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R200k in prize money, eight qualifiers nationwide, culminating in one epic gaming showdown… this is the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2024! The fourth leg of this year’s HYPROP MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience played out at Clearwater Mall on Gauteng’s West Rand, from 12 to 14 July 2024. South Africa’s biggest mall-based gaming showdown turned into …
Discovery Channel’s Shark Week is airing in South Africa on Discovery Channel Africa, DStv channel 121, and this evening, Zandile Ndhlovu, also known as The Black Mermaid, stars in Monster Hammerheads: Species X at 18:30. To amplify her message of shark conservation, she is also lead an exclusive ocean excursion today at the The Aliwal …
Government working hard to prevent cybercrime - Ntshavheni
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has assured the public of government’s commitment to prevent cybercrime.
This follows the recent media statement issued by Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson, in which he said about R300 million was allegedly siphoned off from DPWI through cybercrime in the past 10 years.
The statement continued to say the cyber attackers again stole R24 million in May this year.
According to the statement, the revelation emerged as Minister Dean Macpherson and Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala were conducting detailed assessments on the work of the department and through the incoming briefings from department branches.
“I cannot discount the possibility of collusion between officials and criminals in this prolonged period of theft. It is clear that we need better financial controls, which I have said to the department are a matter of urgency,” Macpherson said in the statement.
Following the discovery, four DPWI officials have been suspended and 30 laptops seized by investigators.
The four officials suspended include three senior management officials and one middle management official.
In May, the department announced that it had ordered a full forensic probe into what it called vulnerabilities in the department’s information and technology systems.
The department identified the cyber-security vulnerabilities with the assistance of its banking partners, including ABSA and the South African Reserve Bank.
The investigation, which involves cyber and ICT security experts, covers the following:
• Causes of the breach and vulnerabilities.
• Vulnerability and susceptibility to cyber-crime of the ICT infrastructure within the department.
• Lack of staff capacity and weak ICT systems.
Ntshavheni said the State Security Agency (SSA) has been inundated with media enquiries following the statement from the DPWI.
“The investigation is ongoing, and investigating teams were urged to work with speed to conclude their work without compromising the required thoroughness of the investigation,” Ntshavheni said.
She said the SSA continues to provide support and advice to government departments on cybersecurity.
“The SSA is finalising a consolidated assessment on government's cybersecurity strengths and initiatives underway to address any weaknesses found in the system,” Ntshavheni said.
Ntshavheni said once the report has been completed, it will be submitted to the National Security Council for further processing and direction. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 07/11/2024 - 09:30
Introduction Mammograms are a critical tool in the early detection of breast cancer. This blog provides essential information on mammograms, their importance, and what to expect during the screening process. What is a Mammogram? A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast used to detect early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the …
The online platform built by RecoMed for Discovery Vitality makes booking health checks and vaccines as simple as a few clicks. • Discovery Vitality members can book their flu vaccine at more than 1,000 locations • Users can find their nearest Discovery Vitality accredited centre and make an instant booking for either a Vitality Health …
Bekushubile eLyric Theatre when Skhumba, Loyiso Gola, Chester Missing, John Vlismas, David Kau, and others took aim at Mzansi at the Comedy Central Roast of Democracy in partnership with Nando’s recently. Nando’s, renowned for its cheeky and chic style and knack for social commentary, served up more than the usual this time. During the Comedy …
The wait is over! Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, the longest-running and most anticipated TV event in history, returns to South Africa on Monday, 15 July, on Discovery Channel Africa (DStv channel 121). Hosted by the one and only John Cena, this year promises groundbreaking discoveries, thrilling encounters, and a spotlight on South Africa’s very own …
Arms cache, drugs discovered in Goodwood apartment
A suspect who was arrested at the weekend during a routine stop and search procedure by members of the police’s Flying Squad will make his first court appearance in Athlone in the Western Cape on Monday.
The suspect was discovered with an arms cache and a substantial quantity of drugs and arrested in Goodwood.
According to a statement by the South African Police Service (SAPS), vigilant Flying Squad members were drawn to a suspicious silver Ford double cab bakkie, which prompted them to stop and search the vehicle and the occupant.
The search resulted in the discovery of an unlicensed 9mm firearm, drugs and a substantial amount of cash.
The 28-year-old driver was arrested and interrogated which led the SAPS to an apartment in the Bergzicht complex, situated in Goodwood.
There a further 19 firearms of various calibers were found, including an AK47 assault rifle, a shotgun and other automatic and semi-automatic firearms, as well as an assortment of drugs valued at R3 million.
“We have reason to believe that the apartment, which is leased in the suspect’s name, was never used as a residence, but rather a storing facility for the firearms and the drugs,” the South African Police Service said in a statement.
“As our investigation unfolds, the possibility that more suspects can be apprehended is not excluded. The arrest of the suspect and subsequent seizure are deemed a step in the right direction to tackle gangsterism in the Province,” the police said.
The Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile commended the members who effected the arrest and said detectives assigned to the case will dig deeper to uncover more as “this could be the tip of the iceberg” in their investigation. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 09:55
Cartoon Network Africa, the leading kids’ TV channel in South Africa, is partnering with the local E-Waste Recycling Authority (ERA) as part of its Climate Champions initiative. The collaboration aims to educate and empower children about the increasing challenge of electronic waste. As a registered Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO), ERA is dedicated to improving e-waste …
Layla Arrison is tackling stereotypes and scoring big in the hard-hitting world of rugby. Recently, she made waves as the first English female commentator for SuperSport, debuting at the electrifying Singapore Sevens Rugby Tournament on World Rugby Day. Layla’s journey from a rugby-loving girl to a groundbreaking commentator is a thrilling story of passion, grit, …
In 2022 the High Court ruled that the fund could not withhold payments for past medical expenses covered by medical aids
In the dynamic realm of podcasting, where voices transcend boundaries and ideas spark revolutions, one name stands out as a beacon of conversational alchemy: Ursula Mariani. Host, co-producer, devoted mother, lecturer, and relentless podcaster, Ursula embodies the essence of meaningful dialogue and transformative encounters. At the core of Ursula’s ethos lies a simple yet profound …
Unleashing Innovation: The 2024 BCX Digital Innovation Awards Ignite South Africa’s Tech Future! 12 June 2024, Centurion: The BCX Digital Innovation Awards are back, and this year’s event promises to be more thrilling than ever! Celebrating its sixth anniversary, the competition has evolved into the premier stage for trailblazing technology professionals and forward-thinking organisations across …
In honor of World Environment Day for the month of June, Discovery Channel Africa proudly presented the premiere of X Trillion, a compelling documentary that highlighted the urgent issue of plastic pollution in our oceans. The special screening took place on Discovery Channel Africa on Saturday, 8 June, at 18:00 CAT. X Trillion follows the …
Oil and gas exploration company Eco (Atlantic) – through its wholly-owned subsidiary Azinam South Africa – has signed a farm-in deal with energy company Tosaco Energy for a 75% working interest in Block 1 - located in the offshore South African Orange Basin. Eco (Atlantic) has assumed operatorship of the block, with the remaining 25% stake expected to be transferred to South African company OrangeBasin Oil & Gas. Upon completion of the transaction, Eco (Atlantic) will assume control of one of the largest blocks in the Orange Basin.
The African Energy Chamber (AEC) – representing the voice of the African energy sector – believes that this transaction is only the start of a wave of Orange Basin deals in the coming years. Having revealed substantial deposits in neighboring Namibia, the basin stands to play a catalyzing role in driving energy security in South Africa. The AEC commends the efforts by Eco (Atlantic) to unlock undeveloped blocks offshore South Africa and looks forward to a discovery being made in the coming years.
The strategic acquisition is on trend with a strong lineup of companies looking at tapping into the Orange Basin. Since play-opening discoveries were made by energy majors Shell, TotalEnergies and Qatar Energy in 2022, over 15 finds have been made by an assortment of majors and independents. In February 2024, TotalEnergies intersected hydrocarbon-bearing intervals in the Mangetti-1X exploration well in Block 2913B – marking the second discovery made by the company in the basin. TotalEnergies is currently leveraging the Tungsten Explorer drillship to assess reserves available at the well. The discovery followed the company's Venus-1X find made in February 2022. Research firm Wood Mackenzie estimates that Venus alone could hold as much as three billion barrels of oil – making it sub-Saharan Africa's largest oil discovery.
Additionally, in January 2024, multinational energy corporation Galp made its second oil discovery at the Mopane-1X well in PEL 83. Preliminary estimates place over 10 billion barrels of oil at the Mopane field. The company is currently seeking a farm-in partner to develop the block, with a 40% stake in the Mopane discovery up for grabs. Meanwhile, energy major Shell continues to witness a string of success, with its recent Lesedi-1X well – discovered in July 2023 – representing the fourth commercial discovery made by the firm in the Orange Basin. Other finds – namely, Graff-1X, La Rona and Jonker-1X – hold as much as 1.7 billion barrels combined. Shell is currently undertaking an extensive drilling campaign, with up to 25% of the company's 2023-2024 exploration budget being directed towards deepwater exploration in the Orange Basin.
These discoveries underscore the size and potential of the Orange Basin, with substantial deposits likely extending into South Africa. Block 1 is located on the maritime border of South Africa and Namibia, in close proximity to blocks held by Shell, Galp and TotalEnergies. The block is also situated by the Kudu Development Project – Namibia's inaugural natural gas project with 1.3 trillion cubic feet of reserves. Kudu is poised to be a gamechanger for the country, providing low-cost power and fuel while laying the foundation for gas-driven economic growth. As such, Block 1's proximity means that the asset could likely yield similar developments and the Eco (Atlantic) acquisition is the first step towards realizing this goal.
“The Orange Basin has emerged as one of the most promising offshore plays worldwide in recent years. Exploratory success on the Namibian side of the basin shows strong potential for the South African side, and while exploration in this area has been slow to date, the recent farm-in by Eco (Atlantic) is poised to reverse this trend. The AEC has long-advocated for the need to advance drilling efforts in Africa and the Orange Basin stands to play a transformative role in the region's energy landscape,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chaiman of the AEC. “We look forward to witnessing commercial success across Block 1 and commend Eco (Atlantic) for their commitment to unlocking the potential of this asset.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
18 officers face trial over death-in-custody of Regan Naidoo in 2018
Centurion, South Africa, 29 May 2024 – Calling all fitness fanatics and fun-loving walkers to join the annual Race of Gratitude taking place at Centurion Mall on Saturday, 29 June 2024, starting at 7am. The Race of Gratitude is about connecting the community by creating a social experience. This initiative provides an opportunity for tenant …
Total Ninja South Africa, Africa’s largest Inflatable and Obstacle Park, is proud to announce that is now a Discovery Vitality points-linked fitness facility. This initiative marks a significant milestone for Total Ninja as the business continues to lead the way in family entertainment and wellness initiatives. Discovery Vitality is a dynamic and science-based behaviour-change programme, …
First-ever tour to Africa by one of Carnegie Hall’s three acclaimed National Youth Ensembles to include debut performances in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town from 22 July – 5 August 2024. Program to include big band classics, new arrangements and a new Carnegie Hall-commissioned work by South African composer Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane. Artistic Director and …
[Johannesburg, SA]: Investigation Discovery, the leading true crime network, announced Fallen Idols: Nick and Aaron Carter, a four-part docuseries that delves into the lives of Nick and Aaron Carter. From their outsized fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s to their headline-making struggles in recent years, the docuseries pulls back the curtain on the …
Cape Town, South Africa – Against the backdrop of one of Africa’s most vibrant cities, Decorex Cape Town returns from 6 to 9 June 2024 at the CTICC, showcasing cutting-edge design, curated exhibitions, inspiring talks, and product launches. As part of RX Africa’s commitment to sustainability, Decorex Cape Town 2024 marks a significant step towards …
High schools called to participate in youth water prize competition
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in Gauteng has called on local high schools to participate in the South African Youth Water Prize (SAYWP) competition.
The department made the call during a recent District Eskom Expo held at Johannesburg Sci-Bono Discovery Centre.
The South African Youth Water Prize competition is an important part of the department's education programme and it aims to educate learners and society on various water resource management issues, including water use efficiency, water quality monitoring, protection of water resources, public health and hygiene awareness, and identification of invasive species.
The competition targets Grades 9, 10, and 11 learners who possess innovative ideas and projects that can help tackle the water and sanitation crisis in their communities.
The competition starts at the provincial level to the national level, and then proceeds to the global level in Stockholm, Sweden.
Mphothulo Eulicia from the department’s Gauteng regional office said taking part in the South African Youth Water Prize is a step towards empowering youth to become future leaders in water resource management.
“By encouraging innovation and creativity, the department is nurturing a new generation of problem solvers who can help create a sustainable water future for South Africa,” Eulicia said.
During the District Eskom Expo, the department presented the SAYWP to mobilise schools for the 2025 adjudications and encouraged them to start their preparations early.
Eulicia said that out of the 11 schools who were present at the expo, only five were recognised for the 2025 South African Youth Water Prize, which indicates the high level of competition and the need for schools to immediately start planning and working on their projects.
She said participating in the SAYWP can potentially change the life of a learner for the better, and emphasised the importance of not letting such opportunity slip by.
“The prizes awarded to winners of the competition are quite substantial, including bursaries, laptops, trophies, and cash prizes, among others. These prizes can serve as a stepping stone for the youth towards a brighter future.
“By engaging in these competitions, students not only have the opportunity to showcase their innovative solutions to water and sanitation challenges but also stand a chance to win valuable prizes that can positively impact their educational and career trajectories,” Eulicia said.
A Grade 10 learner from Greenside High School in Johannesburg earned the top spot in the provincial leg of this year’s National South African Youth Water Prize competition with his innovative approach to water resource management.
Yaseen’s brilliant water and sanitation innovation idea won him a prize of R6000, a first-place trophy, and a bursary.
The second place went to Good Hope Secondary School with an awareness project. The school walked away with a prize of R5 000 and a second-place trophy.
The Greenside Secondary School also scooped third place with an awareness project and won a prize of R4 000.
Interested schools can access more information at https://www.dws.gov.za/Projects/SAYWP/contact.aspx or contact Reshoketswe Malepe at MalepeM@dws.gov.za or on 083 8643 493. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 05/22/2024 - 10:49
As the June winter holidays rapidly approach and plans for the winter school break are being finalised, visiting a museum might not be at the top of everyone’s list as part of their holiday activities, especially for those with children. However, International Museum Day, which was celebrated on 18th May, reminds us of museums’ invaluable …
JOHANNESBURG, May 20th, 2024 – While cancer may not be a thing of the past in the very near future, pharmacological science advancements have intensified their efforts, targeting one of humanity’s most formidable adversaries with precision. Several forms of cancer are already manageable as chronic conditions while treatment protocols continue to improve patient quality of …