Dolphins and Western Province Set for 4-Day Series Opener
JOHANNESBURG: As the 2024/25 T20 Challenge concluded this past weekend, the focus shifts to red-ball cricket with the 4-Day Series commencing...
Durban
Durban in the News 31 October 2024
First URC coaching scalp claimed: Munster and the IRFU have made a shock announcement that Graham Rowntree has left the club with immediate effect, ending his tenure as head coach by mutual consent. Rowntree, who took over as head coach from Johann van Graan for the 2022-23 season, led Munster to the Vodacom URC title in …
Durban in the News 30 October 2024
Spirit of charity celebrated at Comrades’ annual awards | Rising Sun Newspapers: The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) proudly hosted the annual Spirit of Comrades Awards Gala, in partnership with the Government Employee Medical Scheme (GEMS) on Friday, October 18. This prestigious event, held in Durban, celebrated the exceptional qualities of selflessness, dedication, perseverance, and Ubuntu that …
Durban in the News 29 October 2024
Durban’s amazing urban wildlife | The Green Scene podcast: We have some incredible wildlife that lives alongside us in Durban’s urban gardens, in our homes, and across the country. Our gardens are mini ecosystems. You’ll find a variety of wildlife such as geckos, skinks, frogs, and snails like the Common Diadem and African Monarch. Birds like …
Investigator appointed to probe allegations of special treatment of certain inmates
Investigator appointed to probe allegations of special treatment of certain inmates
Department of Correctional Services (DCS) National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, has appointed a senior official at the department to investigate allegations of special treatment of wealthy inmates – specifically Durban businessman Thoshan Panday – at Westville Correctional Centre.
“In light of the gravity of these allegations, Commissioner Thobakgale has appointed a senior official, at the level of Deputy Commissioner to conduct a thorough investigation.
“The appointed investigator will examine and clarify the validity of the accusations, with a focus on determining whether any inmate(s) have received privileges or treatment inconsistent with DCS policies and standards,” the department said in a statement.
The department emphasised that it was committed to “upholding fairness and equality in the treatment of all incarcerated individuals, regardless of their financial or social standing”.
“Beyond this specific investigation, the appointed investigator will study the standard operating procedures within the facility in order to ensure that they align with the principles of integrity, impartiality, and fairness that are fundamental to the correctional system.
“Operational practices must be consistently applied across all 243 correctional facilities in the country.
“The National Commissioner emphasised that the Department of Correctional Services remains steadfast in its mission to administer corrections with accountability and transparency,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 12:33
139 views
SA’s cruise season officially underway
SA's cruise season officially underway
The docking of the World Odyssey at the Port of Cape Town signifies the beginning of South Africa’s cruise season, which will see the docking and sailing of 268 passenger liners at the commercial seaports operated by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA).
The vessel arrived on 22 October 2024 at the port renowned for being a popular stopover for cruise liners and was recently voted as Africa’s Leading Cruise Port in the 31st Annual World Travel Awards.
Sailing under the flag of the Bahamas, the World Odyssey cruise liner brought approximately 538 international tourists onboard, paving the way for a projected 130 000 tourists anticipated to visit Cape Town during this cruise season.
The 268 scheduled passenger liners, represents an increase of 29% from 207 call-ins in the previous year.
These vessels will pull along at seven South African commercial seaports, with Cape Town set to welcome 88 call-ins, 47 for Durban, 43 for Gqeberha, 27 for Mossel Bay, five for Saldanha, 14 each for Richards Bay and East London.
“The upsurge in the anticipated vessel call-ins this season supports the strategic positioning of South Africa’s ports as key drivers of economic growth and gateways for international trade.
“The cruise liner segment is one of the fastest-growing contributors to the country's GDP through tourism revenue. As TNPA, we look forward to collaborating with cruise tourism stakeholders to support the growth of the economy.
“Building on the success of the previous cruise season, TNPA continues to provide reliable marine services as well as creating berth capacity to enable an efficient cruise vessel service,” said Advocate Phyllis Difeto, the TNPA Acting Chief Executive.
TNPA anticipates that more vessels will be confirmed as the cruise season progresses.
TNPA 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 also operates within a legislative and regulatory environment and is governed by the National Ports Act (Act No. 12 of 2005). – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 10/28/2024 - 12:49
63 views
Durban in the News 28 October 2024
Rowntree rues Munster’s power deficit and missed opportunities : …continue reading HERE. Global success for uMhlanga masters swimmer | Northglen News: It has been a busy year for uMhlanga resident Carryl van Bassen on the local and international scene, both in the pool and in open water. In March this year, the 60-year-old competed at the World …
Durban in the News 25 October 2024
Patient sets herself alight, causing fire at Durban hospital: …continue reading HERE. eThekwini mayor’s high hopes for the city: eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba believes he’s made significant progress in key areas since taking office. Xaba gave an update on his 100 days in office. The city has been facing issues of water supply, poor …
Durban in the News 24 October 2024
Transnet sheds light on efforts to improve equipment failure: Component parts for 20 straddle carriers used at Durban Container Terminals (DCT) will be received by the end of November, Transnet has said in response to questions about nagging equipment inefficiencies at DCT Pier 2. The questions were sent to the state-owned logistics utility to shed more …
The SIU welcomes the arrest of former Transnet CEO
The SIU welcomes the arrest of former Transnet CEO
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) welcomes the arrest and court appearance of former Transnet Group Capital (TGC) Chief Executive Officer Herbert Msagala.
He appeared before the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crime Court on fraud, corruption, theft and money laundering charges.
Following his first appearance, Msagala was granted R60 000 bail.
The arrest and court appearance follows a thorough investigation by the SIU, which uncovered that Msagala unduly benefited from kickbacks worth over R26 million from IGS Consulting Engineering, which he allegedly used to purchase properties and vehicles.
The SIU's investigations focused on contracts totalling over R194 million that TGC awarded to IGS Consulting Engineering.
These contracts were related to maintaining and upgrading high-pressure pipeline infrastructure as part of the New Multi-Product Pipeline project, which transports various fuel products from Durban to Gauteng.
Msagala improperly benefited from kickbacks exceeding R26 million from IGS Consulting Engineering. The SIU investigated under the authorisation of Proclamation No. 11 of 2018.
In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act (SIU Act), where the SIU finds possible criminal evidence, it must refer the evidence to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.
In 2020, the SIU made criminal referrals against Msagala and others, which led to him being charged alongside two individuals and IGS Consulting Engineering being charged as an entity. While the individuals are yet to appear in court, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) is actively tracing their whereabouts.
In July 2020, the SIU obtained a preservation order from the Special Tribunal to preserve Msagala’s pension benefits and assets. The assets included 35 luxury vehicles and five properties, which comprised two farms and houses in gated estates, valued at over R18 million.
Msagala attempted to overturn the order but lost his appeal in November of that year. As a result, his properties and pension fund have been forfeited to the State.
The SIU is authorised, under the SIU Act, to initiate a civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud or maladministration.
The criminal case has been postponed to 19 November 2024, to allow for further investigations and to trace the outstanding suspects.
The SIU will continue to support the prosecutorial process and ensure that all individuals implicated in corruption are brought to justice by the law.
The prosecution of Msagala is part of implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy, which sees law enforcement agencies coming together to eradicate corruption in South Africa and ensure the continued cleaning up of government departments from corruption. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 10/23/2024 - 08:58
317 views
Africa urged to act now against climate change
Africa urged to act now against climate change
With climate-driven events such as droughts and floods disrupting agricultural production across the continent, and leading to increasing food insecurity, government has called on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to act now against climate change.
“To counter this, it is essential to promote sustainable agricultural practices, improve irrigation systems, invest in agricultural research and technology, and develop resilient crop varieties,” Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, said on Wednesday in Durban.
He pointed out that Africa’s reliance on natural resources, rain-fed agriculture, and inadequate infrastructure makes it particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
The Deputy Minister was addressing the Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa (EAPASA) Regional Conference, which is taking place under the theme: "SADC Sustainable Synergies".
Singh said integrated environmental management and social tools provide a comprehensive framework for sustainable development, one that balances economic growth, environmental conservation and social equity.
“This integrated approach is vital for addressing the many environmental challenges our continent faces, while simultaneously promoting inclusive growth and resilience. By embracing this method, we ensure that development is not only sustainable but also equitable, benefiting both present and future generations.
“The time to act is now. The environmental challenges we face do not respect borders or timelines, and every day we delay, the cost to our region and our people increases.
“As we transition our key economic sectors towards low carbon, climate resilient and a just society, it is important that our strategic, integrated and environmental impact assessments pay attention to the balance in social, economic and environmental aspects of sustainable development path and ultimately the achievement of our Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC),” the Deputy Minister said.
He emphasised the importance of prioritising a sustainable just transition path that pays attention to addressing the challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality.
South Africa’s just transition path
He said South Africa’s Just Energy Transition (JET) programme has emerged as a crucial response to the climate crisis, setting an ambitious course for the nation to shift away from coal, while building a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy.
“The JET programme has already made strides in diversifying our energy mix by investing in renewable energy sectors such as solar, wind, and green hydrogen.
“We have closed some coal plants and retrained workers, ensuring that the transition is just and inclusive. This transformation is more than just an energy strategy; it is a fundamental reimagining of our future, one that presents profound opportunities for collaboration with SADC countries.
“By working together on cross-border energy projects, technology sharing, and capacity building, we can build a united front that not only mitigates climate change but also spurs economic growth and energy security across the region,” the Deputy Minister said.
He touched on the significance of regional cooperation, which is essential in the quest to balance environmental sustainability with economic development.
“This year marks six years since the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment appointed EAPASA as the sole registration authority under Section 24H of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA).
“It is truly remarkable to witness how, in just six years, this young organization has successfully convened SADC members for the third time in such a short period. This achievement speaks to the tremendous commitment to our region and the greater cause of environmental stewardship.
“As we implement our individual laws and regulations, we must remain mindful that our true success will be measured by how well we collaborate. I urge you to envision the SADC region as a unified entity, one where our systems are integrated and harmonised to enable development that benefits not only our generation but those to come,” the Deputy Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 10/23/2024 - 12:06
29 views
Durban in the News 23 October 2024
New national record set at Durban freediving competition: The Durban Undersea Club (DUC) recently announced that freediver, Shane Jansen van Vuuren, has set a new national freediving record at their inaugural DUC Cup held at Kings Park Pool. Van Vuuren’s new record, in the discipline of Dynamic No Fins (DNF), covered an impressive distance of 155 …
Lenmed Shifa Private Hospital Celebrates the Grand Opening of State-Of-The-Art Surgical Unit
Lenmed Shifa Private Hospital in Durban reports that they are delighted to announce the official opening of their newly revamped Surgical Ward, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to providing specialized care for surgical patients and post-operative recovery. This new ward, with a capacity of 16 beds, has been meticulously designed to ensure the highest standard of …
Promised Land Is a Battleground: Inside a Cato Manor Informal Settlement
Murder and fear stalk eKhenana shack dwellers
Government activities for the week 21 – 25 October 2024
Government activities for the week 21 – 25 October 2024
On Monday, 21 October, the Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela met with the department’s professional service providers and contractors to discuss issues relating to incomplete and delayed road infrastructure projects in the province.
Also on Monday, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, the Minister of Electricity and Energy, briefed the media on the Independent Power Producer Programme.
On Tuesday, 22 October, President Cyril Ramaphosa will participate at the XVI BRICS Summit, in Kazan, Russia.
Also on Tuesday, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, will launch the National Strategic Hub at Emperors Palace, Kempton Park.
On Wednesday, 23 October, the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Narend Singh, will deliver the keynote address at the Environmental Assessment Practitioners Association of South Africa Regional Conference at the Southern Sun Elangeni Maharani, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Province.
On 24 October there are no confirmed events.
On 25 October there are no confirmed events.
Janine
Tue, 10/22/2024 - 13:27
100 views
Seventh Postponement in Durban Police Brutality Case
The trial into the death in custody of Regan Naidoo in 2018 has still not begun, this time because of a complaint before the Legal Practice Council
Durban in the News 22 October 2024
Durban school comes up with ‘otherworldly’ idea to restock library: The new principal of a Durban school is at the centre of an otherworldly situation as a school from Mars has threatened to kidnap him. The bizarre claim has sparked a unique initiative at St James Private Primary School, where staff and pupils have devised a …
RIP Princess Sibuyiselwe Buthelezi
Dear Editor The DA in KwaZulu-Natal extends our sincere condolences to the family of Her Royal Highness Princess Sibuyiselwe Angela Buthelezi daughter to the late Zulu Prime Minister and IFP Founder, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi . According to a statement released by her family, she passed away in the early hours of this morning after an …
Durban in the News 20 October 2024
Kannemeyer: If You’re A Captain At Chiefs…: Does a new era at Kaizer Chiefs require a new captain? After Inacio Miguel was handed the armband in the CUFA Cup, former Amakhosi left-back David Kannemeyer weighs in on what it takes to lead the Glamour Boys. Chiefs have struggled to have a consistent captain since former …
Durban in the News 21 October 2024
Severe weather warnings issued for the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal: Durban — The South African Weather Service (Saws) has issued six impact-based warnings for the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal where heavy rain and flooding are expected. This is due to a cut-off low-pressure system. In a statement on Saturday, Saws explained that some areas in …
Democracy bus travels through KZN
Democracy bus travels through KZN
As part of the nationwide 30 years of democracy campaign, the “democracy bus” is currently visiting various districts in KwaZulu-Natal.
Having kicked off its provincial visit in the rural Buhlebezwe Local Municipality, the bus has been to the Ugu, Ilembe, and King Cetshwayo District where members of the community have engaged with the bus crew on what 30 years of democracy means to them as well as the successes and interventions the democratic government has brought about to improve their lives.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Mntomuhle Khawula, commended the democratic government for the sterling work that has been done to improve the lives of all citizens.
He said one of the biggest achievements of democracy was that all citizens now enjoy equal rights.
The MEC applauded the efforts made by government to promote transformation in various sectors, including the political, social and the education sectors.
He acknowledged that more still needs to be done to grow the economy to create more job opportunities, particularly for the youth, which would in turn address the issues of social ills and crime.
“We need our young people to be economically active to ensure that there is prosperity in the country,” he said.
The Democracy Campaign will be intensified in the province as several activities are planned as a build-up to the Presidential Imbizo scheduled to take place in Umnini Sport Ground, Durban on 08 November 2024.
Build up activities include a visit to the Mandela Capture Site in Umngeni, a drive through the Ohlange Heritage Route, the opening of the King Shaka statue at the King Shaka International Airport, as well as a programme to take services to the people at Umnini Thusong Centre, Durban. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 13:41
58 views
SANRAL announces temporary closure of Alan Paton Avenue carriageway
SANRAL announces temporary closure of Alan Paton Avenue carriageway
The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced the full closure of Alan Paton Avenue Southbound Carriageway between Blackburrow Road and the N3 in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal.
The closure is due to the construction of the Epworth underpass.
The Alan Paton Avenue Southbound Carriageway (onramp from Alan Paton Avenue to the N3 towards Durban) will be fully closed to traffic to facilitate roadworks as part of the N3 upgrade project between Gladys Manzi (Murray) Road and the New England Road Interchange.
The closure will take place from 27 October 2024 to 27 November 2025, a period of approximately 11 months.
The Alan Paton Avenue Northbound carriageway (offramp from the N3 to Alan Paton Avenue/ Scottsville/Pietermaritzburg CBD) will remain open to traffic during this period.
“Our traffic accommodation team, with the assistance of the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), will monitor the closure,” SANRAL’s Eastern Region Project Manager Jason Lowe said on Thursday.
Alternatives for access to the N3 Southbound carriageway (towards Durban) are via the New England Road and Market Road interchanges.
A temporary access ramp will be provided for local traffic to access the N3 Southbound carriageway.
It is also expected that the new link between Cleland Road and the Market Interchange will be in place within six months from the Alan Paton Road ramp closure.
“Increased traffic volumes can be expected at the New England Road and Market Road interchanges, as well as the roads leading to them. These will lead to increased travel times, especially during the morning and afternoon peak hours.
“Motorists are urged to plan and adjust their routes ahead of time to minimise delays and remain patient during the closure. SANRAL apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s patience during the ongoing major road enhancements,” said Lowe.
The planned closure will allow:
• The demolition of the existing N3 Epworth Underpass.
• The construction of the new N3 Epworth Underpass in a new location.
• The construction of the new Blackburrow Spruit Culvert.
• The construction of adjacent N3 and Alan Paton Avenue roadworks. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 11:27
61 views
Police recover firearms used in Lusikisiki mass murder
Police recover firearms used in Lusikisiki mass murder
Police have recovered high calibre firearms believed to have been used in the killing of 18 people during a mass shooting at Ngobozana village in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape.
South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said through intelligence and meticulous detective work, the high calibre firearms, including three AK47 automatic rifles and a 243 Steyr Mannlicher rifle, were recovered on Thursday evening.
Mathe said the preliminary investigations indicate that the firearms were moved to another location after the mass killing.
“The high calibre firearms have been taken in for ballistics testing to determine and confirm that they were indeed used in the commission of the crime and to also determine which other crime scenes can be linked to them,” Mathe said.
Additionally, two more suspects have been arrested after they were found in possession of the rifles. The pair was arrested in Flagstaff in the Eastern Cape.
Briefing media on Thursday, National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, commended South Africans from all walks of life for the overwhelming support in providing information on the whereabouts of the wanted suspects in the mass murders.
Masemola confirmed that in less than 24 hours from the time the SAPS issued an alert on the wanted suspects, communities rallied together and informed police on their whereabouts, and all four suspects are now in police custody.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Deputy Ministers Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale, as well as Commissioner Masemola, have commended the investigating team for the breakthrough.
READ | Lusikisiki mass murder suspect abandons bail
Counterfeit clothing items confiscated in Durban
Meanwhile, police have confiscated counterfeit high-end clothing items, worth over R15 million, during an operation conducted in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
This comes after a team that deals with contraband, counterfeit and illicit goods gathered intelligence that there were shops on Dr Pixley kaSeme Street, located in the Point area of Durban, which were selling counterfeit goods.
SAPS provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, said police obtained search warrants for several shops that were raided on Thursday, leading to the recovery and seizure of the counterfeit clothing items, including watches and other big brand items.
“At least four suspects have already been arrested in the operation, which is still ongoing. All suspects are foreign nationals and their status in the country is yet to be confirmed. Once processed, the suspects will be taken to court,” Netshiunda said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 10/18/2024 - 10:04
119 views
Move towards electronic vehicles a ‘major industrialisation opportunity’
Move towards electronic vehicles a 'major industrialisation opportunity'
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the global move from Internal Combustion Engines towards Electronic Vehicles (EVs) presents a major opportunity for South African industrialisation.
The President was speaking during the South African Auto Week held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in the Western Cape on Thursday.
“As many of our major trading partners rapidly shift towards EVs, it is imperative that we remain part of this global supply chain. This is a major industrialisation opportunity for South Africa and the region, particularly within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“This will position South Africa as a forward-thinking, green economy. It will advance our aspirations to be a global automotive hub,” President Ramaphosa said.
He acknowledged that decarbonisation presents a challenge to the automotive sector, but assured that government is committed to working closely with the sector.
“The transition towards cleaner and more sustainable fuels – together with stringent regulations in key markets – puts a number of automotive firms and sub-industries in a vulnerable position. Even as the journey to net zero poses a challenge for the auto industry, there is at the same time immense opportunity.
“The local automotive sector needs to position itself to take advantage of the demand for electric vehicles, new energy vehicles and sustainable fuels. The transition to cleaner, more sustainable practices in the automotive industry is a priority for our government. The automotive industry has a critical role to play in achieving South Africa’s climate targets.
“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the private sector to promote the production of New Energy Vehicles [NEV] and the development of the necessary infrastructure to support them,” he said.
READ | President Ramaphosa to address SA Automotive Week
Furthermore, President Ramaphosa revealed that the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, National Treasury and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources are in discussion on the implementation of the Electric Vehicle White Paper.
“This work includes the beneficiation of our critical minerals for the production of new energy vehicles and their associated value chains. It also includes the production of batteries for battery electric vehicles and the development of value chains in the green hydrogen fuel cell market.
“We are working to finalise comprehensive NEV policy guidelines that do not exclude alternative technologies such as hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Consideration must be given to incentives for manufacturers as well as tax rebates or subsidies for consumers to accelerate the uptake of electric vehicles.
“This is not just about creating a greener future but also about ensuring South Africa remains competitive in the global market.”
Removing barriers
The President emphasised that government, through reforms in energy, logistics and other sectors, is working to remove the barriers that affect the sector.
“As government, we remain firmly committed to the work already underway to improve the operational performance of our energy, freight and logistics sectors – all of which directly impacts the automotive industry.
“Transnet continues with its work to revitalise the Port of Durban. It is also proceeding with the upgrade of the Gauteng-Eastern Cape railway line as part of Project Ukuvuselela,” he said.
The President told the delegates that the Government of National Unity looks forward to “deepening our collaboration as government, industry and labour” to achieve the objectives of inclusive growth and job creation.
“There may be headwinds. But in challenges lie opportunities. It is up to us to harness these opportunities to grow, to expand and to transform,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 10/17/2024 - 11:30
332 views