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Dear Editor The Premier Campaign has learnt with great shock and sadness of the brutal murder of DA uMngeni Chief Whip, Councillor Nhlalayenza Ndlovu. We echo the sentiments of our Provincial Leader, Francois Rodgers in asking that the South African Police Service (SAPS) speedily investigates and bring his murderers to book. In light of this …
Four years after notorious gang leader was shot by police, Roodepoort families still live in fear
In homes across the country, many South Africans are preparing for the traditional spruce-up ahead of the festive season. Our teens may roll their eyes as we cajole them to take down the curtains, but we just like to start the new year with a clean slate. It’s as much in preparation of welcoming family …
Leading African law firm, Bowmans, has enhanced the breadth and depth of its offering in banking and finance with the appointment of Pride Jani as a partner in its Johannesburg office. ‘Pride has extensive experience advising clients, lenders and borrowers on finance transactions and structures, and will add new capacity to our General Finance Practice,’ …
The holiday season is around the corner, and with the warmer weather enticing everyone outdoors, the KZN South Coast is: Destination…summer! There are endless outdoor adventures for the whole family to enjoy from the sea to the sky! “Adventure tourism and nature-based experiences are top of the list for many visitors, and we’re so fortunate …
16 Days campaign: Spotlight on Captain Dhawrajh
The South African Police Service (SAPS) continues to highlight the work of its men and women in blue, who work tirelessly to put ruthless rapists and gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) perpetrators behind bars.
One such officer committed to the fight against GBV is Captain Michelle Dhawrajh, who is attached to the KwaZulu-Natal Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Investigations (FCS) Unit.
With more than 20 years in the field, Dhawrajh still leads and conducts evening raid operations to trace wanted suspects in GBVF related cases.
To date, she has secured 20 life sentences and a collective 70 years imprisonment for rapists and GBVF perpetrators in and around Durban.
In total, 25 suspects are doing time in prison, thanks to her meticulous investigative prowess.
Dhawrajh is also passionate about raising awareness and sensitising communities to reporting rape and other sexual offences.
Amongst her many assignments, Dhawrajh secured the sentencing of a 35-year-old man to life in prison for raping his eight-month-old niece.
In light of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign, Dhawrajh has urged communities to stop alcohol and drug abuse, as they are major contributors to most crimes committed against women and children.
She further encouraged communities to get more involved and report cases to stop the scourge of GBVF. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 12/05/2023 - 09:01
5 December 2023 – South African Para surfer Similo Dlamini will be among the thousands of swimmers who return to Midmar Dam from 8-11 February next year for the 2024 aQuellé Midmar Mile. Dlamini, who has a congenital condition that means her right leg is shorter than the left and she needs to use a …
Durban, 01 Dec 2023 – Following the noteworthy achievement of being awarded the prestigious Mandela Rhodes Foundation Äänit Prize, in September 2022, Dr Jessica Ronaasen, National Programmes Lead at the DO MORE FOUNDATION (DMF), in collaboration with key partners, has successfully spearheaded a transformational programme across South Africa. Their collective efforts have led to the …
PRASA’s long distance trains resumes service
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has announced that the long- distance Mainline Passenger Services (MLPS) under its rail division has resumed the Johannesburg to Durban and Cape Town services on the Shosholoza Meyl.
“Resuming the long-distance passenger rail services is our commitment to offering an alternative mode of transportation, connecting people with to families and friends, and offering holiday-makers an affordable and convenient means to reach their destinations,” PRASA said.
The services, which were both suspended in 2021 due to operational and network infrastructure challenges, are set to resume just in time for the December holiday period.
“These services resume as cash-strapped consumers are battling with the costs of long-distance travel. For just less than a R1 000 for a single trip, PRASA is inviting passengers to a unique experience to their destinations far from the hassles of traffic congestion and escalating travelling costs.
“The trips are more than just reaching one’s destination; it promises a unique an unforgettable experience for families and friends alike,” the agency said.
PRASA announced that Shosholoza Meyl will be offering an affordable private car transportation service at an additional cost for passengers travelling to Durban.
This service is also open to the general public, providing a convenient option for those who wish to transport their vehicles.
PRASA said it is making significant strides in rebuilding and recovering the rail infrastructure, with 27 commuter rail lines restored to date.
“The business is also working on restoring long-distance passenger rail services, with Shosholoza Meyl currently transporting people from Johannesburg to Queenstown and Musina. The resumption of the Johannesburg to Durban and Cape Town services mark another milestone in the revival of long-distance passenger rail services.”
Prasa reminded customers that limited seats and space are available and recommended that passengers make a booking and finalise travel arrangements well in advance by calling the call centre on 011 013 0231/2/3 alternatively 012 748 7362 or 015 299 606 or visiting the nearest Shosholoza Meyl Ticket office. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 12/04/2023 - 09:17
Dear Editor The DA has written to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa Nqakula, requesting that she urgently intervenes in reversing a decision denying members of the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises an opportunity to conduct an oversight visit at the Durban and Richards Bay ports. Last week, the Portfolio Committee on Public …
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today named the Proteas squads for the all-format inbound tour against India from 10 December...
National Strategic Plan on GBVF must be prioritised - Cabinet
Cabinet has reaffirmed the need to prioritise the implementation of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) of dealing with the second pandemic of gender-based violence and femicide.
Briefing the media on Thursday, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said Cabinet further noted progress that has been made on interventions of the NSP that are driven through the following six pillars:
“Government will continue with consultations with various sectors to mobilise a whole of society approach to dealing with GBVF [gender-based violence and femicide], including localising the NSP using the District Development Model (DDM) approach for implementation at a ward level,” the Minister said.
In this regard, Cabinet applauded the successful co-hosting of the 3rd African Union (AU) Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity in Leadership to End Violence Against Women and Girls with the Republic of Comoros in Pretoria from 27 to 28 November 2023.
The Men’s Conference provided an opportunity to consolidate the bold efforts that the Heads of State and Government, and other sectors have taken towards ending violence against women and girls on the continent.
These efforts include accountability for the implementation of the Kinshasa Declaration and the decisions made at the 2023 February Heads of State and Government Conference on negotiating an AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.
MSC investment
Meanwhile, Cabinet has also welcomed the opening of the Nelson Mandela cruise terminal by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) in a public-private partnership (PPP) contract with Transnet.
MSC invested approximately R296.7 million in the construction of the new terminal, with an additional R30 million earmarked for expansion of the terminal.
Cabinet echoed the sentiments of President Ramaphosa when he said at the opening of the terminal last week: “The multi-user terminal has made Durban an even more desirable destination for cruise ships from all over the world”. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 12/01/2023 - 09:21
Premier calls for swift arrest in rape of female security officers
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has called on law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate and swiftly bring to justice the perpetrators involved in the attack and rape of female security officers at the Transport Department offices in Durban.
According to reports, about eight armed criminals entered the Department of Transport offices at Merebank in eThekwini by scaling the wall and took hostage all six security guards on duty, bound them with their own shoelaces and assaulted them at gunpoint.
In another room, three female officers were raped at gunpoint in full view of their colleagues. The criminals also stole equipment belonging to the Department of Transport which is used for road maintenance.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has strongly condemned the sexual attack of the three female security officers.
“We would like to offer our support to the victims of this senseless and barbaric act of criminality and violation of women’s dignity. The latest sexual attacks and rape of these three women is an embarrassment and an indication that some men do not belong in our society and should be stripped of all the freedoms set aside for normal people,” Dube-Ncube said.
She said it was unfortunate that the attack comes at a time when the province should be observing the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
“This incident comes as the country is thick in the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) having launched the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign only on Saturday.
“We are deeply saddened that these barbaric and animalistic attacks on women still persist. The men who commit these crimes against their sisters and mothers, in all honesty are less than human, and should be condemned to long-term imprisonment without the option of a parole,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier described the incident as a heinous act that has shaken the province to its core.
“We also urge communities to come together in solidarity and support for gender-based violence survivors, fostering an environment where survivors feel safe to report such crimes and seek the help they need,” the Premier said.
The provincial government has assigned psycho-social support to the victims and affected staff, as well as the necessary protection to support the victims.
The Premier commended the Department of Transport for speedily visiting the site and attending to the staff traumatised by the incident. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 11/30/2023 - 14:46
DURBAN – The impact of load-shedding on the individual has been immense, but the cost to big business has seen a massive shift to off-the-grid energy solutions. Recent reports indicate that the elevated levels of load-shedding in 2023 have cost the economy R1.6 trillion in lost economic activity. The launch of global solar supplier UNIPASSION …
Cabinet welcomes measures put in place by Transnet
Cabinet has welcomed measures and plans put in place by Transnet to resolve the backlog at ports in Durban and Richard’s Bay.
Briefing the media on the Cabinet meeting that took place on Wednesday, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said Transnet is making intensive efforts to mobilise equipment, such as cranes, from all over the world to ensure a successful execution of its implementation plan.
“The progress made by Transnet in clearing most of the backlog at the Cape Town Container Terminal, with only one vessel at anchorage, is encouraging. Transnet remains committed to working with all role-players to address the challenges within the logistics sector,” the Minister said on Thursday.
Last week, Transnet said it was implementing a number of urgent interventions to address the backlogs at the Port of Durban and to ease the congestion at Richards Bay.
At the time, Transnet said the backlog was being caused by factors including inclement weather conditions and equipment availability.
Transnet Board Chairperson, Andile Sangqu, said: “The problem of port congestion is a complex one and it is something that was due to happen at some point, as a result of many years of underinvestment in equipment and its maintenance.
“We are working on a number of measures to turn the situation around. We need to caution that this is going to take some time as the lead times for some of the equipment is anything from 12 to 18 months. The team is working around the clock to procure this important equipment, to ensure our port facilities are in line with global best practice”.
Infrastructure development
Meanwhile, Cabinet has welcomed progress that is being achieved in the development and revitalisation of infrastructure for social development.
“In this regard, Cabinet is pleased by the opening of Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. The hospital, which was opened by President Cyril Ramaphosa, will service the growing healthcare needs of the approximately 1.5 million residents of Inanda, Ntuzuma and Kwa-Mashu, and communities in adjacent areas,” Ntshavheni said.
In addition, Cabinet has also welcomed the opening of the uMgungundlovu Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college (Msinga campus) in KwaZulu-Natal by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande.
The TVET college campus that was built at a cost of R143.5 million offers training in areas such as Farming Management and Mechatronics, amongst others.
“This campus is part of government’s commitment to ensure that there is at least one TVET college per district, and more than one in districts with a larger geographic spread. It is part of government’s continued and intentional investment to improve access to post-matric education, as part of equipping the nation for the future,” Cabinet said. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 11/30/2023 - 15:43
The imminent closure of the ArcelorMittal Newcastle ‘long’ steel products operation in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, is likely to cause considerable turbulence within the local steel sector, with potential projected ‘knock-on’ effects including product shortages, quality issues and even price increases, according to Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) Chief Executive Officer, Amanuel Gebremeskel. Commenting on …
Regent Business School (RBS) proudly announces its successful participation in the recent HealthXcel Innovation Challenge, a groundbreaking event held in Durban on 21 and 22 October, followed by a session in Johannesburg on 18 and 19 November. The two-day events brought together delegates, industry experts, and thought leaders for an immersive experience aimed at driving …
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal – The Durban Chemicals Cluster (DCC) Business Accelerator held its annual “Dragons’ Den” event at The Pearls in Umhlanga Rocks on Tuesday, 28 November 2023. Emulating the renowned Dragons’ Den format, 11 emerging Black-owned enterprises passionately presented their ventures to a panel of influential ‘Dragons’ who are driving the meaningful transformation of the …
Prison security to be beefed up to avoid 'threats' this festive season
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, on Wednesday said the department will enhance prison security to address any potential risks ahead of the festive season.
“Proactive measures will be taken to prevent the smuggling of contraband and to deter any attempts at disorder,” Thobakgale said.
The Commissioner was speaking in Durban during the official launch of the department’s National Festive Season Security Operations Plan.
“We are going into the holiday season, a time of joy, a time of celebration, and a time of togetherness for many. Yet, the festive season is also a period where the country experiences unique challenges related to elevated crime and security breaches in correctional facilities.
“Today’s launch of the DCS Festive Season Security Operations Plan is our commitment, as Correctional Services, towards safe and secure correctional centres.”
He told the attendees that the safety of correctional officials is the department’s number one priority.
However, he raised concerns about the officials who continue to live under a cloud of insecurity following several recent attacks.
“This shocking and appalling behaviour by those who try to stop law enforcement agencies from carrying out their duties will not be tolerated. An attack on law enforcement institutions is an attack on the State, and government views this in the most serious light.”
He described the correctional facilities as an essential part of the justice system, as they are tasked with the rehabilitation responsibility and safe custody of those who have transgressed the laws that govern society.
“The safety of both correctional officials and inmates is paramount,” he stressed.
According to the Commissioner, overcrowding, gang activities, contraband smuggling and violence have become pervasive.
And this, according to him, does not only jeopardise the lives of those within facilities but also communities to which offenders eventually return.
“These challenges underscore the pressing necessity to enhance security measures within correctional centres.”
Thobakgale believes that the festive season poses specific risks, including heightened emotions and increased social interactions among inmates.
“It is during these times that our collective vigilance becomes even more critical.”
He stressed that this year’s festive season plan was not only about maintaining security but about fostering an environment where both inmates and staff can experience a sense of peace and stability.
“We aim to ensure that the spirit of the season is not overshadowed by incidents that compromise the safety of our facilities.”
Interventions
To achieve this, Thobakgale said they will implement multi-faceted operations.
These include increased vigilance and traffic monitoring as holidays often result in an increased number of visitors to correctional facilities as families try to maintain ties during special occasions.
“Strict visitor screening procedures will be in place to prevent the introduction of contraband, and to ensure that only authorised individuals are allowed access.”
In addition, the department will also encourage inmates to participate in positive engagement programmes and activities as a distraction from potential conflicts, which also contribute to the rehabilitation process.
“We will strengthen our collaboration with external partners, including various law enforcement agencies and community organisations to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to security.
“Information-sharing and joint initiatives can help track and apprehend individuals attempting to orchestrate criminal activities from within correctional centres,” said Thobakgale.
He is of the view that by addressing these factors and maintaining a proactive approach to safety and security, correctional facilities will be better equipped to function with ease.
“As a result, the well-being of both staff members and inmates during the holiday season shall find resonance.”
The Commissioner also expressed his gratitude to the dedicated correctional officials who work tirelessly to maintain order and abide by the code of conduct in their daily routine.
“Your commitment to public safety is commendable and your efforts are invaluable. Working in a correctional facility is challenging, and your resoluteness must be valued at all times.”
He reminded his colleagues that their mission extends beyond the physical confines of correctional facilities.
But, according to the Commissioner, it is about fostering a safe society, with respect and dignity.
“Tightening security in our facilities is not merely a matter of institutional concern. It is a collective responsibility that impacts the safety and well-being of the entire society.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 15:26
KZN Transport condemns rape of female security officers
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport says it is appalled at the attack and rape of three female security officers by criminals targeting departmental offices in the eThekwini region.
The incident happened as the country observes the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign.
According to reports, heavily armed criminals entered the Department of Transport offices in Merebank, south of Durban, on Monday at around 02:30am.
While three male security officers, who belong to the private security company contracted to the department were kept hostage, the three female officers, who were held at gunpoint in another room, were sexually assaulted and raped.
“The criminals also stole departmental work tools, which are used for road maintenance and other assets. The female staff have been taken in for medical examination and cases have been opened with the police,” the department said.
The department said an investigating team has also visited the department's offices to initiate an investigation and are giving this case high priority.
After hearing the incident, Transport Community Safety and Liaison MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, immediately assigned the Head of Department, Siboniso Mbhele, to urgently visit the site and to engage with other staff members, who were still traumatised.
After meeting with the office management and staff, Mbhele said the department will look closely at the issue of improving security in the department’s offices and urged the police to move with speed in arresting the suspects.
Mbhele said the incident will affect staff morale and seriously impact on service delivery.
“The cruelty by these criminals against female security officers is unacceptable. Crime against women must be condemned by all of us, more so during such the critical campaign of no violence against women and children.
“We appeal to the police to activate a high-level investigating team and bring these heartless criminals to book. We are also addressing the security improvement in our premises to protect staff and our equipment,” Mbhele said.
Mbhele also appealed to the community to work with the police in reporting anyone who is selling departmental equipment.
He said the department has arranged for psycho-social services to assist the staff members at the centre to be able to continue with their daily duties.
The department within eThekwini has been the target of a criminal syndicate that attacks staff members at gunpoint, steal brush cutters and other equipment.
In another incident, a departmental grader was recovered in Camperdown. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 11:32
Castrol, a trusted name in automotive care and maintenance, has announced its association with Auto Complete, a Retail Motor Industry accredited, automotive workshop and service centre situated in Pinetown, Durban. This significant collaboration aims to provide developmental opportunities for the local motor city, including access to training solutions, marketing, and customer experience support, as well …
When considering forklifts for sale, it’s crucial to understand the different types and their specific applications. Each type has its own set of capabilities and is designed for particular environments and tasks. Warehouse Forklifts: Common in South African warehouses, these forklifts are ideal for loading and unloading goods from delivery vehicles and moving them …
Dear Editor Following extensive consultation with the DA provincial leadership the DA eThekwini caucus has reached a bold, but needed decision to call for the dissolution of the city’s council under the Municipal Structures Act. This follows the historical, unabated collapse of service delivery under the watch of the ANC-EFF coalition. Water, electricity, and sanitation …
December delights: Digging up some of South Africa best hidden gems. As the festive fiesta that is December approaches, South Africans and tourists across the country will be wondering what cool places will be worth a visit. For those looking for something more interesting than the usual hotspots, South Africa is filled with hidden gems …