Cape Town

30 September 2023

W Cape records increase in dam levels after heavy rains

Location: News

W Cape records increase in dam levels after heavy rains

The national Department of Water and Sanitation’s hydrological report of 26 September indicates significant improvement across the Western Cape dam system following the disruption of heavy rainfall in the past few days.

The Cape Town System Dams increased by more than 7% compared to last week, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said on Friday.

The Western Cape Water Supply System (WCWSS) -- comprising six dams (Theewaterskloof, Bergriver dam, Upper and Lower Steebras, Voelvlei and Wemershoek dams) supplying water to the City of Cape Town and its surroundings -- is sitting at 109.38%, a significant improvement compared to 85% same time last year.

On individual dams, Theewaterskloof, the biggest dam in the Western Cape, which accounts for 54% of the province's water supply, is at 100% and spilling.

Other dam levels are standing as follows: Misverstand Dam 152.67%; Brandvlei Dam 80.91%; Ceres Dam 101.16%; Gamka Dam 102.49%; Clanwilliam Dam 101.38% and Miertjieskraal 111.71%.

The Olifants / Doorn River Catchment has reached the 100% mark, a very healthy water yield compared to 86.71% of last year.

“It is pleasing to see that Gouritz River Catchment is hovering above 80%, as the system was below 50% at the same time last year.

“Some dams have sluice gates, while others do not have sluice gates. When the dams are full or overflowing, water is automatically released through spillways to control the flow downstream,” the department said.

While DWS is pleased with the significant rainfall, it has acknowledged that the heavy rains and adverse weather conditions have led to significant damage of infrastructure and detrimentally affected lives and livelihoods, especially those in riverbanks and low-lying areas.

“DWS continues to urge citizens to be careful near water resources and facilities, including crossing low-lying bridges.

“The department is currently conducting assessments on the infrastructure and there are no immediate reports of extensive water infrastructure (gauging stations) being damaged or washed away.

“DWS, together with other stakeholders, is monitoring the situation.” – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Sat, 09/30/2023 - 15:44

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29 September 2023

Western Cape working to restore services after severe storm

Location: News

Western Cape working to restore services after severe storm

The Western Cape Provincial Government has urged flood-ravaged municipalities to compile damage assessments for provincial government to present a disaster declaration motivation to the National Disaster Management Centre.

Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said the provincial government needs a national disaster declaration in order for the municipalities to qualify for potential assistance.

Bredell said the provincial government is working to restore services and calculating the costs of the severe storm.

He said the City of Cape Town’s assessment shows that 3 986 structures and 4 449 people are in need of assistance, with more than 30 areas still needing to be formally assessed.

“The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) reported that a stop-and-go is in place on the N1 at De Doorns. The N2 section that washed away at Botriver has been visited by engineers, and there are discussions with the SANDF to provide a temporary solution with a mobile bridge for the short-term.

“Sir Lowry’s Pass is confirmed open. Pringle Bay and Bredasdorp are still without cell reception and a helicopter has been made available to assist restoring the infrastructure located in mountainous area,” Bredell said.

Noting some of the interventions by provincial government, Bredell said water tankers from other municipalities are being sent to Overstrand Local Municipality to assist.

In Breede River Municipality, the MEC reported that several farms are still inaccessible due to roads being washed away. He said plans are being made to provide the affected people with food and other essentials.

“Work is progressing in Franschhoek, which is currently divided into two inaccessible parts, and the CBD is still without electricity. Road access should be restored in the next 24 hours.

“Eskom reported that major faults are being restored, and power in affected areas in Khayelitsha and Caledon should be restored by [Thursday night]. Smaller faults will be attended to as soon as possible,” Bredell said.

Bredell said he has also written to President Cyril Ramaphosa requesting assistance with humanitarian aid.

“This is now the number one priority, and we need urgent support from the Department of Social Development and the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) to reach especially people in rural and isolated areas. We are also requesting engineering support from the SANDF to help with temporary roads and bridges, as well as aerial support to help with evacuations and logistics in inaccessible areas.

“Donations are being coordinated by the Red Cross, and anyone wishing to donate is encouraged to contact them. Relief work is being conducted throughout all the affected areas, with 3 250 people currently receiving food from aid agencies, as coordinated by SASSA,” Bredell said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 12:01

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29 September 2023

Children frolic in flood water as only pool in Brown’s Farm remains closed

Location: News

The pool in Philippi has been closed since August when it was vandalised during the taxi protests

29 September 2023

Partnership between Biovac and EUBiologics welcomed

Location: News

Partnership between Biovac and EUBiologics welcomed

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel has welcomed the recently announced partnership between Biovac, a leading South African biopharmaceutical manufacturer and EuBiologics, a global biopharmaceutical company based in South Korea.

The collaboration involves technology transfer of a Meningococcal Meningitis pentavalent conjugate vaccine, a significant stride towards enhancing health equity outcomes globally and bolstering vaccine manufacturing sustainability in Africa.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Biovac and EuBiologics was officially signed in Cape Town, alongside the 24th Annual General Meeting of the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturing Network (DCVMN).

The event, co-hosted by Biovac, gathered global partners, stakeholders and vaccine manufacturers from around the world, emphasizing the global commitment to health equity and vaccine accessibility.

The partnership is a positive development for Biovac, enabling the local production and distribution of a crucial vaccine across Africa, where the demand is most acute.

Meningococcal meningitis, a potentially fatal bacterial infection, poses significant health risks worldwide, with the highest unmet medical need located in the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa.

The vaccine resulting from this collaboration will offer protection against various strains of the disease, including the emerging serotype X.

Location: News

Communities urged to be cautious as inclement weather still expected

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng, has urged communities across the country to be extra cautious as the potential for further inclement and windy weather conditions remains high.

According to the department, the Minister is concerned about the prevailing adverse weather conditions characterised by wildfires and heavy rains affecting most provinces.

“The Minister urges communities across the country to be extra cautious as the potential for further inclement and windy weather conditions remains high,” the statement read.

Nkadimeng has directed respective disaster management centres to activate relief and response measures to ensure the preservation of life through their rescue and recovery efforts.

The Western and Eastern Cape have thus far experienced major flooding, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure and property.

“Sadly, several communities have been displaced and some roads are inaccessible, which is detrimentally affecting lives and livelihoods.”

The department said it has noted the high alert early warning issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), particularly for the Western and Eastern Cape.

Some of the worst-hit areas include the City of Cape Town, Garden Route, Central Karoo District; West Coast District, Theewaterskloof, Gugulethu, Sarah Baartman and Nelson Mandela.

“Based on the reports and the weather forecast for the next couple of days as predicted by the SAWS, communities must be extra vigilant, especially in coastal areas.”

Warnings have also been extended for some parts of Gauteng and Mpumalanga for 27 September 2023.

“The heavy rains are accompanied by strong winds which can lead to high tide, with the ocean's waters creeping up the shore, thus endangering lives.”

To this effect, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) is working collaboratively with Disaster Management Teams from across the three spheres of government and other teams to provide assistance where required.

“Minister calls on all social sectors and partners to mobilise aid and resources to respond adequately to the needs of affected communities.”

As more rain is still expected, the Minister calls on communities to observe the following safety measures:

- Be extra vigilant and exercise caution, especially in flood-prone areas.

- Follow regular updates and warning messages from the SAWS.

- Work with relevant authorities and follow safety tips.

- Those residing in low-lying areas must take extra care during storms, as sudden floods might affect them.

- Monitor the rising water levels and evacuate the areas to a safer place in case or water level rises.

- Be cautious of power lines that might be lying on the roads and debris on the roads.

- Cross through flooded roads or bridges or low-lying bridges, streams and rivers – use other safer routes.

- Try not to walk, swim or drive in swift-flowing water. Even if the water is 15 cm deep, it can sweep you off your feet.

- Motorists are urged to drive and park in safer areas.

- The public should contact their municipal disaster management centres or the nearest police station or call the national emergency numbers (112, 10177 or 107) when faced with threats.

- Sensitise children about the dangers of floods.

- Keep important documents in a water-resistant container.

- Keep your cellphone near you and have emergency numbers at hand.

- Be vigilant at night as it is harder to recognise potentially deadly road hazards.

- Beware of possible water contamination due to raw sewage or other dangerous substances. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 10:51

203 views

27 September 2023

Thought-Leaders to Deliver Technical Presentations at Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit

Location: News

With the aim of advancing dialogue around Africa's critical mineral opportunities and fostering new deals, the upcoming Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) summit (www.CriticalMineralsAfrica.com) will feature a strong slate of technical presentations delivered by thought-leaders and industry experts.

The technical presentations will address the most prominent challenges impacting industry growth, with speakers providing insight into sustainable solutions, capital and technology prospects and how the continent can create the mineral value chains of the future. The event takes place from 17 to 19 October 2023 at the Cape Town International Convention Center and runs concurrently with Africa's largest energy event, African Energy Week (AEW).

During the conference, presentations will be delivered under the theme Promoting Sustainable Partnerships, Policies and Projects in Raw Materials and Strengthening Global Critical Mineral Supply Chains.

Presentations include:

Futures of SADC Critical Minerals: Building Anticipatory Governance, presented by Dr. Deon Cloete, Head: South Africa Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) Futures Program at SAIIA
Low Carbon Supply Chains: China has Plenty of Capacity, Others Lag, presented by Per Magnus Nysveen, Senior Partner & Head of Analysis at Rystad Energy
Critical Minerals Global Supply and Demand Update, presented by the International Energy Agency
AfricaMaVal Project Update, presented by Sodhie Naicker, Director at AfricaMaVal
Steenkampskraal: World's Rare Earth and Thorium Hotspot, presented by Graham Soden, Director, CEO and Mine Manager at Steenkampskraal
Building Local Battery Industries in South Africa: Exploring Opportunities for Localization, presented by Lesego Moshikaro, Senior Economist, Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies

As global interest in Africa's critical minerals grows, the CMA 2023 technical presentations will support decision-making by providing stakeholders with the insight they need to make informed investments. Under the broader event theme of Establishing the Critical Mineral Value Chains of the Future, the presentations delve into the complexities of the industry and the strategic role Africa plays in supplying the global market.

CMA and AEW (October 16-20) are poised to host over 5,000 combined delegates, who will have the opportunity to participate in country spotlights, investor roundtables and in-focus sessions on the energy transition, energy security, resource supply chains and new technologies.

Organized by Energy Capital & Power, Africa's premier investment platform for the energy sector, the much-anticipated global summit for African critical minerals will bring together a diverse group of global investors, energy and mining professionals, project operators and government leaders during a pivotal moment for the continent's energy and mining industries.

CMA 2023 represents the official dealmaking space for the industry and stands at the intersection of the energy and mining sectors in Africa. Since the launch, CMA has seen significant interest by global investors and buyers, all of which are looking at signing deals in Africa's mineral space. The program is filling up fast, and mineral, energy, technology and finance leaders are encouraged to secure their pass before the summit fills up.

Get involved at the CMA 2023 summit as a speaker, panelist, presenter, sponsor or exhibitor. For more information, visit www.CriticalMineralsAfrica.com or contact james@energycapitalpower.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Energy Capital & Power

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27 September 2023

“Hi-Tec Launches Their Novel Store – Where Indoor Meets Outdoor”

Location: MyPR

Hi-Tec launches their brand-new store in Tyger Valley Shopping Centre Hi-Tec will proudly unveil its new and immersive store at Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, which is one of Cape Town’s largest shopping malls. This brand-new store aims to create an innovative and exciting shopping experience through thoughtful design and engaging features that will educate shoppers …

27 September 2023

In a declining SA market, diversifying real estate portfolios offshore makes qualified sense

Location: MyPR

There is a perception that property is a good investment delivering healthy returns over time. A bonded property requires that the property owner practices financial discipline and makes regular monthly repayments with the end result being a fully paid off asset. Depending on the property cycle when the property was acquired, that perception has held …

27 September 2023

Legacies and contributions honoured at Cultural Affairs Awards

Location: News

Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government
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On Tuesday, 26 September 2023, the Artscape theatre was packed to the brim with excited guests who attended the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport's (DCAS) 21st Cultural Affairs Awards.

The awards honour individuals and organisations who have made exceptional contributions in the areas of arts, culture, heritage, language, libraries, archives, museum, heritage and geographical names. Minister Anroux Marais also bestowed Ministerial awards on individuals who have left a legacy in this environment.

The evening was hosted by two Masters of Ceremonies, Ayanda Dlamini and Jabaar Mohamed. The guests were entertained throughout the evening with performances by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, Nobulumko Mngxekeza, Chene Hugo, Zinzi Nogavu, Dance for all, Zip Zap Circus, Koleka Phutuma and Rieldancers.

Minister Marais welcomed everyone to the occasion and emphasized the importance of all the areas in which winners would be announced. “The awards showcase the wide range of cultural activities which the Western Cape is involved with, and which we support very passionately. Tonight we honour those who have left a lasting legacy and have helped us grow all these important arts and culture activities in our province,” she said.

Chief Director for Cultural Affairs, Carol van Wyk, ended the evening by thanking everyone who supported the event. “What you have seen here tonight is a beacon of hope for communities across our province. Please continue to help us shine this light.” she said.

The full list of the evening's winners can be found here.

More information on all the nominees can be found here.

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

27 September 2023

Mayor signs declaration to assist Cape Town communities affected by storm

Location: News

Mayor signs declaration to assist Cape Town communities affected by storm

Cape Town Mayor, Geordin Hill-Lewis, has signed a major incident declaration that allows for the unlocking of additional resources and relief measures to deal with the impact of the recent severe storm.

Hill-Lewis said the city is working around the clock to assist communities impacted by the storm, which wreaked havoc in the Western Cape over the weekend.

The severe weather has resulted in significant damage due to flooding, mudslides, rockfalls, fallen trees, and damage to buildings and infrastructure, as well as the disruption of services.

Giving an update on the City of Cape Town's disaster response, Hill-Lewis said at least eight fatalities in the city have been linked to the severe weather impact.

He said while many areas were significantly affected, the Helderberg area - including Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, Sandvlei Macassar, Strand, Somerset-West and Gordon’s Bay - was particularly badly affected, with extensive mudslides affecting Sir Lowry’s Pass Village.

The mayor said significant work is under way to assist with recovery, to offer humanitarian relief, and to reconstruct and rehabilitate the affected areas.

“It is very important for me to have visited the affected areas in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village and Rasta Kamp and to make an assessment of the number of structures that will need to be rebuilt and people needing immediate relief due to the damages. Today, as Mayor, I signed the necessary documents required to declare a major incident, which will enable a greater response,” Hill-Lewis said.

The mayor also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones through various tragic incidents.

“May we keep these families in our prayers and thoughts.”

The mayor also expressed his appreciation to the city officials who worked throughout the weekend, and continue to support the affected residents.

“I wish to thank all members of the public and organisations who have donated food items, clothing and other items as part of the community response. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has been advised of the incident and has been requested to provide social relief assistance,” Hill-Lewis said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 09:44

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26 September 2023

“I saw my shoes float on water and heard my cat meow”

Location: News

Western Cape mops up after devastating floods