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In the dynamic realm of IT, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) represent a crucial component in the infrastructure of businesses ranging from small enterprises to large corporations. An MSP assumes the responsibility of managing and maintaining company IT systems, offering services that allow businesses to operate more efficiently without the burden of handling all IT issues …
When mines want to keep their operations secure, it’s crucial to carefully assess each operation’s specific needs before partnering with a provider of security control room solutions. Security control rooms play a pivotal role in the mining industry, serving as the nerve centre for monitoring operations, ensuring safety, and safeguarding valuable assets. These control rooms …
In the face of persistent loadshedding challenges, an uninterrupted power supply is imperative for sustaining critical operations in businesses and industries. As a result, many South African companies have found that they have no choice but to invest in alternative power solutions such as solar, inverters or generators to ensure business continuity. Solar power can …
Nzimande appoints new NSFAS administrator, addresses other matters
The Minister of Higher Education and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande has announced the appointment of Sithembiso Freeman Nomvalo, as the administrator of the National Student Fund Financial Aid Scheme while also explaining the reasons for dissolving the scheme’s previous board.
At a media briefing held in Pretoria on Sunday, the Minister said Nomvalo possesses extensive knowledge and an impeccable record of accomplishment in public finance and government processes.
He has been tasked to take over the governance, management, and administration of NSFAS for 12 months depending on progress made.
His task also involves resolving the data integration challenges as a matter of urgency, finalising all the necessary funding decisions and outstanding payments including student accommodation, and overseeing the opening of the 2025 online applications process.
Nomvalo has over 25 years of working experience, 17 of which were at senior level both in the public and private sector.
He was the first African and longest-serving Accountant-General of a democratic South Africa.
Responsibilities
In explaining the reasons for dissolving of the board of the National Student Fund Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), the Minister said the board had failed in carrying out its “basic” responsibilities.
“Through various formal engagements, as Minister, I have consistently raised my concerns and unhappiness with the outgone NSFAS Board, about the inability of NSFAS to carry out and implement some of the most basic responsibilities allocated to it,” he said.
READ | Nzimande dissolves NSFAS board
He said the board has faced several challenges. One of the critical issues pointed out by him was the termination of the contracts of direct payment service providers, who were appointed without following due process. The board was dissolved on 11 April 2024 and the scheme was placed under administration the next day.
The decision was also made due to the board’s failure to oversee the timely payment of student allowances by the management.
“This has resulted in unnecessary stress for students and their parents, and also continues to threaten the very stability of some of our TVET [Technical Vocational Education and Training] colleges and universities.”
He pointed out that the Board has been unable to resubmit an accurate annual report to Parliament, manage and finalise the close-out report, and address significant capacity deficiencies within the organisation, including the non-functional call centre, which is still not functional.
According to Nzimande, the Board also failed to respond to student queries in a timely and efficient manner and consult on the guidelines for the missing middle funding.
“In an attempt to resolve these challenges or mitigate their impact, as Minister, I engaged the board on several occasions on various solutions, including a turnaround strategy, which has not been achieved within agreed timelines.
“Despite several engagements with myself, NSFAS continues to face serious challenges in its business processes, IT [information and technology] systems, capacity, and policies and controls,” he explained.
The Minister is of the view that this has impacted the well-being of students negatively but has also brought serious reputational damage to NSFAS, the department and government.
NSFAS achievements
Nzimande said the institution has supported more than five million beneficiaries since its inception, producing hundreds of thousands of skilled professionals and the middle class, especially from within the poor and working-class sections of society.
“This is definitely one of the most important achievements of this government over the past 30 years of our democracy and this must be celebrated as such.
“Flowing from this, I am also sensitive to the public expectation on NSFAS, as it relates to its role in enabling poor and working-class families to give their sons and daughters the gift of education.”
Continuity
The Minister said the dissolution of the board will not affect the normal functioning of NSFAS, including all payments that have to be made.
“The decision to dissolve the NSFAS board was not a light one and I wish to assure the public that, in taking this decision, I have considered all possible implications, including the impact that it might have on NSFAS employees and the students.”
However, he said he aimed to ensure that deserving students receive the necessary financial support and that NSFAS remains focused on its mandate, which is to provide financial assistance to students from poor and working-class backgrounds. -SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 17:13
In the ever-evolving landscape of business security, staying ahead of potential threats is paramount. From safeguarding valuable assets to protecting sensitive information, businesses rely on a range of security products to fortify their premises and ensure peace of mind. Let’s explore the diverse array of business security products, from anti-bandit doors to safes, and understand …
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in partnership with the Wireless Female Network (WFN) team up to launch first Period Art gallery in South Africa and on the African continent. The Wireless Female Network and the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) are thrilled by the concept of a Period Art gallery as this further dismantles the glass …
Is your company ready to successfully transition from Learnerships to Occupational Certificates? As the deadline of 30th June approaches for the registration of legacy learnerships, companies must ensure they are prepared for the seismic shift in the Skills Development landscape. This pivotal moment marks the end of an era for historical learnerships and signals the …
With only three of the ten undersea cables that connect South Africa to the world still in operation, it is quite remarkable that the region remains as well connected as it is. This is the view of Workonline Communications (www.Workonline.Africa/), one of the leading providers of wholesale IP transit services in Africa, commenting on recent disruptions to internet connectivity across the continent due to multiple undersea cable faults.
“The cable breaks on both sides of the continent have highlighted the issue of the lack of capacity to support Africa's burgeoning internet requirements,” says Edward Lawrence of the Workonline Group. “There are 574 active and planned submarine cables across the globe, yet South Africa only has 10 that connect it to the rest of the world, and seven of these are currently out of action.”
In February 2024, three vital cables—AAE-1, EIG, and SEACOM—connecting the east coast of Africa to Europe were disrupted, allegedly due to vandalism by the Houthis. Then, on March 14, 2024, four out of the five west coast cables—SAT3, WACS, ACE, and MainOne—were affected, reportedly by an undersea rock fall near Ivory Coast. These incidents have significantly impacted internet connectivity, not only in South Africa but across the entire continent.
The capacity constraints are further complicated by the time it takes to not only repair submarine cables, but also to lay new infrastructure. Lawrence explains that it can take 18 months or longer to plan for new cables, and a further two years or more to actually build and commission them.
“We're fortunate that due to our investment in Africa and abroad we are able to be more nimble than most and can increase our undersea capacity at speed. We've designed our network to be as resilient as possible, acquiring capacity on the most stable routes we can find. Incremental capacity, or augments as they are referred to, require us to acquire hundreds of Gbps of capacity at a time, so we rely on our deep relationships which we've developed across the industry.”
Through strategic partnerships and investments in mega Points of Presence (PoPs) across Africa, Workonline remains at the forefront of delivering high-quality IP transit services to meet the evolving needs of ISPs and CDNs in Africa.
"We understand the critical importance of internet connectivity in today's digital age," added Lawrence. "As such, we are committed to proactively managing network disruptions and minimizing downtime to provide our customers with the continuity they need to thrive in a competitive landscape."
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Workonline Communications.
Follow Workonline Communications on:
X: https://apo-opa.co/4ariq4x
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4crXCeG
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3Vt33UF
About Workonline Communications Group:
Workonline (AS 37271), founded in 2006, is one of the largest IP transit networks in Africa. The company operates mega PoPs across South, East and West Africa, Europe, and Asia, and is continually expanding its infrastructure across the African continent.
Workonline (AS 37271) is one of the largest and the fastest growing IP transit networks in Africa. The company is focused on providing highly scalable, high quality, and flexible service options to meet the needs of carriers, Internet Service Providers, content providers, and mobile operators.
Website: www.Workonline.Africa/news
Email: bizdev@workonline.africa
S Africans urged to participate in the upcoming elections
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng, has urged South Africans to vote in the upcoming elections.
“Your vote is not merely a mark on a ballot paper; it is a voice – a voice that speaks volumes, resonating with the hopes, dreams and aspirations of our society.
“It is a symbol of your commitment to the principles of democracy,” she said.
Nkadimeng was addressing a conference on the impact of the upcoming General Elections on intergovernmental relations at the University of the Western Cape.
The National Research Chair organised the Multilevel Government, Law, and Development event at the Dullah Omar Institute.
The conference addresses critical questions regarding governance, particularly concerning the challenges posed when different parties or coalitions govern at various levels of government.
Nkadimeng used her platform to call on South Africans to unite in their diversity and go to their designated voting stations with purpose and conviction.
“Regardless of your political affiliations or beliefs, your vote is a precious right – one that countless individuals have fought and sacrificed for throughout our history.
“It is a privilege denied to many worldwide yet bestowed upon us as South Africans. Let us not take this privilege for granted, but rather cherish it and wield it wisely.”
This as the country is set to go to the polls on 29 May 2024.
Coalitions
Nkadimeng touched on the instability caused by coalitions since the local government elections have underscored that some political parties are struggling to cope with the delicate demands and dilemmas of coalition politics.
She highlighted the complexities involved and emphasised the importance of cooperation and coordination among government spheres, acknowledging the strain caused by conflicting agendas and ideologies.
These include “unscrupulous manipulation” by smaller parties to have governance by a small unrepresentative group of individuals and bribes with little thought on the impact of the same on the municipality and its ability to deliver services.
Another hurdle, she said, is the infighting in councils characterised by walkouts, leading to an inability to adopt budgets, resulting in an administration that cannot spend its budget to address service delivery backlogs.
The Minister spoke of the lack of due diligence when making key appointments, which results in compromised individuals appointed in critical positions.
“Yet, it is precisely during these moments of divergence that the resilience of our intergovernmental relations system is put to the test.
“How do we navigate the waters of political pluralism while upholding the principles of cooperative governance? How do we bridge the divide between divergent political entities to ensure the seamless delivery of services and the pursuit of shared objectives? These are questions that demand thoughtful consideration and innovative solutions.”
She also discussed lessons learned from the 2021 Local Government Elections, emphasising the need for coalition regulation to maintain stability.
Nkadimeng stressed the significance of legal frameworks, institutional mechanisms, and fostering dialogue and collaboration.
She reiterated the constitutional principle of cooperative government and intergovernmental relations, regardless of electoral outcomes, emphasising its importance for effective governance.
Central to the notion of intergovernmental relations, according to Nkadimeng, is the recognition of the interdependence among the three spheres (national, provincial and local) of government.
She explained that each sphere possesses distinct powers, functions, and institutions, yet they are inherently interconnected.
“Therefore, all spheres of government have to respect each other's autonomy while keeping one another informed of new policies and developments.”
Intergovernmental relations extend beyond mere cooperation. However, according to Nkadimeng, they encompass a complex network of interactions involving government institutions and civil society.
Effective coordination of public policies among national, provincial, and local governments is essential for ensuring coherent and impactful governance.
Regardless of the electoral outcomes when the South Africans go to the polls, she said she believes that it is important for all political parties to adhere steadfastly to the principles outlined in the Constitution of the country.
“Upholding the ideals of cooperative government and intergovernmental relations is not contingent upon political affiliation but is a shared responsibility integral to the fabric of our democracy.”
She concluded by outlining measures to maintain resilience in the face of political changes, including promoting continuity, trust, cooperation, and building institutional capacity within the intergovernmental relations framework. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 03/20/2024 - 15:07
Lesetja Kganyago reappointed as SARB governor
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reappointed Lesetja Kganyago as Governor of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) for a period of five years.
The reappointment will take effect from November this year.
“The reappointment of Governor Kganyago will ensure continuity and institutional stability at the reserve bank.
“Furthermore, the President has reappointed Nomfundo Tshazibana and Dr Rashad Ismail Cassim as Deputy Governors of the South African Reserve Bank for a period of five years, with effect from 1 August 2024,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The statement said Dr Mampho Modise has been appointed as Deputy Governor following the end of term of former Deputy Governor Kuben Naidoo.
“Dr Modise is currently the Deputy Director-General for Public Finance Division in the National Treasury (NT). She started her career as an intern at the South African Reserve Bank in 2004 and progressed to role of economist at the bank. Dr Modise left the SARB in 2009 to join the National Treasury, where she started as a senior economist in the Economic Policy division.
“She was soon promoted to Director: Fiscal Policy, then to the Chief Director: Strategy and Risk Management in the Asset and Liability Management division of the NT. In 2017, she was promoted to the position of Deputy Director-General. Dr Modise completed her tertiary education at the University of Pretoria, obtaining her BCom Economics, BCom Honours Econometrics, MCom Econometrics (cum laude) and a PhD in Economics,” the statement said.
The appointment and reappointments were made in accordance with section 4(1) (a) read with section 5 (1) (a) of the South African Reserve Bank Act of 1989, and after consultations with the Minister of Finance and the board of directors of the SARB.
“The South African Reserve Bank Act of 1989 provides for the President to appoint the Governor along with three Deputy Governors and four Directors of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). Section 4 (1) (a), states that ‘The Bank shall have a board of fifteen directors, consisting of a Governor and three Deputy Governors (of whom one shall be designated by the President of the Republic as Senior Deputy Governor) who shall be appointed by the President of the Republic, after consultation with the Minister and the Board, as well as four other directors appointed by the President, after consultation with the Minister’,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 03/15/2024 - 12:48
PSC study makes recommendations on hybrid work arrangements
The Public Service Commission (PSC) has completed a study on the impact of hybrid work arrangements on service delivery in the public service.
PSC Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya says the COVID-19 pandemic forced most organisations, including government, to consider alternative working arrangements in order to limit human and physical interaction.
“This resulted in the introduction of hybrid workspaces and the working from home (WFH) option that was new for most employees, as only a few private companies offered this option pre-COVID-19,” Gxoyiya said at a briefing in Pretoria on Monday.
The study focused on the shutdown period from March 2020 and the subsequent lockdown levels as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gxoyiya explained that the purpose of the study was to investigate the actual and perceived impact that the introduction of hybrid work and work from home arrangements had on service delivery in the public service in selected departments, with a view to formulate recommendations that could assist the public service to adapt.
He said the study focused on six service delivery departments/institutions in the public service, which are Education, Employment and Labour, Health, South African Social Security Agency, Home Affairs and the South African Police Service.
The report of the study makes the following recommendations:
• The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) should benchmark with other countries to determine how the hybrid work arrangement was managed during the pandemic and how it is being taken forward as a basis to review relevant legislation, regulations, directives, policies and conditions of service for different categories of occupations and/or employees.
• The public service, led by the DPSA, National Treasury and the Department of Communications and Digital Services, must take the lead in digitising government operations and prioritising access to tools of trade that will enable the effective implementation of hybrid work arrangements, where feasible.
• Departments, in collaboration with the National School of Government, should incorporate continuous training programmes on new technologies that are necessary to facilitate remote work arrangements, online collaboration and remote access to centralised systems as well as other emerging innovations for employees to stay abreast of the new developments.
• National Treasury, in collaboration with departments such as the DPSA and Public Works and Infrastructure, must conduct a cost-benefit analysis of implementing hybrid work arrangements for selected non-essential service departments in order to identify possible cost-saving measures and possible once-off cost drivers as a basis to generate resources to fund critical areas of need, including the rapid adoption of technology-enabled solutions and provision of other essential services to the public.
Gxoyiya noted that the findings of the study suggest that existing primary legislation and policies were and are still silent on the practice of working from home or hybrid work arrangements.
“During the lockdown period, the gap had to be addressed through the passing of new regulations, directions and guidelines to enable departments to put measures in place to comply with the COVID-19 regulations whilst still ensuring work continuity.
“The study documents a combination of positive and negative practices/experiences, including notable innovative measures that were put in place by public service departments, as well as the commitment of many employees who put their lives at risk in order to provide services to the public,” Gxoyiya said.
Gxoyiya said there were challenges noted with regard to the implementation of the hybrid work arrangement which included, amongst others, capacity constraints; additional expenses that were not budgeted for; inaccessibility of some service sites when some staff members tested positive for COVID-19; inconsistent practices in granting employees permission to work from home between and within departments, and lack of appropriate tools of trade for some employees.
“Performance was managed differently according to the different departments and in some instances, it varied within the different units in the respective departments,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 03/11/2024 - 13:16
Government working to address South Africa's gas supply
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) is expected to present a Gas Master Plan to Cabinet this month to address gas supply in the country.
This is according to DMRE Minister Gwede Mantashe, who delivered the opening address at the Africa Energy Indaba held in Cape Town.
Recent media reports have suggested that South Africa may run out of natural gas supply in 2026, which could have devastating consequences for jobs and manufacturing.
In his written speech, the Minister said government has “noted concerns regarding the current and future gas supply in the South African market due to commercial disputes between Sasol and its customers”.
“Our understanding is that this is in relation to the gas flow decline at source. It is a known fact that natural gas, like other natural resources, is a finite resource and therefore, Sasol reaching a cliff in its gas block in Mozambique is not an anomaly.
“Having noted this eventuality, we, together with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), have established a task team that includes private sector players to develop a joint strategy that will ensure a seamless transition and business continuity, thus ameliorating potential job losses. The DMRE has also completed all the modelling and drafting work for the country’s Gas Master Plan, which we intend to present to Cabinet this month,” the Minister said.
Mantashe emphasised the importance for African countries to invest in gas infrastructure also as a means of transitioning from high carbon emitting energy sources.
“In its 72nd edition of the Statistical Review of World Energy, the Energy Institute states that fossil fuel consumption as a percentage of primary energy remains steady at 82%, whereas renewables’ share of primary energy consumption reached 7.5% in 2022.
“In the same year, the European Union taxonomy declared both nuclear and gas as sustainable and part of transitional activities. It is, therefore, crucial for African nations to invest in gas infrastructure, including expansion of pipelines.
“It is in this context that iGas, a subsidiary of the Central Energy Fund (CEF), acquired an additional 40% ownership of the ROMPCO [Republic of Mozambique Pipeline Investments Company] pipeline, resulting in both South Africa and Mozambique jointly owning 80% of the pipeline,” he said.
To solidify gas supply further, South Africa has entered into a gas sales agreement with the Mozambican State-owned hydrocarbon company which has the potential to “deliver up to 200 petajoules of natural gas”.
“To breathe life into this agreement, PetroSA, another subsidiary of CEF [Central Energy Fund], has applied for a gas trading licence with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa [NERSA]. We are convinced that the granting of this licence will ensure continuous gas supply,” the Minister said.
According to the Minister, South Africa has also made “significant new finds of natural gas”.
“The discovery of gas by TotalEnergies in the Outeniqua Basin, and the discovery of maiden gas reserves by Kinetiko Energy in Amersfoort, Mpumalanga, are strategically placed to strengthen South Africa’s energy security and propel the quest for industrialisation that will bring about growth and development,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 12:17
KZN government engages businesses amid municipal strike
The KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has assured the business community in eThekwini that the provincial government is dealing accordingly with the strike by eThekwini Municipality workers.
READ | eThekwini Municipality obtains court interdict against striking workers
Dube-Ncube and eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda met with the business community, led by the KZN Growth Coalition, the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and individual businesses to brief them on government’s interventions to deal with the strike which started on 27 February 2024.
The meeting comes after a meeting held between the provincial government and the municipality to devise practical solutions to protect infrastructure and citizens from what the province has called “clear sabotage”.
Highlighting the progress made to deal with the situation, Dube-Ncube said a technical task team, including officials from all spheres of government, has been established to implement coordinated interventions by the relevant departments.
To address the challenge of intimidation and attacks on non-striking workers, Dube-Ncube said the Metro Police and private security have been sourced to escort staff to service delivery points, including the clearing of roads, electricity faults, water leaks, burst pipes and refuse removal.
“Both the municipal and provincial law enforcement agencies are on high alert and will act without any fear on the acts of impunity. We are confident that this intervention will allow staff to respond to reservoirs overflowing or running empty, valves being closed, burst pipes and water leaks.
“As part of the business continuity plan, the municipality has made provision for some key employees to work remotely. Contractors have also been engaged to do some work, such as refuse collection and attending to water and electricity faults,” Dube-Ncube said.
A team has also been set up to analyse all video footage of the destruction of property, including the abuse of State vehicles that were in the hands of municipality officials who participated in the illegal strike.
The Premier said this process is well underway, warning that “culprits are being identified through internal processes and they will be arrested soon”.
She said the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has provided a four-person team to fast-track the disciplinary action of those who would be found to have been involved in untoward behaviour.
“The eThekwini leadership will meet with the leadership of the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) to explain to them that no amount of grievances should result in destruction of infrastructure and denying citizens their rights to basic services.
“Importantly, those who are involved in this anarchy will be liable for litigation for damages. Our legal units have been tasked to analyse that area,” Dube-Ncube said.
The municipality has further engaged the Department of Water and Sanitation, COGTA and Umgeni-Uthukela Water to provide technical assistance and additional water tankers.
Through Operation Sukuma Sakhe, the Premier said all field workers have been activated in the province to conduct clean-up operations throughout the city, as part of Operation Mbo (an integrated service delivery events within a particular area to ensure services are delivered to many community members at the same time).
On the strike, Dube-Ncube said the municipality has not received a memorandum of grievances or petition from SAMWU, apart from the Ekurhuleni Municipality pay scale, which was submitted to the Office of the City Manager on 27 February 2024.
“Based on the information submitted, it would seem that SAMWU is demanding pay parity to that of Ekurhuleni Municipality and/or implementation of Category 10 pay scales. The matter regarding the implementation of the Wage Curve is still under negotiation at national level, as it is a national competence,’’ Dube-Ncube said.
The municipality has since obtained an urgent interdict in the Labour Court, which prohibits the striking employees from intimidating, harassing, assaulting, threatening or perpetuating acts of violence against employees, service providers or those accessing offices or workstations.
“We want to emphasise that all spheres of government are working together to resolve this challenge and we are in discussion with the national government to support the city and province through the provision of intelligence services and deployment of additional police officers in key hotspots to enhance safety and security capacity,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 14:33
With the Christmas season upon us and one full year of full time running of our Straton Prepaid online store specialising in prepaid water and electricity meters we have realised that having an online store is something tthat can be very demanding at certain times of the year. One of the items in our Straton …
Black Sash predicts “devastating” effect on grant recipients in rural areas
President mourns loss of life in Impala Platinum Mine tragedy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the death of 11 mineworkers at Impala Platinum Mine Shaft 11, in Rustenburg in the North West.
Several other miners were injured on Monday afternoon when they were being hoisted up to surface level when the conveyance they were in, suddenly started descending rapidly.
“The President offers his deep condolences to the families of the deceased mineworkers.
“The President extends his thoughts to the management and staff of Implats and wishes the injured workers, especially those who are in critical care, a full recovery,” the Presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.
President Ramaphosa has called on all stakeholders to assist the Chief Inspector of Mines in the investigation that will be undertaken in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act.
According to the Presidency, this process is vital to protecting mineworkers in line with the industry’s Zero Harm objectives and enabling operational continuity in mines.
Meanwhile, Mineral Resources and Energy Minister, Gwede Mantashe, has assured that his department will investigate the accident. Mantashe visited the mine on Tuesday following the accident. -SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 09:22
Bureau Veritas (https://group.BureauVeritas.com), a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification, announces that Bureau Veritas's AgriFood Laboratory in Cape Town has successfully completed a solar power and back up energy project that enables it to operate independently of the national electricity grid of South Africa.
Bureau Veritas has taken a bold step toward undertaking a solar and back up project that allows it to sustain its business continuity for its Cape Town AgriFood Laboratory. This development not only allows the laboratory to operate at full capacity, 24 hours a day and without interruptions, but it also represents a significant stride toward the Group's objectives and ongoing commitment to environmental sustainablity through reduced Carbon Emmisions.
Joanne Barton, Managing Director, Bureau Veritas AgriFood Labaratories, said: “Our transition to solar power has energised our team in Cape Town due to the reliability of our new system. We are delighted that we are able to serve our clients with 100% uptime, ensuring uninterrupted service and a brighter, more sustainable future for our community.
Gavin Hefer, District Chief Executive for Southern Africa, Bureau Veritas, commented: “We are extremely pleased with the team at our AgriFood Lab that has contributed to a project that allows us to better serve our clients in the Western Cape region. As a company that is committed to reducing our carbon footprint, it is imperative that we continue to relieve the national grid of pressure and operate in a way that is sustainable and environmentally responsible while delivering services to our clients without interruptions.”
Operating out of Brackenfell, in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, Bureau Veritas' AgriFood Laboratories, an ISO 17025:2017 SANAS accredited laboratory, is ideally situated to service role-players in the region's industrial hubs, as well as those operating the winelands, farming region, fruit orchards, wheatlands and rooibos fields, together with their associated value chains from coast to coast.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Bureau Veritas.
Media contacts:
Prince Cekeshe
+260 542 9824
Prince.Cekeshe@bureauveritas.com
Peter Moopela
+27 81 399 9737
jhbmandlsales@bureauveritas.com
About Bureau Veritas:
Bureau Veritas is a world leader in laboratory testing, inspection and certification services. Created in 1828, the Group has circa 84,000 employees located in nearly 1,600 offices and laboratories around the globe. Bureau Veritas helps its 400,000 clients improve their performance by offering services and innovative solutions in order to ensure that their assets, products, infrastructure and processes meet standards and regulations in terms of quality, health and safety, environmental protection and social responsibility.
Bureau Veritas is listed on Euronext Paris and belongs to the CAC 40 ESG, CAC Next 20 and SBF 120 indices.
Compartment A, ISIN code FR 0006174348, stock symbol: BVI.
For more information, visit www.BureauVeritas.com, and follow us on Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/47vbZMJ) (@bureauveritas) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/46yBcEv).
Productivity SA is pleased to announce that the 6-day strike initiated by members of NEHAWU from November, 13, 2023 has been called off after the parties successfully reached an agreement on Monday, November 20, 2023, for a five (5) percent salary increase for employees at levels 12 and below. The salary increase for the 2023/24 …
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Former Transnet executives pension payouts interdicted
The Special Tribunal has handed down an order interdicting the pension payouts of two former Transnet executives linked to fruitless and wasteful expenditure of about R33.5 million at the state-owned entity.
The two are former executive managers responsible for group business continuity and disaster management Lerato Mary Theresa Makenete and former executive manager for safety, Landela Hawkins Madubane. Their pension funds amount to some R8.9 million.
The application for the order was brought to the court by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the state-owned freight rail and logistics company.
“Transnet initiated and called on the support of the SIU to investigate this matter and requested the support of the SIU to expand and complete the investigations. An investigation by the SIU into the affairs of Transnet has revealed that Makenete and Madubane allegedly colluded with three service providers to abuse Transnet's emergency procurement process during COVID-19.
“During the emergency procurement…Transnet contracted Ramoyadi Air Conditioning, Ndzalo2 Trading and Eagles Ropes to deliver over a million disposable breathalyser straws. Makenete and Madubane allegedly colluded with suppliers to defraud Transnet by inflating the price of the straws from R0.29 per straw to R29.99 per straw, resulting in a total payment of R33 834 698.40,” the SIU and Transnet said in a joint statement.
The two institutions have initiated proceedings against Makenete and Madubane in an attempt recover the financial losses suffered by Transnet due to the overpayment and brought an application to review and set aside the contracts.
“Following the conclusion of the investigation, the SIU made disciplinary referral to Transnet against Makenete and Madubane. Transnet actioned the referral, however, they both failed to appear for disciplinary hearings, but the proceeding continued in their absence. The duo was found guilty and dismissed.
“[The] SIU refers any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 10:29
Introduction: Running a business comes with its fair share of risks, which is why insurance is a crucial part of safeguarding your investment. In South Africa, there are several insurance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses. Whether you are looking to protect your business partners, key employees, or mitigate contingent liabilities, there …
President Ramaphosa appoints Judges to High Court Divisions
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Judges to the Supreme Court of Appeal, the Gauteng Division of the High Court and the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court.
The President appointed the following Judges in terms of Section 174(6) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, and on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission:
(i) Madam Justice Fayeeza Kathree-Setiloane as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, with effect from 01 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;
(ii) Madam Justice Anna Maleshane Kgoele as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal, with effect from 01 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;
(iii) Adv Soraya Khatija Hassim SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;
(iv) Adv Omphemetse Mooki SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;
(v) Adv Jacobus Johannes Strijdom SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;
(vi) Adv Brad Christopher Wanless SC as a Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and
(vii) Prof Mbuzeni Johnson Mathenjwa as a Judge of the KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court, with effect from 01 November 2023 in an existing vacancy.
Furthermore, President Ramaphosa has appointed Justice Mogomotsi Edwin Molahlehi as Deputy Judge President of the Labour and Labour Appeal Courts with effect from 1 November 2023 in an existing vacancy.
The appointment of Justice Molahlehi was done in terms of Section 153 (1)(b) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Court.
In terms of Section 169(1) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Appeal Court, President Ramaphosa has appointed:
(i) Madam Justice Madeline Portia Nompi Nkutha-Nkontwana as a Judge of the Labour Appeal Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy;
(ii) Madam Justice Katherine Mary Savage as a Judge of the Labour Appeal Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and
(iii) Mr Justice André Johann Van Niekerk with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy.
Additionally, President Ramaphosa has, in terms of Section 153(4) of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Act 66 of 1995), acting on the advice of NEDLAC and the Judicial Service Commission and after consultation with the Minister of Justice and the Judge President of the Labour Court, appointed the following judges:
(i) Adv Kelsey Allen-Yaman as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 1 December 2023, in an existing vacancy;
(ii) Mr Reynaud Neil Daniels as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 01 January 2024, in an existing vacancy; and
(iii) Mr Molatelo Robert Makhura as a Judge of the Labour Court with effect from 1 January 2024, in an existing vacancy.
“These appointments will ensure continuity in the administration of justice at all levels and centres of the judiciary.
“President Ramaphosa wishes the newly appointed justices well as they take up their new roles in upholding the rule of law in the country,” the Presidency said in a statement. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 11/07/2023 - 13:32
Cabinet affirms value of AGOA
Cabinet has welcomed the confirmation by both the United States Administration and Congress of the intention to extend AGOA, which brings certainty to the investment community in eligible countries.
“Cabinet has always asserted that the African Growth and Opportunity Act [AGOA] provides an opportunity for the United States of America to strengthen its economic relationship with Africa and thus it must be extended for a meaningful period, enhanced to make it impactful and attractive,” said Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni on Monday.
The 20th AGOA Forum was hosted in Johannesburg last week and it concluded on Saturday.
The forum, held from 2 - 4 November 2023, brought together participants from 32 Africa countries from government, business, civil society and organised labour, for the first time, including representatives of the United States government.
BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting
Cabinet has also welcomed the successful conclusion of the 2023 BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting held in Cape Town, which committed member nations to deeper cooperation and to promote intra-BRICS tourism, develop routes for better tourism mobility and connectivity among the member countries.
Ntshavheni said this will further strengthen South Africa’s tourism sector, which is already showing signs of recovery.
“For the first eight months of 2023, the country saw 5.5 million arrivals, which represented a 63.4% increase from the same period in 2022,” the Minister said.
Held in Cape Town on 24 October 2023, the BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting provided an opportunity for exchange of information and experiences, as well as deepening cooperation among BRICS members to reach consensus on key policy priorities for a balanced tourism recovery.
To ensure continuity and to leverage on the combined strength of BRICS member States, South Africa’s theme for chairing the meeting was: “Sustainable and inclusive tourism recovery”, which aligns to the overall theme of SA’s chairship. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/06/2023 - 14:21
The “energy trilemma” of delivering lower carbon energy that is affordable and secure is an issue facing all businesses and policymakers in the energy space. We believe that the world’s leading energy companies meaningfully want to achieve all three priorities. In January 2023, the New York Times reported that 2022 was the fifth-hottest year on …