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You are here: Home / Archives for Cape Town

Cape Town

18 July 2024

Designer Pool Covers Cape Town Expands Product Line to Meet Growing Demand for Pool Safety and Efficiency

Location: MyPR

Cape Town, South Africa – Designer Pool Covers Cape Town, a leading provider of high-quality pool cover solutions, has announced an expansion of its product offerings to meet the increasing demand for pool safety and energy efficiency in the Western Cape region. The company has introduced several new automatic and safety cover options to complement …

Read moreDesigner Pool Covers Cape Town Expands Product Line to Meet Growing Demand for Pool Safety and Efficiency
18 July 2024

All eyes on SA’s First Citizen

Location: News

All eyes on SA's First Citizen

Many South Africans are expected to be glued to their screens this evening, 18 July 2024,  as they eagerly wait to hear from President Cyril Ramaphosa, when he delivers the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at 7pm. 

As South Africa struggles with rising fuel and food prices, youth unemployment, crime and corruption, amongst others, many citizens are seeking hope and will be looking to President Ramaphosa’s speech for much-needed optimism as he leads the country under the Government of National Unity (GNU) banner.

President Ramaphosa was re-elected for a second term last month at the first sitting of the National Assembly since the highly contested elections of 29 May.

He received 283 votes, while the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, received 44 votes for the top job.

The Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, has described the OPA ceremony as a historic event and said that the opening of Parliament reaffirms the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy.

“It serves as a powerful symbol for our nation’s ability to overcome adversity and continue the important work of governance,” Didiza said at a media briefing on Thursday to outline Parliament's state of readiness for the big event today, expected to showcase all the colourful and elegantly put together ceremonial aspects, befitting the Opening of Parliament.

Key areas

Speaking to SAnews, University of South Africa (Unisa) political analyst, Professor Dirk Kotze, said he expected the President's speech to focus on the economy.

“The issues he emphasised in the past will continue; the economic recovery plan, I suspect will still be the basis of his focus and [the] employment matter - how to create employment.”

Kotze also believes that the President will address infrastructure matters, foreign investments, and issues regarding electricity and water.

“I think the matter that is an overarching issue is how to deal with the fiscal issue and how there’s a reduction of the budgets in all of the different departments and how to try to improve the fiscal situation as a whole,” he told SAnews.

According to Kotze, the President’s speech usually covers almost all the departments, and that people can expect the same from the OPA.

He will also reaffirm the government's commitment to the fundamental principles of multilateralism, non-partisanship, and democracy, said the analyst.

“He should also create an environment which will make the GNU attractive for South Africans and the international community. I don’t know how exactly he’s going to do it, but he will have to build trust in the new government.”

Kotze also suspects that President Ramaphosa will address the GNU, discussing what they have already agreed upon, how it should function, and how Cabinet should operate. 

“I think that will be the important part of the speech,” he explained.

The road to OPA

The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year and is usually marked by grandeur, ceremony, and glamorous fashion that sparks conversation.

However, it is more than just that;  but a significant ceremony where the Head of State outlines the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies during a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament to deliver the OPA of the seventh administration.

The OPA occurs once every five years, following the Provincial and National Elections. It outlines the new administration’s plans and the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.

The President presided over the first Cabinet lekgotla of the administration at Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria over the weekend, where Ministers, Deputy Ministers, and Premiers gathered to discuss the government’s agenda.

The OPA will also provide an opportunity to hear the direction government is taking under the GNU.

According to Parliament, the address serves as a unifying force for the whole nation to collaborate and continue the progress made by past governments.

“It draws us in a common front to find ways to address the challenges we face and improve the lives of people.”

Mandela Day

This year’s opening of Parliament coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day.

July 18 marks the birthday of the founding President of a democratic South Africa and is a global celebration. It is a day for personal and collective actions for good that honour the leader’s life and legacy.

The Presidency has since called on citizens and communities to take time to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to make a positive impact on communities globally.

The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall.

South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone. 

Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts.  – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:57

147 views
Read moreAll eyes on SA’s First Citizen
18 July 2024

Advocate Chantal Smith appointed as the new Head of the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure

Location: News

Advocate Chantal Smith has been appointed as the new Head of the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure. Advocate Smith brings with her an impressive track record of legal expertise and a commitment to public service that will be invaluable as we continue to develop and enhance our province’s infrastructure development drive. She will officially occupy …

Read moreAdvocate Chantal Smith appointed as the new Head of the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure
17 July 2024

Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address

Location: News

Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address

Heavy rains and cold weather is expected in Cape Town tomorrow evening as President Cyril Ramaphosa convenes a joint sitting of the newly established two Houses of Parliament to deliver the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).

South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecaster, Samkelisiwe Thwala, told SANews on Wednesday that isolated scattered showers and rain with a portion of a cold front are expected in the Western Cape, with South Western parts expecting 80% chance of rain and showers on Thursday.

“We also have three weather alerts that are associated with cold fronts. [There is a] Yellow Level 2 warning for disruptive rain, leading to localised flooding of roads, which is expected over the Cape Winelands, City of Cape Town, parts of the West Coast, and Theewaterskloof Municipalities,” Thwala said.

Thwala warned of a further cold front approaching on Friday.

“It is going to be two-days of rainy and cold weather. Strong winds and damaging waves are also predicted for the coastal areas up to Plettenberg Bay on the southeast coast,” Thwala said.

Opening of Parliament

The opening of Parliament, which will be attended by members of both Houses, the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces, will mark the start of the new five-year parliamentary cycle.

The address provides President Ramaphosa with an opportunity to outline the key priorities and policies of the seventh administration.

The new administration is made up of several political parties that formed a Government of National Unity founded on the respect for the Constitution, the Bill of Rights in its entirety, a united South Africa, and the rule of law.

The Opening of Parliament Address also coincides with the United Nations-declared Nelson Mandela International Day, which calls on people around the world to take action to help change the world for the better, and by doing so, build a global movement for good.

Government has invited all South Africans to be part of the Opening of Parliament Address at 7pm.

South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this national milestone. 

Proceedings will also be covered via government and Parliament social media accounts. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:01

486 views
Read moreHeavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address
17 July 2024

Opening of Parliament “a significant event” for the country’s democratic process

Location: News

Opening of Parliament "a significant event" for the country’s democratic process

Speaker of the National Assembly Thoko Didiza says the Opening of Parliament is a significant event for the country’s democratic process, convened by the President in accordance with section 84 of the Constitution.

“It stands as one of the few occasions that brings the three arms of the State -- the executive, legislature and judiciary -- under one roof, reaffirming the commitment of all branches of State to democratic principles, accountability and cooperation in the pursuit of national progress and prosperity,” Didiza said.

Addressing media on the state of readiness to host the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Wednesday, Didiza said following the adoption of the new joint rules of Parliament in November 2023, they now make a clear distinction between the Opening of Parliament Address and the State of the Nation Address (SONA).

The theme for the 2024 Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) is: "My Parliament, My Voice, My Future".

“The Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) serves as a pivotal platform for the President to articulate the administration's comprehensive plans and long-term vision for the upcoming five-year term,” Didiza said.

Didiza explained that this landmark event not only outlines government's strategic objectives and policy priorities but also officially inaugurates the new parliamentary term.

“[OPA] symbolises the continuity of democratic governance and sets the stage for legislative and executive collaboration in addressing national challenges and pursuing the country's development goals. 

“The State of the Nation Address (SONA), delivered annually by the President in February, serves as a platform to review government's past year performance and outline its agenda for the coming year.

“The Joint Rules also aim to maintain order and decorum in the Chamber, while promoting civility among Members. 

“Key provisions of the new rules prohibit members from interrupting the President during the Opening of Parliament Address and further stipulate that this joint sitting must focus solely on the specific business for which it is convened,” Didiza said. 

Didiza said the measures are designed to preserve the dignity of Parliament and underscore the importance of these addresses in shaping the nation's legislative and developmental agenda.

This year's OPA holds particular significance, as it coincides with the commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of South Africa's constitutional democracy.

She explained that this provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since the inception of democratic governance and to determine the path that will be travelled in the next five years in the advancement of democracy.

“The OPA also takes place on Nelson Mandela Day, on 18 July 2024, a day of great importance which resonates with Parliament's commitment to the ideals of democracy, freedom, equality, and service to humanity. 

“This OPA is truly historic as it is taking place under unique, complex, and testing political conditions in our nation, following the outcome of the 2024 Provincial and National Elections.

“These elections have resulted in the formation of a collaborative and unity government to lead our nation for the next five years,” she said.

Didiza said it's important to note that the hosting of the OPA represents the culmination of a multifaceted project to establish the seventh term of Parliament.

“In the weeks since the elections, we have successfully arranged and onboarded all 454 Members of Parliament across both Houses, successfully convened the first sittings of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, concluded the elections of Presiding Officers of Parliament, established committees and elected chairpersons, appointed office-bearers to serve in various structures and immediately proceeded to debate departmental budget votes,” Didiza said.

Didiza also explained that this year’s theme resonates with the momentous 30-year milestone of the country’s democracy under which the 7th Parliament is established, reaffirming renewed commitment to a people-centred Parliament and tireless dedication to transforming democratic achievements into tangible improvements in the lives of all South Africans.

“It emphasises the personal stake each citizen has in our democratic institutions and the collective future we are building together,” she said.

About the Opening of Parliament Address 

The Opening of Parliament Address takes place once every five years, after the Provincial and National Elections, to outline the new administration's plans while also marking the official opening of the new five-year term of Parliament.

The OPA will take place at the Cape Town City Hall on 18 July 2024 at 19:00.

As of July 14, Cape Town City Hall has been officially designated as the parliamentary precinct in accordance with Section 2 of the Powers, Privileges, and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act.

Among the esteemed guests invited to attend are:

•           Former Presidents: Mr. Thabo Mbeki, Mr. Kgalema Motlanthe, and Mr. Jacob Zuma

•           Former Speaker and Deputy President: Ms. Baleka Mbete

•           Former Deputy Presidents: Ms. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Mr. David Mabuza

•           Former National Assembly Speakers and National Council of Provinces Chairpersons

•           Chief Justice Zondo, Deputy Chief Justice Maya, and 15 Judges

•           Executive Mayor of Cape Town: Alderman Geordin Hill-Lewis

•           9 Eminent Persons representing each of the provinces.

 - SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:02

396 views
Read moreOpening of Parliament “a significant event” for the country’s democratic process
17 July 2024

Locals nostalgic as opening of parliament draws close

Location: News

Locals nostalgic as opening of parliament draws close

With the hours ticking closer to the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA), parliamentary officials are busy finalising preparations for Thursday night’s ceremony.

On the ground, some locals are expressing nostalgia for the Opening of Parliament that took place in 1994 - 30 years ago. 

A local resident, Skhosana Mkhwanazi, told SAnews that he cannot wait for the address tomorrow.

“This Parliament reminds me of Madiba’s Parliament, the Government of National Unity (GNU). I feel this is real democracy,” Mkhwanazi said.

He added that he hopes the political parties in the GNU will work together to advance the interests of all South Africans.

“I am confident that things are going to change for the better. Our lives are going to change for the better and there’s going to be better service delivery in our communities and there’s going to be less corruption. What has happened during the elections [of 29 May], was what people wanted. It was God’s will that all the parties should work together,” Mkhwanazi said.

Echoing the same sentiments was Arkell Marson who expressed his irritation at politicians who were enriching themselves and forgetting about the people who voted them in power.

“All the parties are going to work together to improve our lives and create more job opportunities,” he told SAnews.  

As of  14 July 2024, the Cape Town City Hall has been officially designated as the parliamentary precinct in accordance with Section 2 of the Powers, Privileges, and Immunities of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act. 

Streets in the vicinity of the City Hall have been closed and the red carpet has been rolled out for President Cyril Ramaphosa, his Deputy Paul Mashatile, Cabinet Ministers, Parliamentarians and other guests who will be attending the address which will get underway at 7pm.

Despite the predicted rainy weather, all is on track for tomorrow’s big day.

READ | Heavy rains expected for Opening of Parliament Address 

On the opposite side of the hall, a big marquee has been set up and both the community and national media representatives have taken their positions therin. Meanwhile, military and police officials are also dotting their I's and crossing their T’s.

Within the vicinity of the City Hall, decorations with flowers have been put up, where only police, military and government vehicles are allowed.  

“We have accredited about 9 000 journalists to cover the Opening of Parliament tomorrow,” Parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said on Wednesday.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, earlier today said this historic event marks the beginning of the seventh term of a democratic Parliament and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to constitutional democracy.

“We look forward to welcoming all participants to this significant occasion, which promises to be a compelling demonstration of our nation's democratic principles, unity and resilience,” she said. 

Mandela Day

This year’s opening of Parliament is unique as it takes place on Nelson Mandela’s birthday, 18 July.

In this regard, Parliament  has called upon all parliamentarians, South Africans and global citizens to emulate Madiba's selflessness and untiring service to humanity.

The Presiding Officers of Parliament will tomorrow take time away from their OPA duties to participate in service programs around Cape Town.

This, according to the Speaker of the National Assembly, holds particular significance, as it coincides with the commemoration of the 30th Anniversary of South Africa's constitutional democracy. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 16:40

303 views
Read moreLocals nostalgic as opening of parliament draws close
17 July 2024

Islamic Relief hijacked in Philippi while helping flooded residents

Location: News

The organisation has nonetheless continued to provide humanitarian relief

Read moreIslamic Relief hijacked in Philippi while helping flooded residents
17 July 2024

OPA paints a picture of the next five years

Location: News

OPA paints a picture of the next five years

National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has encouraged South Africans to watch the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) to hear how their vote will work for them in the coming five years of the seventh administration.

Didiza was speaking to SAnews on the side lines of the pre-OPA walkabout at the Parliamentary Precinct at the Cape Town City Hall – the site where President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver his much anticipated address on Thursday.

The address is scheduled for 7pm.

“It is important to listen in so that we can hear how our vote is going to be used to fulfil the needs and aspirations that we have for the country. The people are waiting to hear from government and how it will serve them,” she said.

OPA, the Speaker told SAnews will also set out how the parties that make up the Government of National Unity (GNU) are going to join forces to serve.

“After the vote, there was a Government of National Unity formed and people would want to know how that is going to work.

“That’s what we will hear tomorrow. It is no longer a government led by one party but by a number of parties, so people will get to know how they are going to come together and what it is they say they will do for us going forward. The OPA gives us a picture of what it is we can expect from government over the next five years,” she said.

Didiza said OPA will give South Africans a platform they can look back on in five years time in terms of what their government has done for them.

The Speaker explained the difference between the State of the Nation Address and the Opening of Parliament.

“When a term of office starts following elections, the President requests that he come and address the Members of Parliament to tell them what the administration will be doing in the next five years.

“And then during [SONA], he comes to lay out the plans that the administration has for the coming year. He also reflects on what it is he has achieved over the previous year. Then after that, the Minister of Finance will explain how those plans will be financed… 

“So at the start of an administration, the President paints a picture for the next five years,” she said.

Earlier in the day during a media briefing, Didiza explained that, as is tradition, the South African National Defence Force will participate with a display of military pageantry.

This includes a performance by the military band, precision drills and a display showcasing the skills and traditions of the armed forces of the Republic.

“The official proceedings begin when the President of the Republic arrives. At the moment, the military choir will perform the national anthem, timed to coincide with the display of the 21-gun salute and an aircraft flyover and salute, highlighting the patriotic spirit of the event,” Didiza said.

The Opening of Parliament Address is expected to commence at 7pm on Thursday, 18 July, the same day the country and the world commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:00

181 views
Read moreOPA paints a picture of the next five years
17 July 2024

Opening of Parliament to feature TshiVenda Imbongi

Location: News

Opening of Parliament to feature TshiVenda Imbongi

The upcoming Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) will feature the cultural tradition of an Imbongi, bridging the country’s rich heritage with democratic present, says Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza.

Didiza explained that the Imbongi's role extends far beyond mere performance. "They are tasked with poetically reflecting on the socio-economic and political state of the nation, offering insightful commentary on the country's rich cultural tapestry”. 

Addressing the media on the state of readiness for the OPA in Cape Town, Didiza said the Imbongi will perform in TshiVenda. 

They are chosen through a rotational selection process to ensure fair representation of South Africa's linguistic diversity.

“Lutendo Evens Mugagadeli, widely known as "Vendaboy Poet," is the chosen Imbongi for the upcoming Opening of Parliament Address. This multi-talented artist has made a name for himself as a praise poet, musician, promoter, voiceover artist, writer, and presenter,” Didiza said.

She said Vendaboy Poet rose to national prominence after an impromptu performance of praise poetry for President Cyril Ramaphosa on a domestic flight, showcasing his quick wit and artistic prowess. 

“His unique, raw and homegrown talent has since graced both domestic and international stages, earning him multiple accolades.

“Among his notable achievements are winning the Best Poet category at the 2018 South African Traditional Music Awards (SATMA), Best SATMA Tshivenda Album in 2019, and Best SATMA Praise-Singer in 2022. 

“Vendaboy Poet's versatility and skill have seen him perform at high-profile events, including the BRICS Summit in South Africa, various awards ceremonies, festivals, and corporate and government functions,” Didiza said.

His selection as the Imbongi for the Opening of Parliament Address reflects both his exceptional talent and the importance of TshiVenda in South Africa's rich linguistic tapestry. 

Didiza said Vendaboy Poet's performance promises to add a powerful cultural dimension to this significant national event.

Through this OPA, Didiza said Parliament will once again collaborate with Proudly South Africa, government and fashion industry representatives, to promote the use of locally produced attire to boost the local economy. 

“This initiative urges Members of Parliament and guests to wear South African designs to boost the local fashion industry, celebrate national creativity, and support economic growth. 

“By showcasing homegrown talent, this partnership not only highlights the richness of South African fashion, but also contributes to job creation and economic empowerment,” Didiza said.

The OPA coincides with International Nelson Mandela Day. 

Parliament has called on all parliamentarians, South Africans and global citizens to emulate Madiba's selflessness and untiring service to humanity on this day. 

Didiza encouraged everyone to engage in meaningful and impactful acts of service to others, thereby changing the world around us. 

The Presiding Officers of Parliament will take time away from their OPA duties to participate in service programs around Cape Town, working with non-governmental organisations and institutions. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:22

252 views
Read moreOpening of Parliament to feature TshiVenda Imbongi
17 July 2024

Injury-enforced changes to Junior Bok match-23 for Wales

Location: Sport

Wandile Mlaba, who was called up to the Junior Springbok squad earlier this week, is set to make his SA U20 debut off the bench in Friday’s final encounter of the World Rugby U20 Championship against Wales in Cape Town. The playoff game for seventh place will kick off at 14h00 at the DHL Stadium …

Read moreInjury-enforced changes to Junior Bok match-23 for Wales
17 July 2024

Premier urges new Cabinet to serve residents of the province with dedication & humility

Location: News

Today, 17 July 2024, Premier Alan Winde chaired the first meeting of the Western Cape Government’s (WCG) newly constituted Cabinet. Impact of severe weather Before proceedings got under way, Cabinet members observed a moment of silence for the thousands of residents who have been affected by the recent disruptive rain, flooding, and strong winds. “Many …

Read morePremier urges new Cabinet to serve residents of the province with dedication & humility
17 July 2024

Several roads closed in city centre for the opening of Parliament

Location: News

Several roads closed in city centre for the opening of Parliament

The City of Cape Town has announced the closure of several roads near the Cape Town City Hall before the Opening of Parliament on Thursday.

Officials are set for the opening of Parliament where President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver his speech tomorrow evening. This comes after he was re-elected as the President of South Africa at the first sitting of the National Assembly of the seventh democratic administration last month.

According to the city, the road closures will be in effect to assist with traffic flow and accommodate the Opening of Parliament Address at the City Hall - the first for the seventh administration.

“This will affect the normal flow of traffic in and around the city bowl.” 

Road users are urged to familiarise themselves with the closures and to plan their routes accordingly.

“Motorists should also note that there will be restricted parking in some areas,” the city said.  

A full list of the road closures can be accessed at https://bit.ly/3WotE5C.

While some roads have already been closed, others will be closed from as early as 4am on Thursday. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:02

98 views
Read moreSeveral roads closed in city centre for the opening of Parliament
17 July 2024

Deputy Ministers to commemorate Mandela Day in Nyanga

Location: News

Deputy Ministers to commemorate Mandela Day in Nyanga

As South Africa joins the world in the celebration of Mandela Day, Deputy Ministers in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong and Nonceba Mhlauli will tomorrow spend their 67 minutes in honour of Nelson Mandela at the John Pama Primary School in Nyanga, Cape Town.

Mandela International Day is celebrated on 18 July every year in honour of the first democratically elected President of South Africa, the late Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.

The Deputy Ministers will visit the school that serves over 800 learners. The school is a quintile 2 facility, catering to some of the most underprivileged children in the city.

Together with 35 dedicated educators and staff members, the school strives to make a significant impact on the education and well-being of these children.

This year’s Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated under the theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity”.

The month of July provides the opportunity to heed the call to action for people to recognise their individual power to make an imprint and change the world around them.

This year, South Africa marks Nelson Mandela Day as the country recently ushered in the seventh democratic administration, following the successful conclusion of the 2024 National and Provincial Elections in May. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 13:04

122 views
Read moreDeputy Ministers to commemorate Mandela Day in Nyanga
17 July 2024

SA’s defence against the radicals and anti-constitutionalists

Location: News

The following remarks were delivered by the Leader of the Democratic Alliance, John Steenhuisen MP, in Cape Town today: After serving for the past 20 years as the official opposition in South Africa’s democratic dispensation, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has stepped into a new role as the second-largest political party in the Government of National …

Read moreSA’s defence against the radicals and anti-constitutionalists
17 July 2024

“New system” is needed to deal with natural disasters in SA

Location: News

"New system" is needed to deal with natural disasters in SA

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, says South Africa is at an increased risk of natural disasters and needs a “new system” to manage these challenges more effectively.

“I wish to take this time to also convey our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those who have tragically lost their lives. We also acknowledge work undertaken to rebuild our societies and we urge all government structures to increase the speed of responding to the plight of communities,” Hlabisa said on Wednesday during his Budget Vote Speech. 

He recognised the vital role played by the department following the floods and fires currently affecting communities in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

“We have learned with heavy hearts of the passing of 14 people who died in the veld fires in KZN. Among the 14, six were firefighters, some volunteers. These brave men and women paid the ultimate price to save communities. We convey our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of all the victims. May their souls find eternal rest.” 

Hlabisa tabled the CoGTA 2024/25 budget, at R395.7 billion, with a significant portion 95.9% (R379.61 billion) to be transferred to municipalities and affiliated entities.

A total of R379.6 billion of the department’s total budget over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period will primarily cover the local government equitable share, disaster relief grant and the municipal infrastructure grant.

The Minister recognised that it was only through the department’s urgent interventions that lives and livelihoods were saved and thanked all those who are collaborating with government to assist distressed communities.

Hlabisa and his team are expected to visit the affected areas in KwaZulu-Natal to assess the situation and provide support.

In Cape Town, over 33 000 households have been affected across the metropole in both formal and informal settings following the floods, affecting some 95 000 people.

“We recognise that the challenges we face in disaster management are largely because South Africa has experienced not only an increase in the number of disasters - such as droughts, floods, COVID-19, and severe weather – but also an increase in their magnitude, severity, and impact.

“These events have occurred either simultaneously or in rapid succession, straining our resources and systems.” 

However, the Minister believes that the challenges faced in disaster management are primarily due to deficiencies in regulatory legislation, which are not designed to adapt to the ever-changing risk environment. 

“The systemic and structural design of our disaster management delivery, as guided by current laws, results in issues with timing and bureaucracy. Key elements of the disaster management function were assigned to municipalities through legislation, but without funding.” 

He told the Members of Parliament (MPs) that this created a contradiction between the Disaster Management Act and the Municipal Systems Act (MSA) which requires sufficient funding and capacity for assigned functions. 

“Consequently, municipalities lack the necessary funding and capacity.” 

He admitted that government’s response has struggled with agility, efficiency, and effectiveness in risk analysis, prevention, mitigation, emergency preparedness, early warning systems, and recovery services. 

He told MPs that the fire and rescue services also face significant hurdles and that in 2022, Cabinet mandated the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) to review and overhaul the disaster management system, including fire services.

“In response to this, we are proposing a new system for disaster management and fire services.” 

This system, he said, aims to improve governance by reorganising administrative structures and financing models to better respond to growing disaster risks. 

“We have since developed a new model based on best practices from New Zealand, Russia, Brazil, Mozambique, California, and Australia. The new model emphasises risk reduction and integrates disaster management into all levels of government planning, ensuring adequate funding and focus on resilience.”

He told Parliament that the NDMC undertook extensive consultations with all stakeholders through existing disaster management structures and across the three spheres of government and that inputs were received and used to refine the proposed model.

“We look forward to working with all stakeholders in the management of disasters, including rolling out training to Houses of Traditional Leadership, particularly those in disaster-prone areas, on disaster management. 

“This will enable them to work closely with all spheres of government and stakeholders on the ground to assist in disasters. An implementation plan has been developed in this regard for effective implementation of this training,” he added. 

This year, the department also signed a Memorandum of Collaboration with the Department of Defence that will see the Community Work Programme (CWP) participants playing a role in disaster preparedness and community development. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 11:32

26 views
Read more“New system” is needed to deal with natural disasters in SA
17 July 2024

Possible site for Muizenberg homeless shelter sparks alarm

Location: News

But City of Cape Town says no decision has been taken yet

Read morePossible site for Muizenberg homeless shelter sparks alarm
16 July 2024

Batten down the hatches: Cape Town families shovel sand to fend off further flooding

Location: News

We don’t know how we are going to get through this disaster, says Siqalo resident

Read moreBatten down the hatches: Cape Town families shovel sand to fend off further flooding
16 July 2024

Scotland set to face Italy, Japan and Australia in Cape Town

Location: Sport

World Rugby have today confirmed the match schedule and opponents as Scotland look to defend their WXV 2 title, with the side facing Italy, Japan and Australia. Cape Town in South Africa will play host to the six-team WXV 2 competition with matches being played in a cross-pool format. The first fixture takes place on …

Read moreScotland set to face Italy, Japan and Australia in Cape Town
16 July 2024

Springbok Women to kick-start Cape Town WXV 2 showpiece

Location: Sport

The Springbok Women will face Japan in the opening game of the 2024 edition of WXV 2 on Friday, 27 September in Cape Town, with the other two tournaments kicking off on the same weekend in Canada (WXV 1) and Duban (WXV 3). South Africa will face Japan, Australia and Italy in the tournament, which …

Read moreSpringbok Women to kick-start Cape Town WXV 2 showpiece
16 July 2024

Premier urges President to use GNU to decisively address SA’s challenges

Location: News

Premier Alan Winde urges President Cyril Ramaphosa to use his upcoming Opening of Parliament Address for the 7th Administration to show the residents of the Western Cape that the new Government of National Unity (GNU) has their best interests front of mind by focusing on revitalising economic growth that enables job creation and the dignity …

Read morePremier urges President to use GNU to decisively address SA’s challenges
16 July 2024

R430,000 in Local Athlete Incentives to be paid out following the 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K

Location: MyPR

An impressive total of R430,000 in incentives will be paid out in recognition of the incredible achievements of local athletes at the 7th edition of the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K that was held on Sunday, 7 July 2024. The 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K will be remembered as a historic …

Read moreR430,000 in Local Athlete Incentives to be paid out following the 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K
16 July 2024

Straight To The Point: The Drag Cartel’s Vibrant Voice in LGBTQI+ Discourse

Location: MyPR

In a groundbreaking initiative to amplify LGBTQI+ voices, the captivating podcast ‘Straight to the Point’ features the dynamic trio of Emogan Moore (35), Maxine Wild (30), and Chenal LeCap (23). Broadcasting every Monday at 6:30 PM on the GoBinge YouTube channel, the show offers a 30 to 40-minute weekly dive into the vibrant and often …

Read moreStraight To The Point: The Drag Cartel’s Vibrant Voice in LGBTQI+ Discourse
16 July 2024

Scientists told us our winters would get drier. So what happened last week?

Location: News

Climate change means extreme events are likely to happen more often

Read moreScientists told us our winters would get drier. So what happened last week?
16 July 2024

New research shows great strides have been made in controlling HIV virus in South Africa

Location: MyPR

Although South Africa has the largest number of people living with HIV worldwide, strides have been made in controlling the epidemic, especially in the reduction of HIV incidence, testing, and treatment. Researchers from the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) and University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) are inching closer to finding the answer to the natural …

Read moreNew research shows great strides have been made in controlling HIV virus in South Africa
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