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Three KZN SMEs triumph at the Durban Automotive Cluster Dragons’ Den Event Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – The (DAC) Business Accelerator held its “Dragons’ Den” event at The Pearls in Umhlanga Rocks on Tuesday, 4th June 2024. Although this step of the Accelerator is based on the popular Dragons’ Den television show, its intentions and outcomes are …
EFC workshop provides SMEs with essential insights and support for growth DURBAN, KWAZULU-NATAL – South Africa has one of the highest small business failure rates globally, with a significant number of startups closing their doors before they even get off the ground. “I think small businesses in South Africa struggle to survive because of a …
KZN working towards a permanent solution for flood victims
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is working towards a permanent solution for the people affected by the recent storms.
“We are working closely with the eThekwini Municipality and the Provincial Department of Human Settlements to find quick solutions for sheltering those affected. SASSA [South African Social Security Agency] continues to capture applications for Social Relief of Distress food vouchers in response to the devastating storm in uThongathi,” KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, said on Thursday.
Mop-up operations continue in eMagwaveni settlement, as residents rebuild their homes in uThongathi. The area was hit by a devastating tornado, resulting in the loss of lives, livelihoods, and properties.
Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, said the temporary repairs of the Southern Aqueduct, in the south of Durban, will be completed in September this year.
Kaunda, accompanied by Deputy Mayor, Zandile Myeni and Human Settlements and Infrastructure Deputy Chairperson, Bheki Mngwengwe visited the aqueduct on Thursday to assess the progress on the replacement of the aqueduct.
In April this year, Kaunda introduced a contractor to commence with the replacement of the 30km bulk pipe, which supplies water to areas such as uMlazi, KwaMakhutha, Folweni, Chatsworth and Shallcross.
“While the R1.2 billion project is underway, the contractor is also doing temporary repairs on the existing pipeline to ensure that there is reliable water supply in the southern areas.
“The temporary repairs will be completed in September this year. The completion of the project will take 24 months,” Kaunda said.
Once completely repaired, the pipeline will improve water supply to the south of Durban areas. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 08:58
New dispensation needed to improve water and sanitation service provision
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, says a new dispensation is needed in the water and sanitation sector to certify proper water management and propel the country to greater heights that will realise water security for future generations.
Mchunu was speaking at the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) Conference, currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban.
The three-day WISA Conference has brought together over 1 500 academics, professionals, industry experts and law makers in the water and sanitation fields to discuss key issues and challenges in the water sector.
The 2024 conference, held in partnership with uMngeni-uThukela Water, aims to discuss and come up with sustainable solutions to the challenges within the water sector.
Mchunu said the current state of water and sanitation services has challenged government and its partners to turn things around, and set high standards for the water and sanitation sector.
“To a certain extent, water resource management has not received the attention it deserves, and the reality is visible with the deterioration of the water quality of our rivers.
“This is mainly due to pollution emanating from mining activities, industry, agriculture and to a greater extent, from dysfunctional municipal wastewater systems,” Mchunu said.
In an attempt to address this problem, Mchunu said the department has established a national anti-pollution structure that will work with the department to curb pollution of the country’s rivers and dams.
The Minister emphasised that water resource management is more than just a technical challenge, but a societal imperative.
“Water resources are the lifeblood of our nation, underpinning our health, our economy, and our environment,” Mchunu said.
Catchment Management Agencies
During the conference, Mchunu launched four Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs).
They are the Limpopo-Olifants, Vaal-Orange, Pongola-Umzimkulu, Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma Catchment Management Agencies.
They will be working alongside the already existing Breede-Olifants and Inkomati-Usuthu CMAs.
The establishment of the CMAs is in line with the provisions of the National Water Act (NWA) and the National Water Policy for South Africa to enhance decentralised decision-making in managing water resources, in an integrated manner, at a local level.
The agencies will be responsible for the protection, use, development, conservation, management, and control of all the water resources in a water management area (WMA) at the catchment level.
They also ensure participative management, good water governance and integrated planning, and improving co-operative governance of the country’s water resources in order to achieve the objectives of the National Water Act, equity, accessibility and government’s commitments to improving service delivery.
These responsibilities require that all spheres of government, water users and communities in the water management area work with CMAs as partners.
In acknowledging the effects of climate change, Mchunu said the department is an important contributor to building a climate-resilient future through continuous strategising and effective provision of water and sanitation services.
“CMAs, at local level, will bring together stakeholders to build capacity around creating a climate resilient environment. We are confident that the rationalisation will still achieve the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) principle of decentralisation of water resource management to local level and contribute to the transformation of the water sector,” Mchunu said. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 11:31
City of eThekwini says the water crisis in parts of the city will only be fully resolved in 2025
MultiChoice Group (www.MultiChoice.com/) demonstrated resilient operational performance for the year ended March 2024 (FY24), delivering a 26% trading profit margin in South Africa, while increasing trading profit in the Rest of Africa by 48%, despite very challenging macro-economic conditions. Clear strategic milestones were reached, with the group successfully launching Showmax 2.0, SuperSportBet and Moment, all of which are now revenue-generating and supporting the group's future growth prospects.
Download document: https://apo-opa.co/4cj3eXQ
“Four years after setting out a clear strategy of building Africa's entertainment platform of choice and investing in services to support a broader ecosystem, our three core segments are now fully operational: video entertainment, interactive entertainment and fintech. Our focus now shifts to building on these solid foundations to drive growth in these new areas, and on further enhancing business efficiency across our operations.
While we are not alone in feeling the challenges of a weak consumer environment, I am proud of the speed and effectiveness of the team in implementing strategic actions to retain customers, safeguard cash generation and drive costs savings which surpassed our targets. It is the strength of this team, the quality of the underlying business and the clarity of our strategy which underpins my confidence in delivering on our potential,” said Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO.
Some key points for the past financial year:
MultiChoice is by far the largest producer of original content on the African continent. In FY24, the group again produced over 6 500 hours of local content and its local content library now has more than 84,000 hours of content, a 12% increase YoY.
The highlight for the year was Shaka Ilembe, which launched on Mzansi Magic in June to become Africa's biggest TV series. Filmed entirely on location in South Africa, it was created through the skills and contributions of over 8 000 people. The premiere episode attracted over four million viewers and was the top-performing show with an audience share of over 45% in its time slot.
Other content highlights of the year was Reyka (season 2), Devil's Peak and White Lies on linear (co-produced with Fremantle, Canal +, Abacus Distribution and BBC Studios-owned Lookout Point) and Spinners, Original Sin: My Son The Killer, and Catch Me a Killer, on streaming. Across Africa, the group launched 3 new proprietary channels - in Ethiopia (Maaddii Abol), Uganda (Pearl Magic Loko) and Mozambique (Maningue Magic Kool) while also producing content in Africa's 4th most spoken language, Oromo.
SuperSport broadcast 34 490 live events during the year – arguably more live sport than any other broadcaster in the world. Highlights included the Rugby World Cup in France, the Cricket World Cup in India, a second SA20 season in South Africa, AFCON, FIFA Women's World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, as well as the Netball World Cup in Cape Town.
SuperSport Schools more than doubled its registered user base during the year. The fast-growing platform displayed more than 49 000 hours of live programming across 43 different sports codes, covering 900 school sport festivals and events, featuring more than 1 100 schools, and over 14 500 teams.
SEGMENTAL REVIEW
South Africa Pay-TV (MultiChoice South Africa)
Due to a strong focus on retention initiatives, the decline in active subscribers in South Africa was limited to 5%, despite the challenging environment. The base now stands at 7.6 million households. Power outages experienced on 275 days of the year further discouraged potential subscribers without backup power.
Although the Premium bouquet is trending toward a stable base given the targeted retention efforts, the premium customer tier (which includes the Premium and Compact Plus bouquets) declined by 8%. The mid-market Compact base, which is most exposed to the macro-economic challenges, was down 9%, while the mass-market tier was 2% lower due to pressure in the Family base, the impact of loadshedding, and reduced decoder subsidies.
A consequent 3% decline in subscription revenues and softer advertising income weighed on the segment's total revenues (-2% to ZAR33.6bn), but was partially offset by strong traction from new revenue streams, especially the insurance business (NMSIS) which reported a 35% increase in premium revenue to almost ZAR1bn. Several interventions to reduce costs enabled the SA business to achieve a trading margin of over 26%.
Rest of Africa Pay-TV (MultiChoice Africa)
The business in the Rest of Africa faced the toughest macro-economic conditions in its core markets with high, double-digit inflation and extreme depreciation of local currencies, (especially in Nigeria, Angola, Kenya and Zambia) which impacted USD revenues by 32%.
The active subscriber base declined to 8.1m, but effective retention efforts contributed to an improved subscriber mix.
Due to the challenging market dynamics, the short-term focus of this business shifted from subscriber growth to safeguard profitability and cash flows. Several cost-saving initiatives were implemented, including scaling back significantly on decoder subsidies (-46% YoY or ZAR1.3bn), and reducing SG&A costs by ZAR500m. These interventions enabled the Rest of Africa business to increase trading profit by 48% YoY to ZAR1.3bn.
Sub-Saharan Africa SVOD (Showmax)
FY24 was a pivotal year for Showmax as it relaunched across 44 markets in sub-Saharan Africa on Peacock's world-class platform, which is 4K/HDR and ATMOS ready. Almost 100% of the eligible customer base was migrated to the new Showmax platform, and 88% of those migrated had reactivated their accounts in the seven weeks to year-end.
Alongside local content from M-Net, Mzansi Magic, Africa Magic and Maisha Magic, Showmax ramped up its local content, releasing 59 original movies and series in SA, Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana (FY23: 48). Popular shows that drove viewership included Tracking Thabo Bester, Koek, The Mommy Club, Youngins, Red Ink, Adulting, Outlaws and Real Housewives of Durban in South Africa, Cheta'm, Real Housewives of Lagos, Dead Serious, Wura and Flawsome in Nigeria, and Single Kiasi and Second Family in Kenya.
Showmax revenues for the year grew by 22% (+22% organic) to ZAR1.0bn, while trading losses increased to ZAR2.6bn. These losses came in below the expected range of ZAR3-4.0bn. As noted before, due to the partnership agreement signed in 2023, 30% of Showmax's funding requirements is contributed by Comcast.
Technology (Irdeto)
Irdeto's strong execution, enabled it to become the market leader in managed security services for video with a 22% market share. It also saw significant success in combatting piracy, taking down some 30 000 streaming piracy services during the year. Revenue increased by 17% (7% organic) driven by external customers across video entertainment, gaming and connected transport, with some additional uplift from a weaker ZAR against the USD. Disciplined cost management supported a 23% trading margin.
Irdeto shipped its first keyless solutions to leading customers, including one of the largest fleet operators in the US market. This resulted in a revenue increase of 119% YoY in the connected transport division, with revenue from new services now representing a combined 35.7% of total revenues.
Sports betting and interactive entertainment (KingMakers)
KingMakers reported strong growth in the online business in Nigeria, with monthly active users up 37% YoY and online gross gaming revenues up 26% YoY in constant currency. New products were also launched, including BetKing Casino and BetKing FootballGO, a virtual football sportsbook service.
Revenue of USD147m was affected by the weak Naira, while the business reported a positive EBITDA of USD2m. At the end of its December year-end the business had a retained cash balance USD113m to fully fund its growth initiatives.
KingMakers launched the SuperSportBet business in South Africa in January 2024. Its pre-game shows and live feed integration with SuperPicks, as well as the Playbook preview show were key drivers of uptake, further supported by SuperSportBet becoming the official betting partner of local soccer clubs, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
Fin-tech (Moment)
After being founded during FY23, Moment officially launched in FY24. The business played a vital role in the Showmax relaunch stepping up to fill a critical payments gap. In January this year, Moment also began processing MultiChoice's payments for DStv, reaching a milestone of processing USD85m in payments in early March 2024.
To-date, Moment has processed local and cross-border card payments in 44 Showmax markets and is already accounting for more than 20% of Group's payment volumes. It also joined real-time payment networks in 18 countries, including South Africa, and is currently piloting instant payment and account activation for DStv.
The business raised an additional USD22m of funding, with MultiChoice contributing USD8m. As a result, Moment is now valued at USD82m and MultiChoice owns a 26% stake.
FUTURE PROSPECTS
The linear video-entertainment business remains the mainstay of the group's operations and provides a valuable base from which to expand its service offerings. The new streaming, interactive entertainment, fintech and connectivity services are having a positive impact on the business, and more importantly, on the lives of its customers. Going forward, the group will focus its efforts on scaling Showmax, Moment, SuperSportBet, as well as on driving growth in insurance (NMSIS), DStv Internet and DStv Stream.
To counter the challenges around an uncertain economic recovery globally and across the group's operating footprint, the group will continue to drive business efficiency and cost optimisation, with an increased cost savings target of ZAR2bn.
Not only should this mitigate the ongoing impact of currency volatility and consumer weakness on performance, but together with the company's strategic plans to continue adapting its platforms to cater to customers' evolving needs, it positions the group well to prosper once currencies stabilize and economies rebound.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.
MultiChoice Group Contact Details:
Litlhare Moteetee
Senior Manager: Corporate Communications
Litlhare.Moteetee@Multichoice.co.za
Meloy Horn, Head of Investor Relations
Mobile: +27 82 772 7123
meloy.horn@multichoice.com
About MultiChoice Group:
MultiChoice Group (MCG), listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), is a leading provider of entertainment and related consumer services, with an expanding ecosystem, underpinned by scalable technologies, and a track record now spanning almost 40 years. MCG provides video entertainment products and services through its linear and streaming platforms to 23.5m households across 50 countries on the African continent and continues to grow by producing and acquiring the best local, sport and international content and offering tiered subscription packages and aggregated streaming services to its customer base. MCG's superior technology capabilities enables it to continue innovating around distribution, digital and payment solutions and content security to offer the best customer experience across the continent. Reaching up to 100 million individuals on a daily basis, the MultiChoice Group is using its scale and distribution to expand its platform to include sports betting and interactive entertainment, fin-tech services, household services (focused on internet connectivity and emergency response services) and ed-tech. Irdeto, MCG's technology business, provides platform cybersecurity services which protect over 6bn devices and applications globally for some of the world's best media and technology brands, as well as clients in the connected industries sector.
CoGTA Minister to visit KZN following severe storms
The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Thembi Nkadimeng, will visit KwaZulu-Natal today to assess the impact of the heavy storms that ravaged parts of the province, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
According to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, the heavy rains and strong winds have affected districts including eThekwini, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, and uMkhanyakude District Municipalities.
“Minister Nkadimeng is visiting the affected areas as she is responsible for National Disaster Management in the country.
“The visit will provide the Minister with the opportunity to see the extent of the damage, and engage various stakeholders and role players who are already on the ground assisting the affected communities,” the department said in a statement.
The Minister has reiterated government’s commitment to assist those affected by the recent storms.
Nkadimeng has lauded government agencies that have been on the ground providing humanitarian support and assisting the affected communities that have been displaced.
At least 11 people lost their lives, including seven people from uThongathi in the north of Durban, and four in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa.
Meanwhile, over 55 people were also reported to have suffered minor to moderate injuries and are receiving medical treatment in hospital.
“Minister Nkadimeng conveys her sincere, heartfelt condolences to those who lost loved ones as a result of this disaster. She also wishes those who suffered injuries a speedy recovery,” the department said.
Last week, Nkadimeng and Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, visited areas devastated by floods in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in the Eastern Cape.
READ | Government hastens flood relief efforts in the Eastern Cape
This is after parts of the Eastern Cape were flooded, with the most affected areas being the Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay metros. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 06/12/2024 - 09:33
June 2024, Durban KwaZulu-Natal – Since 2022 Ignition Group (Ignition) has been working in conjunction with The Learn Project on the Book Corners and School Library initiative. “We believe that by supporting literacy and reading programmes for foundation phase, learners at less privileged schools get the base they need to participate in and benefit from …
With less than two months until the Olympic Games commence in Paris, three-time Olympian Stephen Mokoka has confirmed that the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K on Sunday 7 July 2024, will be his final race before competing in the Olympic Marathon five weeks later. “The Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K is going …
Health Minister to brief media on Mpox outbreak
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, will hold a media briefing on Wednesday to provide an update on the outbreak of Monkeypox disease, also known as Mpox.
According to the statement, the Minister will outline plans by the department in collaboration with various stakeholders in the sector to curb further spread and prevent mortality.
Last week, the department reported that two more cases of Mpox had been detected at Addington and St Augustine Hospitals in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Additionally, the country recorded two infections last month, one in Durban and the other in Gauteng.
The briefing will be joined by experts from the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and senior managers from the department.
Some common symptoms of Mpox include a rash lasting for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen glands.
The department explained that the painful rash looks like blisters or sores and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital, and/or anal regions.
The briefing is scheduled to take place on 12 June 2024 at Tshedimosetso House, 1035 Francis Baard Street, Hatfield, Pretoria, starting at 10am. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 14:59
For the second year running, the globally renowned Sardine Run arrived on the final day of the Ocean Festival on the KZN South Coast’s Scottburgh. This is a fitting gesture for the festival, which commemorates World Oceans Day (8 June) while encouraging ocean conservation through its themes ‘Engagement, Education, and Economics’. The dynamic event programme, …
At 08h16, Tuesday, 11 June, NSRI Rocky Bay, an NSRI lifeguard, an NSRI Durban crewman, the SA Police Services, Police Search and Rescue, Netcare 911 ambulance, eThekwini Fire and Rescue Services, KwaZulu EMRS (Emergency Medical and Rescue Services), Metro Search and Rescue and the KZN surf lifesaving network were activated by eThekwini surf lifeguards, on …
Mop up operations continue across KZN
Mop up operations continue across KwaZulu-Natal following heavy rains, which wreaked havoc in various parts of the province.
Last Monday’s heavy rains, accompanied by strong winds, wreaked havoc in various parts of the province, affecting the districts of eThekwini Metro, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Umzinyathi, Amajuba and Umkhanyakude District Municipalities.
At least 11 people lost their lives, including seven people from uThongathi in the north of Durban, and four in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa, respectively.
Over 55 people were also reported to have suffered minor to moderate injuries and are receiving medical treatment in hospital.
The storm also left extensive damage to schools and power lines, leaving many parts of eThekwini without electricity.
The eThekwini Metro was hardest hit, with dozens of people treated for injuries in health care facilities.
The eThekwini Municipality said relief intervention in the form of food, blankets, mattresses and building material is underway to assist displaced residents in eMagwaveni, uThongathi.
“eThekwini teams and volunteers are working together to clear debris in preparation for rebuilding. Water standpipes and water tankers have been provided to ensure an interim water supply. The restoration of electricity is also in progress,” the municipality said.
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has also deployed community works participants playing a crucial role in helping affected families.
KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Nonhlanhla Khoza and eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, has also conducted an assessment on the restoration of basic services in eMagwaveni, uThongathi.
Khoza said social workers have been deployed to provide relief and support, including assistance with important documents and school uniforms for affected learners.
“Partnerships with organisations like the Hollywood Foundation and South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) ensured immediate aid, including meals and shelter in community halls.
“The government pledged to construct proper homes for victims and increase disaster relief coordination efforts. Despite ongoing relief efforts, more aid is needed for affected areas like uThongathi, Osizweni, and Eshowe,” Khoza said.
Other interventions include assessment of the families who have lost loved ones and construction of temporary residential units (TRUs) for displaced families. Debris and fallen trees on the roads has been cleared; and electricity supply has been restored to certain areas.
A command centre has also been established on site to assist community members, and Social Relief of Distress grants are being disbursed by SASSA and the Department of Social Development.
Relief, in the form of building material, food, blankets and mattresses is being provided to residents of uMgababa, Ward 98, who were also affected by the heavy rains and strong winds.
eThekwini Deputy Mayor, Zandile Myeni, and Chairperson of the Governance and Human Capital Committee, Nkosenhle Madlala, recently visited the area to assess the extent of the damage.
About 30 families from the area lost their homes to the storm. While injuries were reported, no deaths have been recorded in the area.
Myeni said eThekwini Municipality, including provincial government, non-profit and non-governmental organisations are working together to provide relief to the affected families, and work to restore services is also underway.
Jozini Municipality responds to tornado disaster
Meanwhile, Jozini Local Municipality Mayor, Mfananaye Mathe, visited the KwaJobe area in northern KwaZulu-Natal to address the aftermath of a devastating tornado that struck the area leaving more than 59 families displaced.
The Gumede family, where nine children aged between four and 10, along with their grandmother, saw their RDP house collapse while they were inside.
Two of the children are hospitalised, with one admitted at Obonjeni Hospital and the other at Ngwelezane Hospital in Mpangeni.
Mathe has provided essential supplies, including groceries, blankets, and sleeping sponges to support the affected families.
The Jozini Local Municipality Disaster Management Team has also supplied temporary tents to all those impacted by the tornado.
While acknowledging the challenges in providing immediate assistance to everyone, Mathe emphasised the municipality's commitment to swiftly intervening where possible.
The mayor also expressed his gratitude to the Department of Community Services for its ongoing support during this crisis. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 10:26
Two for Joy have emerged as the champions of the 2024 Khabba Cup, defeating Star Pirates on 4-2 penalties after a 1-1 draw in a thrilling final and thus concluding an exciting weekend of top-tier youth football sponsored by South Africa’s premier sports betting operator, Hollywoodbets. They walk away with R 120 000 while the …
Victims of 2022 floods are still living in a “transit camp”
Top paddlers came out in force on Sunday, 9 June 2024 to compete in the 2024 Leatherback Rum Surfski Challenge at Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast. This doubles race saw Luke Nisbet (Durban) and Brent Chiazzari (Salt Rock) in first place with the ladies’ race won by Saskia Hockly (uMdloti) and Christie Mackenzie (uMdloti). …
The streets of Durban will be buzzing with excitement on Sunday, 7 July 2024, as event sponsors go all out to create an unparalleled on-route experience at the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K. “As we gear up for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K, participants can once again look forward to a …
The iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series heads to the City of Gold to celebrate the 2024 season finale, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K on National Heritage Day, Tuesday 24 September. Taking place on National Heritage Day, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K celebrates Johannesburg’s vibrant culture and history. The race offers …
New Catchment Management Agencies to ensure good water governance
In an effort to ensure the involvement of stakeholders in the management of water resources, the Department of Water and Sanitation is expected to launch four Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs).
They will be launched during the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) conference set to take place in Durban this week.
The establishment of the Catchment Management Agencies is in line with the provisions of the National Water Act (NWA) and the National Water Policy for South Africa.
The purpose of Catchment Management Agencies is to enhance decentralised decision-making in managing water resources, in an integrated manner, at a local level.
The department said the CMAs will ensure participative management, good water governance and integrated planning and improving co-operative governance of the country’s water resources, in order to achieve the objectives of the National Water Act, equity, accessibility and government’s commitments to improving service delivery.
“A CMA manages all the water resources in a water management area at the catchment level. This means that a CMA is responsible for the protection, use, development, conservation, management and control of all the water resources in that particular water management area (WMA).
“This responsibility requires that all spheres of government, water users and communities in the water management area participate with CMAs as partners,” the department said in a statement.
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, finalised the appointment of Board Members of the Pongolo–Umzimkhulu and the Vaal-Orange Catchment Management Agencies, a decision concurred by Cabinet.
The Boards of Pongola-Umzimkhulu and Vaal-Orange CMAs appointments became effective from 1 December 2023.
The department has reconfigured the number of CMAs to six, including Limpopo-Olifants, Vaal-Orange, Pongola-Umzimkulu, Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma, Breede-Olifants and Inkomati-Usuthu.
The boards, as the accounting authority, will operationalise the CMAs including developing the catchment management strategy, effective participation of stakeholders and management of water resources in the water management area.
“In addition, the CMA will be more responsive to water user needs and speedy decision-making around water resources management and create a customer-focused culture for water resources management,” the department explained.
The appointed board members for Pongolo–uMzimkhulu include Dr Thava Kelly (Chairperson), Sibusiso Makhanya (Deputy Chairperson), Hlengiwe Ndlovu, Bhekumuzi Gumbi, Dr Lembi William Mngoma, Snenhlanhla Mngadi, Professor Purshottama Reddy, Mdandla Myeni, and Nokuthula Khanyile.
This CMA is an amalgamation of the previous WMA areas within the KwaZulu-Natal province, such as half of the Pongola-Usuthu WMA, the Thukela WMA, and the Mvoti-Mzimkulu WMA. Interim Chief Executive, Swaswa Ntlhoro, was appointed for the transitional phase.
The appointed board members for the Vaal-Orange CMA, which operates in the Central North-eastern part of South Africa and extends from Ermelo in Mpumalanga to Kuruman in the Northern Cape, include Desmond Solomon Fransman (Chairperson), Tsakane Zwane (Deputy Chairperson), Hubert Thompson, Nontuthuzelo Njeza, Nakana Masoka, Ponatshego Mothibi, Doris Dondur, Dichikane Mashego, and Louis Van Oudtshoom. Interim Chief Executive, Solomon Mathebula, was appointed for the transitional phase.
“The Minister has finalised the appointment of Board members of Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma and awaiting concurrence by Cabinet. Interim Chief Executive, Sibusiso Mjwara, was appointed for the transitional phase. This agency’s footprint covers the majority of the Eastern Cape, and includes portions of KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, and the Northern Cape.
“For the Limpopo-Olifants CMA, the Advisory Committee has concluded their recommendation for the appointment of the Board and is awaiting the vetting of candidates and concurrence by Cabinet,” the department said.
Water Institute of Southern Africa conference
Meanwhile, the three-day Water Institute of Southern Africa conference will take place at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu Natal, from 12-14 June 2024.
WISA conferences provide a platform to discuss problems and solutions facing the water and related sectors. The conference is used to create mechanisms and collaborations, to ensure an enabling environment to set us on a path of implementation and impact. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 06/10/2024 - 11:57
The organisers of the iconic Totalsports Women’s Race are thrilled to welcome Super Rent as the official logistics partner for South Africa’s premier Women’s Month Celebration. “We are thrilled to partner with Super Rent as the official logistics partner for the Totalsports Women’s Race,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports. “For the first …
Following on last year’s first successful Change in Action NPO Fair, Gateway Theatre of Shopping, We are Durban, the Hollywood Foundation have partnered once again to create a platform for Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) to strengthen their capacity and reach out to the public. The initiative culminates with 20 NPOs in Greater Durban showcasing their organisation’s …
KZN Premier congratulates Comrades winners
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has congratulated Comrades Marathon champions, Piet Wiersma of the Netherlands and South Africa’s Gerda Steyn, for winning the 97th edition of the marathon on Sunday.
Wiersma won the men’s race ahead of South Africa’s Dan Moselakwe, while Steyn won the women’s marathon, clocking a time of 5 hours 49 minutes.
“I am elated to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Comrades Marathon. All who participated in the 97th edition of the Comrades Marathon are champions in their own right and their efforts have made the country and the province proud.
“On behalf of the provincial government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, we congratulate the over 20 600 runners from different countries of the world who came to KwaZulu-Natal to participate in this gruelling 86-kilometre uprun marathon from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. We also appreciate the spectators who lined up along the route to cheer up the runners and kept them motivated” Dube-Ncube said.
READ | Well wishes for officers in Comrades
The Premier also acknowledged the 5 000 volunteers, who kept the runners safe and hydrated throughout the marathon and worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event.
She said the race is indeed not just a race, but a celebration of human potential and community made possible by the runners’ unwavering commitment and hard work.
“This race continues to be a beacon of hope and a symbol of what is possible when we come together in the spirit of unity and perseverance. The Comrades Marathon is often revered as the ultimate human race, and is a unique and historic event that transcends the boundaries of sport.
“It embodies the very essence of human endurance, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence. This year’s marathon has once again highlighted the remarkable feats that can be accomplished through perseverance and an unwavering commitment to one’s goals.
Dube-Ncube also noted that this year’s Comrades brought a much-needed economic boost to the economy of the province, with both Pietermaritzburg and Durban reporting high accommodation occupancy rates.
The Premier further acknowledged the sponsors who continue to make the Comrades Marathon a global iconic event. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 06/10/2024 - 09:27
KZN learners to represent SA at Stockholm Junior Water Prize
Sanelisiwe and Sandisiwe Nhlozi from Buhlebemfundo Secondary School in Durban will represent South Africa in Stockholm, Sweden, at the Annual Stockholm Junior Water Prize in August.
The 15-year-old twins emerged victorious at the 2024 National South African Youth Water Prize Competition (SAYWP) held at the Xylem Water Solutions Offices in Kempton Park, Gauteng on Friday.
The South African Youth Water Prize competition is a vital component of the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Education programme, which aims to educate learners and society on water resource management issues including water use efficiency, water quality monitoring, and protection of water resources among others.
The competition, organised in partnership with Xylem Water Solutions, Water Technology, the Water Research Commission, and other key stakeholders in the water sector, aimed to identify a project that would best represent South Africa at the 2024 Stockholm Junior Water Prize in Sweden.
The final competition follows a culmination of months of hard work and dedication from young water and sanitation enthusiasts’ countrywide.
The two learners were announced as the winners of the competition following their impressive presentation on their innovation awareness project “Drop-Drop”, earning them an opportunity to showcase their project on a global platform and compete against other talented learners from around the world.
The duo also walked away with prizes including R15 000 each, tickets to Sweden, laptops, a first-place trophy, R10 000 allowance and bursaries to further their education at the university of their choice.
Sanelisiwe and Sandisiwe expressed their gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to represent South Africa on the global stage.
“We feel super excited, we are so emotional right now. We are so grateful to the teachers, mentors, and everybody who supported us to this far and our family," the duo said.
They also pledged to elevate South Africa to new heights and secure the top spot on the global stage of the competition with their awareness approach.
Following closely behind was Kimberly Technical School, whose impactful awareness project secured them second place. The school received prize of R14 000, bursary, laptops, and a second-place trophy.
Middleburg Muslim Secondary School in Mpumalanga also made a strong showing, earning third place for their outstanding awareness project plus R12 500, a laptop, and a bursary.
The learners from all nine provinces who participated in the national finals were also rewarded with bursaries and laptops to support their academic pursuits.
Pumla Ncumshe from the Department of Water and Sanitation said the event served as a testament to the bright future of the youth in South Africa and their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
“As we look towards the Stockholm Junior Water Prize in August, we cannot help but feel inspired by the dedication and creativity displayed by these young individuals. Their projects serve as a reminder of the importance of water conservation and the role that young people can play in shaping a sustainable future for all.
“Congratulations to all the participants, and best of luck to Sanelisiwe and Sandisiwe as they represent South Africa on the international stage. Also, congratulations to the winners of the 2024 national finals, as well as all the participating schools, regional coordinators, media houses, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the program,” Ncumshe said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 06/09/2024 - 11:10
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus named an exciting squad of 35 players for the team's first official training camp of the season, which starts in Pretoria on Monday where the focus will be on the opening Test of the season against Wales on 22 June.
The Boks are in for a blockbuster 2024 season kicking off later this month against Wales in London. The squad includes 11 uncapped players and a cohort of players from the 2023 and 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning squads.
The uncapped players in the squad are Jordan Hendrikse (the brother of Jaden Hendrikse), Quan Horn, Edwill van der Merwe, Morne van den Berg (all Emirates Lions players), Phepsi Buthelezi, Siya Masuku, Ethan Hooker (from the Hollywoodbets Sharks), Ben-Jason Dixon, Sacha Feinberg-Mgomezulu, Neethling Fouche and Andre-Hugo Venter (DHL Stormers), who were outstanding in their respective competitions this season.
Players based in Europe, the UK and Ireland will not be considered for the Boks' first Test of the season against Wales at Twickenham. Players in contention from the Vodacom Bulls, who advanced to the semi-final of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, were also not considered for this squad.
The squad includes 19 forwards and 16 backs. Rugby World Cup-winning flyhalf Handre Pollard and No 8 Jasper Wiese (who is serving a six-week ban) have been named in the group and will be allowed to train with their team-mates, but will only be available for selection after the Wales Test.
Erasmus included a local contingent from the newly crowned EPCR Challenge Cup champions, the Hollywoodbets Sharks, and the Emirates Lions – whose Vodacom URC seasons came to a halt at the conclusion of the pool stages last weekend – as well as the DHL Stormers, who were knocked out of the competition earlier this evening against the Glasgow Warriors. Players plying their trade in Japan were also named in the squad.
The only players in the group who did not participate in either of the Springbok alignment sessions in March and May respectively, as well as the virtual alignment camp hosted early in May, are Hooker and Van der Merwe.
“We selected a group of players featuring a good mix of youth and experience, and in terms of the young players especially, we believe they have the potential to make the step-up to top international rugby,” said Erasmus.
“We've been following all their performances closely, we had the luxury of presenting our plans to them and getting to know them as individuals off the field at the alignment camps, and we are pleased with the enthusiasm they showed and willingness to learn.
“With the players based in Europe, the UK and Ireland not available for Wales, we anticipate that there will be a few players making their Test debuts in that match, but even for those who do not make the cut, having them in camp and getting the chance to work closely with them on the field will set them and the team in good stead as we prepare for this season and start laying the foundation for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.”
Erasmus added: “We gained immense value by granting a few players a chance to prove what they can do at international level in the last few years leading up to the 2023 World Cup. Some of the players who made their Test debuts in that time were members of the squad that lifted the trophy in Paris, and we feel it is important that we continue blooding new players as we build toward the future.
“As things stand, we have a bunch of young players that already have Test experience and who know exactly how we operate as a team and what is expected of them at this level, and we have no doubt that we will reap the rewards in the years to come as we continue to increase our squad depth.
“As always there are a few unlucky players who missed out on selection this time, but the door will always be open for them to be called up if the need arises.”
Steven Kitshoff, Lood de Jager and Jaden Hendrikse among a handful players were not considered for the squad due to injury.
The Wales Test will be followed by the Castle Lager Incoming Series which features back-to-back Tests against Ireland (ranked second in the world) in Pretoria and Durban respectively (on 6 and 13 July) and a historic first Test against Portugal in Bloemfontein on 20 July.
The Springboks will then turn their attention to the Castle Lager Rugby Championship where they will line up against Australia in Brisbane and Perth (on 10 and 17 August) before facing arch-rivals New Zealand on consecutive weekends in South Africa in Johannesburg and Cape Town respectively (on 31 August and 7 September). They will then make a short trip to Argentina where they will face the Pumas in Santiago (on 21 September) and then in Nelspruit on 28 September.
This will be followed by the traditional year-end tour featuring Tests against Scotland in Edinburgh (9 November), England in London (16 November) and Wales in Cardiff (23 November).
Springbok training squad (in alphabetical order):
Forwards: Phepsi Buthelezi (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Joseph Dweba, Ben-Jason Dixon (both DHL Stormers), Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz), Eben Etzebeth (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Neethling Fouche (DHL Stormers), Vincent Koch (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Frans Malherbe (DHL Stormers), Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears), Bongi Mbonambi (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Ntuthuko Mchunu (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Salmaan Moerat (DHL Stormers), Franco Mostert (Honda Heat), Ox Nche (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Evan Roos (DHL Stormers), Kwagga Smith (Blu Revs), Andre-Hugo Venter (DHL Stormers), Jasper Wiese (Leicester Tigers).
Backs: Damian de Allende (Panasonic Wild Knights), Faf de Klerk (Canon Eagles), Andre Esterhuizen (Harlequins), Aphelele Fassi (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Jordan Hendrikse (Emirates Lions), Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (DHL Stormers), Ethan Hooker (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Quan Horn (Emirates Lions), Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath) Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles), Manie Libbok (DHL Stormers), Makazole Mapimpi, Siya Masuku (both Hollywoodbets Sharks), Handre Pollard (Leicester Tigers), Morne van den Berg (Emirates Lions), Edwill van der Merwe (Emirates Lions), Grant Williams (Hollywoodbets Sharks).
Issued by SA Rugby Communications
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Rugby.