MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for agriculture

agriculture

El Niño effect on Southern Africa to be addressed by government agencies, partners 

Location: News

El Niño effect on Southern Africa to be addressed by government agencies, partners 

Southern Africa is in the grip of an urgent crisis, according to the Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources Policy Analysis Network (FANRPAN). 

According to the FANRPAN, a record-breaking dry spell lasting over 30 days is scorching countries – Angola, Botswana, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. 

“El Niño and climate change are fuelling this disaster, inflicting severe damage on crops and livestock over the past five years,” the institution said. 

The FANRPAN is a pan-African network that provides independent evidence to inform policy processes at national and regional levels.

Its mandate is to co-ordinate policy research and dialogue and recommend strategies for promoting food, agriculture and natural resources sectors in Africa.

“The situation is dire and demands immediate attention. Widespread crop failure looms in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Livestock are dying at alarming rates due to a lack of water and vegetation. 

“The movement of desperate people and animals is spreading diseases, including those transmissible to humans.” 

Meanwhile, over 9 000 cattle deaths have been reported since October 2023.

“This is a humanitarian crisis demanding immediate action. Without urgent intervention, the suffering of affected communities will only worsen.” 

The FANRPAN and its partners will have a media briefing on Tuesday, 22 April 2024, at the Agricultural Research Council in Hatfield, Pretoria, to address the matter. 

The media briefing will shed light on the scale of the drought in Southern Africa and the steps governments, donors, and international actors must immediately take to save lives and avoid further catastrophes. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 12:49

44 views
Read moreEl Niño effect on Southern Africa to be addressed by government agencies, partners 

W Cape State vets at the centre of efforts to increase agricultural exports

Location: News

W Cape State vets at the centre of efforts to increase agricultural exports

Western Cape State veterinarians have been lauded for the province’s efforts to increase agricultural exports. 

According to the Western Cape MEC for Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, the province is responsible for 55% of South Africa’s primary agricultural exports, with nearly 50% being livestock or livestock products. 

The MEC was addressing 1 500 delegates from 48 different countries attending the 39th World Veterinary Association Congress, which is currently underway at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town.

Meyer said the Western Cape Department of Agriculture’s Veterinary Services recently launched its innovative online electronic Export Certificate Office System (ECOS). 

“ECOS provides the customer with a 24-hour export facilitation service, reducing the export certificate application process from days to minutes. The platform streamlines the export process and ensures compliance with international standards. Exports contribute to foreign exchange earnings and a 5% increase in exports will lead to approximately 22 000 new jobs in the agriculture sector in the Western Cape,” he explained. 

He also announced that the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) R30 million revamp of the Provincial Veterinary Laboratory facilities has been completed and that the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) and International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) 17025 certificated laboratory re-opened on 1 April 2024.

Expressing his concern about the shortage of veterinarians, Meyer said the international norm for veterinary services is 200 to 400 veterinarians per million of the population. In comparison, South Africa has around 60 to 70 veterinarians per million. 

“This represents only 25% of our requirements. Therefore, this is a great concern, which puts the country’s food security and human health at risk. A fully staffed veterinary service is a critical enabler to a thriving agriculture sector in the province. The agriculture sector creates jobs and drives economic growth.”

Commenting further on conditions under which live animals are transported at sea, Meyer stated that the unacceptable conditions in which live animals are transported highlight the need to consider placing a ban on the transport of live animals and the importance of biosecurity. 

“This year, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture will prioritise veterinary services and biosecurity. Organisations such as the World Veterinary Association and the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) will play a key role in strengthening our response to the challenges facing the profession and our sector. We must defend animal welfare and advance biosecurity,” Meyer said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/18/2024 - 09:05

433 views
Read moreW Cape State vets at the centre of efforts to increase agricultural exports

Research at Outeniqua Research Farm benefits the dairy industry

Location: News

Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government
Download logo

Earlier today, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, visited the Western Cape Department of Agriculture's (WCDoA) Outeniqua Research Farm, outside George, which is known for its research on dairy production from planted pasture. Results on pasture and the concentrate component of the dairy feed provide guidelines to producers in the Southern Cape.

Minister Meyer said, “Agriculture is a science, and science must be backed by evidence-based research. Our research aims to help grow the agricultural sector and support producers in developing their businesses and creating jobs. By providing our producers with high-quality scientific support, we aim to work with our producers to find innovative solutions to ensure that the sector can flourish.”

Specialist dairy researcher at the Outeniqua Research Farm, Professor Robin Meeske highlighted that the profitability of milk production is under pressure due to increasing input costs. As a result, research projects at Outeniqua Research Farm focus on sustainable profitable dairy production from pastures.

“The main profit drivers are pasture production per hectare, cows per hectare and milk production per cow.  High-quality pasture is the greatest contributor to the cows' daily nutrient requirements. To meet their energy requirements, high volumes of concentrates are fed to cows which are often three times more expensive than pasture.”

“Pasture research focuses on optimal pasture yields from known pasture species, especially the various ryegrass species. Animal research is conducted into the supplementary concentrate that is fed to the cows. We are looking into possible alternatives for some of the ingredients to make the cost per kilogram of feed lower without compromising milk yield or milk composition,” added Professor Meeske.

Researchers at Outeniqua are in contact with industry role-players, and this ensures that the research being conducted is relevant to the dairy producers.

“Research findings at Outeniqua Research Farm contribute to improving pasture quality and yield on farms. More efficient use of concentrates and adjusting concentrate composition and level of concentrate feeding is key to the profitability of milk production from pasture. The industry is kept up to date with our latest finding at the annual Farmers' Days hosted by the research team at the Outeniqua Research Farm,” concluded Minister Meyer.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.

Read moreResearch at Outeniqua Research Farm benefits the dairy industry

Massification of skills development and job creation programmes to combat unemployment

Location: News

Massification of skills development and job creation programmes to combat unemployment

By Minister Thulas Nxesi

I believe that we can all agree that, at the end of the day, a decisive reduction in the unacceptably high level of unemployment is dependent on higher economic growth resulting in more jobs. This process is led by business investing in the private sector with resultant economic development and rising employment.

Nonetheless, as the President has argued, government as the largest employer in the country and a large-scale procurer of goods and services, has a major role to play both to create an environment conducive to investment, growth and development, but also to directly mitigate the impact of unemployment through social protection measures, demand-led training, targeted job creation and preservation.

To this end government, has strived to strengthen and expand its programmes for skills development and job creation, particularly in respect of the youth, seeking to mobilise and coordinate resources across government. In so doing, government has also sought to deepen and increase the areas of cooperation with the private sector. Initially focused on the strategic areas of energy security, port and inland logistics, and crime and corruption, cooperation has been expanded to include issues of skills and employment.

Which brings us to the expanded roll-out of government jobs and skills projects. First, I need to flag that this orientation and vision has a very long pedigree. Indeed, it is captured in the National Development Plan 2030 adopted in 2011. The earlier example of the Expanded Public Works Programme has been in existence for over two decades, and is utilised by local governments of all political persuasions.

So the present roll out of UIF Labour Activation Programmes (LAP) which started on April 6th in Gauteng – in tandem with the provincial Nasi Ispani Project - is part of this long tradition, expanded now to pool resources across departments and provinces, and in partnership with the private sector.

Following the 2019 elections, the mandate of the old Labour Department was expanded to become the Department of Employment and Labour. The reconfiguring of the Department to reflect the mandate has been taking place ever since. Part of this process is to leverage the existing resources of the Department for job creation and preservation. The Labour Department had long been involved in skills training of the unemployed. One of the things we did after 2019 was to re-orientate training towards in-demand and scarce skills with the guarantee of a job at the end of the programme, replacing the previous training for training’s sake mentality. Another critical part of the reconfiguration of the Department was to undertake a structural architecture review of the funds – the UIF and Compensation Fund – carried out by an independent analyst, and with the express purpose of greatly strengthening client service and ensuring necessary financial controls, systems, governance, accountability, risk and compliance mechanisms are in place.

I need to say more about the central role of the UIF in the work of the Department. The UIF is best known for paying out unemployment and maternity benefits, drawing on the contributions of employers and employees, but, in fact the UIF Act gives it a much larger mandate to mitigate unemployment, and includes funding:

  • Job preservation in the form of the temporary employer/employee relief scheme (TERS) – administered by the CCMA enabling distressed companies to continue to pay their employees, and the business turnaround and recovery programme run by Productivity South Africa;
  • training of the unemployed for employment (now anchored on a demand-led approach, with jobs at the end of it);

And job creation through:

  • supporting enterprise development and entrepreneurship; and
  • economic growth and job creation through investment of the reserves of UIF and the CF.

It was in furtherance of this mandate that the UIF established the LAP, where these kind of programmes have been running since before 2019, and will continue after the 2024 election. (The bizarre claim that the current LAP projects are a ‘rip off’ of the irregular Thuja proposal is historically inaccurate.) The decision of government to ‘massify skills development and job creation’ in response to persistent high levels of unemployment and sluggish growth utilises the LAP platform – expanded to pool resources across departments and entities, and to partner with the private sector. The funding model for the current expanded LAP provides a sliding scale of funding support for programmes with 70% of partners contributing, and a maximum 30% would being non-contributors (i.e. receiving 100% UIF/LAP funding), together with projects across government departments and entities on a rand-for-rand funding basis, for example including working with the IDC and the Department of Basic Education to recruit and pay salaries for Teacher Assistants designed to employ 200,000 unemployed graduates (part of the Presidential Youth Employment Stimulus programme).

The current expanded LAP ‘Training for Employment and Entrepreneurship’ programme sets ambitious targets: 2 million opportunities over three years, consisting of jobs preserved and created; demand-led skills training and entrepreneurial opportunities. Currently, 333 projects have been recommended for implementation across every province, with planned some 704,000 beneficiaries. Some 55,000 opportunities were announced for Gauteng on 6th April with the launch of the Nasi Ispani Project, supported and jointly funded by the LAP across 24 sectors: Agriculture, Services, IT, Construction, Engineering, Wholesale and retail, safety and security, hospitality, social services, textile, transport, furniture manufacturing; education, energy, food and beverage, health and wellness, aviation, insurance, jewellery, hygiene, arts and culture, and financial sector. The partnering with the Gauteng provincial government seeks to ensure that government maximises the impact of its spending by pooling resources and eliminating duplication.

I also need to flag that the LAP projects have been – or still are to be - subject to meticulous quality assurance processes to ensure:

  • they are compliant – with policy and legislation;
  • all necessary controls are in place;
  • there is capacity and necessary resources in place,
  • and that these programmes produce real outcomes in terms of jobs and entrepreneurial prospects.

Labour activation programmes are not a silver bullet to end the challenge of unemployment, but they are a viable force-multiplier that can be used together with other initiatives and interventions as part of a response to mitigate unemployment. 

The sectors and industries that will contribute significantly to the creation of these opportunities include economically growing and in-demand sectors such as agriculture, ICT, construction, engineering, manufacturing, education, transport and mining. 

An initial amount of R15 billion has been budgeted for the expanded LAP roll-out, eventually rising to R23.8 billion funding permitting. Opportunities will run between 12 and 36 months. The money invested in the plan will be recouped by the UIF through contributions and revenue generated from investments, as has been in the past sustainability model of the Fund.

There is this saying that: “the proof is in the pudding.” The UIF has proven that it is capable of taking strategic measures when required – such as the Covid-TERS benefits – distributing R64 billion to 5 million laid off workers and their families during the pandemic – whilst remaining financially sound.

The official national launch of the expanded LAP programme takes place in KZN on 16th April with a progressive roll-out of projects province by province, district by district culminating in the Northern Cape on the 9th May to coincide with the Presidential Imbizo in Kimberly.

Details of other launches and the impact to be derived from these projects will be communicated on an ongoing basis. This demonstrates our serious commitment to creating opportunities for our people, and to embed these processes and programmes into the future.

*Thulas Nxesi is the Minister of Employment and Labour.*

Neo
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 11:26

350 views
Read moreMassification of skills development and job creation programmes to combat unemployment

Unlocking Malawi’s Trade Barriers Through One-Stop Border Posts

Location: News

The World Bank Group
Download logo

Malawi's economy suffers from a lack of investment and high trade costs due to poor logistics and infrastructure; Clearing goods at the Malawi-Dedza border post with Mozambique previously took an average of three days; One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) reduce border waiting times and the cost of cross-border transactions.

The Dedza border post, situated between Malawi and Mozambique, is a busy place. On average, more than 80 trucks are cleared daily, carrying shop merchandise from South Africa to Malawi including fertilizers for Malawi's agriculture sector.

For the past few years, before the construction of the new One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) facility, it took about 24 to 36 hours to clear a truck carrying items such as wheat, fertilizers, groceries, and raw materials for Malawi's manufacturing industry. Drivers and clearing agents had to dash from one office to another between the two countries to clear the goods. Malawian traders traveling to and from South Africa through the Dedza–Mozambique border had difficulty locating the appropriate offices to present the required paperwork. In addition, the lack of parking facilities meant that the road leading to the border post was always congested, as trucks scrambled for space to park while waiting to be cleared.

Establishing One-Stop Border Posts

In 2015, the Government of Malawi embarked on an ambitious program to construct border posts in Dedza and Mwanza (both bordering Mozambique) and Songwe (bordering Tanzania), set up OSBPs with these neighboring countries, and establish the National Single Window (NSW). The NSW is an electronic platform system connecting international trade and transport stakeholders to fulfill all imports, exports, and transit border control procedures. World Bank support of $91.7 million was provided through the Southern Africa Trade and Transport Facilitation Project. The objective was to reduce the cost of cross-border transactions by supporting the modernization, simplification, and harmonization of the trade and transit procedures and policies.

The Dedza One-Stop Border Post, which was completed in 2023, boasts two examination bays for goods, parking spots for 100 freight trucks, and a modern passenger terminal.

“We now take less than half a day to process all the paperwork to clear the goods that we have carried, which is far less than the minimum of three days that we used to spend here,” says Flatella Makwakwa, a truck driver who has been using the Dedza border for more than three years. He also acknowledges the benefits of the new system when it comes to facilitating the passing of trucks and making life more comfortable for the users.

The new office infrastructure has made the process of clearing goods easier for the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), various other border officers, and users. The OSBP concept requires border officers from adjacent countries to be hosted in the same building. “It now feels good to go to work as the environment looks spacious and comfortable and we are looking forward to hosting our Mozambique counterparts very soon,” says Lucy Chikhawo, the MRA Station Manager for the Dedza border post which hosts more than a hundred government officers—including those from the Malawi Bureau of Standards, Immigration, Police, Agriculture and Health.

Traders also have access to better sanitation facilities as they wait for their goods to be cleared.

“From the feedback we have received so far about the Dedza OSBP, we feel encouraged to support the government in fast-tracking the completion of the other two border posts at Mwanza and Songwe in Karonga. Our main goal is to support initiatives that reduce time to clear passengers and goods, as any impediments are costly to the economy of the country,” says Chikondi Nsusa, Senior Transport Specialist at the World Bank Malawi Country Office, who is also the Task Team Leader for the project.

Improving Malawi's Trade, Logistics, and Infrastructure

The latest Malawi Country Economic Memorandum report highlights that Malawi's economy suffers from a lack of investment and high trade costs. Key reasons include poor logistics and infrastructure, compounded by being a small and landlocked country, as well as other non-tariff barriers at the borders.

According to the document, “the presence of non-tariff barriers at the border and in neighboring transit countries such as Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zambia add to the costs of trade for Malawian exporters and importers and there is lack of coordination between Malawi and its neighbors to address this issue that likely reduces both the number of firms exporting and the total value of exported goods.” In this context, establishing more OSBPs is a big step in the right direction.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

Read moreUnlocking Malawi’s Trade Barriers Through One-Stop Border Posts

Nespresso to invest 20 million USD in DRC to support the coffee growing community and the revival of the specialty coffee

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, South Africa, April 2024: Nespresso aims to continue to support the local community and economy by investing 20 million USD spent across coffee purchases, price premiums and technical assistance, by 2026 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), helping to give coffee farmers access to the global markets. The ambition is also to help …

Read moreNespresso to invest 20 million USD in DRC to support the coffee growing community and the revival of the specialty coffee

Navigating the World of Specialized Pumps

Location: MyPR

In various sectors, pumps play a pivotal role in facilitating the movement of liquids and gases, driving critical processes, and ensuring efficiency and productivity. From irrigating vast agricultural fields to processing food, extracting minerals, managing municipal water systems, supporting industrial operations, and enabling refrigeration, specialized pumps are at the heart of vital systems. This blog …

Read moreNavigating the World of Specialized Pumps

Labour activation programmes to create job opportunities in Gauteng

Location: News

Labour activation programmes to create job opportunities in Gauteng

The Department of Employment and Labour, through its entity, the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), will enter into partnerships with private business, SETAs and NGOs to create thousands of employment opportunities for residents of Gauteng.

At the launch of labour activation programmes for Gauteng on Saturday, Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi said an amount of R8.4 billion has been set aside to implement 105 labour activation programmes over 22 sectors, including agriculture, services, IT, construction, engineering, wholesale and retail, safety and security, hospitality, social services, textile and transport in Gauteng.

The Gauteng launch is part of a R23.8 billion national job creation plan that will be rolled out over the next couple of weeks to create more than 700 000 employment opportunities throughout the country. The opportunities will run between 12 and 36 months.

Nxesi, delivering the keynote address, said that in the face of rising unemployment, all efforts to create employment in South Africa should be welcomed.

“It is very important that we respond to the challenge of unemployment, and plan together to implement strategies to mitigate it on an ongoing basis. We believe that government, working together with all stakeholders, has a major role to play in mitigating unemployment, and creating and preserving jobs,” said the Minister.

Nxesi said that only substantial economic growth and development will rescue the country from the huge unemployment challenge.

The launch was attended by labour activation programme beneficiaries, project owners, various MECs from the provincial government, as well as senior government officials.

Participants that will be hired and trained in the programme will be selected through the Department of Employment and Labour’s Employment Services of South Africa database (ESSA).

For registration as a work seeker, members of the public can register on the database using the link https://essa.labour.gov.za/EssaOnline/WebBeans/?wicket:bookmarkablePage=wicket[1]1:za.gov.labour.essa.web.individual.register.RegIndSearch.

Launches of labour activation programmes for other provinces are scheduled to take place as follows:

  • KwaZulu-Natal, 16 April 2024
  • Western Cape, 17 April 2024
  • Eastern Cape, 19 April 2024
  • Free State, 22 April 2024
  • North West, 23 April 2024
  • Mpumalanga, 24 April 2024
  • Limpopo, 30 April 2024
  • Northern Cape, 09 May 2024.

 – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 16:19

218 views
Read moreLabour activation programmes to create job opportunities in Gauteng

Nxesi launches skills training programme to assist unemployed citizens

Location: News

Nxesi launches skills training programme to assist unemployed citizens

Employment and Labour Minister, Thulas Nxesi, has launched a skills training and entrepreneurship programme designed to benefit the youth and the unemployed in the country. 

The programme will afford Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) beneficiaries and unemployed youth with an opportunity to be integrated into the labour market or start their own businesses.

Nxesi announced the launch of the Unemployment Insurance Fund Labour Activation Programme (LAP) during a media briefing held in Pretoria on Thursday.

LAP was established within the UIF to enhance the department’s mandate through enhancing the employability of the unemployed through training; enable entrepreneurship through enterprise development; preserve jobs through the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) and Productivity SA, and collaborate across government departments and entities to massify jobs, skills training and enterprise creation.

Nxesi said an amount of R23.8 billion will be allocated to implement this plan. 

“Opportunities will run between 12 and 36 months. The money invested in the plan will be recouped by the UIF through contributions and revenue generated from investments, as has been the sustainability model of the fund.

“The spread of our implementation nationally will be across every province, with 333 recommended projects to provide seven training, small enterprise support and employment opportunities to 704 000 unemployed people,” Nxesi explained.

Nxesi said the department is collaborating across with other government departments and entities to massify jobs.

“As early as next week, we will be talking about a joint programme with the Department of Higher Education and Training, and Small Business, which is also a collaboration with the programme we are talking about today,” Nxesi said. 

The Minister assured that the projects have all been subjected to meticulous quality assurance processes to ensure that they are compliant with the policy and legislation. 

“There are necessary controls in place, there is capacity and necessary resources in place, and these programmes produce the real outcomes in terms of the jobs and at a perineural scheme or prospect. 

“Employability interventions are delivered through contracts with the condition that they guaranteed jobs for beneficiaries with a minimum period of employment of one year post intervention,” Nxesi said.

Nxesi said he hopes the companies and industries will contribute significantly to the sectors, including agriculture, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), construction, engineering, manufacturing, education, transport, and mining.

The first roll-out of LAP projects will be launched in Gauteng with the provincial government on 6 April 2024, followed by KwaZulu-Natal on 16 April, Western Cape 17 April, Eastern Cape 19 April, Free State 22 April, North West 23 April, and Mpumalanga on 24 April 2024.

The launch will also move to Limpopo on 30 April, with the last roll-out to take place in the Northern Cape on 9 May 2024.

The programme will be offered to people across all ages. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 04/05/2024 - 09:54

238 views
Read moreNxesi launches skills training programme to assist unemployed citizens

Gauteng SMMEs Offered Vital Growth Opportunity through Exporter Competitiveness Programme

Location: MyPR

Gauteng’s Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are receiving vital support to boost their businesses through a transformative six-month Exporter Competitiveness Programme (ECP) initiative introduced by the government, aimed at propelling them forward. SMMEs that have been operational for a minimum of two years within the manufacturing, agriculture, and agro-processing sectors, are urged to seize …

Read moreGauteng SMMEs Offered Vital Growth Opportunity through Exporter Competitiveness Programme

President Cyril Ramaphosa assents bills in forestry, agricultural and correctional services sectors

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
Download logo

President Cyril Ramaphosa has assented to the National Veld and Forest Fire Amendment Bill, the Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Bill, 2023 and the Correctional Services Amendment Act.

National Veldfire Act

The amended National Veld and Forest Fire Act, 1998, will amongst other key provisions;  

  • Provide for the facilitation of the formation of fire protection associations by a municipality and a traditional council; 
  • Compel a municipality, state-owned enterprise, public entity or other organ of state which owns land to join the fire protection associations; 
  • Extend the powers of entry, search, seizure and arrest to peace officers and traditional leaders; 
  • Amend the title of the Act to the National Veldfire Act.

The Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Act, 2023

The amended Act, will amongst other provisions, empower the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development to designate a person, an entity, undertaking, body, institution, association or board, who or which, as the case may be, has particular knowledge of the product concerned, or particular knowledge of the relevant management control systems, with no direct or indirect personal or financial interest, as an assignee to inspect the commodity for quality control and audit management control system. 

The Correctional Services Amendment Act

The amended Act complies with the 2020 Sonke judgement of the Constitutional Court, in providing for an adequate level of independence of the Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services (JICS).

The amendments include changes to section 30(7) to provide for an inmate that is subjected to solitary confinement, to be informed of their right to appeal. 

The amended section further provides that the Head of the Correctional or Remand Detention Facility must, upon request provide all relevant information relating to an appeal to the Inspecting Judge within 24 hours of receiving such information. 

The amended act further provides for;

  • The appointment of the Chief Executive Officer of the JICS by the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services instead of the National Commissioner of Correctional Services. 
  • The expenses incurred by the Judicial Inspectorate will be covered from budgets appropriated by Parliament. These costs were previously covered from the Department of Justice and Correctional Services budget. 
  • Mandatory reporting obligations by the Department to the Inspecting Judge.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Cyril Ramaphosa assents bills in forestry, agricultural and correctional services sectors

Announcing the Zimbabwe Investment Summit – 2nd and 3rd May, 2024

Location: MyPR

On 2nd and 3rd May, 2024 – Zimbabwe Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube and Mr Tafadzwa Chinamo, the CEO of Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (ZIDA) will host an investment summit at the Radisson Hotel, Kempton Park, near OR Tambo International. The summit theme “People you can invest in” …

Read moreAnnouncing the Zimbabwe Investment Summit – 2nd and 3rd May, 2024

President assents to Correctional Services, Forestry and Agriculture Bills

Location: News

President assents to Correctional Services, Forestry and Agriculture Bills

The Correctional Services Amendment Act, National Veld and Forest Fire Amendment Bill and the Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Bill, 2023 have been signed into law by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Correctional Services Amendment Act

According to the Presidency, the Correctional Services Amendment Act “complies with the 2020 Sonke judgment of the Constitutional Court, in providing for an adequate level of independence of the Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services (JICS)”.

“The amendments include changes to section 30(7) to provide for an inmate that is subjected to solitary confinement, to be informed of their right to appeal.

“The amended section further provides that the Head of the Correctional or Remand Detention Facility must, upon request, provide all relevant information relating to an appeal to the Inspecting Judge within 24 hours of receiving such information,” the Presidency said.

The amended act further provides for:

  • The appointment of the Chief Executive Officer of the JICS by the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services instead of the National Commissioner of Correctional Services.
  • The expenses incurred by the Judicial Inspectorate will be covered from budgets appropriated by Parliament. These costs were previously covered from the Department of Justice and Correctional Services budget.
  • Mandatory reporting obligations by the Department to the Inspecting Judge.

National Veldfire Act

The amended act provides for provisions, including:

  • The facilitation of the formation of fire protection associations by a municipality and a traditional council.
  • Compel a municipality, state-owned enterprise, public entity or other organ of State which owns land to join the fire protection associations.
  • Extend the powers of entry, search, seizure and arrest to peace officers and traditional leaders.
  • Amend the title of the Act to the National Veldfire Act.

Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Act

“The Agricultural Product Standards Amendment Act, will, amongst other provisions, empower the Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development to designate a person, an entity, undertaking, body, institution, association or board, who or which, as the case may be, has particular knowledge of the product concerned, or particular knowledge of the relevant management control systems, with no direct or indirect personal or financial interest, as an assignee to inspect the commodity for quality control and audit management control system,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 04/03/2024 - 14:20

318 views
Read morePresident assents to Correctional Services, Forestry and Agriculture Bills

South African projects seize opportunity to tackle climate crisis and create jobs

Location: News

British High Commission Pretoria
Download logo

The businesses were chosen from 173 applications following a rigorous selection process. The chosen projects come from the energy, transportation, agriculture, forestry and other land uses, circular economy and water sectors.

The businesses concerned will receive tailored one-to-one and group support from financial, technical and gender equality and social inclusion experts to help increase their chances of securing finance from South African and international investors. For the first time, two separate cohorts have been created to trial providing capacity building to promising early-stage projects.

So far, almost a third of projects from the first two phases of CFA South Africa have found investment since participating in the programme.

British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:

"South Africa has a huge number of companies and organisations with innovative ideas on how to tackle climate change. Support provided to these projects will help them secure investment, deliver green growth and jobs and contribute to South Africa meeting its climate commitments."

The 10 core cohort projects will undertake intensive capacity building before pitching to investors at an event in July, which early-stage projects will also be invited to attend.

The 5 projects selected in the early-stage pilot will have the opportunity to attend elements of the core capacity building training and will be encouraged to share their experiences with members of the core cohort, who may act as mentors.

CEO of the National Business Initiative (NBI), Shameela Soobramoney said:

"NBI believes that identifying and supporting innovative, low carbon companies across key green economy sectors is not just a strategic initiative, but a moral imperative. These companies represent the vanguard of progress, offering solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our country and the globe."

"Initiatives like CFA illustrate how targeted support, collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication can pave the way for a brighter, greener future for generations to come. If we don't create the future we want, the one we get will be worth infinitely less."

CEO of GreenCape (GC), Michael Mulachy said:

"Food systems, rare earth metal beneficiation, storage, e-mobility, waste and sanitation are all featured in this year's CFA finalists. This incredible cohort have solutions to some of the most pressing green economy challenges globally."

"Each finalist has found its niche in South Africa and has the potential to scale up rapidly – creating much needed jobs and investment in South Africa's green economy. The CFA programme has been an incredibly effective launch pad for these innovative green companies and GreenCape is eager to see the impact of this cohort."

The 10 core cohort projects are:

  • Charge - catalysing the decarbonisation of the transport sector by installing 120 off-grid, green-powered, ultra-fast charging stations for passenger and light delivery vehicles. Located approximately 150 km apart, this first phase of installations covers South Africa's major highways and regional routes (18,200 km).
  • Creslow Energy Solutions - renewable battery manufacturer based in Mpumalanga. The energy storage solution is aimed at leisure, commercial and industrial markets (battery packs are suitable for small to medium factories and shopping malls), as well with specialised solutions provided for the mining sector.
  • Cultura Fresh - expanding the existing successful hydroponic vegetable business to meet persistent excess demand. Cultura Fresh is currently the largest supplier of leafy greens in Western Cape. This expansion will create jobs and boost food security.
  • EWaste Africa - expanding EWaste Africa's existing offer of  storing, collecting, transporting and end-of-life management of e-waste by diversifying into reuse, refurbishment and repair of e-waste (electrical, electronic, solar and lighting equipment waste) and increasing recycling facilities for hazardous e-waste.
  • Loowatt - providing high-quality ‘Kalula' home toilets to customers in urban neighbourhoods that lack adequate sanitation access.
  • Manganese Metal Company - constructing a 5,000 ton per annum manganese sulphate monohydrate (MSM) plant, to be located in Mbombela. MSM is a key ingredient in electric vehicles batteries.
  • MycoSure - addressing sustainable food production by developing mycelium-based submerged biomass fermentation technology to produce alternative protein and nutraceutical ingredients at scale.
  • Nambu - turning food ‘waste' into high value insect protein for livestock and pet feed - including dog kibble, liquid based feed additive and a basic ruminant feed - as well as pelletised frass (fertiliser),
  • SOCO CAPITAL - a spin off from an Engineering Procurement and Construction company, now an Independent Power Producer delivering comprehensive solutions, including fully funded solar PV (Power Purchase Agreement) and battery offerings available for rental.
  • Valternative Energy - bringing next-generation clean energy solutions to the e-mobility sector in South Africa with electric bikes, smart batteries and swap stations.

The 5 early-stage cohort projects are:

  • Aquagel - Regenr8 is addressing climate change through food security. Regenr8 does this by offering organic bio-stimulant that disrupts the chemical fertiliser industry and stores CO2 in the soil for hundreds of years.
  • Breev - Breev has a vision of an EV charger in every town in Africa and currently aims to expand EV charging along 980,000 km of roads in South Africa and Kenya, doubling mobility options and reducing environmental impact.
  • React - enhancing access to recycling services and ethical standards by setting up decentralised micro material recovery facilities in low-income areas, integrating informal waste reclaimers as operators, and providing them with access to recyclables and eco-friendly transportation.
  • Smartfill - connected smart dispensers enabling consumers to accurately fill any container with the quantity of dry food they need, eliminating plastic packaging.
  • Solarfi - is set to connect 5 million individuals by distributing more than 500,000 innovative lantern-routers, delivering both internet and lighting to off-grid communities and driving progress through sustainable technology.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British High Commission Pretoria.

Read moreSouth African projects seize opportunity to tackle climate crisis and create jobs

Investing in the future of farming

Location: MyPR

Agriculture in South Africa is growing. The primary agricultural sector has increased by an average of 7.5% per year since 2008, outpacing the total economy, which grew by 6.6% on average per year over the same period. Despite its relatively small share of the total GDP, primary agriculture is a significant provider of employment, and …

Read moreInvesting in the future of farming

SA marks World Water Day

Location: News

SA marks World Water Day

Today South Africa joins the globe in marking World Water Day which is celebrated annually on 22 March.

South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) Chairperson, Professor Bongani Ncube has underscored the need to improve access to productive water across South Africa’s disadvantaged communities.

“I’m talking about water for productivity, water for agriculture, [and] water that will take people out of poverty,” Professor Ncube said.

The SARChI was established in 2006 by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the National Research Foundation (NRF).

The main goal of the Research Chairs initiative is to strengthen and improve research and innovation capacity of public universities for producing high quality postgraduate students and research and innovation outputs. 

Ncube is based at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Centre for Water and Sanitation Research, under the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment. 

She is a Chairperson under the Department of Science and Innovation and the NRF (DSI-NRF) SARChI, established by the Science and Innovation and the National Research Foundation (NRF) in 2006.

Ncube said the country still has issues in these areas because the licensing process has not worked for many communities for a long time. 

“The compulsory licensing, validation and verification processes, which were supposed to enable the release of excess water to communities, has not worked very well. The process has improved but we still have many communities that do not have access to productive water. 

“At the household level, there are municipalities where access to basic water and sanitation services has become a challenge. That is why you see these water protests in South Africa,” Ncube said.

This year’s World Water Day is observed under the theme, 'Leveraging Water for Peace', which encourages communities and countries to use water as a tool for peace, when cooperating over this precious shared resource.

READ | DWS kick-starts National Water Month  

Ncube said South Africa relates to the 2024 global theme at both household and broader community levels because of its historical past, and also in terms of economic advancement, which brings under the spotlight policy shifts required to redress past access patterns. 

“South Africa has a very complicated history when it comes to access to resources, including water. The historical access [which] dates back centuries when water access mechanisms favoured the more privileged white communities, remains a challenged,” said Ncube.

After 1994, policies, legislation, and strategies were developed to make water equitably accessible to everyone.

Ncube noted that access to productive water in some communities has improved following the enactment of the National Water Act of 1998, which aims to reform the laws related to water, including redress of past racial and gender discrimination; promotion of equitable access to water; and facilitation of social and economic development. 

Draft National Water Amendment Bill

Ncube commended the Draft National Water Amendment Bill, which was published in the Government Gazette for public comment on 17 November 2023. 

“One of the intentions of that Bill is to redress the past inequity and to achieve equitable access for all communities. There are efforts that are taking place at the moment. The Bill is being revised to ensure that those water allocation issues that were not addressed by the National Water Act of 1998 are addressed.” 

Provision of basic water to households has vastly improved since 1994. 

According to Statistics South Africa data, 88.7% of the country’s households had access to water by 2021. 

“Climate change and drought add a further layer of complication when it comes to water access. But it is important for government to realise that, while situations like that occur, it is the poor that are the most affected and it is important that measures are put in place in terms of providing access,” Ncube said.– SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Fri, 03/22/2024 - 12:48

213 views
Read moreSA marks World Water Day

Black industrialists honoured for their outstanding contributions

Location: News

Black industrialists honoured for their outstanding contributions

President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended black industrialists who have been honoured for their outstanding contributions to the country’s economy and society.

“Your resilience, innovation and vision inspire us all to reach greater heights and build a brighter future for generations to come,” President Ramaphosa said.

Addressing the Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference and awards ceremony at the Sandton Convention Centre on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa called on all black industrialist companies to unite in their commitment to building a more inclusive, dynamic and prosperous economy that where every entrepreneur, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed.

The awards acknowledged the contributions by black industrialists to the economy while reflecting on progress made in advancing redress and transforming a skewed racialised economy.

A total of R261 billion has been committed for procurement from black industrialists companies over a period of five years.

“As we continue to support, invest and collaborate, we will unlock even greater potential and prosperity for our nation,” President Ramaphosa said on Wednesday.

He said through technology adoption, market diversification and strategic partnerships, black industrialists are positioning themselves as leaders in their respective industries and ambassadors of African excellence worldwide.

“As we celebrate the achievements of black industrialists, we must look to the future. Our businesses must not only thrive locally but also compete on the global stage.  

“My challenge to the 239 black industrialists who will benefit from these procurement commitments is to return to this stage at the 3rd Black Industrialists Conference, not as beneficiaries of procurement but as drivers of investment in the next generation of black entrepreneurs.

“These commitments will help to accelerate the re-industrialisation of our economy,” President Ramaphosa said.

The R27 billion committed to agriculture and agro-processing will bring more black farmers into the formal economy, readying them for the export opportunities that lie abroad.

“The R79 billion that has been committed for procurement in the retail sector will see more local products – made by black industrialists – in the hands of South African consumers.

“The R52 billion in procurement commitments in infrastructure will see more black-owned and -managed businesses contributing to the expansion and improvement of our ports, energy infrastructure and logistics networks.

“We are now at the point where black industrialists can be the capital that can fund and support growth in the next generation,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said the black businesses are a cornerstone of the country’s economy.

“They are creating jobs, exporting goods, earning foreign exchange and helping to lift communities out of poverty.

“We know that the playing field for black business in South Africa is still not level. Yet there has been significant progress over the 30 years of freedom,” President Ramaphosa said.

The Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference also featured exhibitions that showcases proudly South African products manufactured by black industrialists and an awards ceremony that recognised and reward industrialists who have contributed significantly to industrialisation, job creation, poverty alleviation, innovation and transformation efforts.

The Black Industrialists and Exporters conference took place on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the implementation of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (B-BBEE Act).

The objective of the black industrialists programme is to increase participation of black South Africans in the ownership and control of productive enterprises in key sectors and the entire value chain of the country’s economy.

More than 600 firms supported by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition showed a turnover of about R80 billion during the 2023/24 financial year, illustrating the tangible results of drawing more black entrepreneurs into the industrial economy. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 03/21/2024 - 07:20

546 views
Read moreBlack industrialists honoured for their outstanding contributions

Black industrialists are job creators, wealth generators and agents of change

Location: News

Black industrialists are job creators, wealth generators and agents of change

Despite facing immense challenges, black industrialists have persevered, defying the odds and breaking barriers to create thriving businesses and contribute significantly to the nation's economic development.

“Today, we celebrate the power of empowerment. Empowerment that has not been handed out as charity but earned through hard work, resilience and unwavering determination.

“Black industrialists are not just job creators and wealth generators, they are agents of change, driving social and economic transformation in our communities,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Wednesday.

He said at the heart of every successful industrialist lies a spirit of innovation and creativity.

“Whether it is in technology, manufacturing, agriculture or services, they have shown that excellence knows no bounds and that Africa is a continent brimming with untapped potential and ingenuity.

“None of this progress would have been possible without the spirit of collaboration and partnership,” the President said, addressing the Black Industrialists and Exporters Conference at the Sandton Convention Centre.

President Ramaphosa said it was a good moment for the country to reflect on the empowerment journey which is a central part of the changes that have taken place over the last three decades.

“We have about 1 000 black industrialists present here today. This is a living testimony to the changes that have taken place in the past 30 years, and indeed, over the past five years,” President Ramaphosa said.

He said empowerment is a historical imperative to provide redress to black South Africans who were discriminated against and excluded under the apartheid regime.

“Even after the advent of democracy, and the removal of discriminatory laws, the racial features of privilege and disadvantage remained,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said underdevelopment in townships and bantustans limited access to economic opportunities.

“Bantu education left several generations without the skills needed to improve their economic situation.

“Much has changed in our country, but this iniquitous inheritance continues to diminish the economic prospects of many black and women South Africans. It is this inheritance that we are determined to overcome,” he said.

The President said for far too long, the country's economic landscape was marked by inequality, exclusion and systemic barriers that hindered the progress of aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those from black communities.

The conference takes place on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the implementation of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act (B-BBEE Act).

It has shone the spotlight on the achievements, successes, opportunities and strides made by the Black Industrialists Programme since its inception in 2016.

This years’ conference features 53 large companies or procurers making pledges to buy from the growing class of black industrialists.

The conference will culminate with an awards ceremony aimed at recognising the contribution of Black Industrialists towards driving economic growth, social transformation and in advancing inclusive entrepreneurship in the South African economy.

More than 200 entries have been received and ten awards will be announced at the conference. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 15:14

159 views
Read moreBlack industrialists are job creators, wealth generators and agents of change

Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects

Location: News

Emphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects

While South Africa has taken meaningful steps to invest in infrastructure projects, Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo, says the fiscus cannot afford to financially support the amount of investment required for climate-resilient infrastructure.

“We therefore need to discuss other innovative financing mechanisms such as green bonds and carbon credit to fund these climate-resilient infrastructure projects,” Masondo said on Monday in Johannesburg.

He made these remarks during the second in a series of Southern Africa – Towards Inclusive Economic Development (SA-TIED) policy dialogues entitled “Financing infrastructure development in the context of climate change”.

“In South Africa, we feel the negative impact of climate change in important sectors such as agriculture, water, and energy. The frequency of natural disasters and the results thereof are felt every day in our country.

“Investments in renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, and sustainable urban development are key to mitigating and adapting to climate impacts,” the Deputy Minister said.

Masondo said the Infrastructure Fund is a testament to South Africa’s commitment to stimulating infrastructure investment and blending public and private financing to build a better, more sustainable future.

“The Infrastructure Fund stands out as a pivotal move, designed to stimulate investment across various critical sectors. This approach seeks to mobilise public and private resources, mitigate risks for private investors and foster an environment where collaborative financing models can thrive.

“Such measures are part of a broader effort to ensure that infrastructure development not only supports South Africa's immediate economic needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term resilience and progress.

“Yes, challenges exist such as securing funding. However, ensuring sustainability, and integrating the latest technologies are other additional challenges. These challenges should be treated as opportunities for innovation and forging robust public-private partnerships. This is also an opportunity for leveraging the power of technology in our infrastructure development goals,” Masondo said.

He said the groundbreaking research produced by the SA-TIED program has shed light on critical areas like water, and energy, and the broader connections between them.

“It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximise impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth. The research informs our policy decision-making. It is this type of research that directly shapes our infrastructure strategies, informing decisions to maximize impact and create the conditions for sustainable growth,” the Deputy Minister said.

He said infrastructure development is the cornerstone of any thriving economy.

“Infrastructure fuels productivity (e.g. people arrive late to work because public transport is poor). Infrastructure also enhances the quality of life for our citizens (clean air, and clean water are important for our health) and lays the foundation for long-term growth.

“Our government recognises this. We have made significant investments in critical infrastructure. These investments are not just about roads and bridges. They are also about creating jobs, reducing poverty, and making South Africa a competitive player in the global economy,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 09:36

611 views
Read moreEmphasis placed on investing in climate-resilient infrastructure projects

Government harnessing Land Reform to support growth of agriculture and job creation 

Location: News

Government harnessing Land Reform to support growth of agriculture and job creation 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that government is actively implementing various programs and initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of land reform aimed at bolstering agricultural growth and to foster increased employment within the industry.

President Ramaphosa was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
 
A Member of Parliament asked the President to elaborate on the integrated plan that government has in place to maintain growth and job creation in the agricultural sector through land reform. 

“Government’s land reform programme is supported by several complementary programmes and initiatives to enable growth and job creation.   

“Through these complementary programmes and initiatives, we are working to ensure that land reform is harnessed more effectively to support the growth of agriculture and agro-processing and to expand employment and livelihoods in this vital industry,” the President said. 

The President told Members of Parliament that land reform is vital to the transformation of our society and to correct historical injustices.   

He noted that redistribution, restitution and the provision of secure tenure also contribute to greater agricultural activity and enable more people to earn a living off farming.   

President Ramaphosa highlighted that in May 2022, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development signed the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan with partners in business and labour.   

Among many other things, the plan supports the acceleration of land reform and outlines actions that the private sector can take to support optimal use of land available to black farmers as a result of land reform projects.

These actions include support to black farmers and SMMEs at the processing level to have better access to domestic and export markets.   

The plan also encourages large commercial farmers to participate voluntarily in the land reform programme by donating land to historically disadvantaged farmers or participating in joint ventures to facilitate linkages between small- and medium-scale farmers operating on a commercial basis.   

“If the proposed interventions are implemented effectively, the social partners believe that by 2030, the agricultural sector can grow by an additional R32 billion above the ‘business-as-usual’ baseline.   

“Through this plan, they intend to maintain the existing jobs in the sector and create 75,000 new jobs by 2030.   For the economic potential of our land reform programme to be fully realised, we are prioritising broader rural development,” the President said. 

The Integrated Rural Development Sector Strategy of 2023 aims, among other things, to revitalise the rural economy through investment in, and development of rural infrastructure.   

This includes investment in roads, bridges and other transport infrastructure, water and irrigation schemes, public health and education.   

The strategy also provides for support to industries that support rural development, including agriculture and agro-processing, mining, the digital economy, the ocean economy, tourism, arts and culture.   

“Improvements in rural infrastructure are necessary if we are to reap the economic potential of land reform. Beneficiaries of the various land reform projects need to be able to access water resources, get their produce to market, participate in local economic activity and have ready access to funding and other support,” he said. 

The President highlighted that the land reform programme is also supported by initiatives that support skills development and employment, particularly for the youth.   

Through the National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) government provides young people with the skills and capabilities to participate in the economy. 

He explained that through such rural development initiatives, more than 1 100 jobs have been facilitated in the current financial year.

He further stated that through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, more than 180 000 agricultural production input vouchers have been issued to subsistence producers.   

The Presidential Employment Stimulus has also worked with the provincial departments of agriculture and social partners to provide support to more than 62 000 subsistence and smallholder producers to strengthen self-employment and food security. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 15:02

150 views
Read moreGovernment harnessing Land Reform to support growth of agriculture and job creation 

South Africa and Zimbabwe enter landmark water sharing deal

Location: News

South Africa and Zimbabwe enter landmark water sharing deal

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu and the Zimbabwean Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Jongwe Masuka, have signed an agreement for the transfer of treated water from Beitbridge Water Treatment Works to Musina.

The agreement is the product of the bilateral agreement of cooperation on water resources management, and the establishment and functioning of the Joint Water Commission established by the two countries in 2015. 

The transfer of treated water from Beitbridge Water Treatment Works in Zimbabwe to Musina, Limpopo, is a medium-term solution to address water supply challenges in the area. 

The capacity of the Beitbridge Water Treatment Plant is 35 million cubic metres/annum (96 Ml/day) and is currently not fully utilised in Zimbabwe, with only 10% of the capacity used for Beitbridge. 

Mchunu has welcomed the signing of the agreement and assured the community of Musina that the transfer of water from Beitbridge will alleviate water supply challenges in the area, as the quantities to be supplied are more than the current demand. 

According to the agreement, the two countries will kick-start an implementation plan and oversee the construction of a pipeline and of pump stations to transfer 15 million cubic metres (41 ML/day) of treated water from Zimbabwe to Musina. 

The two implementing agents to oversee the construction projects include the South African Development Bank and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority. The project is expected to be completed in 2026. 

The treated water to be transferred is expected to comply with South Africa’s water quality standards (SANS 241), set by the South African National Bureau of Standards (SABS), which is informed by World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.

Mchunu said in the interim, the Department of Water and Sanitation is working with the Vhembe District Municipality, which is the Water Services Authority for Musina Local Municipality, in addressing challenges with the existing water infrastructure, including rehabilitating the existing but non-functional boreholes, while the project is being implemented.

“We are looking at operationalising the non-functioning boreholes in Musina and we believe that with the transfer of water from Beitbridge Water Treatment Works, the challenges of water supply in Musina will be a thing of the past. 

“...We are thankful to the government of Zimbabwe to be able to expedite this water sharing deal, which will change the lives of the people of Musina,” Mchunu said.

Masuka also welcomed the contribution of the government of Zimbabwe to ensure that economic development is sustainable in Musina.

“I am very pleased that this day has come to fruition. It has taken years of negotiation and I thank the technical team for having put their very best for their countries to ensure that we come to this level today,” Masuka said.

The Minister reiterated that Zimbabwe is committed to supplying the maximum 15 million cubic metres of treated water per year to Musina town for the duration of the agreement. He is hopeful that the contribution will alleviate the water challenges in Musina, and also contribute to the economic development of the region.

As part of the two-day programme, Mchunu, accompanied by Deputy Minister Judith Tshabalala, held a meeting with Vhembe District and Musina Local Municipality leadership on Friday to discuss immediate, medium- and long-term solutions to water and sanitation challenges affecting the region. 

The leaders later held an imbizo, where they gave an update to the community of Musina on the plans underway to provide them with water, as well as interim measures to alleviate intermittent water provision. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 03/18/2024 - 09:47

1180 views
Read moreSouth Africa and Zimbabwe enter landmark water sharing deal