Commission Confirms Probe Into Magistrate Blose’s Appointment
Blose was once an accused in a high profile corruption matter
Durban
Ethekwini Faces Backlash Over Last-Minute Invites to Homeless Workshop
The invite was a “sop to inclusivity and disrespectful” to stakeholders and homeless people, says Raymond Perrier of the Denis Hurley Centre
Government to host Construction Summit
Government to host Construction Summit
Concerns around the so-called construction mafia, security and other criminal activity at construction sites, as well as the promotion of practical solutions for building crime-free environments within the construction industry, will come under the spotlight at the Construction Summit on Crime-Free Construction Sites next week.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb), will host the summit at the Durban International Convention Centre in KwaZulu-Natal.
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, has expressed his strong commitment to addressing crime at construction sites across the country.
“This is a fulfilment of a promise I made shortly after taking office to host a summit to deal with construction site stoppages nationwide.
“Construction sites should be places where workers build not just structures, but also a sense of safety, respect and trust. Unfortunately, crime has been a persistent challenge in the sector, undermining productivity, escalating costs and putting lives at risk,” Macpherson said.
The Minister committed to working with industry stakeholders to find solutions for safer work environments and underscored the government's dedication to eliminating crime, ensuring that workers return home safely each day.
The SAPS will also play a key part in the stakeholder engagement as law enforcement plays a critical role in maintaining security. Accordingly, Police Minister, Senzo Mchunu, is expected to address the summit to reinforce the role of the police in combatting crime in the sector.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is also expected to speak at Tuesday’s summit.Other Speakers will include the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal and the Mayor of eThekwini.
The cidb, a key partner in ensuring the professionalism and development of the construction industry, is equally dedicated to creating a conducive environment for effective delivery of infrastructure.
Bongani Dladla, CEO of the cidb, highlighted the importance of industry-wide collaboration in promoting security and efficiency in construction.
"We’re looking forward to playing an active role in this summit as we strongly believe that the construction industry is vital to our nation's growth, and addressing crime is essential to protecting both assets and the lives of those who build our future. The cidb is committed to supporting initiatives like the National Construction Summit to set new safety standards and collaborate with the DPWI, law enforcement, and industry partners to make construction sites safer and more efficient,” said Dladla.
The summit will feature a series of expert-led discussions on legislation and policy, security and law enforcement, community engagement, empowerment, skills development and other strategic topics to equip stakeholders with the tools needed to combat crime on construction sites.
It will also provide an opportunity for networking and forging partnerships aimed at improving site security and promoting the safety of workers. - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 09:00
124 views
Durban Police Brutality Case Heads to Trial After Years of Delays
The trial of 14 SAPS officers for the death-in-custody of Regan Naidoo in 2018 has been set down for June 2025
Ngidi Ruled Out of Sri Lanka and Pakistan Inbound Tours
JOHANNESBURG: Proteas Men’s fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, as...
Kwazulu-Natal Education Department Fails to Pay Crèches
The department confirmed there is a grant backlog but declined to give details
KZN commits to economic development, investment growth toward 2030
KZN commits to economic development, investment growth toward 2030
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has underscored the commitment to economic development, trade, and investment growth toward 2030, aligned with the province's broader strategic priorities.
Ntuli reiterated the province’s commitment during the KwaZulu-Natal Trade and Investment Conference currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.
The two-day conference, which started on Monday, aims to promote, brand, and market KwaZulu-Natal as an investment destination, identify and develop investment opportunities, among others.
The conference brings together investors, government leaders, and industry captains to explore and amplify the province’s status as a top investment destination.
Delivering his keynote address on Monday, Ntuli highlighted that over the past decade, KwaZulu-Natal has attracted significant investments in key sectors, especially through developments at the Durban and Richards Bay Ports, two of Africa’s largest and busiest maritime hubs.
“Enhanced container capacity, automation, and infrastructure upgrades have strengthened KZN’s position as a regional logistics powerhouse. Similarly, the Dube Trade Port, adjacent to King Shaka International Airport, has drawn over R2 billion in investments, cementing its role in warehousing, logistics, and agriculture, including the Dube AgriZone, a major hub for export-focused agri-business,” Ntuli said.
Reflecting on the 2019 Provincial Trade and Investment Strategy’s achievements and areas for intensified effort, Ntuli said the strategy targeted R76 billion in new and expansionary investments by 2024. This is alongside the creation of approximately 68 000 jobs and an increase in the province’s national export value to R1.28 trillion.
While projections indicate that the targets may not be fully met by the year’s end, the Premier emphasised the need to redouble efforts in investment initiatives.
“The Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) has fuelled growth in heavy industry and energy, particularly in metals like aluminium and steel, generating jobs and boosting export potential.
“Renewable energy investments, particularly in biomass and solar, have diversified KZN’s energy landscape, with biofuel production from the sugarcane industry enhancing the province’s green economy credentials.”
Growth in the agricultural sector
The Premier also highlighted the province’s strong agricultural sector, which has attracted investments in agro-processing, and supporting industries including sugar refining, dairy processing, and timber.
The Premier said this growth is further supported by a thriving food and beverage industry, pharmaceutical, and packaging sectors, benefiting from proximity to key ports and an expanding consumer base.
Tourism
He said tourism also remains central to KZN’s economy, supported by new hospitality investments, including the reopening of the international Hilton Hotel and the Durban Beach promenade renewal.
READ | Mayor welcomes re-opening of the Hilton Hotel in Durban
Noting KZN’s absence from many long-haul tourist packages, Premier Ntuli stressed the importance of positioning the province as a key destination for international tourism.
Ntuli highlighted several strategic assets crucial to the province’s competitive advantage, and these include expanded port capacities, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) like Richards Bay and Dube TradePort, and streamlined regulatory and tax incentives to attract foreign and local investments.
The Premier urged stakeholders to seize the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which offers KZN unprecedented access to a $3.4 trillion market.
Partnerships
The Premier also addressed issues in freight rail services and port bottlenecks, emphasising that public-private partnerships could unlock efficiencies.
He further called attention to KZN’s role in automotive manufacturing, underscoring opportunities in electric vehicle (EV) component production to tap into Africa’s growing EV market.
“Sustainable growth initiatives, including green hydrogen, biomass, and digital innovation, are essential for positioning KZN as a leader in the renewable and digital economies. Collaboration with local universities and technology firms is building a skilled workforce to support industries like IT, finance, and business outsourcing, further enhancing KZN’s role as a technology and logistics hub,” Ntuli said.
The Premier emphasised the importance of resilient infrastructure, including sustainable energy investments, and inclusive growth that extends to all municipalities, cities, and rural areas.
He issued a call to action for deeper engagement with rural and municipal stakeholders, ensuring these areas are active participants and beneficiaries in KZN’s economic growth. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 11/12/2024 - 13:35
16 views
Former Lottery Executive Fired After Disciplinary Hearing
A number of dismissed lottery officials who have lodged appeals, as well as suspended officials, continue to draw salaries
TNPA appointed Zutari for implementation plan for the Port of Durban
TNPA appointed Zutari for implementation plan for the Port of Durban
The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has appointed Zutari, a leading infrastructure and advisory firm, as the transaction advisor to validate the Island View Precinct Strategy and implementation plan for the Port of Durban.
This appointment is a pivotal move aimed at transforming the liquid bulk sector in South Africa while ensuring security of supply.
“The Island View Strategy, originally approved in 2019, is set to undergo a comprehensive revision to ensure it remains relevant in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.
“Zutari’s role will be to analyse current market trends, review existing strategies and develop a revised comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing the sector's sustainability and operational efficiency. This initiative aligns with TNPA's commitment to implementing global best practices,” it said in a statement.
The Port of Durban’s Island View precinct is a South African national key point, managing approximately 74% of South Africa's liquid bulk imports.
With 12 terminal operators over a 1 545 000 m² area, it handles a variety of products, including petroleum, chemicals and agricultural goods. As part of the country’s transition to sustainable energy, the port will also facilitate the handling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other cleaner energy sources.
Zutari’s role includes ensuring that the strategy benefits both TNPA and the liquid bulk industry while safeguarding supply chain integrity, especially in this major petrochemical hub.
TNPA is committed to ensuring security of supply, improved terminal operational efficiencies, operational continuity, risk management and job preservation with the precinct supporting nearly 2 000 direct and indirect jobs as of 2022.
Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana, Acting TNPA Managing Executive for the Eastern Region, said the Island View Strategy aims to accelerate transformation, ensure a reliable supply of liquid bulk commodities, and increase throughput efficiency.
“The appointment of Zutari is a significant milestone towards achieving these goals. Our collaborative engagement with stakeholders, including Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (formerly known as SAPIA), the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), the Chemical and Allied Industries’ Association (CAIA), and terminal operators, has been crucial in building confidence and identifying areas for cooperation in safeguarding the liquid bulk sector,” said Dweba-Kwetana.
Transnet National Ports Authority is responsible for the safe, effective, and efficient economic functioning of the national port system, which it manages in a landlord capacity. It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa – Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay and Ngqura.
It operates within a legislative and regulatory environment and is governed by the National Ports Act (Act No. 12 of 2005).
For more information visit www.transnetnationalportsauthority.net – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 11/11/2024 - 10:43
44 views
CSA Names Proteas Women Squads To Face England In T20I And ODI Series
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is delighted to announce the Proteas Women’s squads for the forthcoming T20 International (T20I) and...
Imbizo a “demonstration of GNU at work”
Imbizo a "demonstration of GNU at work"
President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the KwaZulu-Natal District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo as a powerful example of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in action.
The President underscored the collaborative efforts of various political leaders to address pressing community issues.
Addressing community members at the Umnini Sportsfield in Umgababa, the President said the imbizo was a fairly productive session.
“As I end, I think we have held a fairly productive imbizo session. Today has been a clear demonstration of how our Government of National Unity is also working. I have Ministers from our various political parties that are part of the GNU.
“I would like to thank them all and I want all the parties in the GNU to see the value of izimbizo. They are important because they enable us to interact with our people and hear their views, and answer their questions and at the same time, follow up on their issues that they have raised,” the President said.
The Presidential Imbizo is a platform for communities to interact with government leaders from all three spheres of government on service delivery challenges, and for the executive to respond to the community on what they are doing to resolve those issues.
Community members gathered at the Umnini Sportsfield raised issues such as crime, unemployment, the rising cost of living and matters concerning education.
The South African Democratic Teachers Union asked President Ramaphosa to intervene on the issue of safety and security at KwaZulu-Natal schools, highlighting previous incidents where teachers were attacked, shot and killed at schools.
Before the Ministers took to the podium to respond to the above issues, President Ramaphosa apologised for the delayed start due to technical issues, stressing the need for better preparedness at such events.
Ministers in the GNU accompanying the President responded to the issues respectively and promised residents that they will follow up and provide solutions.
Turning to the City of eThekwini municipality, the President also spoke about plans to rejuvenate Durban’s tourism sector, which has historically made the city the "holiday mecca" of South Africa.
With tourism numbers currently in decline, President Ramaphosa expressed optimism for a revival through the planned reopening of key hotels like the Hilton and lease renewals for iconic establishments such as the Maharani and Elangeni.
“Durban has been the holiday mecca of our country. Many people from all over the country have always considered Durban when they needed to go on a holiday.
“Tourisms in the province has gone down but the mayor has plans to revive big hotels such as the Hilton Hotel and the renewal of leases by Southern Sun of the Maharani and Elangeni Hotel.
“The business sector has pledged to invest billions of rands to revive tourism, so I am looking forward to the revival of tourism so that Durban can go back to being the jewel of South African tourism. It must once again become the mecca of tourism in SA,” the President said.
Tourism Minister Patricia De Lille said that her department is working hard to rebuild the tourism sector in the province.
“Tourism is a very important sector for this province. It is making a significant contribution to the GDP and economic growth of the province. The tourism sector has gone down in KZN, but we are working hard with the Presidential Task Team and the private sector to rebuild it.”
The Minister said that she has already agreed with the KZN Premier that they will be meeting as a matter of urgency so they can see how they can work together with the plans of the province to do an aggressive marketing campaign to deal with all the negative perceptions around the province.
“For the summer season, the department partnered with the private sector and already we have 440 private sector tourist attractions that are offering discounted deals for the summer season and I want to encourage all South Africans to look at the Shot left site and check the discounts,” de Lille said.
The President also drew attention to ongoing infrastructure challenges, particularly highlighting the partial collapse of a bridge on the N2 highway, which has disrupted local transportation.
He expressed confidence in South African engineers, who have devised a plan to restore the bridge, calling it a testament to the country’s engineering expertise.
“In the morning, I went to the N2 bridge that partially collapsed. The bridge is causing a lot of inconvenience for the people, as it is an important road on the N2," the President said. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 19:08
78 views
Ian Blose Was Suspended as an Attorney in 2022. Yet He Is Still a Practising Magistrate
He was also charged in the 2010 “Amigos” corruption case
Investing in tech key to improving life for people with disabilities
Investing in tech key to improving life for people with disabilities
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Deputy Minister, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, has emphasised the need to invest in the promotion of new technologies and the advancement of assistive technologies to improve the quality life for people with disabilities.
“We must invest in research and development of affordable and accessible technologies that aid communication, mobility and access to information,” Letsike said.
Letsike made the call at the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) symposium in Umgababa, south of Durban, as part of the build-up to the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo that will take place on Friday.
Collaboration between government, private enterprises, academic institutions and organisation of and for people with disabilities, can foster innovation in the ICT field, ensuring that people with disabilities can benefit from the rapid pace of technological progress, the Deputy Minister said.
“This includes promoting digital accessibility and ensuring that emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and automation, are designed with inclusivity in mind. Our emphasis is on a fundamental shift in how we view persons with disabilities, away from the individual medical perspective, to a human rights and developmental perspective.
“It is with this understanding in mind that we affirm supporting autonomy and independent living by promoting policies that enable access to community-based services, personal assistance, and affordable, adaptable housing,” Letsike said.
The Deputy Minister noted ICT's significant contribution to the advancement of disability rights, offering tools that enhance accessibility, inclusion and independence for individuals with disabilities.
Letsike maintained that ICT is not just "a set of tools", but a bridge to a more inclusive, accessible and fair world for people with disabilities.
“By supporting accessible technology, promoting inclusive policies, and advocating for the rights of all, we can continue to break down barriers and build a society that truly values each individual’s unique abilities,” she said.
Reformed social protection scheme
Letsike highlighted the need for a reformed social protection scheme to provide financial support, which will allow individuals with disabilities to live independently, make personal decisions about their care and avoid institutionalisation, where possible.
“This also entails removing barriers to education and employment, enabling persons with disabilities to contribute to society in ways that promote self-sufficiency and empowerment.
"We must remember that human rights are universal principles that protect every individual’s dignity, freedom and equality. They are not privileges or special considerations but inherent to every person simply because they are human,” Letsike said.
Disability Rights Awareness Month
The symposium coincided with Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), observed from 3 November to 3 December.
Held under the theme, “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: Creating a Disability-Inclusive Society for a Better Quality of Life and Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities”, this year’s DRAM reflects on government’s commitment to creating a barrier-free society, where people with disabilities are full and active participants in the country’s economy and society at large.
Each week of DRAM is linked to national strategic priorities and the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
During week one of DRAM, focus will be on growing an economy aligned with the empowerment of persons with disabilities. Week two advocates for the inclusion of every child with a disability. Week three builds a working government with a progressive disability rights agenda, and week four focuses on creating safer communities for persons with disabilities.
“We hope that each one of us, in our respective corners where we operate, will do our bit toward raising awareness on the rights of persons with disabilities during this period,” Letsike said. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 11/07/2024 - 15:12
69 views
Durban Academy gears up to host UCI Pump Track World Championships
Durban Academy gears up to host UCI Pump Track World Championships
The City of Durban is gearing up to host the prestigious 2024 Velosolutions Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Pump Track World Championships Finals, which will take place at the GO!Durban Academy, KwaMashu site, on 9 November 2024.
The event marks the tail end of the 2024 season and is set to bring together the world’s top riders from approximately 20 countries to compete for the World Championship Title.
The first ever to be hosted in a township, the KwaMashu GO!Durban Academy Park was chosen over Cape Town.
Established in 2016, the GO!Durban Cycle Academy features a world-class Velosolutions asphalt pump track right in the heart of KwaMashu.
Velosolutions pump tracks are both playgrounds and training facilities for bikers, skateboarders and scooter riders of all skill levels. Asphalted tracks are hotspots for all kinds of riders, who seek a fun and action-filled sports experience.
EThekwini Transport Authority Acting Head, Nelisiwe Zama, said being chosen to host an event of such magnitude is demonstration of the high standard infrastructure that the GO!Durban Academy has to offer.
“An event of this nature does not only place us on the world map in relation to the cycling sport but has great impact on local tourism, with 60 international riders, accompanied by their teams, and fans staying in Durban. This influx of international visitors will help put Durban on the global tourism map as a 'must visit' destination in South Africa,” Zama said.
The event is also set to benefit youth from townships, as various community-based cycling races will be hosted in the week leading up to the finale.
The top four of the community bike series, including the men and women elite category, will officially qualify for the UCI Pump Track World Championships on Saturday.
“The two winners will receive free hotel accommodation, like all other international winners. The second, third and fourth placed riders will be invited to join the afterparty, rider's briefing, welcome presentation, and will be transported daily from their township to the locations,” Zama said.
Tickets for the UCI Pump Track World Championships finals will be sold at the gate at R50 per person. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 11/07/2024 - 10:36
133 views
Betway SA20 Season 3 Tickets on Sale
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Arts and creative industries can drive behavioural change
Arts and creative industries can drive behavioural change
The arts and creative industries hold the unique power to build empathy and drive behavioural change, says Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike.
Letsike was speaking at a stakeholder engagement on the empowerment of women, youth and people with disabilities held at The Playhouse Company in Durban on Tuesday.
Held under the theme: “Addressing social ills through the creative industry”, the stakeholder engagement addressed the creative industry as a vehicle to highlight the impact of violence against people with disabilities, sex workers, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and intersex (LGBTQI) individuals, and women and children, among others.
The engagement demonstrated other opportunities available to address gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in the communities through sports, arts and culture.
In her address, Letsike said the arts and creative industries hold the unique power to influence social consciousness, build empathy and drive behavioural change.
“Music, theatre, visual arts and storytelling can reach the hearts and minds of audiences, raising awareness and influencing behaviour in ways that traditional methods sometimes fall short of achieving.
"The creative industry also plays a vital role in educational prevention and intervention by using different art forms as vehicles for teaching respect, empathy, and non-violence,” Lestsike said.
Letsike said producing artworks that convey the harsh realities of discrimination and creating powerful theatre productions that depict stories of resilience, the arts can foster crucial conversations around what it means to be a healthy society and nation.
She said the arts can shift societal mindsets and challenge outdated norms that perpetuate violence and discrimination against women, girls and LGBTQIA+ people.
“In this way, the industry becomes not just observers but active participants in reshaping the narrative of our nation. Further, the wide reach of the creative arts fraternity offers long-term, comprehensive, adaptable, context-specific, and holistic approaches to prevention that target all people living in South Africa through its messaging,” Letsike said.
The Deputy Minister underscored the need for citizens to adopt an all-of-society approach, where every individual, community and institution takes an active role toward addressing the country’s social challenges.
She said every South African must understand that ending social challenges is a national obligation for all.
“This is the message that must be carried far and wide by the cultural and creative industries,” the Deputy Minister said.
Letsike encouraged every individual in the industry to continue their “astounding” work that touches the hearts and minds of the nation, and has the potential to turn the tide against violence directed at women, children, LGBTQIA+ people and people with disabilities, and eliminate the social acceptance of all forms of discrimination.
Continues to address GBVF
Letsike said government continues with efforts toward addressing GBVF through the implementation of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF.
“The NSP represents our unified, multi-sectoral approach to addressing this scourge across all levels of society. We have also launched the National Comprehensive GBVF Prevention Strategy, which broadens the scope of our interventions and places particular focus on preventive measures to stop GBVF before it starts.
“To date, these frameworks have led to the establishment of improved survivor support services, enhanced legal frameworks, and strengthened partnerships with civil society and the private sector.
"We continue to work closely with our partners, including community organisations and faith-based groups to ensure that our interventions reach every corner of society,” the Deputy Minister said.
The event was held as a build-up to the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo that will take place on Friday, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will assess service delivery and engage with the people at Umnini Sports Field in Umgababa, south of Durban. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 11/06/2024 - 11:27
234 views
President Ramaphosa to conduct multi-pronged KZN visit
President Ramaphosa to conduct multi-pronged KZN visit
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to embark on a visit to KwaZulu-Natal over the next three days.
The visit will start with the unveiling of the King Shaka Zulu statue at the King Shaka International Airport in Durban, where both the President and King Misuzulu KwaZwelithini will deliver addresses.
“His Majesty King Misuzulu KwaZwelithini and Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli will join the President in officiating this tribute to King Shaka kaSenzangakhona, the founding father of the Zulu nation, whose leadership and military strategy forged one of the most powerful kingdoms in Southern Africa.
“The unveiling of this statue aims to honour the King’s legacy and preserve his memory for future generations. The monument will serve as a symbol of unity, strength, and pride for the people of KwaZulu-Natal and the entire nation, celebrating King Shaka's contributions to Zulu history, culture, and identity,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The unveiling of the statue will be followed by discussions with the provincial executive.
“The President will be accompanied by relevant Ministers and Deputy Ministers in this engagement, which is part of a new series of interactions between the President and provinces aimed at enhancing intergovernmental coordination and improving service delivery, in line with the priorities of the 7th Administration.
“The provincial leadership will present to the President its five-year programme that will respond to the national priorities of securing inclusive economic growth, reducing poverty and building a capable and ethical State.
“The meeting will also discuss interventions to improve service delivery at local government level,” the statement said.
This engagement will conclude with a meeting with the Presidential eThekwini Working Group.
“[President Ramaphosa] will be updated on the work being done to support and accelerate efforts by the eThekwini Municipality to improve service delivery, improve business confidence, and reposition eThekwini as an investment and tourism hotspot.
“Established in February 2024, the Working Group represents an intergovernmental collaborative approach to addressing challenges in local government, and includes active participation from all levels of government, the private sector, State-owned enterprises, organised labour and civil society,” the Presidency explained.
The visit to the province will culminate with an engagement with residents at the Presidential Imbizo.
“On Friday, 8 November, President Ramaphosa and members of national, provincial and local government will hear directly from citizens and organised civil society formations during the Presidential District Development Model (DDM) Imbizo, held under the theme 'Leave No One Behind'.
“The imbizo is a platform that allows citizens to make proposals and ventilate problems directly to the leadership, who in turn respond to these inputs and set out plans for developing communities and the economy in the area visited by the President,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 11/06/2024 - 12:14
170 views
Justice Minister Simelane to visit Durban Magistrate’s Court
Justice Minister Simelane to visit Durban Magistrate's Court
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane, is expected to visit the Durban Magistrate’s Court to assess progress in the implementation of the virtual remand detainee system on Friday.
According to the department, the court has experienced “numerous connectivity challenges that have delayed the roll out the virtual remand detainee system”.
“As part of the visit, the Minister will together with Deputy Minister Andries Nel engage with officials from the Justice, Correctional Services and South African Police Services as well as the magistracy to receive a briefing on how they have experienced the system,” the department said.
The department explained the virtual system is part of the department’s modernisation programme and is used in the “postponement of criminal cases against accused persons who are in custody awaiting trial via a high-quality audio-visual link between the Correctional Centre and the Court”.
“This project is also congruous to the National Development Plan: 2030 which advocates for safer communities in that, it reduces a risk of escape by inmates while at the court or in transit. It also reduces security risk at the court and the propensity of smuggling contrabands and weapons at the holding cells.
“Virtual hearings have been implemented successfully across most courts in KwaZulu-Natal Province with 169 virtual trials already conducted at the Durban Magistrates Court. This happened in the current financial year (2024/25) with connections with witnesses from other Provinces, as well as from the UK, USA, Dubai, Scotland, and Zimbabwe.
“This technology has been extended for use in the remand of detainees. The courts in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, along with the correctional facilities to which they are linked, are now operational,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 11/06/2024 - 13:20
137 views
Battle Over Land in Kwazulu-Natal
Since 2022, people have been trying to occupy land in Rocky Ridge in KwaDukuza
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United Kingdom (UK) Visa Services in South Africa Are Now Available in PE/GQ Through VFS Global
VFS Global (www.VFSGlobal.com) are proud to announce that residents of South Africa, travelling to the UK can now book appointments to submit their visa applications through VFS Global's new state-of-the-art Visa Application Centres located in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth and Pretoria.
Effective 22 October 2024, customers applying for a UK visa will be directed to VFS Global to book an appointment to complete their visa application. Customers will also have the option to choose additional services designed to make the application process easier.
Commenting on the launch of the new Centres, Mr. Alok Singhal, Head- Sub-Saharan Africa, VFS Global, said, “We are excited to embark on this new journey with UK Visas and Immigration here in South Africa. We have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with UK Visas and Immigration since 2003 and look forward to now bringing travellers from South Africa our best-in-class services.”
UK visa customers can now choose from a range of optional services offered by VFS Global to provide enhanced comfort and convenience. These include document upload assistance, Prime Time for application submission outside of business hours, SMS notifications, document checking service, and courier return of the passport once a decision has been made.
Customers can also submit their UK visa applications from the comfort and safety of their home, office or any other preferred location with our On Demand Mobile Visa service. VFS Global's Keep My Passport While Applying service allows customers to keep their passports once their application is submitted and biometrics have been enrolled. Customer will only need to re-submit their passport when a decision is reached.
The services can be booked in advance on https://apo-opa.co/4f4Yw1G or at the Visa Application Centre at the time of the appointment. These services are completely optional and have no bearing on the processing timeline and outcomes of visa applications.
As a partner to the UK Visas and Immigration since 2003, VFS Global offered visa services in 58 countries before the new contract and has now been awarded the contract to provide UK visa services in 142 countries worldwide. In the African region, VFS Global will provide Visa Application Centres for the UK in 31 countries, from October 2024.
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UK Visa Application Centres in South Africa Cape Town: 2 Long Street, 9th floor, nr 2 on Long Street, 8001 Port Elizabeth: Greyville House, 3rd Floor, Greyville House Building, Corner of Ring Road, Caper Road & Greyville Road, Greenacres Durban: Glass House, 309 Umhlanga Rocks Drive, Umhlanga Johannesburg: Rivonia Village, 3rd, Cnr Rivonia Boulevard and Mutual Road, Sandton, 2128 Pretoria: The Podium at Menlyn - 4th Floor, 43 Ingersol Rd, Lynnwood Glen, 0081 |
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KwaZulu-Natal not a haven for criminals, warns Premier
KwaZulu-Natal not a haven for criminals, warns Premier
With the festive season approaching, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has sent a strong warning to criminals that the police will intensify efforts to prevent criminal activities from taking place in the province.
“KwaZulu-Natal is not a haven for criminals and police will do all in their power to curb criminality wherever and whenever it rears its ugly head,” Ntuli said.
Ntuli sent the warning during a crime crackdown in the Durban city centre, which led to the arrest of more than 30 people found without legal documentation to be in South Africa.
In a concerted effort to rid the Durban city centre of crime and criminal elements, Ntuli joined law enforcement authorities in a high-impact operation targeting shops employing undocumented foreign nationals on Tuesday.
The joint raid, led by Ntuli and the provincial Police Commissioner, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, included an inspection of foreign-owned spaza shops and establishments suspected of selling counterfeit goods.
The raid highlighted the provincial government’s commitment to making Durban a safer place for residents, business owners, and visitors.
With increased vigilance and coordination between provincial authorities and law enforcement agencies, Ntuli said KwaZulu-Natal aims to ensure that criminal elements are rooted out and that communities feel safe in their own neighbourhoods.
Ntuli affirmed that the operation is just one of many measures to ensure a secure environment for citizens and tourists.
The Premier emphasised the police will intensify their efforts to prevent criminal activities from taking root in the province.
“Our message is clear: criminality will not be tolerated, and we will pursue justice wherever and whenever it is needed,” Ntuli said.
The Premier reiterated that the provincial government, alongside local law enforcement, is committed to maintaining peace and security across the region and reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance on crime.
Restoring safety within communities
Meanwhile, during his visit to the families of four people who tragically lost their lives during a brutal attack in Estcourt, Ntuli emphasised the urgent need for justice and the importance of restoring safety within communities.
Ntuli visited the families on Monday following the attack that claimed the lives of four members of the Mazibuko family, aged 45, 57, 60 and 61. Three victims died at the scene, while two others sustained injuries; and one later succumbed to their injuries.
The incident took place during a traditional celebration at a homestead in Nyezane, where six heavily armed suspects stormed the gathering and opened fire on Sunday afternoon.
According to police reports, the suspects, who wore masks, carried out the assault in a violent and calculated manner, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, law enforcement authorities launched an intelligence-driven investigation, which led to swift apprehension of a 28-year-old suspect.
The arrest marked a crucial step in the pursuit of justice for the Mazibuko family and the affected community.
During his visit, Ntuli expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families, acknowledging the profound pain caused by such senseless violence.
The Premier pledged his administration’s commitment to tackling violent crime in the province.
“This is a tragic loss, not only for the Mazibuko family but for the entire community. We stand in solidarity with those affected and are determined to see that those responsible for this heinous act are held accountable,” Ntuli said.
He said the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, alongside law enforcement agencies, remains dedicated to supporting the bereaved families and working towards a safer, more secure province for all its citizens. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/30/2024 - 11:59
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