, dedicated to the significance of Marketing, PR, and Social Media, showcased the importance of these elements in the marketing mix for small and medium …

28 February 2024

Hundreds of eThekwini municipal workers march for higher wages

Location: News

But stoppage fell short of SAMWU’s plan for a city-wide shutdown, says municipality

28 February 2024

R1 billion investment to boost tugboat availability

Location: News

R1 billion investment to boost tugboat availability

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is injecting a R1 billion investment in its marine fleet renewal programme through the acquisition of seven tugboats aimed at enhancing marine operations at its commercial seaports.

“The seven tugboats will replace marine craft that has reached its operational lifespan at the ports of Durban [in KwaZulu-Natal] and East London [in the Eastern Cape]. TNPA has awarded two contracts to a shipbuilding company, Damen Shipyards Cape Town, to deliver the seven tugboats from April to August 2024,” Transnet said on Tuesday.

From this procured tug fleet, the Port of Durban has been allocated five tugboats and two will go to the Port of East London.

“This investment demonstrates TNPA’s ongoing commitment in providing reliable marine craft at our South African ports, which will enable us to effectively service the marine industry and respond to global shipping demands,” TNPA Chief Harbour Master, Captain Rufus Lekala said.

The procured tugboats boast the latest hull design and propulsion, as well as a 60-ton bollard pull, which is a much-needed improvement from the bollard pull of the existing tugboats that will be replaced that ranges between 32 and 40-ton bollard pull.

“The 60-ton pollard pull meets international standards and makes the craft highly manoeuvrable while guiding larger and newer vessels safely in and out of the ports.

“TNPA’s marine fleet programme demonstrates a reimagined focus in ensuring that the Ports Authority delivers on its mandate of providing a competitive port system in its role as an enabler of economic growth,” Transnet said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 11:10

130 views

28 February 2024

SARS takes legal action against Sasfin Bank

Location: News

SARS takes legal action against Sasfin Bank

The Commissioner for the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Edward Kieswetter, has confirmed that the revenue service has instituted legal proceedings against Sasfin Bank.

SARS has conducted a thorough investigation into various South African taxpayers who had not made true and accurate tax disclosures to it.

“The investigation revealed that the taxpayers had colluded to expatriate funds offshore in a manner that obscured tracing the expatriated payments and jeopardises the recovery of tax in South Africa.

“The Commissioner’s position is that it is inappropriate to comment on the question of liability and compensation for the fiscus’ loss, as these are legal issues that are now before the South African judicial system. Given this development, SARS will not be making any further comment,” SARS said on Tuesday.

The Commissioner affirmed his commitment to pursue the enforcement and recovery of taxes without fear, favour or prejudice in the interest of upholding the fiscal integrity of the South African tax system.

Meanwhile in an announcement on Tuesday, shareholders of Sasfin Holdings Limited were advised that Sasfin Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sasfin Holdings, was served a civil summons for a total amount of R4,872,327,649.27 plus interest and costs in the form of a damages claim, instituted by SARS.

“This summons, which was received on 9 January 2024, arises from SARS’ purported inability to collect income tax, value added tax and penalties allegedly owed by former foreign exchange clients of the bank.

“Former foreign exchange clients of the Bank operated as a syndicate that ran an unlawful scheme to facilitate the expatriation of money out of South Africa and colluded with former employees of the bank who operated outside the scope of their employment.”

Sasfin Holdings Limited also added that the bank took decisive action when it became aware of this unlawful scheme, including instituting an expanded investigation led by an independent forensic consultancy.

This resulted in the termination of relationships with the implicated clients and employees and the opening of criminal cases against them.

“Subsequent to receiving the summons, Sasfin Bank engaged transparently with the relevant regulators on the matter and obtained a legal opinion from ENS, authored by Professor Dale Hutchinson, Professor Michael Katz and Aslam Moosajee and endorsed by Adv. Wim Trengove S.C.”

“The legal opinion is unequivocal that the claim falls outside of the recognised parameters of applicable law and has a very remote likelihood of success. On the basis of this legal opinion, Sasfin Holdings concluded that the claim will not result in the recognition of any liability.”

In the SENS announcement, the board of directors of Sasfin Holdings “remains of the view that SARS’ claim has no merit and has little chance of success.”

“The Bank will therefore defend the claim, and given that this involves a defended trial action, the matter is only likely to come to trial in several years’ time,” said Sasfin Holdings. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 10:23

90 views

28 February 2024

B-well invests in industry through its collaboration with Sense of Taste Chef School

Location: MyPR

B-well is thrilled to announce its partnership with the Sense of Taste Chef School, based in Maitland, Cape Town. The collaboration will see B-well supplying the school and its community feeding programme with the complete range of B-well products, made from homegrown canola. “We are very excited to partner with Sense of Taste,” says Lunique …

27 February 2024

SA Athlete Prize Incentives announced for 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

Location: MyPR

Following the recent announcement of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series’ unprecedented, combined Prize Purse of R 1,560,000.00 in 2024, Stillwater Sports, the organisers of South Africa’s acclaimed road running series, have also unveiled an impressive “SA Athlete Prize Incentive Schedule” for the 2024 edition of the series. The “SA Athlete Prize Incentive Schedule” is …

27 February 2024

Mashatile urges parties to hold back on distasteful social media debates ahead of elections

Location: News

Mashatile urges parties to hold back on distasteful social media debates ahead of elections

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged political parties that hold robust debates on social media to uphold ethical standards and refrain from unjust, deceptive or hateful speech, as many African countries head to the polls this year.

“We can run campaigns on social media without being malicious or degrading of both individuals and organisations,” he said on Tuesday.

The Deputy President was delivering a keynote address at the launch of the 'Principles and guidelines for the use of digital and social media in African elections' in Johannesburg.

The new guidelines seek to create awareness among election management bodies (EMBs) on the benefits and threats of digital and social media to the electoral process and integrity.

They are a comprehensive framework for the continental EMBs adopted in Benin during the 11th General Assembly meeting of the Association of African Electoral Authorities (AAEA) last year.

The principles cover various areas - from the promotion of freedom of speech, access to information, protecting the rights to privacy and the role of the State, political parties, candidates and media.

For instance, one of the guidelines stipulates that political parties and candidates should ensure that campaigns conducted on digital and social media are transparent and attributed, including the use of paid-for-content and influencers.

The Deputy President has described these principles and guidelines as groundbreaking for Africa, spearheaded by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) on behalf of AAEA, as groundbreaking for Africa.

The launch coincides with heightened election activity around the continent, with over 20 African Union Member States, including South Africa, preparing for elections.

This, Mashatile said, provides an opportunity for fine-tuning the regulatory and operational protocols for the use of social media during these elections.

“We will, therefore, continue to uphold the right to free and fair elections in this election and thereafter, as we have done since 1994,” he vowed.

In the fast-paced digital world of today, he said it was important to recognise the important role that social media plays in shaping people's opinions and establishing the narratives propelled during elections.

“As we witness the increasing use of these platforms in political campaigns, it is imperative that we establish clear principles and guidelines to ensure a fair, transparent, and inclusive electoral process,” the Deputy President said.

Youth

He is of the view that social media platforms must be used constructively to inform and disseminate positive messages regarding elections, with a particular focus on the youth of Africa.

The youth, Mashatile said, are gaining significant grip on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

“We should, therefore, use these principles and guidelines to emphasise the importance of promoting online integrity, safeguarding against misinformation and disinformation, protecting privacy and data security, and fostering a level playing field for all candidates and political parties.”

Misinformation

Through adherence to these principles, Mashatile believes that countries will be able to safeguard the values of democracy through free and fair elections, and allow voters to make choices.

“We have a significant obligation to educate our population about the risks associated with disseminating misinformation, particularly concerning elections, since false claims can erode trust in the electoral process and provoke a wave of anti-voters and instability in our countries,” he said.

The Deputy President has described the misinformation and disinformation are a threat to democracy.

“They undermine confidence in our elections, and have the potential to suppress voter turnout.”

The Deputy President also took the time to express his gratitude to the agencies and digital companies for walking this journey with the African EMBs, offering them technical expertise, and building their capacities.

IEC Chairperson Mosotho Moepya told the delegates that the internet is here to stay and that it should be used for the common good.

“We’re working with those who own social media, authorities and EMBs, and we’re trying to find a way in which we can use social media to help us in the work that we do; and at the same time, to limit the damage it can do when it is abused.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 13:12

333 views

27 February 2024

New Syncromine Core training videos from Mineware Consulting save time and resources.

Location: MyPR

The increased use of digitization and automation in the mining industry, both locally and internationally, reflects a global trend towards incorporating advanced digital technologies to improve process efficiency, safety, and sustainability. At the heart of this transformation is Mineware Consulting, a software company that has positioned itself as a leader in the automation and digital …

27 February 2024

EWSETA introduces specialised training for renewable energy, water management

Location: News

EWSETA introduces specialised training for renewable energy, water management

The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA) has developed and implemented specialised renewable energy and water resource management training programmes, in a bid to align with industry needs and technological advancements.

This was revealed during a media engagement with the organisation in Rosebank, Johannesburg on Tuesday.

EWSETA Chief Executive Officer, Mpho Mookapele, engaged the media on the back of growing research that macroeconomic trends and technological advancements continue to disrupt labour markets worldwide.

Mookapele highlighted some of the courses implemented by the organisation and others currently in the pipeline, including water works management, solar panel installation, wind turbine maintenance and other green energy solutions, among others.

She said as the energy sector is rapidly evolving the EWSETA is currently developing qualifications that will respond to the gaps in the curriculum.

The skills programmes that will be introduced include wind turbine operation, biogas installation, microgrid and battery energy storage operation, solar PV manufacture, design, and installation.

“When the sector needs certain skills, we are committed to working together with industry to build these capabilities. Ultimately, we exist to ensure industries are successful.

“As such, we aim to move with agility to ensure that these programmes and qualifications are concluded and submitted for registration with Quality Council for Trades and Occupation (QCTO) and South African Qualification South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA),” Mookapele said.

She said due to the boom in the photovoltaic sector and more people going solar, the SETA is also currently working with industry to ensure that minimum skills requirements are mandated for the PV Green Card training - a quality assurance standard for solar PV installers.

These minimum requirements will hopefully mitigate against substandard installations.

Mookapela said the EWSETA is looking for partners to enable retro-fitting technical workshops for TVET colleges to ensure that they are responding to the tech-developments in the industry.

Developing water-related qualifications

The EWSETA has also partnered with water boards, including municipalities and private industries, to develop water-related qualifications that aim to address the challenges around clean drinking water and wastewater treatment plants.

“In response to the evolving water landscape, a Water Works Management NQF 6 qualification has been registered. EWSETA is in the process of developing a Water Resource Management qualification at NQF level 8 and a skills programme for a Water Conservation Practitioner,” she said.

Advances in water treatment processes will necessitate the development of qualifications that will respond to the future treatment landscape, and these include biological water treatment and smart water grids, amongst others.

“As the world transitions to net zero, the traditional career landscape is changing, and it is up to all of us to future-proof our workforce. The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority is taking strides to harness the opportunities that these exciting changes present,” Mookapele said.

Skills development initiatives

Meanwhile, Mookapele underscored the importance for businesses to share their skills plans with the EWSETA to enable the organisation to capacitate learners accordingly.

Investing in skills development secures the long-term sustainability of industries and contributes to economic resilience.

“Together with government and private entities we are collaborating to fast-track skills development initiatives that seek to upskill and reskill employees to meet the workforce demands of the changing energy and water sectors,” Mookapele said.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) last year revealed that 4.7 million more people were employed in clean energy globally in 2022 than in 2019.

Mookapele noted that concerns around the “green skills gap” have been echoed by a recent report from LinkedIn, which shows that only 1 in 8 employees globally possess one or more green skills.

“We don’t want to leave South Africa’s young people and workforce behind; it is important for businesses to share their skills plans with us, so that we can capacitate learners accordingly,” she said.

EWSETA’s mandate is to participate, build and strategically plan and manage skills development, and training needs in the energy and water sectors, as directed by the National Skills Development Plan 2030. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 14:38

103 views

27 February 2024

Illuminating South Africa’s Literary Horizon: DSAC Publishing Hub Unveils 21 Unique Works

Location: MyPR

In a resounding celebration of South African literature, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and the Academic and Non-Fiction Authors Association of South Africa (ANFASA) proudly unveil the results of the DSAC Publishing Hub’s 2023/24 Call for Manuscripts. This year’s initiative has seen an overwhelming response, with 21 exceptional manuscripts selected for publication. …

27 February 2024

Gearing Up For The Port Alfred Easter Festival

Location: MyPR

Port Alfred – With just 30 days before the inaugural Port Alfred Easter Festival, Port Alfred is gearing up for a pivotal long weekend. The Port Alfred Easter Festival will take place over the Easter Weekend, March 29th – April 1st, and will showcase the vibrant sports and culture of the coastal town of Port …

27 February 2024

Kaspersky presents industrial cybersecurity review and predictions for 2024

Location: News

At the 9^th annual Cyber Security Weekend – META conference held recently in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Kaspersky (www.Kaspersky.co.za) presented an industrial cybersecurity review for the countries in the region and outlined the key cybersecurity challenges for industrial enterprises in the year ahead.

According to Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) statistics, in the second half of 2023, 32.6% of ICS computers globally had been attacked with malware. In the Middle East, Turkiye, and Africa (META) region the figure is 36.5% for Turkiye, 36.8% for Africa (27.5% in South Africa, 34.55% in Kenya, 28.8% in Nigeria, 33.17% in Ghana), and 33.5% for the Middle East region. There is a slight decrease in this figure in the region compared to 2022 which can be the result of industrial organisations paying more attention to cybersecurity.

African countries are undergoing rapid digitalisation and integration into the world's economy, while at the same time facing a significant cybersecurity under-investment problem. In the second half of 2023, 7.55% of Operational Technology computers in Africa were exposed to threats via USBs (that is 20 times more than the figure of Western Europe); 7.2% faced threat by worms (that is 28 times more than in Australia & New Zealand); and 9.1% of OT computers were exposed to spyware (that is 7.7 times more than the figure for North America).

Kaspersky Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team (ICS CERT) predictions for 2024 highlight the persistence of ransomware threats, rise of cosmopolitical hacktivism, an outlook on the state of “offensive cybersecurity”, and transformative shifts in logistics and transport threats.

Looking back at 2023 (https://apo-opa.co/3OXrfus), Kaspersky predicted the industrial cybersecurity landscape continuing to evolve, with several key trends emerging. The pursuit of efficiency in IIoT and SmartXXX systems fueled an expanded attack surface, while the surge in energy carrier prices led to heightened hardware costs, prompting a strategic shift towards cloud services. The growing government involvement in industrial processes also introduced fresh risks, including concerns about data leaks due to underqualified employees and insufficient practices for responsible disclosure.

This retrospective analysis lays the groundwork for understanding the cybersecurity landscape faced by industrial enterprises in 2024, such as:

Ransomware targeting high-value entities

Ransomware is projected to persist as the primary concern for industrial enterprises in 2024. Large organisations, unique product suppliers, and major logistics companies face increased risks, with potential severe economic and social consequences. Cybercriminals are expected to target entities capable of substantial ransom payments, causing disruptions in production and delivery

Cosmopolitical protest hacktivism

Geopolitically motivated hacktivism is forecasted to intensify, presenting more destructive consequences. In addition to country-specific protest movements, the rise of cosmopolitical hacktivism is expected, driven by socio-cultural and macro-economic agendas such as eco-hacktivism. This diversification of motives may contribute to a more complex and challenging threat landscape.

Subtler threats and detection challenges

The use of “offensive cybersecurity” for gathering cyberthreat intelligence is anticipated to have controversial consequences. While it may improve corporate security by providing early signs of potential compromises, the thin line between the grey zone and the shadows may be breached. Profit-driven cyber activities, armed with commercial and open-source tools, could operate more discreetly, making detection and investigation challenging.

Shifts in threats related to logistics and transport connected to automation and digitisation challenges

The rapid automation and digitisation of logistics and transport are introducing new challenges, intertwining cyber and traditional crimes. This includes theft of vehicles and goods, maritime piracy, and smuggling. Non-targeted cyberattacks may lead to physical consequences, especially in river, sea, truck, and special-purpose vehicles.

“The industrial sector's cybersecurity is continuously going through significant changes, with both new types of attacks and more sophisticated versions of old ones. Ransomware attacks are still a big problem, and hackers are getting better at targeting large, profitable companies with more advanced methods. Hacktivists who are motivated by social issues are also becoming more active, adding another layer of complexity to the threats. The transportation and logistics industry is especially vulnerable to these changes because its systems are becoming more and more digital. This combination of cyber and traditional crime is a serious threat to global supply chains. To protect themselves, organisations need to prioritise cybersecurity and keep improving their defenses,” commented Evgeny Goncharov, head of Kaspersky ICS CERT.

Read the full list of ICS predictions for 2024 at ICS CERT website (https://apo-opa.co/3OYsGZB).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.

About Kaspersky:
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. Kaspersky's deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection, specialized security products and services, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. Over 400 million users are protected by Kaspersky technologies and we help over 220,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.Kaspersky.co.za.

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27 February 2024

Law must crack down on police killers – Cele

Location: News

Law must crack down on police killers - Cele

Police Minister Bheki Cele has called for stricter laws to crack down even harder on criminals who murder police officers.

The Minister was speaking during a panel discussion at the National Conference on the Implementation of the Integrated Criminal Justice System (ICJS) programme and the review of the Criminal Procedure Act.

Cele highlighted that between October and December 2023, at least 22 police officers were killed.

“Our call… is that human rights must be respected. Police are humans and they have rights. I would really like to see [the law] protecting members of the South African Police Service.

“There has been a call… to say that the law must protect the law enforcers adequately. Sometimes, there is a feeling that criminals are more protected than the law enforcers. As this law, the Criminal Procedure Act, is developed, we wish that it takes that on board that [SAPS] members must find some cushion in the law,” he said.

He assured that any change in law would not give SAPS members leeway to abuse their power.

“The lives of SAPS members cannot be above the citizens of South Africa. But it must also be understood that they stand as a buffer between criminality and the whole of society. If they are pushed to the brink and they fall, these criminals will walk over the community thereafter,” he said.

Cele also called for increased protection of whistle-blowers and witnesses, as they remain crucial for the criminal justice system to work.

“We would love to see the law really getting tight on protecting witnesses. Sometimes, witnesses feel that we don’t take care of them. There are witnesses that lose everything for us to win cases, so it would be important that the law… makes sure that those who are prepared [to take the stand are protected].

“If witnesses fall off, then cases fall off. It’s important that all processes are kept in place so that when the day [a case is in court] and it’s time for the magistrate to pronounce [a verdict], we are all happy,” he said.

Turning to the issuance of bail for suspected criminals, Cele said more stringent conditions for the approval of bail must be put into place.

“[Criminals] go and get bail and the community takes matters into their own hands so the bail issue is one issue that we have to look at,” he said.

He encouraged all stakeholders to work together for the betterment of the criminal justice system and to make citizens safer.

“Let’s work together across the board to reduce crime, while police are at the hard end of leading it with all law enforcement. But all other departments and all of us, we can do better to reduce crime and make South Africans feel better,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 02/27/2024 - 12:29

15 views