African

4 October 2023

SAWS warns of heatwave conditions

Location: News

SAWS warns of heatwave conditions

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of heatwave conditions resulting in persistently high temperatures from Wednesday until Friday.

These conditions are expected over the eastern parts of both the North-West and Free State, southern parts of Gauteng as well as Alfred Nzo and OR Tambo District Municipality of the Eastern Cape from 04-06/10/2023.

“Under these conditions a prolonged exposure to the midday sun poses health risks, hence it’s advisable to seek shades and keep hydrated. Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over Northern Cape, western and northern parts of North-West, Western Bushveld of Limpopo, Amajuba Local Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal as well as Joe Gqabi District Municipality and Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality of Eastern Cape,” SAWS said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 09:43

3627 views

4 October 2023

Minister welcomes chemical pollution framework

Location: News

Minister welcomes chemical pollution framework

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy has welcomed the adoption of a framework that calls for the phasing out of highly hazardous pesticides in the agriculture sector where the risks have not been managed.

The framework also advocates for safer alternatives that are available, and further seeks to strengthen links between the new instrument and the climate, biodiversity, human rights and health agendas.

The framework was adopted after intense negotiations at the 5th session of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5), which was convened from 25-29 September 2023 in Bonn, Germany.

The main objective of the Conference was to adopt a “Beyond 2020” chemicals and waste global policy framework instrument.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Minister congratulated and welcomed the success of the South African negotiating team for working tirelessly as part of the Africa Group of Negotiators.

The Global Framework on Chemicals Fund is aimed at benefiting stakeholders in developing countries on the implementation of priority targets to manage chemicals and waste.

“It provides a vision for a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste, for a safe, healthy and sustainable future, and is operationalised through concrete targets and guidelines for key sectors across the entire lifecycle of chemicals that aim to improve the sound management of chemicals and waste.

“The poor and other vulnerable groups who are the most adversely affected by the impact of chemicals and waste, would benefit positively from environmentally sound management of chemicals,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said.

The Global Framework on Chemicals Fund will be financed from contributions from all stakeholders including the private sector. Host country, Germany, announced that it would pledge EUR 20 million to the new fund envisaged under the framework. France announced that it would contribute EUR 400,000 in 2024.

The department said governments have committed to creating, by 2030, the regulatory environment to reduce chemical pollution and implement policies to promote safer alternatives.

The industry has also committed to managing chemicals in a way that reduces chemical pollution and adverse impacts. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 13:04

286 views

4 October 2023

Understanding the Role of a Property Valuer in South Africa

Location: MyPR

The real estate industry in South Africa is vast and diverse, with various professionals playing crucial roles in ensuring the market functions smoothly. One such professional is the property valuer. But what exactly does a property valuer do, and how does one become one? Let’s delve into these questions. What is a property valuer? …

4 October 2023

API Hospitality Forum takes a deep dive into the local and African market

Location: MyPR

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA, 04 October 2023 – This year’s API Hospitality Forum takes place next week on 11 October 2023 at the Marriott Hotel, Melrose Arch in Johannesburg, South Africa. Given the unparalleled changes of the past few years, and the evolving landscape of the hospitality sector, the forum provides a valuable platform for knowledge …

4 October 2023

A drink fit for a Don

Location: MyPR

Tequila is stealing the spotlight from whisky in the spirits market, with its phenomenal rise in the USA now making waves in South Africa. Don Julio, the titan of top-tier tequila is inviting its South African tequila lovers to raise a toast to the exclusive community that is: The Don’s Table. Johannesburg, October 2023 – …

4 October 2023

Investment pledge creates 3000 jobs

Location: News

Investment pledge creates 3000 jobs

The roll out of the investment of R500 million pledged by SA Taxi at the fifth South African Investment Conference hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg in April this year is gaining momentum and has already created more than 3 000 jobs.

The investment was announced as one of the pledges worth billions of rands that contributed to bringing the total value of investment pledges over a five-year investment mobilisation period to R1.51 trillion, thereby exceeding the initial target of R1.2 trillion set by President Ramaphosa.

Chief Government and Industry Officer at SA Taxi Holdings, Matsidikanye Moswane, said more than R350 million of the funding that was provided by the developmental credit provider, Transflow, has already been spent.

“The investment is being used to enable financial inclusion by extending developmental credit to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that may otherwise not have access to credit from traditional financiers,” Moswane said.

“By providing debt funding through Transflow, the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) is empowering under-serviced and emerging SMEs to build their businesses, which in turn creates further direct and indirect employment opportunities. To date this has helped create 1 620 direct jobs and 2 700 indirect jobs,” he said.

Moswane said the SA Taxi, whose headquarters are based in Midrand, Gauteng, but has a national customer base, finances entrepreneurs who operate minibus taxis that may not otherwise have access to credit from traditional banks, contributing to job creation, and enabling and improving the safety of public transport in South Africa.

“SA Taxi is an independently owned commercial business. It is the first financial service provider to focus solely on the taxi industry. We make a vital contribution to a market sector that has a stimulating effect on the national economy at many different levels.

“Each taxi creates 1.8 new jobs related to the industry. We focus exclusively on building entrepreneurs through the medium of the taxi industry which comprises an estimated 250 000 taxis that are on the roads in South Africa,” Moswane said.

He said SA Taxi has to source the money it lends to its clients from foreign and domestic direct investment. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 10:09

10 views

3 October 2023

Infrastructure development in Africa key to success of smart mobility – Mashatile

Location: News

Infrastructure development in Africa key to success of smart mobility - Mashatile

Africa should accelerate investment in critical infrastructure and digital solutions for smart mobility to succeed on the continent, says Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

“For example, investment [must be made] towards building charging stations for electric vehicles, expanding broadband connectivity, and developing intelligent transportation systems.

“Governments, private sector organisations and international partners must, therefore, come together to invest in the necessary infrastructure.”

The Deputy President was delivering a keynote address at the Smarter Mobility Africa (SMA) Conference Gala Dinner at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg.

SMA, he believes, is another opportunity to collaborate to build a better and smarter transport system that will assist in growing the economy, create jobs and improve people’s quality of life.

Smart mobility involves creating connected and integrated transport systems, which offer flexibility and efficiency, cutting across all modes of transport.

The country’s second-in-command said governments should develop clear guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and reliable transportation system.

These, he said, include regulations on data privacy, cybersecurity, and standards for electric vehicles.

“We must make it our responsibility to establish a harmonised approach to smarter mobility across Africa.”

In South Africa, the Deputy President said smarter mobility has been embraced to align with ongoing worldwide discussions regarding the trajectory of mobility and climate change.

Meanwhile, government is pushing ahead with a National Transport Master Plan (NATMAP) 2050 strategy to establish a safe, affordable, dependable, and efficient means of transporting people and products.

“We understand that we cannot discuss the transport sector's transformation without addressing the exclusion of our youth, particularly girls and women, who continue to face devastating and discouraging unemployment and the risk of poverty and violence in our society.”

Urban planning

In light of the accelerated urbanisation expected over the next few years, Mashatile told attendees that governments and cities must prioritise urban planning policies that are responsive to changes.

“There is no doubt that the need for the transportation of both people and goods will always exist and is, in most aspects, one of the few ways in which economic development occurs.”

According to Deputy President Mashatile Africa must seize the opportunities presented by technology to enhance the efficacy and sustainability of our transport systems.

“This is because major cities, such as Lagos, Nairobi, and Johannesburg, face significant challenges in heavy congestion, overcrowded public transport systems, poor traffic management, and overall inefficient public transportation systems.”

He has since called for more imaginative mobility solutions that can leverage technology to optimise routes, reduce traffic congestion, and use data to provide real-time information to commuters.

The Deputy President believes that this could transportation networks’ overall efficiency and reliability and will go a long way towards the development aspirations and efforts.

“In addition, smart mobility solutions can have a significantly positive impact on the environment.”

By transitioning to electric vehicles and adopting clean energy sources, he said the continent can reduce carbon emissions and contribute towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

New energy vehicles

The State, according to the Deputy President, remains committed to supporting and investing in the expansion and development of new and existing manufacturing plants to support the production of new energy vehicles (NEVs) components and grow employment in the automotive sector.

Investing in the NEV, he said, also contributes to the decarbonisation of road transport.

African trade

Shifting his focus to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Deputy President Mashatile said the continent should address the inconsistent and inefficient goods and logistics services that have long impeded intra-African trade and commerce.

“In addition, through this agreement, we will address the high customs delay times, lack of paved roadways on which goods can be conveyed, and more significant loss of goods due to limited cold chains compared to other global regions.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:07

596 views

3 October 2023

Govt considers vaccination to contain the spread of avian influenza

Location: News

Govt considers vaccination to contain the spread of avian influenza

The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development is looking at the possibility of a vaccination to contain the spread and impact of avian influenza.

Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, met with the retailers on Monday to discuss the impact of avian influenza, also known as ‘avian flu’ or ‘bird flu’, in South Africa.

This follows a meeting held with the South African Poultry Association last Friday and engagements that have been taking place between government officials and the industry.

During the meeting, Didiza briefed retailers on the containment measures that have been taken to limit the spread of the disease, as well as possible solutions to manage such outbreaks in the short and the medium-term, including vaccinations.

“It was evident from [Monday’s] engagement that the main challenge is primarily on the egg production side, where there are supply constraints in some regions of the country. In response to this challenge, the Minister is focusing on measures to improve the availability of egg supply to consumers and simultaneously putting measures to contain the spread of the disease.

“Moreover, the Minister is embarking on the efficiency improvement in issuing import permits for egg products to ensure sufficient supplies for consumers. In addition, the Minister is looking at the possibility of vaccination and currently reviewing applications by various suppliers,” the department said in a statement.

On the broiler side, Didiza and Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, are assessing some trade instruments to ease the supply of chicken meat.

According to the statement issued by the department last week, as of 21 September 2023, a total of 50 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H7 outbreaks and 10 HPAI H5 outbreaks have been reported in the country, with 37 HPAI H7 cases confirmed in Gauteng.

The number of chickens that have died is 107 705, while the reported number of chickens that were culled is 1 318 521.

“Based on these reported figures, there has been a total loss of 1 426 226 chickens,” the department said.

The reported number of chickens that have died of HPAI H5 is 98 249, while the reported number of chickens that were culled is 1 156 283, bringing the total loss of 1 254 532 chickens. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:11

540 views

3 October 2023

ACTOM rolls out R100m investment in plant expansion

Location: News

ACTOM rolls out R100m investment in plant expansion

ACTOM, a major supplier of electrical equipment, services and balance of plant to the renewable energy sector, is rolling out a R100 million investment in plant expansion in Pretoria.

The investment was announced as one of the pledges worth billions of rands that were made at the fifth South African Investment Conference held in Johannesburg in April this year.

This contributed to bringing the total value of investment pledges over a five-year investment mobilisation period to R1.51 trillion, thereby exceeding the initial target of R1.2 trillion set by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

According to the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mervyn Naidoo, ACTOM is a well-positioned South African company that provides energy solutions through its businesses and partners.

He said they offer market-leading technology and advanced products to address the issues facing the electro-mechanical industry, from large-scale infrastructure installations to smaller projects and support services.

“We are a leading stockist and supplier of competitively priced quality electrical equipment through our extensive Southern and Sub-Saharan African distribution network comprising13 branches across the country,” Naidoo said.

“We have earnestly started expanding our plant and this will contribute to growing the economy of Gauteng in particular, and the country in general, by building local capacity in manufacturing in the electro-mechanical equipment,” he said.

He said the company made the R100 million investment with an intention of taking advantage of some of the growing sectors like the renewable energy, and for contributing to creating jobs.

The expansion of the Pretoria plant will result in 30 people being employed.

The company is employing more than 7 000 people in their 34 operating units, 53 production, service and repair facilities and more than 33 distribution outlets throughout Southern Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 10/03/2023 - 11:04

361 views

3 October 2023

No glitches expected with October grant payment cycle, says Mpumalanga SASSA

Location: News

No glitches expected with October grant payment cycle, says Mpumalanga SASSA

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in Mpumalanga has issued a statement assuring social grant beneficiaries of a smooth transaction during the October payment cycle.

This comes after the technical glitches experienced last month, affecting grant recipients across the country.

According to SASSA, the elderly will receive their money on 3 October, those living with disabilities on 4 October, while payment of children grants categories will get theirs from 5 October.

“Social grant beneficiaries have a right to choose a method of payment of their choice, freely. The forms to make a choice are available at the nearest SASSA offices.”

Meanwhile, SASSA staff will be in most South African Post Office (SAPO) outlets and other payment platforms to monitor the payment and aim to assist beneficiaries with enquiries.

“The monitoring will be conducted for the first three payment days and they will assist any beneficiary that may be experiencing system payment-related challenges or non-payment due to failed bank verification and/or pending bank verification.

“In the eventuality of an unexpected non-payment [this] will be escalated to Postbank if related to a system glitch, and be sorted out as quickly as possible,” the agency explained.

Beneficiaries are also reminded to check their contact details to ensure that they are still correct.

For more information, contact the toll-free number on 0800 60 10 11 or 013 754 9428/9363 from 07:30 to 16:00 during weekdays (Monday to Friday).

District contacts are as follows: Ehlanzeni 013 799 7063/65; Bushbuckridge 013 799 7010/11; Gert-Sibande 017 801 1794 and Nkangala 013 285 0648. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 10/03/2023 - 10:37

68 views

3 October 2023

Unmatched Asia: Top destinations for South Africans to visit in 2023.

Location: MyPR

Unmatched Asia: Top destinations for South Africans to visit in 2023: South Africans in need of a break or holiday should look no further than alluring Asia, offering striking scenery, a smorgasbord of unique culinary experiences, and some of the most wonderful travel experiences. South Africans may be spoiled for choice when it comes to …

2 October 2023

Dube-Ncube condemns witchcraft accusations aimed at elderly

Location: News

Dube-Ncube condemns witchcraft accusations aimed at elderly

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has strongly condemned the phenomenon where senior citizens are accused of witchcraft due to the onset of dementia and related mental conditions.

Dube-Ncube on Sunday commemorated International Day for Senior Citizens at Umkhanyakude District Municipality.

The Premier said she is worried about the increasing number of senior citizens, who are being killed because of claims of witchcraft.

“The onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s causes forgetfulness among the elderly. Unfortunately, this is interpreted as witchcraft by members of the public, who then hurl and inflict abuse on the senior citizens,” Dube-Ncube said.

She said government has created an awareness campaign to educate members of society so that they understand the causes and symptoms of dementia and related mental conditions.

“We are gathered here today to tell our senior citizens that they are more precious than rubies, gold or diamonds. Senior citizens are reservoirs of knowledge, wisdom and history. We cherish their presence in our lives so that we can continue to quench our thirst for knowledge and wisdom,” the Premier said.

Dube-Ncube highlighted the provincial government’s achievements in supporting Small, Medium and Micro enterprises (SMMEs) owned by senior citizens.

“As the provincial government, we have thus far been able to create opportunities for senior citizens to run their own businesses successfully. Here in Umtubatuba, we have Lethusizo Old Age Club, which is managed by senior citizens, and government is funding it,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier also awarded cheques to the value of R1 million to assist senior citizen-owned cooperatives and entities, and showered centenarians with gifts.

She further advised senior citizens to take care of their lives by being active so that they stay healthy, and take their medications regularly and constantly because they still have a big role to play in society.

On the pressing issue of the late South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant payments, Dube-Ncube expressed her sincere regret and assured the senior citizens that she is in constant contact with Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu.

“The late payment of social grants to the elderly is deeply regretted and we assure the senior citizens that such mishaps do not happen again,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 09:58

579 views

2 October 2023

What Are the Methods of Property Valuation in South Africa

Location: MyPR

Introduction Property valuation plays a crucial role in the real estate industry. It is the process of determining the economic value of a real estate property. Whether you’re buying a new home, selling an investment property, or even insuring your property, a proper valuation can help you make informed decisions and ensure you’re getting the …

2 October 2023

Practical partnerships forged for growth and jobs – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Practical partnerships forged for growth and jobs – President Ramaphosa

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, President Cyril Ramaphosa says government is forging practical partnerships for growth and job creation.

The President highlighted that he recently met with business leaders and the leadership of the country’s four labour federations respectively, where they agreed to work more closely to address the immediate challenges that confront South Africa’s economy.

“These efforts are important because an economy that is growing slowly cannot create enough jobs. It can also not generate enough revenue for government to fully implement the programmes needed to improve people’s lives.

“The fact that the country’s debt service costs are the fastest growing budget item means that spending on education, health, social protection and infrastructure come under even greater pressure.

“We are acting with increased focus and effort to remove the most immediate constraints on growth and doing so together with our social partners,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said that the economy is now larger than it was before the pandemic and the two million jobs that were lost have largely been recovered.

Yet, he said, the combination of global economic instability and the effects of the electricity crisis have meant that the economy continues to grow too slowly and is unable to create jobs at the pace needed.

While government has done much to implement the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, which was launched in October 2020, the President said that they have always maintained that the success of its efforts would depend on greater partnership across society.

“Our collaboration with business, for example, has moved far beyond discussions. Since June this year, government has been working closely with Business for South Africa on critical actions to address the key challenges of energy, logistics, and crime and corruption,” he said.

The President highlighted that last week’s meeting confirmed that good traction has been achieved in these areas, most notably in the work being done by the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) to end load shedding and achieve energy security.

He further highlighted that a good example of the work being done is the mobilisation by business of additional capacity and skills to support the recovery of Eskom’s power plants.

This includes the deployment of technical support teams to five power stations, Kendal, Kriel, Majuba, Matla and Tutuka, and experts to help speed up the repair of units at Kusile power station that were damaged in November last year. This weekend, he said, Kusile unit 3 was returned to service two months earlier than planned.

“Full implementation of the plan to improve the performance of Eskom’s existing power stations, add new generation capacity and reform the energy sector is expected to result in over 12 000 megawatts of generation capacity being recovered or added to the system by the end of 2024,” the President said.

Turning to the freight rail network, President Ramaphosa said work is underway to improve the operational performance of the bulk freight rail network and port system through the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC).

“Corridor recovery teams have been established for five strategic rail corridors, comprising Transnet executives, industry representatives and independent experts. They are working to urgently increase the volume of freight traffic on our rail lines,” he said.

Through this collaboration, the President said, business is working with government to build capacity within the National Prosecuting Authority and the Hawks, along with the modernisation of the 10111 emergency response centre and collaboration between industry and the South African Police Service to address crimes targeting infrastructure.

The President said that this work is being made possible by the willingness and determination of all social partners to collaborate on practical actions that make a measurable difference in the performance of the economy.

“While these partnerships may take different forms and may be at different stages of advancement, both business and labour have shown their commitment to work with government to address these challenges.

“It is this kind of cooperation in action, even more so than negotiated agreements, that gives meaning to the concept of a social compact that is based on achievable outcomes.

“Yet, while we have together identified key milestones and timeframes, the success of all these efforts will ultimately be measured by their impact on the lives of the South African people,” the President said.

From the progress that has been made to date, President Ramaphosa said he is certain that “this is a task at which we will together succeed”. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 10:21

1494 views

2 October 2023

RAPT Creative: Adland newcomer proves its mettle, again

Location: MyPR

RAPT Creative, the agency that opened its doors with three employees just months before the global Covid-19 lockdowns yet emerged from the pandemic years having added international brands like Sol, Miller, Fox, Strongbow, Ballentine’s and Windhoek to its stable and over 100 people to its staff complement, has proven its mettle – again. This achievement, …

2 October 2023

Defy’s solar-operated appliances a game changer for the environment

Location: News

Defy’s solar-operated appliances a game changer for the environment

The Defy manufacturing plant, the country's largest home appliance producer, on Monday declared its commitment to environmental progress.

The announcement was made during Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel’s visit to a plant situated in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal.

During his visit, Patel was hosted by Defy Appliances CEO Mustafa Soylu, management, staff and NUMSA shop stewards.

A major announcement was made regarding South Africa's advancement towards green technology and sustainability. The Ladysmith plant will initiate the production of fridges and freezers capable of operating entirely on solar energy, marking a substantial step in promoting eco-friendly alternatives in the appliance industry.

Soylu said the pioneering initiative marks a monumental step in the production of environmentally friendly appliances, positioning South Africa as a leader in the fight against climate change.

The innovative products, anticipated to be available for retail by January 2024, is set to empower families to adopt a fully green approach to their food cooling units at home.

Patel expressed his support for this remarkable advancement.

“Climate change necessitates a comprehensive transformation of the technologies utilized both at home and within the industry. South Africa is actively ensuring the production of future technologies and meeting the demand for lower-emission consumer products,” he said.

Patel highlighted the significant progress from Defy’s previous hybrid units that required partial access to grid energy.

The new units, designed to operate exclusively on solar energy, will be equipped with an attached battery system, enhancing their efficiency and eco-friendliness.

“I am delighted that Defy is focusing on making these fridges and freezers affordable, enabling a broader consumer base to transition to green appliances,” Patel said.

Defy Appliances continues to make substantial contributions to the local economy, employing over 2 000 workers in South Africa and producing 1.5 million appliances locally.

The range includes fridges, freezers, stoves, ovens, dryers and top-loading washing machines. With two factories located in Jacobs in eThekwini and Ezakheni in the Ladysmith area, Defy stands as a significant player in the local manufacturing sector.

In addition to bolstering local production, Defy exports products to 35 other African countries said Soylu, reinforcing South Africa’s position as the continent’s largest producer of home appliances.

Today’s announcement and Patel’s visit underscore the commitment of both the South African government and industry leaders like Defy appliances to prioritize sustainable and green technologies.

This initiative not only contributes to the global effort to mitigate climate change but also signifies the nation’s dedication to innovation, economic growth, and the welfare of its citizens. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 13:03

461 views

2 October 2023

Bellingham celebrates outstanding achievements in the 2023 Tim Atkin Report

Location: MyPR

With the release of the highly esteemed 2023 Tim Atkin Report, a definitive benchmark in the world of South African wines, the Bellingham team is thrilled to unveil their long list of worthy awards and accolades. The Bellingham Founders Series achieved an impressive, 94-point score for the 2020 Pod Red Blend and 93 Points for …

2 October 2023

Home Affairs Minister welcomes sentencing of corrupt official

Location: News

Home Affairs Minister welcomes sentencing of corrupt official

Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, today welcomed the lengthy sentences recently meted out to two South Africans and a Pakistani national in two different cases in Durban and Johannesburg, respectively, for passport related crimes.

Arfan Ahmed, a Pakistani national who was arrested in a sting operation that included the Counter Corruption Branch of Home Affairs, the Hawks and the Police Crime Intelligence on 24 March 2022 at the Home Affairs office in Krugersdorp, has been sentenced to eight years imprisonment by the Brixton Magistrate Court.

He was sentenced for the passports that were found in his house following his arrest in Krugersdorp. The department awaits his sentencing for his role in the Krugersdorp passport syndicate.

Ahmed is a kingpin of a passport syndicate that sought to undermine the country’s laws by fraudulently procuring South African passports for Pakistani nationals who did not have a legal right to possess South African passports.

He was working with some corrupt officials of Home Affairs in a network that spanned Gauteng, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Mpumalanga.

While the Pakistani is languishing in jail, the 12 corrupt Home Affairs officials who enabled his scheme have already been fired and submitted to the Hawks for criminal investigations.

In another important development, the Durban Magistrate Court sentenced Anda Ngozi and Nomathandazo Mboyane to 26 and 24 years, respectively. The two were officials of the Department of Home Affairs employed at the office in Queenstown, in the Eastern Cape.

They used to travel 650km each way at a time during the night to Home Affairs offices in Commercial Road and in Prospecton in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, to fraudulently process 52 passports for foreign nationals, mostly from the DRC, who are not legally entitled to them.

They were paid between R3 000 and R5 000 for each passport. South Africans who were prepared to lend their identities for this nefarious scheme were paid a paltry R500. These were usually young people who were on nyaope.

The two were arrested in November 2022 by Counter Corruption Branch of Home Affairs and the Hawks following the conclusion of an internal investigation led by the Counter Corruption Branch.

Ngozi was sentenced for eight years for fraud, as well as for contravention of the:

• Identification Act – four years

• Immigration Act – four years

• Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act – 10 years

Mboyane was sentenced for eight years for fraud, as well as for contravention of the:

• Identification Act – four years

• Immigration Act – four years

• Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act – eight years

The sentences of the two will run concurrently, practically meaning that Ngozi will spend 10 years, while Mboyane will spend eight years.

“I am extremely pleased that the courts are meting out lengthy sentences to those who seek to undermine the integrity of Home Affairs systems. It is worth noting that the courts had refused bail to all three after their arrests.

"I am also happy the collective work of the multidisciplinary law enforcement teams has ensured that these rascals face the full might of the law for their criminal actions,” said Minister Motsoaledi.

Minister Motsoaledi added that he was looking forward to the sentencing of more people related to these two cases as the Hawks haven't yet closed their investigations.

“Once again, I want to reiterate that we shall stop at nothing in ensuring that all Home Affairs officials who engage in malfeasance face the full might of the law. If you are at Home Affairs and are corrupt, expect our knock at your door," said Minister Motsoaledi.

He added that the actions of corrupt officials, kingpins, South Africans and corrupt foreign nationals have the following consequences for the country:

• People who don’t qualify for South African passports are legitimised through these actions to the detriment of the sovereignty of our country.

• They can use these documents to travel the world as South Africans, and in the process, they may be committing acts that are detrimental to the reputation of the country.

• More worrisome is the fact that even those who claim to be asylum seekers or refugees use these passports to travel back to their home countries proving that the whole claim of asylum was just a rouse.

• South Africans will find it difficult to travel the world as the authenticity of their documents will be questioned.

"South Africans who stupidly lend their identities to be utilised in this manner end up suffering serious prejudice when trying to do transactions with other State institutions, banks and some industry associations.

“This is because the SA Social Security Agency (SASSA), banks and the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) verify the identity of the people they transact with through the Home Affairs National Population Register (NPR).

"Every time you apply for an ID or passport you are required to take a photo. The latest photo you take becomes the one in our database and all previous ones are automatically deleted.

"So, if a South African sells their identity in this way, it means that the photo in the Home Affairs system is that of the foreign national. So, institutions verifying through NPR refuse to deal with people whose identity at Home Affairs have pictures that don't look like the person in front of them," said Motsoaledi.

The Durban Magistrate Court also ordered that the 52 passports be surrendered to the State.

Because of this abuse of the passport application system, Home Affairs has drastically changed the processes through which passports are acquired in the country. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 13:28

288 views

2 October 2023

Swifties, Are You Ready For Tay-Tay’s ’Eras Tour’ Concert Film On The Biggest Screen?

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Catch Taylor Swift’s’ The Eras Tour’ in Ster-Kinekor’s IMAX and select cinemas nationally from 13 October… Get ready Swifties, TayTay is coming to South Africa… well, her new Eras Tour concert film is, and it will be releasing in Ster-Kinekor’s immersive IMAX and luxurious Cine Prestige cinemas on 13 October, to coincide with the release …

2 October 2023

SA Runners Fabricate History

Location: MyPR

History was made on Sunday, when the South African senior men’s team finished on the podium at the World Half Marathon Championships. Thabang Mosiako (6th), Stephen Mokoka (11th), Elroy Gelant (13th) and Precious Mashele (19th) claimed the bronze medal behind Kenya and Ethiopia at the inaugural World Road Running Championships in Latvia. Mosiako’s exceptional performance …

2 October 2023

Police Deputy Minister sends condolences to slain officer’s family

Location: News

Police Deputy Minister sends condolences to slain officer's family

The Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale has sent his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of his close protector, Warrant Officer Lindela Mraqisa.

Mraqisa is among the five people that were shot and killed on Saturday evening in Gugulethu.

The member was attached to the Western Cape’s Protection and Security Service (PSS) Division and served as a close protector to Mathale since 2019.

Police have since mobilised maximum resources to trace and apprehend those behind the attack and killing of four men and a woman.

Mathale has described the late member as dedicated, humble and hardworking.

“The number of police officers killed on and off duty remains a concern for the leadership of the SAPS. We need the whole of society and government to fight this scourge.

“Mraqisa was a soft spoken, dedicated and focused police officer who was always punctual and professional in his conduct. We hope police will find and bring to book those responsible for his death. My condolences go to his family,” he said.

Police Minister General Bheki Cele and the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola will lead a delegation of senior police officers to Cape Town today where they will interact with the investigating team and also visit the bereaved family.

They will thereafter proceed to the family of another off-duty member who was found killed in Mfuleni on Sunday morning.

The 29-year-old policewoman was attached to the Samora Machel Police Station. The circumstances surrounding her death are a subject of a police investigation. One suspect has been arrested in connection with her death.

The SAPS appeals to members of the public to assist with information that will lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of mass shooting behind bars. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 10:49

244 views

2 October 2023

Office of the Tax Ombud celebrates 10 years of excellence

Location: News

Office of the Tax Ombud celebrates 10 years of excellence

Having stood the test of time as a capable organisation with a proven track record in helping to resolve taxpayers' complaints against the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) is celebrating its 10th anniversary.

"We are encouraged by the average 98% implementation by SARS of our nonbinding recommendations. Also worth noting is that, on average, 80% of complaints received by the OTO in the past decade were resolved in favour of taxpayers, and only 20% were in favour of SARS,” Tax Ombud Yanga Mputa said on Sunday.

She attributed the success of the OTO to its dedicated employees, the support of stakeholders, including Finance Ministers, the National Treasury and SARS, and recognised controlling bodies in the tax sphere.

Established on 1 October 2013, the OTO has been credited with improving the country's tax administration system and promoting and championing taxpayer rights.

“We have made a significant contribution towards promoting a healthy balance between taxpayer rights and obligations on the one hand, and SARS powers and duties on the other. We champion the promotion and protection of taxpayer rights through our ongoing ‘Making Taxpayers' Rights Matter’ educational campaign, which takes our services to the doorsteps of communities nationwide. We reiterate the call for taxpayers to utilise the free and impartial services provided by the OTO to those with complaints against SARS,” Mputa said.

The OTO has published the country's first-ever Compilation of Taxpayers' Rights, Entitlements and Obligations to promote its mandate.

This document's main aim is to highlight taxpayers' rights and obligations, as contained in various laws, including the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 and the Tax Administration Act, 2011, and be used as a reference tool to guide taxpayers towards the information needed.

"One of our priorities in the next decade is to promote awareness about the OTO and take our services to the four corners of our country. We will continue to benchmark ourselves and, wherever we can, to share our expertise with other government institutions – in South Africa and beyond," Mputa said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 09:33

223 views

2 October 2023

Tons All-Round In Potchefstroom As Dragons Clinch Victory At The JB Marks Oval

Location: Sport

POTCHEFSTROOM: North West Dragons’ Meeka-eel Prince scored a sublime 166 off 140 which included 15 fours and 6 maximums to ensure...

2 October 2023

Kenya celebrates 15th anniversary

Location: MyPR

September 2023 marks a milestone in the history of leading African law firm Bowmans. Fifteen years ago, Bowmans Kenya was established in a move that marked the start of Bowmans’ growth across the continent. Today, Bowmans Kenya is one of the largest law firms in the country and operates as a hub with Bowmans’ other …