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President declares Special Official Funeral Category 2 to honour late Minister
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2.
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer. He was 75 years old.
The late former Minister will be laid to rest in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday, 19 September.
Speaking during the signing ceremony of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill in Pretoria on Friday, President Ramaphosa said Gordhan was one of the most principled and courageous freedom fighters the country has produced.
“South Africans woke up to the sad news of the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan. I had the occasion to go and spend some time with him last night in hospital as I returned from Cape Town before he passed on.
“I was able to get a moment to speak to him even though he could no longer hear me. But it was a sad moment for me to be able to watch him as he was passing on to his journey to another world,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the Minister’s wife, Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as his family members across the world.
“Gordhan dedicated his life to the struggle and freedom of our people, he fought to liberate this country from the shackles of apartheid. From inequality, poverty and hunger, he is one person who was driven by a vision of a society in which all people have achieved their full potential and which all may realise their dreams.
“I have decided that we will have an official funeral to say our goodbyes to him as a nation,” the President.
READ | Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan
Gordhan served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017. He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015. He also served as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until announcement of his planned retirement in March.
Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after serving as the Deputy Commissioner of the revenue service.
His contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in the student and civic movements in the 1970s and ‘80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
During South Africa’s transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue and was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
The year 2023 marked 50 years since Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree which led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 15:08
He deserves to be remembered as a courageous person who served the country with great distinction
Official funeral for former Minister Pravin Gordhan
President Cyril Ramaphosa has granted lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan an official funeral.
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer. He was 75 years old.
The late former Minister will be laid to rest in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal on Thursday.
Speaking during the signing ceremony of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill in Pretoria on Friday, President Ramaphosa said Gordhan was one of the most principled and courageous freedom fighters the country has produced.
“South Africans woke up to the sad news of the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan. I had the occasion to go and spend some time with him last night in hospital as I returned from Cape Town before he passed on.
“I was able to get a moment to speak to him even though he could no longer hear me. But it was a sad moment for me to be able to watch him as he was passing on to his journey to another world,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the Minister’s wife, Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as his family members across the world.
“Gordhan dedicated his life to the struggle and freedom of our people, he fought to liberate this country from the shackles of apartheid. From inequality, poverty and hunger, he is one person who was driven by a vision of a society in which all people have achieved their full potential and which all may realise their dreams.
“I have decided that we will have an official funeral to say our goodbyes to him as a nation,” the President.
READ | Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan
Gordhan served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017. He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015. He also served as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until announcement of his planned retirement in March.
Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after serving as the Deputy Commissioner of the revenue service.
His contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in the student and civic movements in the 1970s and ‘80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
During South Africa’s transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue and was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
The year 2023 marked 50 years since Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree which led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 15:08
President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing of lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises Mr Pravin Gordhan, who has passed away at the age of 75, following a period of illness.
President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to Mr Gordhan's spouse, Ms Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, as well as the former Minister's older brother, Manecklal Gordhan, and sister Shanta Harilal.
The President's thoughts are with former Minister Gordhan's extended family, comrades, associates and organisations with whom he established relationships as a family and community member, freedom fighter, public sector executive and Member of the National Executive.
He served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and again from 2015 until 2017.
He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 until 2015, and as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until his March 2024 announcement of planned retirement.
Mr Gordhan was appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service in 1999, after a period as Deputy Commissioner.
His contribution to the public sector arose from his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle, including his role in student and civic movements in the 1970s and ‘80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress and military military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress.
During South Africa's transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Mr Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue and was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
2023 marked 50 years since Mr Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree which led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders.
President Ramaphosa said: “We have lost an outstanding leader whose unassuming persona belied the depth of intellect, integrity and energy with which he undertook his activism, his duty as a parliamentarian and his roles as a member of Cabinet.
“Pravin Gordhan's personal sacrifices and his endeavours and achievements in various sectors of our society endowed him with the insights, empathy and resilience that fuelled his service to the nation.
“In the latter years of this service to the nation, and as a beacon of our fight against corruption, Pravin Gordhan stood up to derision and threats emanating from some in our nation who were scorched by his insistence that justice be dispensed against those who sought to undermine our democracy and raid our public resources and assets.
“During his decades of revolutionary dedication to making South Africa a better place, Pravin Gordhan and his family were deprived of much needed and deserved time together.
“As we mourn his passing, we remain grateful for his life of sacrifice and service and his sustained striving for the realisation of the vision and dictates of our Constitution.
“We carry his family in our thoughts and prayers at this time.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
President mourns the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness over the passing of lifelong activist and former Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan.
Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer, his family announced. He was 75 years old.
President Ramaphosa has offered his deep condolences to Gordhan’s wife Vanitha Raju, daughters Anisha and Priyesha, the former Minister’s older brother Manecklal, and sister Shanta Harilal.
He said his thoughts were also with Gordhan’s extended family, comrades, associates and organisations he established relationships with, as a family and community member, freedom fighter, public sector executive and member of the National Executive.
Gordhan served as Minister of Finance from 2009 until 2014 and 2015 until 2017.
He also served as Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs from 2014 to 2015, and as Minister of Public Enterprises from February 2018 until he announced his planned retirement in March 2024.
The late activist was also appointed as Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) in 1999, after a period as Deputy Commissioner.
His involvement in the public sector stemmed from his participation in the anti-apartheid struggle.
This included his role in student and civic movements in the 1970s and 80s, as an executive member of the Natal Indian Congress, and as a military operative in the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC).
During South Africa’s transition to democracy and in the early years of the new dispensation, Gordhan played a leading role in the Convention for a Democratic South Africa (CODESA) multi-party dialogue. He was later appointed as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Constitutional Committee.
Last year marked 50 years since Gordhan graduated from the University of Durban-Westville with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree. This led to him working at the King Edward VIII Hospital in Durban from 1974 to 1981.
In the early 1980s, his activism led to his dismissal from the hospital, as well as detention by police and banning orders.
President Ramaphosa said: “We have lost an outstanding leader whose unassuming persona belied the depth of intellect, integrity and energy with which he undertook his activism, his duty as a parliamentarian and his roles as a member of Cabinet.
“Pravin Gordhan’s personal sacrifices and his endeavours and achievements in various sectors of our society endowed him with the insights, empathy and resilience that fuelled his service to the nation.”
President Ramaphosa commended him for his role as a leader in the country’s anti-corruption efforts during his later years of service to the nation.
“Gordhan stood up to derision and threats emanating from some in our nation who were scorched by his insistence that justice be dispensed against those who sought to undermine our democracy and raid our public resources and assets.
“During his decades of revolutionary dedication to making South Africa a better place, Pravin Gordhan and his family were deprived of much-needed and deserved time together.
“As we mourn his passing, we remain grateful for his life of sacrifice and service and his sustained striving for the realisation of the vision and dictates of our Constitution.
“We carry his family in our thoughts and prayers at this time.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 09:40
The Portfolio Committee on Police has reiterated that regaining trust between the police and communities will encourage increased reporting of crimes. The committee received a detailed briefing on the Victims of Crime 2023/24 survey from Statistics South Africa and the overwhelming view was that the survey gives a different perspective, from the eyes of the victims of crime, and will enhance the response from the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The committee highlighted aspects such as the police responsiveness rate, the availability of resources such as vehicles, and the adequacy of investigations as central to resolving the question of trust. “The deficiencies currently with regards to the 10111 call centre and lack of vehicles directly impacts on the ability of SAPS to respond to acts of crime quickly. If the SAPS address these deficiencies, it will be a step in the right direction to resolving the question of trust,” said Mr Ian Cameron, the Chairperson of the committee.
It was also emphasised that the lack of trust in the police has led to an increase in vigilantism. The committee highlighted that vigilantes are inherently problematic as communities operate outside the boundary of the law and in many cases has led to innocent people being victimised.
In line with this, the SAPS must incrementally investigate and remove corrupt members of the SAPS among its ranks. “We commend the arrest of seven members of SAPS in Durban in connection with allegations they attempted to extort R100 000 from a Phoenix businessman. The commitment we have witnessed by the Minister of Police and SAPS management to arrest corrupt and criminal elements within its ranks will greatly assist in rebuilding trust,” Mr Cameron emphasised.
The committee highlighted, though, that an element that undermines trust in the crime fighting effort is the efficacy of the entire justice system value chain. The committee's view is that currently the SAPS arrest many criminals, but the disjuncture is the inability to effectively prosecute those cases. “Operation Shanela is a case in point, where the police have arrested in excess of 800 000 suspects, but the prosecution rate cannot be measured. The entire justice crime prevention and security cluster must work in tandem to ensure effectiveness that will build confidence and might lead to an increase in reporting of crime,” Mr Cameron said.
Meanwhile, the committee highlighted concern with the increase with violent crime against women and children and underscored the inadequacy with the response to protecting vulnerable groups within our communities. “It is unsurprising to learn that 45% of women felt unsafe walking alone in their neighbourhood. The recent murder of Nomsa Jass highlights the vulnerabilities that women in our country continue to face and requires concerted efforts to remedy. Police visibility has largely been inadequate, and criminals are able to terrorise communities at a whim,” Mr Cameron said.
The committee emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration with other government departments such as the Department of Social Development to enhance counselling for victims of crime. According to the committee, it is unacceptable that 92.6% of victims of crime did not receive counselling after an incident, which perpetuates trauma. “We are however hopeful that the discussions between the SAPS and the DSD will yield the necessary intervention required, such as availing social workers at police stations to help victims of crime and alleviate the burden from police officials,” Mr Cameron said.
Regarding gang violence, the committee reiterated its concern that there remains a need to find workable solution to the escalating gang violence. “In Atlantis alone this past weekend there were reported six deaths as a result of gang violence, which continue to escalate at an alarming rate. Despite this, we welcome the intention by the Minister of Correctional Services to stop the movement of crime-related communication from prisons that lead to murders on our streets,” Mr Cameron said.
The committee acknowledged that the statistics give a framework on what trends of crime must be focused on. But most importantly, the committee highlighted the effective functioning of the justice crime prevention and security cluster in the effort to fight crime.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
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Work underway to prevent truck congestion in Richards Bay
A team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate will work with municipalities and stakeholders, including Transnet, to prevent truck congestion from the N2 highway leading to the Port of Richards Bay.
This was among the commitments made during a meeting held by the KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements Departments.
Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, recently met with the management and all categories of staff from both departments working in King Cetshwayo, Zululand and UMkhanyakude Districts.
The meeting aimed to ensure that the two departments work collectively to accelerate the construction of roads and human settlements for the benefit of communities.
In a statement issued after the meeting, Duma said the stakeholders have decided to act decisively as the issue of truck congestion is resurfacing. Other stakeholders include the Road Freight Association and Zululand Chamber of Business.
“In addition, we commit to work with Transnet and Richards Bay Bulk Terminal to ensure safe and effective movement of coal destined for exports. Our roads have been damaged and created challenges such as truck related accidents that continue to claim innocent lives.
“There is a special team of traffic officers, uTalagu, that has been assigned to monitor the movements of trucks. Addressing these challenges means that as government we must invest in the development of infrastructure to accommodate the movement of goods and people,” Duma explained.
A need for all stakeholders to work hard to improve the railway networks and tap into aviation and maritime sectors to facilitate the movement of goods, was also emphasised.
He noted that the province is not only a construction site but strategically located along the longest coastline in Africa.
“This means that our economy is driven largely through the transport and logistics sectors based on the two major ports housed in the province, namely the Port of Richards Bay and the Port of Durban.
“Both ports are economically strategic not only to the province of KwaZulu-Natal, but also to the national economy of South Africa since they are linked to the economic heartland of South Africa, Gauteng, via road and rail networks.”
The MEC said the Port of Durban is also a transit point for cross border container traffic for neighbouring countries - a gateway to Southern Africa.
“The Ports of Richards Bay and Durban are important contributors to international trade and a significant enabler for South Africa’s and the province’s economic development. We are working with national government to ensure the expansion of road networks - the N2 and N3, along with our ports,” Duma said.
Apart from speeding up construction of houses for communities, the MEC acknowledged that there will be a growing demand for human settlements and pressure on road networks.
He added that with Richards Bay Industrial Economic Zone being a haven for foreign direct investment and a site for energy infrastructure, the province must be ready to be the host of the 3 000 MW gas-to-power plant to be constructed by power utility Eskom. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 11:28
Suspects arrested in countrywide Operation Shanela crackdown
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has over the past week arrested 13 691 suspects in nationwide Operation Shanela operations.
The arrests were made from Monday to Sunday, 08 September, in various operations that included roadblocks and stop and searches.
According to the SAPS, 1 953 wanted suspects for crimes such as murder, rape, possession of illegal firearms and business robberies were arrested while 149 suspects were arrested for murder.
A total 179 suspects were arrested for rape of which 76 of them were arrested in KwaZulu-Natal while 161 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms.
“Assault GBH [grievous bodily harm] continues to register a large number of arrests with 1 536 suspects arrested,” said the police in a statement on Monday.
In addition, 271 drug dealers were arrested during this period while 404 people were arrested for drunk driving, 107 while 1 460 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs.
Meanwhile, 137 firearms were confiscated during operations and 5 922 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated.
“Highlights of major takedowns include six CIT [cash-in-transit] armed robbers [who] were killed in Germiston and three kidnappers [were] arrested in Ennerdale, Gauteng.”
In addition, three alleged extortionists were shot and killed at the National Intervention Unit (NIU) base in Mthatha following an attack on NIU members at the police unit base.
READ | SAPS to 'deal decisively' with extortionists
In addition, six extortionists were shot and killed in Durban through confrontation with police.
All Operation Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/10/2024 - 09:23
World-renowned football federation, the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) in partnership with VFS Global (www.VFSglobal.com), concluded extensive coaching courses held in Stellenbosch and in Durban earlier this year. The initiative is in line with VFS Global's community outreach initiatives across the globe with a focus on youth empowerment and skill development.
The KNVB-accredited course conducted under its WorldCoaches Programme in partnership with SAFA eThekwini, saw a total of 56 coaches from across Durban and Cape Town, with almost 50% of the participants being women. The coaches were accredited with a globally recognised certificate, as part of KNVB's WorldCoaches global drive of using football to drive social development.
The five-day workshop saw the coaches being exposed to the latest global trends of youth coaching and equipped with the necessary tools and information to be role models in their respective communities. In addition to tactical knowledge empowerment, key societal topics such as child protection, leadership, and social change formed part of the learning process for the coaches. The course hosted over 265 participating players throughout the two weeks, allowing the coaches to put together sessions they had learnt from the instructors into practice.
“This was truly an eye-opening experience for our coaches. Most of them are keen to learn and empower themselves, and thanks to such a programme, our region is not only producing future coaches. but key role models for our communities, thanks to KNVB”, said SAFA eThekwini Technical Director, Maxwell Ndlovu.
Speaking on behalf of the KNVB, instructor Bert Zuurman said the reception and eagerness shown by the coaches were encouraging and indicative of a bright youth football future for the region.
“We are honoured to share our knowledge and experience with these coaches, who are not just coaches but are now role models. Our programmes are uniquely designed to make use of football as a driver for social change, and it is important that our coaches are receptive to both the tactical and social development divisions of the programme. We wish all the coaches the best of luck, and sincerely thank SAFA eThekwini for providing us with the platform”, said Johan van Geijn, Founder of KNVB WorldCoaches.
“Through this programme, we are not only equipping coaches with the latest in football tactics but also instilling in them a sense of social responsibility. Through such initiatives that also empower young people to stay in school, we're shaping not just athletes, but future leaders by providing coaches with the tools to be role models. Our investment in South Africa underscores our dedication to youth empowerment worldwide, harnessing sports to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future”, added Nadia Wicks, Head of Operations- Southern Africa, VFS Global.
The goal of the WorldCoaches program is to give participants critical thinking skills and resources required to make critical decisions both on and off the field.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VFS Global.
Media Contact:
George Cherian
Corporate Communications
VFS Global
georgec@vfsglobal.com / communications@vfsglobal.com
Further Enquiries:
Puncho Morajane
puncho@forwardzone.com
071 199 7858
About VFS Global:
As the world's leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.
With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 68 client governments. Operating over 3,400 Application Centres in 153 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 294 million applications since 2001.
Headquartered in Zurich and majority owned through investment funds managed by Blackstone Inc, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.
About KNVB – WorldCoaches:
WorldCoaches is a programme based on the KNVB's extensive international coaching experience and its belief that no matter where in the world, football can be used as a means for social development. Our trained WorldCoaches play a key role in this by inspiring and coaching children in their athletic and social development.
During WorldCoaches courses, youth are trained to become football coaches and role models in their own community. In doing so, the WorldCoaches programme focuses on three themes that directly contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These are: personal development, health and social cohesion. The SDGs were set by the United Nations and aim to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. As such, through the unique and universal appeal of football, the KNVB attempts to reduce the impact of various social challenges and aims to contribute to a better society.
South Africa’s most social 5km run, the Boxer Super Run, is set to make its exciting debut in Tshwane on Sunday, 10 November 2024, at TUKS (Uitspan), with the action starting from 07:00. This highly anticipated event will bring together runners of all ages and abilities for a day of fun, fitness, and camaraderie in …
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Law enforcement commended for R20 million copper recovery
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has commended law enforcement agencies for the arrest of a 59-year-old suspect linked to the theft of copper worth over R20 million.
The stolen copper was recovered this week from a scrapyard on Martin Drive in Queensburgh, south-west of Durban.
Buthelezi said every year, criminal syndicates cause hundreds of millions of rands in damage to public infrastructure that provides essential services, including water, electricity and sanitation.
“These criminals sell the stolen metals to unscrupulous scrapyard dealers, severely hampering municipalities' ability to serve their communities. We are pleased to see that law enforcement is gaining the upper hand in the fight against these criminals who perpetuate economic sabotage through their actions,” Buthelezi said.
Buthelezi emphasised the importance of community involvement in combating these crimes and urged the public to work closely with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities.
“The fight against crime is a collective effort. We need the eyes and ears of our communities to help us protect our public assets,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 13:53
KwaMashu and North Coast lines not operational
Mayor welcomes re-opening of the Hilton Hotel in Durban
eThekwini Municipality mayor, Cyril Xaba, has welcomed the re-opening of the Hilton Hotel Durban, which will significantly benefit the City’s tourism economy.
Xaba noted that the reopening of the hotel is timely as it comes at the start of Tourism Month, which is celebrated annually in September.
“The hotel’s re-opening will add to the luxury executive accommodation inventory of Durban. The phased re-opening of the hotel will also strategically amplify the city’s business case when bidding to host national and international conferences,” the mayor said.
Apart from enhancing the tourism experience for visitors in the city, Xaba said the re-opening of the hotel will contribute to job creation.
"The Hilton Hotel is also a great added advantage for the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC), which is situated near the hotel.
“When the Durban ICC conducts their product promotion, it will be characterised by the easy accessibility to prestigious accommodation which further instils business travel confidence.
“The convenient accessibility is also an advantage for dignitaries and high security risk patrons as there is no long-distance travel as all business travel purpose facilities are within easy reach. We are excited that our drive to attract investment in the city, through our Inner-City Regeneration Programme [which] is beginning to yield positive results,” he said.
The Hilton is situated in a prime location of the city’s business tourism meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions precinct.
This is where the Durban ICC and the Durban Exhibition Centre are conveniently housed.
Registration for the Durban Business Fair opens
Meanwhile, the eThekwini Municipality has reminded small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to register to exhibit at the upcoming South regional Durban Business Fair (DBF).
To revitalise township economies, eThekwini Municipality said the city is reviving the regional Durban Business Fairs, which has been hailed for their important role of showcasing area-based business products, empowering entrepreneurs with skills and availing networking opportunities.
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Thembo Ntuli said SMMEs are pillars of the city’s economy and drive job creation.
“Unlocking rural and township economic growth remains an integral part of our strategy to promote inclusive economic growth and create more jobs. It is therefore practical to create and coordinate programmes that promote entrepreneurship and small business growth to upscale the revitalisation of rural and township economies,” Ntuli said.
Exhibitor registration for the DBF which will take place from 25 to 27 October 2024, at KwaMnyandu Shopping Centre, is now open.
To book to showcase at this signature business exhibition, register before the deadline of 30 September 2024.
The registration form can be found on the link: https://bit.ly/SouthForm, or email admin@lomes.co.za and request a form.
Alternatively, registration forms can be collected from the security desk at the Embassy Building, 199 Anton Lembede Street.
You can also download the forms from the eThekwini Municipality website: www.durban.gov.za browse under government tab and scroll down to the Durban Business Fair sub-tab.
For more information, the business community can call 031 266 9938. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/06/2024 - 09:57
Citizens called to help keep criminals off the streets
Cabinet has called on South Africans to continue to work with law enforcement agencies by reporting illegal acts to help keep criminals off the streets.
“The fight against crime is a shared responsibility, and government will continue to champion all initiatives that will mobilise all people in society to work together towards a better and safer South Africa,” acting Minister in The Presidency, Maropene Ramokgopa, said during a post-cabinet media briefing on Thursday.
The public can report criminal activities to the police on 10111.
Consistent with the commitments made by President Ramaphosa during his Opening of Parliament Address on 18 July 2024 to build a safer country, Ramokgopa said South Africa’s law-enforcement agencies have stepped up the fight against crime.
Some successes of law enforcement include the arrest of 673 suspects by the Hawks. Of the 573 arrested, 506 were convicted and 77 court orders were granted for the seizure of assets connected to criminal activities.
The police also arrested 14 422 suspects for various crimes through Operation Shanela from 19 to 25 August 2024.
“A multidisciplinary raid operation by the police, metro police, correctional services, Home Affairs and other law-enforcement agencies in six hijacked buildings in Durban led to the discovery of R4 million in counterfeit United States dollars, seizure of drugs, 117 rounds of ammunition and liquor, and [the] arrest of more than 150 allegedly undocumented foreign nationals.
“These successes follow significant inroads made in dismantling a transnational crime syndicate in the country since the beginning of the year. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has uncovered 10 clandestine drug laboratories and arrested 34 persons for manufacturing, dealing and possession of illicit drugs,” Ramokgopa highlighted.
Extortion incidents
Ramokgopa also noted that South Africa is learning from international best practices to develop strategies to deal decisively with incidents of extortion.
She said a whole-of-society approach and a unified effort from government, law-enforcement agencies, businesses and communities are needed to create a united front to combat this crime.
“Extortion does not just harm individuals; it undermines our entire economy. By fighting this crime, we are protecting jobs, encouraging investment, and promoting economic growth. We are empowering communities to stand up against extortion through education, support networks, and confidential reporting systems. We are making it safer for people to say no to criminals.
“The SAPS is being equipped with the latest tools and techniques to combat extortion, including advanced intelligence gathering and specialised task forces, to staying ahead of criminal tactics. Extortion often thrives where there is a lack of economic opportunity,” Ramokgopa said.
The Minister added that government is addressing root causes by investing in education, job creation, and community development alongside law enforcement efforts.
“Government is working closely with international partners to share intelligence, track criminal networks and bring offenders to justice. Our efforts are particularly focused on protecting vulnerable individuals and businesses who are often the primary targets of extortion.
“No one should have to live in fear in their own community. Government is committed to a sustained, long-term effort to root out this crime and create lasting safety and security for all South Africans,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 13:11
Tugboats to improve services at Transnet’s Port of East London
The Port of East London on Thursday received the two last tugboats marking the completion of Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA) R1billion investment towards the Marine Fleet Renewal Programme.
The programme is aimed at boosting tugboat availability and enhancing shipping operations.
The programme is a key element of the Transnet Recovery Plan which is critical in driving shipping efficiencies and reliability, whilst also positioning the ports as competitive and a catalyst for economic growth.
The tugboats are designed to provide marine services including the safe navigation of vessels, pilotage, towage and waterside pollution combat.
The two tugs delivered by Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT) replace the existing tug fleet that has reached its operational lifespan at the Port of East London in the Eastern Cape.
The latest tugs comprising modern technology solutions are built with an azimuth stern drive and have an improved bollard pull of 60-tonnes compared to the 43-tonnes bollard pull on the existing tugs.
The procurement of the tugs serves as a catalyst for the port’s expansion plan.
The plan also includes the deepening and strengthening of the port’s automotive berth to address berthing challenges.
The project hit a significant milestone in November 2023 with the commencement of the concrete works package.
Also included in the river port’s expansion plan is the delivery of two jib cranes for the port's dry dock facility, which will increase the ship repair facility’s capacity and volume throughput in the 2024/25 financial year.
Strategic projects
The advanced features of the two new tugs will enable the port to respond to the anticipated shipping and volume demands.
“The journey towards the full recovery of Transnet lies in our commitment to growth and investing in fit-for-purpose equipment,” said Transnet Board Chairperson, Andile Sangqu who spoke during the tug naming and christening ceremony held at the port.
“This acquisition is a crucial investment towards creating a sustainable port system and will enable the execution of strategic projects currently underway at the Port of East London,” Sangqu said.
Recovery Plan
Sangqu said Transnet is currently executing a number of actionable steps to halt the decline in operational and financial performance through the Transnet Recovery Plan launched in October 2023.
“The Recovery Plan directs us to prioritise revitalising our ageing marine assets in order to improve operational efficiency and serve our customers better. Investing in port infrastructure to drive efficiency and reliability is a catalyst for improved economic competitiveness.
“Ports are the lifeblood of trade, the gateways through which goods flow in and out of our economy,” Sangqu said.
Lentswe and Kganya
At the christening ceremony, tug Lentswe meaning “the voice of sailors” was unveiled by Transnet Board Member, Boitumelo Sedupane in her role as the tug’s Lady Sponsor, while tug Kganya meaning “light” and symbolising guidance in safe navigation of vessels, was revealed and christened by TNPA Board Member Valda Gossman.
The names of the tugs were chosen through a naming competition run among TNPA employees.
The two tugs are in addition to the five tugs which were delivered at the Port of Durban last month.
“We are proud to have delivered these tugboats for TNPA. The vessels represent a substantial investment in our maritime infrastructure and will contribute to local job creation and skills development as DSCT will provide all operational support, including spares, repairs, and services,” said Sefale Montsi, Director at Damen Shipyards Cape Town.
“Through a centralised system, the vessel will provide data-driven insight for timely information on ship operations,” she said.
Attracting investors
Eastern Cape acting Premier Mlungisi Mvoko said the acquisition of the two tugboats is part of enhancing operations at the Port of East London.
“Today’s milestone aligns with our strategic view that our ports are the biggest instruments for attracting investors in the province,” Mvoko said.
Mvoko said the province is pleased with TNPA’s investment in boosting tugboat availability and shipping efficiencies at the port.
“Our customers in this port are set to benefit from the improved capacity in the new tugboats when compared to the existing maritime crafts that have reached their lifespan. We believe that this will have positive impact on the container vessel turnaround time and ultimately increase efficiencies and productivity at the port.
“It is these efficiencies that we will leverage on to increase our economic activities in areas of the automotive sector and agriculture, our two main economic drivers in the Eastern Cape.
“We are trying very hard to lure as many investors to the province as we can. It is the only way we can deal with the high rate of unemployment. All customers in this port are set to benefit from the improved capacity in the new tugboats when compared to the existing maritime crafts that have reached their lifespan,” the acting Premier said.
The delivery of the fleet is part of TNPA’s R1 billion investment in boosting tugboat availability and shipping efficiencies in the South African seaports.
From the acquisition, the Port of Durban has been allocated five tugboats while two tugs have been allocated to the Port of East London. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 13:29
eThekwini Municipality says its planning to rehouse the affected families but can’t assist those who had previously benefitted from RDP projects
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