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Afrika Tikkun Announces 30 Year Milestone: Developing A Brighter Future For South Africa’s Youth From Cradle To Career

Location: MyPR

17 July 2024, Johannesburg: As the nation grapples with ongoing stark inequalities, pervasive poverty and a dire youth unemployment rate, Afrika Tikkun, a leading youth development non-profit organisation, marks its 30-year legacy of creating holistic development, sustainable impact and tackling South Africa’s (SA’s) entrenched socio-economic disparities to foster an equitable society for all. The country’s …

Read moreAfrika Tikkun Announces 30 Year Milestone: Developing A Brighter Future For South Africa’s Youth From Cradle To Career

Help for struggling municipalities

Location: News

Help for struggling municipalities

To achieve rapid and inclusive growth, South Africa must address struggling municipalities and appoint qualified professionals to top positions.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who delivered a televised Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Thursday evening.

“Growth happens at a local level, where people live and work,” the President said.

The Head of State took the time to outline the government’s agenda, priorities, and policies for the next five years in a joint sitting of the newly constituted two Houses of Parliament.

The Opening of Parliament signifies the formal start of the parliamentary year following the May 29 General Elections.

President Ramaphosa said municipalities should provide social services and promote inclusive economic growth.

“They must work to attract investment. This approach can encourage businesses to expand and create more jobs in municipal areas. Investors are attracted to areas with reliable and modern infrastructure.” 

eThekwini municipality 

The President also spoke at length about the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, which is currently under the Presidential Working Group, to enhance support from the national and provincial government and turn the metro around. 

“When I visited eThekwini earlier this year, I met with residents of the city, with local business leaders and municipal officials. They told me that they wanted to work together to build a city that they could be proud of again.” 

He said the group was working around the clock to fix the problems in water and sanitation to attract new investment.

“We will extend the same approach to other metropolitan cities that face serious challenges so that our cities can be engines of growth and dynamic centres of opportunity.

“eThekwini must be restored to its former glory,” he stressed. 

Simplifying and speeding up planning and regulatory processes can make it easier for businesses to invest and operate in a municipality, thus creating more jobs.

“As the national government, we have both a Constitutional responsibility and a clear electoral mandate to assist municipalities in the effective exercise of their powers and functions.

“We will ensure that the institutional structure and funding model for local government is fit-for-purpose and that municipalities are financially and operationally sustainable.” 

Qualified professionals

In addition, the President assured South Africa that government will ensure the appointment of capable, qualified people to senior positions in municipalities as well as independent regulation and oversight of the appointment process.

“As an immediate priority, we will bring stability to governance in our metros and restore the delivery of services. We have already begun this work,” he said. 

On Tuesday, newly appointed Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, said the seventh administration was committed to working towards turning around dysfunctional municipalities. 

Hlabisa used his Budget Vote Speech to acknowledge some of the challenges faced by local municipalities. 

He said the department will continue to implement and enforce compliance with Municipal Support and Intervention Plans (MSIPs) and employ financial recovery plans in distressed municipalities.

The Minister said the current leadership plans to prioritise five additional municipalities that are in severe financial and governance distress which has negatively impacted service delivery. 

Some of the five additional municipalities that will receive attention include Ditsobotla in the North West, Kopanong and Mafube in the Free State, Emfuleni in Gauteng and Thabazimbi in Limpopo. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:00

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Read moreHelp for struggling municipalities

Modern technology to help fight crime

Location: News

Modern technology to help fight crime

A heightened focus on the use of modern technology to help with crime prevention efforts will continue to be a key priority of the seventh administration.

“A data-driven approach will be used to identify violent crime hotspots and inform the allocation of policing resources alongside prevention measures,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said at the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Thursday.

The President was outlining apex focus areas for the next five years, which will be driven by the Government of National Unity (GNU). After the National and Provincial Elections in May produced no outright majority winner, various political leaders were tasked to work together to form a Government of National Unity, comprised of 10 political parties.

In his address tonight, President Ramaphosa said the country must have capable, sophisticated and independent law enforcement agencies that can fight complex and organised crime.

He committed that the Government of National Unity will continue to tackle priority crimes, including illegal mining, gang violence, cash-in-transit heists and the construction mafia, through specialised police units.

“We will continue to implement the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), and expand victim support services, like the Thuthuzela Centres and GBV desks in police stations,” President Ramaphosa said.

Land reform

Switching focus to the land reform programme, the President announced that government will increase the funding thereof, prioritise the transfer of State land and improve post-settlement support by strengthening the institutional capacity of the structures relevant to the programme.

“To achieve rapid, inclusive growth, we need to fix our struggling municipalities. Growth happens at a local level, where people live and work.

“Our municipalities must become both the providers of social services and facilitators of inclusive economic growth. They must work to attract investment,” President Ramaphosa said.

Meanwhile, the President expressed words of comfort to families affected by floods in the Western Cape and veld fires in KwaZulu-Natal.

Thousands of people across the Western Cape were left destitute after storms damaged their homes, including businesses and infrastructure in the province.

“In recent days, we have witnessed runaway fires in KwaZulu-Natal, in which 14 people, including six firefighters, lost their lives. The fires also caused the destruction of homes, livestock and grazing land.

‘The thoughts of all South Africans are with all those people who have been subjected to these terrible weather conditions as they work to recover and rebuild,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:03

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Read moreModern technology to help fight crime

Efforts to professionalise the public service underway

Location: News

Efforts to professionalise the public service underway

The Government of National Unity has committed to proceeding with the work already underway to professionalise the public service as well as ensure that government attracts into the state people with skills, capabilities and integrity.

Delivering the Opening of Parliament Address in Cape Town, President Cyril Ramaphosa said one of the strategic priorities of the Government of National Unity was to build a capable, ethical and developmental state. 

“We will continue to fight corruption and prevent undue political interference in the administration of the state. In this administration, we will complete the work to restore the financial position and operational performance of our state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

“We will complete the implementation of a new centralised ownership model for SOEs. This will improve accountability, transparency, governance and oversight, while reducing inefficiency and the potential for corruption,” the President said on Thursday.

He said the establishment of a state-owned SOE holding company will give South Africa greater capacity to build a sovereign wealth fund.

“This has been done successfully by other countries whose sovereign wealth funds have built up capital from the high performance of the state owned enterprises rather than from the fiscus.”

Fighting crime 

President Ramaphosa said in order to tackle crime and corruption, the country must have capable, sophisticated and independent law enforcement agencies that can fight complex and organised crime.

“We will deploy modern technology to assist crime fighting. A data-driven approach will be used to identify violent crime hotspots and inform the allocation of policing resources alongside prevention measures,” the President said.

Government will also continue to tackle priority crimes like illegal mining, gang violence, cash-in-transit heists and the construction mafia through specialised police units. 

“We will continue to implement the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, and expand victim support services, like the Thuthuzela Centres and GBV desks in police stations,” he said.

Work in the seventh administration will also prioritise driving inclusive growth and job creation as well as reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:08

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Read moreEfforts to professionalise the public service underway

GNU looks to SA becoming a “construction site”

Location: News

GNU looks to SA becoming a "construction site"

The face of the South African landscape is set for a significant upgrade, with a massive investment in infrastructure expected over the next five years.

“From our largest metros to our deepest rural areas, we have a clear intention to turn our country into a construction site, as roads, bridges, houses, schools, hospitals and clinics are built, as broadband fibre is laid and as new power lines are installed,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday.

Delivering the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) in Cape Town, the President stressed the importance of engendering a culture of maintenance of public infrastructure, while also dedicating resources and establishing systems to ensure this. 

“In the next five years, working together, drawing on our collective capabilities [in the Government of National Unity], we will forge a new inclusive growth path for South Africa by pursuing a massive investment in infrastructure. Significant projects are underway around the country in areas such as transport, roads, water, energy and human settlements. 

“We will massively increase the scale of investment in infrastructure through a more holistic and integrated approach, positioning Infrastructure South Africa as the central institution of coordination and planning,” the President said.

He said government is simplifying the regulations on public-private partnerships to enable greater investment in both social and economic infrastructure development. 

“As the Government of National Unity (GNU), we are resolved to intensify our investment drive, encouraging and enabling businesses to invest in productive capacity. These investments will lead to increased employment creation for unemployed South Africans especially for young people,” President Ramaphosa said.

After South Africans took to the polls on 29 May, the General Election results produced no outright majority winner – tasking various political leaders to work together to form a Government of National Unity, much like what was required at the dawn of democracy in 1994.

Some 10 political parties are part of the GNU, with leaders from some of those political formations appointed as Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

With the work of the seventh administration set to commence, the Government of National Unity has resolved to dedicate the next five years to actions that will advance three strategic priorities that include driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and tackling the high cost of living, as well as building a capable, ethical and developmental State.

Improving passenger rail network

With so many people living far from economic opportunities and services, transport costs take up a large part of people’s income and drive up the cost of living.

“An immediate priority is therefore to complete the recovery of the passenger rail network across the country to enable people to travel from outlying areas to city centres. Around 80% of commuter rail corridors are now back in operation, and nearly 300 vandalised stations have been refurbished, providing safer and more efficient services to commuters,” Ramaphosa said.

Through the implementation of the Freight Logistics Roadmap, government will continue with reforms to transform South Africa’s freight logistics system.

“To drive inclusive growth, we need an efficient freight rail network to carry our minerals, agricultural produce and manufactured goods to market. The work we are doing with business and unions through the National Logistics Crisis Committee has already contributed to improvements in the operational performance of freight rail and ports,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 20:49

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Read moreGNU looks to SA becoming a “construction site”

Tax Season 2024 kicks off in South Africa

Location: News

Tax Season 2024 kicks off in South Africa

At least 191 000 South Africans have filed their tax returns following the opening of the filing season for provisional and non-provisional taxpayers on Monday, 15 July.

This was revealed by South African Revenue Services Commissioner Edward Kieswetter, who briefed media on Tax Season 2024 on Tuesday.

At least 183 000 of those returns were filed on SARS’ online e-filing and mobile application service, and about 7700 were filed through Taxpayer Service Centres.

“We anticipate, in total, by round about the 20th of January to have issued approximately eight million assessments for the 2024 tax year alone, and that’s besides prior year tax returns that taxpayers will submit,” he said.

Some five million of those have already been auto-assessed by the revenue service.

Auto-assessments for an expanded pool of taxpayers ran from 1 -14 July 2024.

Kieswetter said during the first two weeks of July, SARS had more than 16 million digital exchanges with taxpayers, at an average of one million users a day – peaking at about 1.9 million interactions when tax season opened on Monday.

“In total, we serviced over three million transactions across all our channels and over a million views on our website in one day. One hundred percent of taxpayers, who would have submitted their returns [on Monday], have already been assessed, 70% of those were assessed within our own five-second aspiration.

“We also received 57 000 calls and could unfortunately only service about 15 000 of these due to the length of our calls and our current limited capacity to respond to these calls. Cumulatively, from the 1st of July when auto-assessments were issued, to date, 5.5 million taxpayers have already been assessed… creating possible refunds of R17 billion. 

“Of this, R10 billion has already been paid out. A further R4 billion will be paid out within the next 72 hours unless there is a specific reason why they are being withheld, he said.

Refunds that are withheld could be for the following reasons:

  • That a taxpayer has prior year outstanding returns.

  • A taxpayer’s banking details may not be up to date.

  • SARS may have detected an inaccuracy.

  • SARS may have detected a need for further verification.

“We encourage taxpayers to complete these outstanding checks before enquiring about their refunds and to make sure that their details and all outstanding matters are resolved and updated and then if you are due a refund, you should have no challenge,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 07/16/2024 - 15:15

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Read moreTax Season 2024 kicks off in South Africa

Jump on the democracy bus

Location: News

Jump on the democracy bus

The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), in partnership with the South African National Roads Agency, has launched the Democracy Bus, which will travel the country to drum up citizens’ participation in celebration of the 30 years of democracy.

“[The] bus will travel to different parts of our amazing country from the nation’s towering cities to deep rural communities. Government calls on all South Africans to get on the bus so that they can see and experience the changes we have gone through as we relive the many pivotal moments in our democratic journey," Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni announced during the delivery of the Budget Vote of the GCIS to the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies on Friday.

“The bus is also expected to stop at the GCIS Thusong Service Centres which are earmarked as key activation sites. It will also stop at venues for community meetings, izimbizo and national events as well as dams, police stations, schools, clinics and hospitals built over the years as we celebrate our 30 years of democracy,” she said.

Spot the Bus 

The Minister said citizens will be able to participate in a “spot the bus” campaign.

“As the bus travels on our roads, across all our provinces to 30 locations in various parts of our country, citizens will have the opportunity to be part of the spot the bus campaign. Citizens can keep a look out for information on the bus journey through a digital map that will be published on various social media platforms.

“This is the way GCIS is bringing South Africans to acknowledge the work that has been done over the last 30 years but also acknowledging the challenges that still lie ahead which government, through its new programmes of the seventh administration…will address the challenges that remain,” Ntshavheni said.

Crime 

The Minister also said the GCIS was implementing a campaign that will seek to encourage communities and stakeholders to participate in the fight against crime.

She said the department has set the fight against crime as one of its communication priorities for this financial year.

“GCIS is implementing a crime management campaign which will target the areas of organised and violent crime, illegal mining, cable theft and vandalism of essential infrastructure along with the scourge of violence against women, children and vulnerable members of society.

“To strengthen stakeholder participation, the GCIS has established a directorate of stakeholder management and special projects to marshal all stakeholders in a common front against social ills. We have learnt during COVID-19 that the coordination of the work is more impactful in our communication space,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 14:44

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Read moreJump on the democracy bus

South African Woman Breaks Boundaries and Shines at a top Global Competition

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, South Africa – In a remarkable story of passion, perseverance, and breaking boundaries, 28-year-old Kgomotso Molefe from South Africa has emerged a winner at a global competition held in Lisbon, Portugal. Her journey, which began as a learner in a youth career development program, has culminated in her being crowned the top auto glass …

Read moreSouth African Woman Breaks Boundaries and Shines at a top Global Competition

Gauteng online learner registration process to start on Thursday

Location: News

Gauteng online learner registration process to start on Thursday

The Gauteng Department of Education says online registration for the 2025 academic year for Grade 1 and Grade 8 admissions will begin on Thursday, 11 July 2024, at 8am and end on Monday, 12 August 2024, at midnight.

The department has stressed that as long as parents apply online and on time, their children are assured to be placed at a school in time for the 2025 academic year.

Gauteng Education spokesperson Steve Mabona appealed to parents to apply on time.

He said parents are allowed to choose a minimum of three schools and a maximum of five schools.

Placements for pupils will begin on 16 September.

Mabona said parents who have no access to internet services must use any of the department’s 80 centres across the province, and they will not be charged a fee. 

The spokesperson said the online process has improved and is user-friendly.

“Our system has improved and we can assure parents that problems experienced in the past will not happen again,” Mabona said.

In the past, the system had experienced challenges and would remain offline due to high volumesof applications received.

Required documents for online applications

- SA parent ID or passport and child’s birth certificate or passport.

- Refugee permit.

- Asylum seeker permit.

- Permanent residence permit.

- Study permit.

- Proof of home address.

- Proof of work address.

- Latest Grade 7 school report (Grade 8 applicants only).

- Clinic card/immunisation report (Grade 1 applicants only). – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 07/10/2024 - 09:39

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New Labour Minister charts the way forward 

Location: News

New Labour Minister charts the way forward 

Newly appointed Employment and Labour Minister, Nomakhosazana Meth, says the department is facing a mammoth task of ensuring that it continues in earnest to usher in, not only hope to citizens, but substantive positive change in their lives.

Meth was speaking during a Ministerial Committee meeting to welcome new principals and to present to them the department’s programme.

Together with Deputy Ministers Phumzile Mgcina and Jomo Sibiya, Meth held a meeting with the Executive Committee, including the department's Acting Director-General, Onke Mjo, and the department’s Deputy Director-Generals.

Monday’s meeting was also attended by heads of the Compensation Fund (CF) and Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), as well as heads of entities, such as Supported Employment Enterprises (SEE), Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), Productivity SA, and National Economic and Labour Council (Nedlac).

In her address, Meth said South Africa is still struggling with the stubborn triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

She said the scourge of unemployment remains a huge hurdle that the country is facing, with the official unemployment rate currently standing at 32.9% while the expanded unemployment rate is at 41.9%, according to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for Quarter 1 of 2024.

“The picture becomes dire when it comes to the youth unemployment rate with youth aged 15 – 24 years standing at 59.7% and youth aged 25 – 34 years standing at 40.7%. These statistics should remind us that the stakes are still high, and we must hasten to strengthen the implementation of interventions to dent the unemployment rate.”
Meth maintained that substantive results can be achieved through an intensive and collaborative mechanism, “that will propel all of us to realise the department's objectives".

Priorities 
 

She said in carrying forth its mandate, the department will be guided by a set of six priorities for the seventh administration, and these are:
•    Priority 1: Put South Africa to work.
•    Priority 2: Build our industries for an inclusive economy.
•    Priority 3: Tackle the prohibitive cost of living.
•    Priority 4: Invest in people.
•    Priority 5: Defend democracy and advance freedom.
•    Priority 6: Better Africa and the World.

“These priorities must find expression in the work of the Department of Employment and Labour family.
“The priority is to create and sustain 2.5 million work opportunities delivering public goods and services in communities; implement a cross-cutting industrial strategy that drives growth and creates opportunity for youth and other unemployed people; tackle the war on poverty by providing comprehensive social security and basic services through the Unemployment Insurance Fund and Compensation Fund; and continue enforcement of compliance with the National Minimum Wage across all applicable industries in South Africa,” Meth said.

Through investing in people, the Minister emphasised that the department, as the custodian of employment law, has a responsibility to ensure workplaces that are free of traumatic events and a deterioration in the quality of life of many workers; managing compliance with employment law and Immigration Act; and strengthen relations with stakeholders, internationally and at regional level.

“Ours in the seventh administration is to ensure that we shift gears and embrace the principles brought about by the Government of National Unity (GNU). I require active and impactful participation in the District Development Model (DDM) as that will continue to expand our reach as the department,” Meth said.

The DDM aims to improve the coherence and impact of government service delivery with a focus on 44 districts and eight metros around the country as development spaces that can be used as centres of service delivery and economic development, including job creation.

She also emphasised the department’s role at the International Labour Organization (ILO), which is a vehicle in building a better Africa and the world. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 07/09/2024 - 10:29

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Read moreNew Labour Minister charts the way forward 

Protea Hotels by Marriott Strengthens Footprint with Two New Openings

Location: News
Marriott International, Inc.

To celebrate its 40th birthday, Protea Hotels by Marriott announced the opening of its first property in Angola while further strengthening its portfolio in South Africa with a new property in Pretoria. The newest additions – Protea by Marriott Luanda and Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield – will offer business and leisure travellers the chance to experience the vibrant local cultures and warm hospitality, along with exceptional accommodation, modern amenities and world-class service.

Protea Hotels by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's distinguished portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, has grown significantly since its founding in July 1984. Starting with just four hotels in South Africa, the brand now boasts over 60 properties throughout South Africa and eight other African countries, including Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and now Angola. This extensive footprint across primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations makes Protea Hotels by Marriott a popular choice for travellers exploring Africa.

Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President of Premium & Select Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Marriott International, said, “This month we celebrate four decades of exceptional service and genuine African hospitality. What better way to commemorate this milestone than by further strengthening Protea Hotels' legacy with our first hotel in Angola and the ongoing expansion of the brand in South Africa. Both properties will combine contemporary comfort with a deep appreciation for local culture and heritage, offering guests a unique and enriching stay.”

Protea by Marriott Luanda

Protea Hotels by Marriott makes its debut in Angola with the opening of Protea by Marriott Luanda. Situated between the city centre of Luanda and Talatona, the new hotel offers proximity to a wide range of business, sports and private event destinations, as well as leisure retreats near the sea. The hotel interior creates a comfortable ambience across its public space and 84 guestrooms and suites, using contemporary furniture in African-styled terracotta colour and furnishings made with locally sourced materials. Guests can also admire the paintings by Guilherme Mampuya, a renowned Angolan artist based in Luanda. Culinary offerings include Múcua, an all-day restaurant serving up a modern fusion of Portuguese and Angolan cuisines, and a rooftop bar where guests can unwind with drinks and light bites against panoramic views of the surrounding area. Other facilities include a fully equipped gym and an outdoor pool with a waterfall.

Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield

Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield is strategically located in Hatfield, one of the most sought-after areas in Pretoria, providing business and leisure travellers with easy access to diplomatic, government and corporate offices as well as shopping centres, entertainment destinations and sporting facilities. The hotel features 203 contemporary guestrooms designed for comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a memorable dining experience at The African Restaurant and Bar, which dishes up a fusion of global and African cuisines. A cosy 30-seater bar provides a relaxing space to unwind, while five state-of-the-art conference venues cater to both large-scale and intimate gatherings.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..

About Protea Hotels by Marriott:
Protea Hotels by Marriott® is the leading hospitality brand in Africa and it is one of the most widely recognized brands on the continent with over 60 hotels across nine countries including South Africa, Zambia, Nigeria, Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi and Angola.  Protea Hotels by Marriott® is ideal for both business and leisure travellers by offering properties in primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations. Each hotel offers modern facilities, proactive and friendly service and consistent amenities such as full-service restaurants, meeting spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and well-appointed rooms, ensuring global standards for a high quality, relaxed and successful stay.

About Marriott Bonvoy®:
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit http://apo-opa.co/3LgyVpn. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

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Western Cape prepares for inclement weather

Location: News

Western Cape prepares for inclement weather

The Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Department says the province is expecting a series of cold fronts with adverse weather conditions starting this weekend and continuing into most of next week. 

Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) was briefed on Saturday by the South African Weather Service (SAWS) on the approaching weather systems.

The weather service has since issued several warnings for heavy rains and rains: 

  • A level 4 warning for heavy rain and potential flooding over the western parts of the Western Cape on Sunday.
  • A level 6 warning for high winds of between 80 and 90km/h over the western and south-western parts of the Western Cape on Sunday.
  • A level 4 warning for winds of between 50 and 70km/h for the Namakwa district as well as the central and eastern parts of the province.
  • A level 6 warning for waves between 6 and 8 metres along the coastline between Alexander Bay and Cape Agulhas from Sunday, spreading to Plettenberg Bay by the afternoon. 
  • A level 4 warning for disruptive snowfall over the mountains of the Western Cape as well as the southern high ground of the Namakwa District on Sunday. 

Bredell said the PDMC is on standby and the various municipal district disaster centres are ready to be activated if needed. 

“Emergency, rescue and social services are prepared to respond to any eventualities,” the department said in a statement.

Ready to assist

Meanwhile, provincial departments are represented at the PDMC and will be ready to provide support if needed.

“The Department of Water and Sanitation said catchments and dam levels are being monitored closely and regular updates will be made to the PDMC as the weather systems develop.”

According to Bredell, strong winds, combined with rain-saturated soil increase the risks of trees and tall structures being toppled. 

In addition, the provincial department said various government services may be affected by the inclement weather and residents are asked to stay informed by monitoring the latest weather reports through trusted local news platforms and the local municipality’s social media pages. 

“Services are also being activated to support the vulnerable and those impacted by the inclement weather,” the MEC added.

Other provinces

According to the SAWS, very wet, cold and windy conditions associated with an intense cold front and steepening upper-air trough are expected to start affecting the Eastern Cape, the Northern Cape, the North West and Free State, spreading along the Lesotho border on Monday.

“The public and small stock farmers are advised that very cold conditions and snowfalls are expected,” the statement read.

The SAWS also issued a warning about high fire danger conditions that are expected over  theFree State, eastern parts of the Northern Cape, western parts of North West, Eastern Cape, south-western parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

Call for caution

In the meantime, residents have been urged to stay warm and safe. 

“With the end of the school holidays, many people may be travelling home. We ask residents to please be extremely cautious on the roads.

“Due to the combination of high winds, heavy rain, and snowfalls over high mountains expected, we urge residents to please reconsider travel and outdoor activities next week and avoid unnecessary travel,” the MEC cautioned. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 07/07/2024 - 11:44

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Read moreWestern Cape prepares for inclement weather

Construction key to economic growth

Location: News

Construction key to economic growth

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, has highlighted the significant role of new houses and related settlements construction, including roads, as a catalyst for other sectors of the economy. 

“The mining sector is stimulated through the production of copper, iron ore and other raw materials used in construction. As we build houses, we are stimulating the manufacturing sector for the production of steel, bricks, tiles, doors, window frames and so on,” Duma said.

Duma made the remarks during an inspection of the construction of houses and bridge projects at Inkosi Langalibalele and Alfred Duma Local Municipalities, under the UThukela District Municipality.

The MEC inspected  the construction of the R49.6 million Qabango River Bridge in Wards 18 and 19 under the Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality, as well as a R21 million Acaciaville Housing Project in the Alfred Duma Local Municipalities.

Speaking at the construction site of the bridge, Duma said he was happy with the progress of the construction, noting that access to schools, clinics and socio-economic centres for local communities is now guaranteed.

The construction of the Qabango River Bridge has seen over 17 women and 32 young people being employed.

Duma said the department is prioritising the employment of local communities, including women and young people.

"Through the construction of Qabango River Bridge, we are fast-tracking the entry of small players into the construction industry. The breakdown of value of contracts awarded to companies owned by various categories include women and youth.”

He added that about R10, 3 million has been set aside to pay salaries of local communities involved in the construction of the bridge, which is expected to be completed in the next few months. 

Duma also expressed his satisfaction on the progress made at the housing project, noting more work is still being done to ensure other groups, such as the military veterans benefit from the project.

“We have resolved to speed up the provision of bulk infrastructure [including] water and sanitation services in Acaciaville Housing Project. More than R80 million has been invested to create jobs in rural areas of UThukela District Municipality,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 07/05/2024 - 11:17

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Read moreConstruction key to economic growth

The Role of Animation in Event Management: Elevating Company Events in South Africa

Location: MyPR

In the fast-paced world of corporate events, standing out is crucial. As companies strive to make their events more engaging and memorable, the role of animation and motion graphics has become increasingly prominent. In South Africa, a hub for innovative and creative industries, animation studios and event management companies are collaborating to bring events to …

Read moreThe Role of Animation in Event Management: Elevating Company Events in South Africa

Doorstep Gem: Discover the Hidden Charms of the Majestic Magaliesberg this Winter

Location: MyPR

Tucked between the busy cities of Pretoria in Gauteng and Rustenburg in the North West is the Magaliesberg region, a natural oasis that many people tend to overlook when seeking a holiday destination, a weekend break or day trip. “This area, with its rugged mountains, green valleys, and diverse wildlife, is a great spot for …

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Cape Town – Are You Ready for The Addams Family Musical?

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

MotherCity Theatre Productions is proud to announce the professional South African premiere of THE ADDAMS FAMILY Musical by Andrew Lippa, Marshal Brickman and Rick Elice. Based on the beloved characters created by Charles Addams, THE ADDAMS FAMILY Musical centres around the eccentric, macabre, and ghoulish Addams family, led by Gomez and Morticia Addams. With witty …

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Solutions sought to tackle the killing of KZN Amakhosi

Location: News

Solutions sought to tackle the killing of KZN Amakhosi

In efforts to address the concerns about the safety of Amakhosi in the province, KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has directed the department to find urgent solutions to tackle the killing of Amakhosi.

Buthelezi made the call during his first meeting with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial House of Traditional and Khoisan leaders held in Durban. 

The meeting was also attended by representatives from the local houses across the 11 districts in the province.

During the meeting, Amakhosi, through the House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Chairperson, Inkosi Shinga, presented a list of issues they felt the MEC needs to look into, as he continues with his duties.

Buthelezi emphasised that Amakhosi in the province have a critical role to play in shaping the discourse around the institution of traditional leadership in the country.

“Our aim is to ensure that Amakhosi are treated with utmost respect, while being allowed to champion development for the communities. We will amass the requisite legal expertise to assist us in this process,” Buthelezi said.

The MEC also assured Amakhosi that the issues raised will be dealt with extensively at a meeting between the Premier and all Amakhosi of the province, where the details on what the seventh administration has in store for the institution, will be shared.

Buthelezi further announced that he has instructed the department to employ 241 Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) workers to assist with the cleaning of the Traditional Administrative Centres.

In January 2024, traditional leaders in the King Cetshwayo District called on government to come up with urgent solutions to curb the killing of Amakhosi and Izinduna in the province. 

A total of 55 traditional leaders have been killed in the province since 2019. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:29

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Men urged to prioritise their health

Location: News

Men urged to prioritise their health

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has encouraged men to prioritise their health as the province observes Men's Health Month. 

Ntuli made the call during the launch of Men’s Health Month, which included a law enforcement parade held in Durban on Monday. 

Men’s Health Month seeks to engage men on issues they face. The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government also uses the month to create awareness on the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

READ | KZN Premier lays down the law on GBV

“Let us use this Men’s Health Month as an opportunity to prioritise our health, break down barriers, and foster a culture of well-being,” the Premier urged men.

Ntuli said Men’s Health Month will see health screenings taking place across the province, which will cover essential aspects of men’s health.

Outlining the programmes and initiatives that KwaZulu-Natal has earmarked to commemorate during  Men’s Health Month, Ntuli said the initiative holds a significant relevance for the province, as it focuses on raising awareness about the health challenges confronting men, and advocates for early detection and treatment of diseases.

Ntuli said throughout July, the province will organise health screenings, which will cover essential aspects of men’s health, including blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, and prostate health. 

“We will collaborate with local clinics, community centres, and workplaces to ensure that men have easy access to these screenings. The awareness campaigns will emphasise the importance of regular check-ups and early intervention,” Ntuli said.

The month will also include awareness campaigns, including mental health support, physical fitness and active lifestyle, nutrition and healthy eating, and fatherhood and family support.

Ntuli said mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, noting that men often face unique challenges in seeking help for mental health issues.

Ntuli said during the month, targeted campaigns will be launched to destigmatise the discussions on mental health.

He said counselling services, including helplines and support groups specifically tailored for men, will be expanded. 

The Premier encouraged men to reach out and share their struggles and seek professional assistance when needed.

“We will promote physical fitness through community events, sports programmes, and recreational activities. Let us encourage men to engage in regular exercise, whether it is walking, jogging, or participating in team sports.

“We will celebrate responsible fatherhood and encourage positive parenting practices. Workshops, seminars, and parenting classes will equip fathers with essential skills to support their children’s emotional and physical development,” Ntuli said.

He said the province will also collaborate with schools, workplaces, and local markets to raise awareness about balanced diets, and further provide practical guidance on healthy eating, emphasising the importance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 07/02/2024 - 12:02

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Clarins Celebrates Partnership with Save the Children South Africa at Hyde Park Corner

Location: MyPR

Clarins has collaborated with Save the Children South Africa supporting childhood nutrition and Early Childhood Care and Development Centres with a unique Clarins Carousel Pop-Up inside Woolworths Hyde Park Corner. “For 70 years, Clarins has been dedicated to genuine and natural beauty. For Clarins, beauty is meaningless without humanity, generosity, and openness to others. Our …

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