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Durban, South Africa – At the heart of Durban’s thriving culinary landscape, Zai Restaurant has emerged as a beacon of excellence, cultural richness, and top-tier dining experiences. Spearheading this success is 25-year-old Akhona Yedwana Ndlovu, one of Durban’s youngest and most dynamic Managing Directors. Akhona is not only revolutionizing the hospitality industry but is also …
On 20 August 2024, Mahindra South Africa today celebrated a major milestone with a special ceremony at its vehicle assembly facility in Durban. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries from South Africa and India, the leadership and management team of Mahindra South Africa as well as staff from the group’s South African head office and from …
Pretoria: 17 August 2024 Adverse weather conditions impacting South Africa this past week have led to yet another large container vessel losing as many as 99 containers off the east coast of South Africa, according to the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA). In response, a navigational warning to sailing vessels has been issued and … Continue reading Malta-flagged cargo vessel loses 99 containers at sea off South Africa east coast: SAMSA
Durban rapper Jaey Price has released a new song in 2024, it is his first single this year. The new track was released via new distribution deal with Music Access, Inc platform. The deal is confirmed and the new single is now available online. Jaey Price recently released a new EP album #noproblemz in April. …
Special ConCourt sitting for Chief Justice Zondo
The Constitutional Court is expected to hold a special ceremonial sitting for outgoing Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on Wednesday morning.
Chief Justice Zondo is expected to leave the bench at the end of August following 27 years of service to the judiciary.
He will hand down his final judgement on the day.
“Deputy Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, Justices of the Constitutional Court, Judicial Officers as well as representatives of the Executive, Parliament and the legal profession will participate in this event,” the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ) said in a statement.
Long serving
Chief Justice Zondo’s foray into practicing law began when he served articles under anti-Apartheid activist Victoria Mxenge before her assassination at the hands of Apartheid South Africa operatives.
Following that, he was a practising attorney in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, before his first approach to the bench just three years after the dawn of democracy.
“Justice Zondo…was appointed as a Judge of the Labour Court in 1997. In April 1999 he was appointed as a Judge of the then Transvaal Provincial Division of the High Court. He served for close to eleven years as Judge-President of the Labour Appeal Court and Labour Court. His ten-year term of office as Judge-President ended in April 2010,” the OCJ said.
Following 15 years on the lower benches, Chief Justice Zondo was then appointed as a Constitutional Court Justice in 2012.
“In June 2017 he was appointed as Deputy Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa. In January 2018 he was appointed as the Chairperson of the State Capture Commission, also known as the Zondo Commission.
“With effect from 1 April 2022 he was appointed as the Chief Justice of the Republic. For the past two and a half years he has led the Judiciary of this country with great success. His term of office comes to an end on 31 August 2024,” the statement said.
READ | President Ramaphosa to attend farewell dinner in honour of Chief Justice Zondo
– SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 10:47
South African national record holder Glenrose Xaba is gearing up for her fourth race of the month as she prepares to compete in the highly anticipated Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K on Sunday, 25 August 2024. Xaba, the reigning SA champion in the 5000m and 10,000m events, has been in exceptional form over the …
Hlabisa to visit eThekwini metro to assess progress in the region
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, is visiting Durban to assess the progress of the eThekwini Working Group’s implementation, a key initiative aimed at addressing critical challenges in the region.
Today’s meeting follows the establishment of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group, which is tasked with implementing the eThekwini turnaround strategy.
The working group is also looking into coordinating efforts to position eThekwini as a leading investment and tourism hub and leveraging insights and outcomes from previous interventions.
They are also monitoring progress and providing recommendations for continuous improvement.
“Various working groups have been actively addressing service delivery challenges and working to restore business confidence through coordinated efforts involving all three spheres of government, civil society, and the private sector,” the statement read.
Hlabisa is accompanied by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for CoGTA Thulasizwe Buthelezi and eThekwini metro Mayor Cyril Xaba. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 08/20/2024 - 10:01
JOHANNESBURG: South African cricket fans can get ready to be part of yet another exciting cricket season as tickets for the...
Power utility says this is necessary to protect transformers overloaded by illegal connections
Tugboats position KZN as preferred logistics and transport hub
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli says the introduction of tugboats is not only a boost for the provincial port, but a significant advancement for the province’s economy, particularly within the logistics and maritime sectors.
Ntuli was speaking at the recent christening and naming ceremony of five new tugboats at the Port of Durban, hosted by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) Eastern Region.
The ceremony marked a major milestone in the TNPA Marine Fleet Renewal Programme, a key component of Transnet’s broader Recovery Plan aimed at enhancing shipping efficiencies across South African ports.
The five newly acquired tugboats are set to be injected into the port’s operations, reinforcing the Marine Fleet Renewal Programme’s objectives of increasing marine craft availability and ensuring smoother, more efficient port operations.
This strategic initiative aligns with Transnet’s mission to revitalise its infrastructure and strengthen the country’s logistics network.
Ntuli congratulated the TNPA on this critical acquisition, emphasising the importance of modernising port infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the maritime industry.
“The introduction of the tugboats is not only a boost for the port, but a significant advancement for the province’s economy, particularly within the logistics and maritime sectors. This initiative positions KwaZulu-Natal as the preferred logistics and transport hub in South Africa.
“Strategic investments, such as the R1 billion allocated to enhancing the Durban Port, are vital to driving economic growth and creating much-needed employment opportunities in our province," Ntuli said.
Ntuli said both the Durban and Richards Bay ports are primed to become preferred gateways for cargo exports, bolstering KwaZulu-Natal’s economic competitiveness, and supporting South Africa’s global trade ambitions.
Journey toward economic recovery on course
Transnet Board Chairperson Andile Sangqu underscored the importance of the TNPA Marine Fleet Renewal Programme, noting that Transnet’s journey towards economic recovery is firmly on course.
With the advancements in operations and strategic initiatives, particularly through the Marine Fleet Renewal Programme, Sangqu said Transnet is witnessing significant progress in restoring and enhancing the efficiency of South Africa’s port infrastructure.
He said the successful implementation of these initiatives reflects Transnet’s commitment to fulfilling the objectives of the Transnet Recovery Plan.
“This plan is crucial to maintaining South Africa’s competitive edge in the global maritime industry and ensuring the country’s ports operate at world-class standards. The christening of these five tugboats marks a new chapter for the Port of Durban and sets the foundation for further advancements in the province’s maritime capabilities.
“With KwaZulu-Natal’s strategic location and ongoing investments in port infrastructure, the province is well-positioned to become a leader in logistics and transportation, driving economic growth and fostering international trade,” Sangqu said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 08/19/2024 - 10:50
The streets of the Jacaranda City are guaranteed to sparkle as residents, event organizers, sponsors, and partners join forces for a fun and rewarding “City Clean Up” on Saturday, 24 August 2024 starting at the Absa Lilian Ngoyi Branch at 08:30, just one day before the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K. “The City …
Dear Editor The DA expresses grave concern at reports that at a SAPS-registered firearm and several articles of official SAPS uniform (including headdresses, bullet proof vests, and a raincoat) were found in possession of suspects involved in the robbery and shooting incident in Richmond, KwaZulu-Natal on over the weekend. The DA welcomes the speedy intervention …
The Totalsports Women’s Race concluded its 2024 season on a high note, with an impressive 10,000 runners gathering at Marks Park (Emmarentia) on Saturday 17 August for the third and final race in Johannesburg. The event celebrated women and supported PinkDrive, marking a fitting end to this year’s series. Boxer Athletic Club top runner, Glenrose …
Justice Department forges ahead with plans to extradite Bushiri and Gupta brothers
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane, announced on Friday that the department is actively addressing Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters and Extradition requests involving South Africa.
“We are committed to fulfilling our treaty and extradition obligations to ensure that justice is served in all relevant cases,” she told journalists.
The Minister was speaking during a media briefing where she outlined the priorities of her department in the seventh administration.
She told journalists that recent developments include ongoing efforts to extradite Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife from Malawi, as well as the Gupta brothers from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
“These cases have faced several challenges, but we remain steadfast in our pursuit of accountability. Our teams are working diligently through diplomatic and legal channels to bring these matters to a resolution.”
Bushiri fled South Africa while he was out on bail for fraud and money laundering charges.
Meanwhile, Atul and Rajesh Gupta are accused in South Africa of profiting from their close links with the former President Jacob Zuma and exerting unfair influence.
She also touched on the case involving Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes and his friend Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane, who were murdered in Durban in February last year.
The Minister said they were awaiting the judgment, which was heard this morning, on the main extradition application case involving Siyabonga and Malusi Ndimande in Eswatini.
The Manzini Magistrate’s Court has since granted the application to extradite the Ndimande brothers to South Africa in connection with the murder of the two friends.
According to reports, the two accused were arrested in Mbabane and have been in police custody ever since. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 11:53
As reported by the Business Research Institute at the University of KZN for Q2 2024, business confidence in KwaZulu-Natal is currently surging. Dynamic structural steel company Cousins Steel International (CSI) is strategically positioned to take full advantage of this positive upswing in positive sentiment, and will continue to build on its strong record of delivering …
Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre is proud to announce that it has been re-accredited by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) for its outstanding cardiac treatment offered and specifically for ‘Chest Pain Centre Accreditation with Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)’. This prestigious recognition reaffirms our commitment to providing the highest standard of cardiac care …
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has officially declared the ongoing Mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS), marking the first such declaration by the agency since its inception in 2017.
This declaration, under Article 3, Paragraph F of the Africa CDC Statutes, empowers the organization to lead and coordinate responses to significant health emergencies. The statute mandates Africa CDC to “coordinate and support Member States in health emergency responses, particularly those declared PHECS or Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), as well as health promotion and disease prevention through health systems strengthening, addressing communicable and non-communicable diseases, environmental health, and Neglected Tropical Diseases.”
The declaration will enable the mobilization of resources across affected countries, unlocking essential funding, strengthening Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE), boosting surveillance and laboratory testing efforts, and enhancing human resource capacities to respond effectively to Mpox through a One Health approach.
Africa CDC Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya emphasized the urgency of swift and decisive action: “Today, we declare this PHECS to mobilize our institutions, our collective will, and our resources to act—swiftly and decisively. This empowers us to forge new partnerships, strengthen our health systems, educate our communities, and deliver life-saving interventions where they are needed most. There is no need for travel restrictions at this time.”
At least 13 African countries, including previously unaffected nations like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, have reported Mpox outbreaks. So far in 2024, these countries have confirmed 2,863 cases and 517 deaths, primarily in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Suspected cases across the continent have surged past 17,000, a significant increase from 7,146 cases in 2022 and 14,957 cases in 2023. This is just the tip of the iceberg when we consider the many weaknesses in surveillance, laboratory testing and contact tracing.
Dr. Kaseya underscored the gravity of the situation stating “This is not just another challenge; it's a crisis that demands our collective action. Article 3, Paragraph F of the Africa CDC Statutes mandates us to lead and coordinate the response when there is a declaration of a public health emergency of international concern.”
From May 2022 to July 2023, Mpox was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the WHO. However, Africa did not receive the support it urgently needed during this period. As global cases began to decline, the escalating numbers in Africa were largely ignored. Dr. Kaseya emphasized the need for a change in approach: “We urge our international partners to seize this moment to act differently and collaborate closely with Africa CDC to provide the necessary support to our Member States.”
He continued, appealing to global partners: “We call on you to stand with us in this critical hour. Africa has long been on the frontlines in the fight against infectious diseases, often with limited resources. The battle against Mpox demands a global response. We need your support, expertise, and solidarity. The world cannot afford to turn a blind eye to this crisis.”
He explained that the emergency declaration follows wide consultations, including a unanimous decision by the Africa CDC Emergency Consultative Group (ECG), chaired by Professor Salim Abdool Karim, head of CAPRISA, an AIDS research program based in Durban, South Africa.
Prof. Karim highlighted that limited surveillance and evidence suggest the situation could be more severe than currently understood. “The number of cases has significantly increased compared to 2022 when WHO declared Mpox a public health emergency. It's clear that we're facing a different scenario with far more cases, resulting in a higher burden of illness,” he said. He also raised concerns about the rising fatalities, particularly the potential link between HIV and Mpox. “Our concern is that we may be seeing more fatalities in Africa due to the association with HIV,” he noted.
Cross-border transmission to previously unaffected countries was also a concern, prompting the ECG to urge the strategic distribution of the limited vaccines available. The lack of diagnostic capabilities was identified as a critical issue requiring urgent attention, and the ECG encouraged the development of response plans, promising to provide input and support.
To address the Mpox outbreak in Africa, Africa CDC has set up a 25-member Incident Management Team based at the epicenter of the Mpox epidemic with mandate to support affected and at-risk countries. Africa CDC has also signed a partnership agreement with the European Commission's Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and Bavarian Nordic to provide over 215,000 doses of the MVA-BN® vaccine—the only FDA and EMA-approved Mpox vaccine. Africa CDC will oversee the equitable distribution of these vaccines, prioritizing local needs across the affected Member States.
MPOX SYMPTOMS, PREVENTION, AND TREATMENT
Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, with two distinct clades: Clade I and Clade II. Common symptoms include a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting 2–4 weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. The virus can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with an infectious person, contaminated materials, or infected animals.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule a beacon of hope: KZN Premier
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of seasoned radio personality and businesswoman, Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule.
She passed away on Monday after a battle with lung cancer.
Ntuli described Mbokazi-Nkambule as a pioneer of the arts and a respected radio journalist who used her platform to inspire hope.
“Zanele Mbokazi was a pioneer and touched the lives of many. She was a media personality, but many will recall that she was the founder of the Crown Gospel Awards, which are often referred to as the ‘Grammys of gospel music in South Africa’ since their inception in 2007,” Ntuli said.
“Through her show ‘Eshilo’ which was broadcast every Sunday morning from 9am to 12pm, she connected with people on a personal level, making each one feel seen and heard. Her passion for radio and commitment to providing quality content made her an irreplaceable part of our community, and her absence will be deeply felt.”
READ | Government pays tribute to Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule
For dedicating her life to uplift others by spreading messages of hope, faith, and resilience, Ntuli said Mbokazi-Nkambule deserves to be applauded.
“Her contribution, by promoting gospel music talent from KZN and beyond, through the Crown Gospel Awards certainly changed many people’s lives and fortunes. Her legacy continues to be celebrated in KZN and across South Africa,” Ntuli said.
The Premier added that they had every hope that Mbokazi-Nkambule was going to recover from her illness because she was not “merely a presenter, she was a beacon of hope and inspiration in the broadcasting industry.”
EThekwini Municipality Mayor, Cyril Xaba, has also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and relatives of Mbokazi-Nkambule.
“Amongst her many great accomplishments, we will remember her mostly through her contribution to uplifting the creative industry,” Xaba said.
Born and raised in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, the 52-year-old Mbokazi-Nkambule spent most of her life in the province, where she grew in prominence in radio and in the South African gospel music industry.
She was the founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards, which honoured excelling talent in the gospel music genre. SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 08/13/2024 - 10:54
The Newtown A clinic has been closed since the floods in April 2022
Government pays tribute to Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule
Government has joined the nation in mourning the passing of Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, a stalwart in the gospel music industry and a beloved radio personality.
“Deepest condolences are extended to the Mbokazi and Nkambule families, as well as her Ukhozi FM family during this difficult time,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.
Mbokazi-Nkambule reportedly passed away at Parklands Hospital in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, in the early hours of Monday.
“As the founder of the Crown Gospel Music Awards, Mbokazi-Nkambule provided a platform for gospel artists to be recognised and to showcase their talents; this contributed immensely in elevating the genre to new heights.
“Her dedication and love for gospel music has helped many and nurtured the growth of gospel music in South Africa.
“Mbokazi-Nkambule’s voice resonated with millions while working as a radio personality on Ukhozi FM, where she captivated her listeners with her warmth, sincerity, and deep connection to her faith. She was a strong believer who was committed to her spiritual journey and the upliftment of others,” GCIS said.
Mbokazi-Nkambule’s contributions to the gospel music industry and the media will be remembered for generations to come.
“Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists and broadcasters. As the country mourns her passing and remembering her remarkable life, let us stand with her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her work. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” GCIS said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 15:11
After an impressive third-place finish at the Totalsports Women’s Race in Cape Town on National Women’s Day (Friday, 9 August 2024), where she competed against the exceptional Christine Njoki (Kenya) and Tadu Nare (Ethiopia), South Africa’s national record holder Glenrose Xaba is more determined than ever to seize gold at the final event of the …
Local government called to be responsive to community needs
KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has urged local government office bearers to be responsive to the needs of communities or face the consequences from the electorate.
Speaking at the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) KZN Sustainable Governance and Accountability Symposium in Durban last week, Buthelezi underscored the importance of sustainable governance and innovative solutions to meet the challenges facing municipalities throughout the province.
Buthelezi pointed out the complexities confronting municipalities, including climate change, financial limitations, and the imperative for enhanced service delivery.
He advocated for a unified approach to governance that is rooted in sustainability and accountability, which he believes is essential for long-term development and resilience.
“Our municipalities are the cornerstone of our communities, and their effectiveness in service delivery is vital for the welfare of our citizens. The current challenges necessitate a re-evaluation of our governance methods and the adoption of new strategies,” Buthelezi stated.
The MEC said the financial model for municipal funding ought to be reassessed, especially considering the recent veld fires that resulted in 15 fatalities last month. This, he said, demonstrates the urgent need for municipalities to be better equipped for such disasters.
He emphasised the importance of revising the financial support structures for local governments to ensure their preparedness for future challenges.
Buthelezi further praised the joint efforts of all parties involved in promoting accountability and transparency in municipal governance.
He encouraged mayors and senior officials to persist in these endeavours, reminding them that sustainable governance is an ongoing process that demands consistent commitment.
“The prosperity of our municipalities relies on our collective capacity to collaborate, innovate and maintain accountability. Our primary objective is to forge a brighter future for the people of KwaZulu-Natal,” Buthelezi said.
The SALGA KZN Sustainable Governance and Accountability Symposium brought together key local government stakeholders to deliberate on ways to improve governance practices, focusing on sustainability and accountability. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 08/12/2024 - 11:09
Understanding Laser Hair Growth Treatment Hair growth light therapy, or laser hair growth treatment, has become increasingly popular for addressing hair loss issues. This non-invasive treatment uses low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to stimulate hair follicles, promoting hair growth and preventing further hair loss. The procedure involves exposing the scalp to red light, which penetrates the …
Cabinet commends continued law enforcement agencies successes
As part of the ongoing fight against crime, Cabinet has commended the continued successes of law enforcement agencies in the arrest of members of organised crime syndicates and gangs.
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, highlighted that Operation Shanela of the South African Police Service (SAPS) has ensured the arrest of 766 237 suspects for various crimes, with 161 752 of these were suspects wanted for priority crimes, including murder, cash-in-transit heists, armed robberies, rape and car hijacking, among others.
“Cabinet welcomed the shutting down of an illegal military training camp in White River, Mpumalanga following an intelligence-driven multidisciplinary law enforcement operation which has also resulted in the arrest of 95 Libyan nationals,” Ntshavheni said.
Cabinet reiterated a call to all South Africans to partner with law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime without resorting to vigilantism.
“Cabinet has taken a dim view of actions by some community leaders that amounted to threatening of learners and teachers at their school. The Department of Basic Education will continue to work with the SAPS to ensure schools remain safe spaces for learning and teaching,” Ntshavheni said.
READ | Together, let us 'take back our communities' from criminals – President Ramaphosa
Conviction of former Home Affairs officials welcomed
Cabinet acknowledged the conviction and sentencing of former Home Affairs officials and foreign nationals by the Durban Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, after being found guilty of committing fraud and corruption against the immigration system.
READ | Former DHA official sentenced to 12 years imprisonment
“The successful convictions bolster government’s efforts of building an ethical, professional, and capable developmental state,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 13:06