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The world is currently facing one of the harshest economic climates experienced since the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, one of the worst financial crises in modern history. This raises concerns that more people may turn to fraud to address the financial pressure they are experiencing. “Rising inflation and the current war in Ukraine are two …
The Houghton Hotel, a 5-star urban resort in Johannesburg renowned for its commitment to excellence in hospitality, proudly continues its ongoing partnership with Afrika Tikkun to offer the Youth Employment Services (YES) Hospitality programme. Since its inception in 2019, the initiative has provided invaluable opportunities for 88 young individuals to gain hands-on experience in the …
Industry involvement needed in TVET curriculum review process
Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, has underscored the need for additional industry involvement in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college curriculum review process.
“What is also critical is the need for more substantial industry involvement in the TVET curriculum review process to enhance responsiveness to industry needs and requirements,” the Minister said.
He was addressing the TVET Curriculum Transformation and Innovation Summit, currently underway at Vodaworld Dome in Midrand.
Nzimande said the (TVET) college curriculum reform has the potential to contribute in various ways to improving the employability, productivity and success rates of college graduates.
“In order for us to be successful in bringing these changes, there is also a need for change in the management strategies to prepare for current and future TVET curriculum challenges. Furthermore, we need to develop leadership programmes to help leaders within the TVET sector to bring about the necessary curriculum change,” Nzimande said on Monday.
Highlighting some of the progress made in building a sustainable TVET sector, Nzimande said South Africa is producing on average 20 000 qualified artisans per year.
“Ours is to ensure that the number increases significantly to meet our National Development Plan (NDP) target to produce 30 000 qualified artisans per year by 2030.”
Nzimande also highlighted that the number of Centres for Specialisation has been expanded to 34 at 27 TVET colleges, to enhance workplace linked training of artisans and related occupations.
A further investment of R68 million has also been allocated in 16 colleges, who now have 33 trade test centres.
“These trade test centres have trade tested over 600 apprentices of which over 500 have qualified as artisans. Currently 26 of our colleges are engaged in entrepreneurial training through our entrepreneurship hubs.”
The department is hard at work to ensure that all the colleges are involved in some form of entrepreneurship training and also plans to, through the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), introduce innovation hubs in TVET colleges.
The Minister said, the department has to date, opened up 14 954 TVET placement opportunities to the value of R726 million. It has also committed to achieving a target of 20 000 placements of TVET graduates in work placements, as per President Cyril Ramaphosa’s commitment at this year’s State of the Nation Address.
Establishment of 4IR centres
The importance of responsiveness of TVET colleges to 21st century conditions, both locally and globally was also emphasised and various initiatives are underway to achieve this. These include the establishment of seven Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) centres.
“These centres, with the support of stakeholders such as the ETDP SETA (Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority), aim to scale up digital skills among students and staff.
“Leveraging the potential of the digital economy to reduce youth unemployment is a priority, and we are grateful to our partners such as HUAWEI, Cisco, GIZ, IYF, and others for their contributions to our digital skilling mission,” Nzimande said.
The Minister also expresses his appreciation to the department’s partners, including the Allan and Gill Gray Foundation, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) for their support in assisting the department to produce young entrepreneurs.
“The Vhembe TVET College in Limpopo has reported producing three millionaires through this development initiative,” he said.
The three-day summit which started on Monday, is being held under the theme: “TVET curriculum transformation: a key to unlock skills development for the modern economy”.
The summit brings together various role players in the TVET sector under one roof to engage and take to higher levels the curriculum transformation and innovation challenges of the TVET sector. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 08/29/2023 - 12:35
KZN government unveils Nongoma multimillion rand projects
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has assured the residents of Nongoma that the provincial government remains committed to facilitate the speedy delivery of water, roads and houses, and to completing some unexpected project delays in the area.
Dube-Ncube was speaking during the province’s Operation Sukuma Sakhe (OSS) Cabinet Day, held recently, where the province’s MECs addressed various service delivery concerns and unveiled projects throughout the Nongoma Local Municipality.
Dube-Ncube said the OSS gives the leaders an opportunity to listen without mediation, to the voices and concerns of the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
The Premier unveiled the Bhuqwini Rural Housing Project, which will deliver 300 houses in Ward 17. The R49.4 million project will also see the employment of at least 60 people and 20 being trained as National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 2 builders.
Unveiling the project, Dube-Ncube said they have introduced the contractor to build houses and urge the community to take care of the project and to make sure that the houses are not vandalised.
“When we deliver houses as the Government of KwaZulu-Natal, we are implementing the Freedom Charter which says there shall be houses, security and comfort for all,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier also undertook to facilitate the repair and maintenance of Royal Palaces some of which are said to have fallen into disrepair due to lack of regular attention.
“We value the institution of traditional leadership as the glue that holds our communities together as the custodian of our customs and traditions. The Palaces are an important part of our history and we will ensure that for years to come, this heritage is protected for generations to come,” the Premier said.
Various MECs and senior government officials also visited other projects and centres to deliver dignified services to the community.
Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC and Government Business leader, Siboniso Duma, visited the R19 million Maphophoma Milling, which is owned by a co-operative and funded by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
The MEC committed the provincial government support for the co-operative to access more land and to increase their maize production.
He said, the provincial state agencies, including Agri-Development Agency, ITHALA and the KZN Growth Fund, will also ensure access to funding for the co-operative.
Duma also visited the pedestrian bridges that are currently being constructed by Transport and Defence Departments.
Finance MEC, Neliswa Peggy Nkonyeni, visited the Casukile Primary Co-operative run by a group of women who manufacture toilet papers. Nkonyeni committed the provincial government to fund the co-operative members’ training on business skills, branding of their products and sourcing new markets for their products.
Nkonyeni also encouraged the Nongoma Local Municipality to buy locally manufactured goods in order to grow the local economy.
Over 20 speed points were donated to Ward 19 businesswomen, in a bid to encourage them to grow their businesses and create more jobs for the locals.
Sport, Arts and Culture MEC, who is also Zululand Cabinet OSS Champion, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, visited the Buxedene Clinic where the toilets are not in good working order and have no computers, forcing personnel to capture data manually.
Mahlaba announced that Road D1880 which runs from Bhekumthetho to Ncemaneni will undergo an upgrade to install blacktop, and that the contract has already been advertised with an award expected to be finalised soon.
In addition to the housing shortage, Nongoma faces other challenges, including water, taxi-related killings, revenge murders, unemployment, teenage pregnancy and Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), which Provincial Cabinet promised to urgently attend to.
The Premier said the departments, working with local government will soon return to the Nongoma Local Municipality, in order to follow up on all the challenges identified during the OSS engagement. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 08/29/2023 - 10:39
BRICS, Africa CDC commit to work with business on future pandemics
The Ministry of Health, the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Africa Health Business and the South African chapter of the BRICS Business Council co-hosted a successful dialogue to deliberate on future pandemics.
The parties met on Monday following last week’s BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Summit to deliberate on a potential African Union (AU) and BRICS framework of cooperation for the pandemic, preparedness, prevention and response (PPPR).
The meeting brought together BRICS member states including the newly invited members, Ethiopia and Egypt, business, civil society, development finance institutions, global health agencies and AU specialised agencies.
“The dialogue sought to elicit a collaborative framework for AU and BRICS PPPR that is actionable and implementable. [This is] by tabling concrete suggestions, drawing from the AU and BRICS collective experiences of dealing with COVID-19 and other pandemics, identifying the existing capabilities and acknowledging the gaps that would need to be closed for adequate pandemic preparation and response,” a statement read.
The attendees highlighted the reality of the shifting centres of global power, pointing out that the expanded BRICS family now represents 4.8 billion people, which is over half of the global population.
“Increasing human and animal interconnectedness, climate change and an increasing frequency of infectious disease outbreaks mean that the AU and BRICS’ ability to contain infectious diseases has a fundamental bearing on global health security.
“The realisation of this growing responsibility compelled AU and BRICS stakeholders to convene and begin a process towards a declared collaborative framework.”
Participants were further encouraged by the collective capabilities identified in medical and digital technologies, human resource potential, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
They also observed that the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturing Network (DCVMN), which is comprised of manufacturers from BRICS member states, contributed to 60% of the COVID-19 vaccine products.
“The meeting considered the merits of opening up the entire expanded BRICS and AU market to all pharmaceutical manufacturers in the BRICS and AU regions.”
Member of the BRICS Business Council, Dr Stavros Nicolaou, stated that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant and vast global health inequities, particularly on the African continent.
He noted that unnecessary lives and livelihoods were lost, with the African post-pandemic economic recovery still proving to be challenging.
“Collaborative efforts across the African and BRICS geographies can enhance surveillance, research, infrastructure, and resource allocation to ensure a swift and coordinated response to future pandemics underpinned by a resilient African pandemic prevention, preparedness and recovery system,” said Nicolaou.
Putting people first
Stakeholders also acknowledged that the inequities that persist in many low- and middle-income countries, fragile health systems and inadequate financing pose a threat to pandemic preparedness and overall global health security.
“More work must be done to diversify manufacturing, support Africa’s manufacturing targets, ensure primary health care is fully developed as a foundation for pandemic preparedness, and to support last-mile delivery.
“The convening emphasised the importance of placing people and communities at the heart of all PPPR deliberations.”
Some concrete actions that were tabled were financing by establishing a BRICS PPPR fund through the New Development Bank and the need to convene at the Conference on Public Health in Africa.
“Emerging in the wake of a recent global pandemic, this dialogue arrives at a pivotal juncture. It underscores a collective need to fortify health security and adaptability, extending beyond national boundaries,” said Director-General of Africa CDC, Dr Jean Kaseya.
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla said BRICS member states need to solidify efforts to promote digital health technologies across health systems to strengthen the sharing of information that may be useful for PPPR.
“At a country level, there is a commitment to develop and implement legislative measures for PPPR. I am glad that BRICS member states have reaffirmed and committed to implementing global, regional, and national actions to strengthen pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, and fully address the direct and indirect consequences of current and future pandemics.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 08/28/2023 - 15:00
Agreements to aid energy solutions
Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has emphasised that the agreements signed in the past week with Chinese state owned entities and the donation by the People's Republic of China are to address this country’s emergency energy solutions.
South Africa concluded a significant amount of agreements with Chinese state owned entities (SOEs) with the signing of two overarching memoranda that were witnessed by President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Xi Jinping.
South Africa hosted the 15th BRICS Summit last week and the country also hosted President Xi on his fourth State Visit to South Africa ahead of the Summit.
Addressing the media on the Energy Action Plan on Sunday, Ramokgopa explained that the two agreements include amongst others, addressing issues of green energy solutions, exploitations of renewable energy sources and the use of modern technology.
“The two agreements – the first one addresses issues around green energy solutions- the partnership agreement we will be entering in relation to the exploitation of renewable energy sources in our country; the use of modern technology and the degree to which we are able to connect renewable energy onto the grid.
“The rationale for entering with the Chinese in this regard is because they are a dominant player on the renewable energy space. They have 688 gigawatts of installed capacity of renewables, a combination of PV and wind. They have done one of the biggest expansions of transmission and they have also worked on the kind of transmission modernisation required to be able to accommodate the intermittency of renewable sources,” the Minister said.
In regards to the donation by the People's Republic of China, the Minister said this is aimed at addressing South Africa’s emergency energy solutions, which is targeted at key public facilities such as police stations, health institutions and correctional centres.
Minister Ramokgopa emphasised that provincial departments will play a role in identifying the key public areas.
“The second one, was an exchange of letters in relation to a donation that we are receiving from the People’s Republic of China that is meant to help us in addressing the emergency energy solution in the country.
“I did indicate that it’s likely going to be targeted in key public facilities such as hospitals, clinics, correctional services, and police stations. In this regard, we will be working with the nine provincial governments for them to be able to identify sites that are suitable for this.
“We already have a technical capacity that is supporting us in relation to the appropriateness of the technology solutions that are given to us and those that have been agreed upfront,” he said.
Ramokgopa further announced that the first shipment of the technology solutions by China is en route and an announcement will be made when it arrives in the country, having left Chinese shores on 14 August.
“We will announce at the right time when the first shipment lands and give an indication of the first public facilities that will benefit from this generous donation.”
Turning to the performance of the system for the past week, the Minister said that the available capacity has come down.
“I did indicate that we are beginning to normalise being above 28 000 megawatts on average. We have kept close to that most of the week and the average is about 27 561 megawatts,” he said.
“We did indicate that we were going to slow down planned outages and once we get out of a very difficult winter we are going to ramp up because we need to protect these machines, generation and units to ensure their sustainability and reliability going into the future.
“We still remain above 15 000 megawatts in relation to unplanned capacity lost factor. I made a point that we want to bring it down,” the Minister said.
Load shedding
On load shedding, Ramokgopa said government was confident the system was stabilising and the country will continue to have lower stages of load shedding as the system recovers.
“On the issue of performance, we are more that satisfied. We have shown where we moved from a historic low of 48% of energy availability factor. We have been averaging 60% energy availability factor.
“When we went to the winter period, the worst case scenario was Stage 8. We only had 30 hours of Stage 6. You can see the intensity of load shedding is coming down. The issues of outage slips, I have shown to you, they have come down from a high of 3 300 megawatts to 766 megawatts,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 08/27/2023 - 13:07
BRICS nations urged to build structures to prepare for future pandemics
BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) member states have been urged to solidify efforts to promote the use of digital health technologies to strengthen sharing of information that may be useful for pandemic preparedness, prevention and response (PPPR) between the nations.
“At a country level, there is a commitment to develop and implement legislative measures for PPPR,” said Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla.
“This is borne out of the devastating experience the world went through with the outbreak of COVID-19.”
Phaahla was speaking on Thursday at the BRICS Business Council SA Chapter on PPPR for Health Security: Closing the Gap in Preparation for Future Pandemics in Sandton, Johannesburg.
The three-day BRICS Summit led by bloc leaders of emerging economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – wrapped up on Thursday.
The Minister told the delegates that the COVID-19 outbreak caught the world off guard in terms of preparedness, causing major economic shock.
“The experience during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted weaknesses in health systems while at the same time taught us that international collaboration and partnerships offered important benefits for all of humankind and ensured that ‘no one is left behind’.
“Any health emergency is not to be over until we ensure that everyone is safe, so it is imperative that we are fully prepared to prevent and rapidly respond to any future global pandemic.”
He acknowledged that South Africa, like many low- and middle-income countries, faces inadequate expertise and capacity in epidemiology and surveillance, health economics, governance and community participation in times of health emergencies.
“That is why WHO [World Health Organisation] supported us with a big team of field epidemiologists and surveillance specialists to enhance our capacity for early detection, tracing and management of cases.”
Meanwhile, he said significant work on the PPPR in South Africa has received attention from the highest office seeking to close the gap and to ensure that the country is fully prepared for any future pandemics.
In addition, South Africa in collaboration with the WHO embarked on the process of strengthening the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System (IDSR).
This move aims to establish a national integrated surveillance system with capacities for forecasting and early detection to reduce morbidity, mortality, disability, and socioeconomic losses due to epidemics, pandemics, and other public health emergencies.
As part of the recently agreed 15th BRICS 2023 declaration, he said members are ready to institute the BRICS Integrated Early Warning Systems to prevent infectious disease.
“This is aimed at providing early warnings and effective response measures to prevent any possible local and cross-border spread of infectious diseases and minimise the occurrence of pandemics.
“This was a principled decision of supporting the country’s existing systems while enhancing a collaborating platform to facilitate sharing of necessary information.”
This includes establishing Public Health Emergency Operation Centres to form part of the Network of BRICS Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs).
“These will be platforms for supporting BRICS countries in building their public health EOC capacity,” Phaahla explained.
It will entail communication, information management, mobilisation, coordination, and collaboration with other partners as part of their national emergency response framework.
On the other hand, the Minister said leaders should continue to support the BRICS Virtual Vaccine Research and Development (R&D) Centre.
“We must recognise the excellent scientific potential existing in our countries and we should utilise it to contribute to the advancement of medical science, improve public health, and foster scientific cooperation among BRICS nations.”
He also stressed the importance of manufacturing, information, and resource sharing among BRICS nations in preparation for any future pandemics.
“South Africa is in support and in the process of strengthening the guaranteed availability of essential supplies and pharmaceuticals based on its risk profile.”
He said the importance of the pharmaceutical industry was amplified during the global health crises.
“With the ongoing development of local manufacturing capacity and capabilities, local pharmaceutical companies are set to play a pivotal role in the production and supply of affordable medicines for the domestic market and the rest of Africa.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/25/2023 - 09:45
Patel reflects on global challenges as he welcomes BRICS delegates
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Ebrahim Patel, has reflected on the issues facing global economies as he welcomed all delegates at the 15th BRICS Summit, which officially kicked off in Johannesburg on Tuesday morning.
The Sandton Convention Centre has been a hive of activity as delegates from across the globe congregate to take part in the first in-person summit since the COVID-19 outbreak.
“A special welcome to all of you to the province of Gauteng, the economic powerhouse of the African continent, where 35% of South Africa’s wealth is generated. This small but very productive province accounts for 5% of Africa’s GDP [Gross Domestic Product],” said Patel.
The BRICS grouping of major emerging economies – Brazil, India, China, South Africa and Russia - is holding their summit in Johannesburg from 22-24 August 2023 under the chairship of South Africa.
Patel told the room full of delegates that the world looks different from five years ago when the country hosted the 10th BRICS Summit in 2018.
“Today, the world is more polarised, climate change is more pressing and the speed of technological innovation is rapidly increasing. These trends are in turn reshaping our economies and societies in more profound ways than more of us can project,” he said.
The Minister noted that change across the globe has created turmoil and tension.
“As the world changes, we have seen a rise of unilateralism and a pushback on the global rule-based system.”
Patel, however, believes that it cannot be business as usual for the private sector, governments and other role players. He has called on leaders to adapt to the “new normal” and often volatile, uncertain and complex world.
“It’s in this context that the BRICS Business Council meets here today,” Patel said.
Towards a better future
Despite challenges, he said the council is optimistic about the future.
The Minister reflected on some of the institutions that were built by the bloc, such as the New Development Bank, which drives investment and infrastructure, and supports economies and societies.
Patel said the power of science, technology and innovation must be harnessed to solve some of the world’s problems, from developing lifesaving vaccines to green technologies that can decarbonise the energy mix.
Other developments such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which has the potential to bring together a market of 1.3 billion people and provide a much-needed boost to African industrialisation, must be actively pursued.
“We’re no longer just a raw material supplier. Africa is taking its place in the world as an innovator and industrialiser -- the Africa of people, young people, rapidly urbanising, digitally connected and energetic Africa.
“We’re pushing back against the toxic legacy of 55 States divided by borders from a continent of 1.3 billion people united in our resolve, connected in a unified manner.”
Meanwhile, Brazil’s Finance Minister, Fernando Haddad, said his country always strives to facilitate investment in the interest of his country. He described BRICS’ contribution as “enormous”.
“In Brazil, we believe in multilateralism and cultural and social diversity, and that we equitably distribute the opportunities.”
Haddad said it was important for BRICS to be unified.
India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, commended businesses for organising centres for them to discuss the BRICS economies.
He said India, which grew its GDP grew by 7.2% last year, is one of the world’s fastest growing economies.
Goyal said India is also transforming its infrastructure, and that it boasts more than 800 million internet users and an increase in online services.
In addition, the country is also growing its renewable energy sources.
Goyal also reflected on the important partnership between the BRICS countries and the global south based on mutual respect. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/22/2023 - 11:54
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More than 24,000 prisoners are likely to be released of whom about 3,000 will be deported
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Former President Jacob Zuma granted 'special remission'
The department of Correctional Services has confirmed that former President Jacob Zuma reported to the Estcourt Correctional Centre on Friday morning and has since been released after being granted a “special remission”.
The National Commissioner, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, revealed his decision this morning during a joint media briefing with Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola.
“As the National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, I have exercised my discretion as per the SCA [Supreme Court of Appeal] judgement, in deciding whether or not to take into account the period served under Community Corrections by the former President, Mr Jacob Zuma.”
This comes after the SCA found that the National Commissioner’s decision to place the former Statesman on medical parole was unlawful and unconstitutional and that he had to complete his sentence.
The Constitutional Court sentenced Zuma to 15 months imprisonment in July 2021 and only served two months after he ignored a court order to testify at a State Capture inquiry looking into a web of corruption during his Presidency.
“In compliance with the SCA judgement, Mr Zuma did report back at Estcourt Correctional Centre this morning. A consideration has been made as per legislation, including processes that were already unfolding in the management of correctional services,” said Thobakgale.
“The administrative procedures have ensued and Mr Zuma has been processed accordingly.”
Thobakgale told the media that although both the SCA and the High Court considered the Commissioner’s decision as unlawful, Zuma was not discharged, but placed under community corrections where he continued serving his sentence, under strict conditions.
“Parole in South Africa is a form of punishment which is served by an inmate within the system of community corrections in terms of Chapter VI of the Correctional Services Act of 1998,” he explained.
“When Mr Zuma left a medical hospital upon placement on medical parole, he was continuously under community corrections serving his sentence. He was never a free man with effect from 8 July 2021.”
Meanwhile, Lamola announced that President Cyril Ramaphosa has approved the remission of non-violent offenders in South Africa.
“Obviously, a question will arise whether former President Jacob Zuma will benefit from this decision or not. Indeed, he’s one of the beneficiaries as a low-risk offender.”
According to the Minister, there are 212 286 inmates, including 9 351 foreign nationals, across the country's 243 correctional centres and 218 community centres.
“Unfortunately, the current occupancy rate is 143%, with the overcrowding rate at 43.06%.
“The recent loss of 3 024 beds at Kutama Sinthumule due to fire means that overcrowding will increase by 4%, raising the overcrowding rate to 47.06% and in turn the occupancy rate will increase 147%.”
Lamola told the media this poses a direct threat to inmate health, security, and management, and it could lead to a surge in gangsterism.
“More importantly, it hampers the department’s ability to provide development and rehabilitation programmes.”
The Minister has described the remission of sentences as a crucial aspect of the country’s justice system.
“However, it's important to note that certain offenders, such as those convicted of sexual offences, tampering with essential infrastructure, serving life sentences, and being declared dangerous criminals, are excluded from this criterion of this special remission.”
Despite this, he said low-risk offenders in these categories may still be eligible for a 12-month remission.
Meanwhile, those convicted of non-violent and nonsexual crimes will be eligible for up to 24 months of remission after completing the pre-release programme and risk assessment.
He said the decision will result in the deportation of 3 064 foreign nationals serving short-term sentences under the guidance of the Department of Home Affairs.
Additionally, he emphasised that it will alleviate overcrowding by releasing approximately 9 488 prisoners and a further 15 000 inmates who are currently under correctional supervision and parole.
“The exercise of exploring special remission commenced on 24 April 2023 when we lost approximately 1 112 bed spaces due to dilapidation in most of our centres.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/11/2023 - 10:09
“Bakeries are no longer distributing bread because it is not safe in the townships.”
Africa CDC donates vaccine manufacturing equipment to SAHPRA
The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) on Thursday officially handed over equipment worth US $750 000 (R14 083 950) to the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), the first recipient in the continent.
According to a joint statement, the tools will support SAHPRA with its regulatory functions relating to vaccine manufacturing.
Africa CDC Director-General, Dr Jean Kaseya, and SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela, attended the ceremony in Pretoria.
The African Union (AU) Heads of State established the Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM), under the Africa CDC launched in 2021 and its Framework for Action in 2022.
The PAVM aims to steer a bold goal that will enable the African vaccine manufacturing industry to develop, produce and sustainably increase supply, currently sitting at less than 1%.
It is also looking to prop up the National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) to ensure safe and quality vaccines.
The Africa CDC is working with four other NRAs to boost their capacities to achieve the ambitious goal of manufacturing 60% of vaccine needs on the continent by 2040.
“This donation is a proverbial breath of fresh air for SAHPRA and more importantly, the African continent. This stellar initiative will provide much-needed impetus for SAHPRA to take bold steps to capacitate the authority and the continent in paving the way for renewed vigour and innovation on the continent,” said Semete-Makokotlela.
Meanwhile, Kaseya said Africa CDC’s mission of safeguarding Africa’s health from disease threats such as pandemics would require viable and sustainable manufacturing of health products and technologies on the continent.
“To achieve this noble mission, NRA are our key partners. Today’s ceremony marks an important step in our commitment to support African manufacturing to ensure safe and effective vaccines are produced on the continent,” he said.
The Africa CDC worked with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) to set priorities such as regulatory process harmonisation, engaging with and strengthening NRAs directly, supporting and strengthening the Regional Centres of Regulatory Excellence (RCORE) platform to facilitate vaccine regulatory oversight, as manufacturing of health products expands in Africa.
Africa CDC is a continental autonomous public health agency of the African Union.
It supports member States in their efforts to strengthen health systems and improve surveillance, emergency response, prevention and control of diseases. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/10/2023 - 14:31
Government pilots online platform for protection orders
Government is piloting a system in a number of provinces that will enable victims of domestic violence to apply for protection orders online.
“The violence perpetrated by men against women and girls is an assault on our common humanity. Women do not feel safe in their homes, on the street, in places of work and study and worship,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Wednesday.
The President made these remarks during his keynote address at the commemoration of Women’s Day at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
He told South Africans that government has responded to the call for tougher bail conditions for perpetrators of gender-based violence (GBV).
“Effective from earlier this month, no police bail may be granted to persons charged with rape or if the victim was in a domestic relationship with the perpetrator. Such bail applications must be formally applied for in court. If the accused was in a domestic relationship with the alleged victim, the court has to issue a protection order against them before releasing them on bail.
“Also effective from earlier this month, gang or serial rapists face life imprisonment, as do perpetrators of date rape, marital rape, child rape and incest,” the President said.
In addition, as of earlier this month, gang or serial rapists face life imprisonment, as do perpetrators of date rape, marital rape, child rape and incest.
This year’s Women’s Month is being celebrated under the theme: ‘Accelerating Socio-Economic Opportunities for Women’s Empowerment'. This theme highlights the need to ensure that all women have access to participate equally in all areas of human endeavour.
“Women do not feel safe in their homes, on the street, in places of work and study and worship. It was in response to this crisis that the first Presidential Summit on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide in 2018 made a firm commitment to undertake a comprehensive, effective and united response.
“Through an extensive consultative process, the National Strategic Plan to Combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide was launched three years ago. Since then, it has made important progress,” the President said.
More than 12 000 police members have received training to respond effectively to gender-based violence and to focus on the needs of victims.
More than one million DNA collection kits have been delivered to police stations around the country since 2019 and there are now just over 1 000 victim friendly rooms at police stations countrywide.
“Over the last year, we opened three new Thuthuzela Care Centres for victims of gender-based violence, bringing the national total to 62. We are improving access to shelters and associated services for survivors of gender-based violence.
“In January last year, I signed into law three key pieces of legislation, namely the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act, and the Domestic Violence Amendment Act,” the President said.
He said these new laws provide greater protection to survivors of gender-based violence, to ensure that perpetrators are no longer able to evade prosecution, and to strengthen measures to prevent gender-based violence.
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, said while South Africa has made strides to improve the lives of women since democracy a lot more still needs to be done.
“South Africa is not free…it will only be free when we are free as women. Let us take the District Development Model approach to address GBV. In every ward, every councillor must be at the forefront of the fight against GBV and the religious leader in that ward must also be at the forefront of fighting against GBV.
“Women must have access to justice. They are very serious problems with women accessing justice. The lgbtqia+ community must stop being killed and discriminated against,” the Minister said.
Women in sport
The President paid tribute to the women of the country who are excelling in sport.
“Banyana Banyana and the Protea Netball Team did our country proud recently. Banyana Banyana won the African Women’s Cup and reached the top 16 in the Women’s FIFA World Cup and our Netball Team played very well and are now ranked 6th in the world.
“As a country, we are very proud of our women as they fly South Africa’s flag high. We need to pay them well and their pay must be equal to that of men and even exceed what we pay men,” Ramaphosa said.
Dlamini Zuma echoed the President’s sentiments as she congratulated Banyana Banyana for making history under difficult conditions.
“There is no women soccer league in the country and they get paid less than their male counterparts. The wage gap in South Africa is still there. Our ancestors are happy because Banyana Banyana has made history,” the Minister said.
Premier of Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi said the 9th of August is an affirmation that women are special.
“The 9th of August is not a ritual. It is an affirmation that we will empower women, it is an affirmation that will empower and support women,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 08/09/2023 - 15:48
Inmate dies following fire at correctional centre
At least one person has died following a fire at the Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Centre in Limpopo on Monday.
Some 18 others have been hospitalised due to smoke inhalation.
“All three centres at Kutama Sinthumule were gutted by fire following a riot by inmates. Although the situation is under control, the facility is not in a state to accommodate inmates and as such, this has necessitated a process to transfer offenders to other correctional centres.
“One inmate sadly passed away and the cause of death is yet to be determined. A total of 18 other inmates are receiving medical attention due to smoke inhalation. We can confirm that all inmates are accounted for and no escapes took place,” Department of Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said.
He said an investigation is underway into the incident.
“This is a disturbing incident as no amount of complaints warrants an unlawful vandalisation of State property. The instigators have been identified and the investigation is to be launched urgently.
“Inappropriate behaviour in correctional centres will not be tolerated. Although it is understood that offenders have the right to raise concerns, it cannot be acceptable that they destroy a facility without any consequences,” he said.
Nxumalo said emergency services remain on alert at the facility “to douse possible resurgence of flames”.
“The Department of Correctional Services will continue to offer assistance to Kutama Sinthumule facility until the site is cleared and properly cordoned off. Such will allow for a proper assessment of the damage caused and costs to be incurred for the reconstruction of affected structures,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 08/08/2023 - 09:43
Introduction South Africa, known for its diverse culture and stunning landscapes, has a property market as varied as its scenery. From bustling city centres to serene coastal towns, the country offers a wide range of residential and commercial properties. However, affordability remains a key concern for many potential homeowners and investors. This article aims to …
Winde counting the cost of Cape Town's taxi strike
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde says the provincial government remains gravely concerned at the devastating impact caused by the strike called by the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) in the province.
This comes after six Golden Arrow buses were torched due to arson attacks since the taxi strike on Thursday, 3 August 2023.
This has forced the company to terminate its bus services in Khayelitsha, Nyanga, Philippi East, Langa, and Mfuleni, while many roads remain closed.
The Golden Arrow has since secured a court order on Sunday against Santaco to stop intimidating, harassing, threatening, or interfering with Golden Arrow, its employees, and passengers.
“I am appalled at the scale of violence that has not only dealt a severe blow to our economy and critical services but has also delegitimised and damaged Western Cape’s Santaco cause.
“This violence and damage to property has continued this morning. I will be holding a special Cabinet meeting this morning with key leadership from the City of Cape Town to assess what further steps need to be taken and the impact on services,” he said on Monday.
The Premier has again called for taxi leaders affiliated with the council to intensify all efforts to de-escalate the violence and urgently find a resolution to the dispute.
He added, “All sides, more especially residents and commuters, are being harmed by this stay away. We must find common ground now.”
Western Cape MEC for Mobility, Ricardo Mackenzie, said the province is concerned that the strike continues even after urgent engagements throughout the weekend.
“The withdrawal of minibus taxi services since Thursday has had a devastating impact. As the provincial government we are working extremely hard to resolve ongoing issues in the industry and establish new terms of engagement that will ensure the safety of commuters and road users.”
The provincial government said the impact on provincial government and municipal services has been profound.
Because of the strike, the province said 287 420 learners have not been able to attend school across the province since the sudden stay-away was called.
In addition, more than 9 000 teachers and staff were also prevented from going to work.
Meanwhile, the past Saturday’s matric extra classes had to be canceled, impacting 14 000 learners.
According to the Western Cape, many healthcare facilities have been forced to operate at reduced capacity.
These include Tygerberg, Red Cross, and Groote Schuur hospitals and the community health centres and clinics.
While Tygerberg and Salt River forensic pathology services are operational, the province said the response to scenes would be delayed in red zones, as this will also only occur under the protection of law enforcement escorts.
In addition, many Western Cape Department of Social Development staff will have to work from home, due to the volatility of the situation.
The department will also have to temporarily close its offices in several areas.
The Premier said: “This situation is untenable and unacceptable. Our residents cannot be forced to endure this lawlessness. All parties must return to negotiations”.
MEC for Police Oversight and Community Safety, Reagen Allen, has condemned the burning and damage to all property, particularly safety-related resources.
“Contingency plans have been adopted to ensure that the burning of the law enforcement vehicles in Delft will have no operational impact on the deployment of Law Enforcement Advancement (LEAP) officers in the area.”
LEAP, according to the provincial government, is fully operational and part of interventions where required across Cape Town in particular.
Red-zoned areas remain volatile. All law enforcement agencies are deployed across these communities and at strategic points. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 08/07/2023 - 09:46
Truck driver describes his narrow escape after his vehicle was torched by mob