Judge Mbenenge Denies Sending a Picture of His Private Parts to His Secretary
Secretary lied under oath, judge’s advocate claims
Eastern Cape
Judge’s Secretary Flirted Back, Argues Lawyer
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal hearing a complaint of sexual harassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge heard cross examination on Tuesday
E Cape leadership on back-to-school drive
E Cape leadership on back-to-school drive
The Eastern Cape Executive Council (EXCO) members, led by Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, will join forces with Cabinet Ministers and Deputy Ministers on a week-long Back-to-School Outreach Programme across the province.
The provincial Back-to-School Outreach Programme is an annual campaign, designed to ensure all learners have opportunities to become productive, responsible and competitive citizens, through an inclusive quality basic education system.
The initiative aims to promote education, support learners, and engage with local communities.
It also seeks to mobilise community and stakeholder support, recognising education as a societal matter.
“Building on previous successes, where school visits led to improved teaching and learning outcomes, this campaign will see EXCO members, Ministers and Deputy Ministers interact with learners, teachers and parents.
“They will provide support through the donation of educational materials, infrastructure development and mentorship programmes. The delegation will also engage with local communities, listening to concerns and suggestions on improving education,” the Eastern Cape Provincial Government said in a statement.
The outreach programme is scheduled to take place from 21 - 24 January 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 09:29
33 views
“Horny” Judge Asked Secretary for Sex, Judicial Conduct Tribunal Hears
The hearing of a complaint of sexual harassment against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge has entered its second week
Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season
Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season
While law enforcement maintained a constant presence throughout the festive season, conducting operations around the clock - the preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics reveal a concerning increase in crashes and fatalities, primarily attributed to human behavior.
“Tragically, South Africa witnessed 1,502 deaths resulting from 1,234 fatal crashes during the 2024/25 festive season. The number of fatalities represents a year-on-year increase of 5.3% (70) compared to the 2023/24 festive season, with a 4.2% (50) increase in the number of crashes,” Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said during a media briefing, held in Pretoria, on Monday.
The preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics indicate that 87% of crashes happened because of human behaviour, including hit-and-runs, jay-walking (pedestrians crossing or walking in the street or road unlawfully), fatigue, loss of control over vehicles, speed, drunken driving, and reckless overtaking.
“The number of people who died on our roads this festive season has increased because people continued to behave badly. In spite of our pleas and warnings, and notwithstanding our efforts to clamp down on irresponsible and reckless behaviour, it is clear that many road users – both drivers and pedestrians – continue to act without regard for the lives of others.
“Six provinces recorded increases in the number of fatalities in the 2024/25 festive season compared to 2023/24, namely KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, Northern Cape and North West,” the Minister said.
The Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State recorded increases of 70, 54 and 21 fatalities as compared to 2023/24, while Gauteng, Western Cape and Mpumalanga recorded decreases of 76, 23 and 15 fatalities, respectively.
Concern over pedestrian fatalities
Creecy said pedestrian fatalities remain a huge concern, with 41% of all road fatalities being pedestrians.
The highest percentage of pedestrian fatalities were recorded in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, which are the most populous provinces in the country in terms of vehicles and people.
Gauteng had the highest pedestrian fatalities at 63.84% followed by Western Cape with 53.9% and KwaZulu-Natal with 44.33%.
During this period, law enforcement conducted joint operations in line with the focus areas, including vehicle road worthiness, public passenger transport, drunken driving, execution of warrants of arrest, and speed law enforcement.
Law enforcement officers issued 711,184 fines for various traffic offences across the country.
“Some 23,607 fines were issued to drivers who failed to wear seatbelts, while another 16,925 motorists were fined for using cell phones while driving. Then, 16,527 vehicles were found to be unroadworthy and issued with traffic fines, as well as their motor vehicle licence discs removed, particularly in areas where vehicles could not be impounded due to lack of impoundment facilities,” the Minister said.
In total, 8,917 motor vehicles were impounded in areas where facilities were available.
“To clamp down on drunken driving, speeding and other moving violations, our officers arrested more than 9,550 motorists, with 3,840 individuals arrested for drunken driving.
“A total of 414 drivers were arrested for driving at high speed and five amongst them were driving at excessive speeds of between 200km/h to well above 240km/h,” Creecy said.
The highest speedster was arrested in Gauteng, driving at 245km/h (kilometre per hour) in a BMW Sedan on N1 near Honeydew, on 18 December 2024.
“We, South Africans, must change our behaviour on the roads. As we said at the beginning of the festive season, government and our law enforcement agencies cannot do it on our own.
“The statistics clearly send all of us, as South Africans, one message: Drivers and pedestrians must change their behaviour. We must obey the law, we must obey the basic rules of the road,” Creecy said.
Interventions
The Minister has asked the provinces to conduct a detailed analysis of their respective statistics, and come up with a clear plan for the way forward, by the end of January.
This will include a look at severe consequences for those who continue to show a disregard for road safety.
“We will continue to direct our efforts at changing the behaviour of road users, invest in designing and engineering safer roads, enforcing safe speeds in high congestion areas, and enhancing emergency response systems and access to quality trauma care, which is essential to saving lives.
“By reducing response times and improving the availability of critical care, we can increase survival rates and reduce the long-term impacts of road traffic injuries. This initiative will require collaboration with the Department of Health, and other industry role-players,” she said.
Creecy said indications are that the implementation of 24/7 traffic policing shifts is more critical than ever.
“During the festive season, we agreed to release National Traffic Police resources to provinces, to intensify road safety communication and education campaigns and strengthen monitoring of our law enforcement operations especially at night.
"This approach will serve as a blueprint for our road safety activities but will only succeed if it is consistent all year round, especially on weekends and in every province across the country,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 13:47
29 views
Judge Sent Collage of Sex Positions to Secretary
Judicial Conduct Tribunal into complaint of sexual harassment against Judge President Selby Mbenenge resumes Monday
She Said No, but Judge Kept Sexting, Testifies Secretary
Cross examination deals with salacious messages on day four of Judge Selby Mbenenge’s disciplinary tribunal
Instead of Going to School, These Children Have to Queue for Water
Six-year delay in water project leaves Komani residents dry
Nelson Mandela Bay kicks-off academic year on a high note
Nelson Mandela Bay kicks-off academic year on a high note
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has kickstarted the 2025 academic year on a high note, as the municipality's councillors and officials handed over essential resources, to ensure that learners are well equipped for a successful school year ahead.
The municipality’s mayor, Babalwa Lobishe marked the opening of the new school year by launching a Back-to-School campaign at Gqeberha City Hall, on Wednesday.
Lobishe is spearheading a Back-to-School campaign to provide essential resources, including sanitary towels, school shoes, and maths and science books.
The mayor said the campaign seeks to scrap the underprivilege identity among pupils in Nelson Mandela Bay, as thousands of learners returned to school.
"We have launched this campaign with the aim of making sure that no child goes to school and finds themselves feeling under privileged. We have noticed that there are kids who are still experiencing extreme means of living in poverty, so we want to address this scourge, and ensure that every learner gets assistance.”
Lobishe has also invited all residents, including, businesses, councillors and employees, who want to make a difference to end period poverty in the metro, to come forward and assist with essential resources.
“It is not only the physical stuff that we appeal to our residents to donate, but also their time by volunteering hours to provide learner support in areas, such as homework, and providing tutorials to those in need, which will make a difference in improving learner academic performance.”
"We make this call to everyone in our city to come and donate their time, funds and essential academic resources, for the betterment of the future of our children in the city,” Lobishe explained.
The mayor also used the opportunity to congratulate the class of 2024 Matriculants, who have made the municipality proud with impressive results.
The Eastern Cape’s Class of 2024 set a new record of 84.9% pass rate, a notable shift from the 76.5% in 2019 to 84.9% in 2024, representing a 4.17% shift over the term.
“We still believe in the saying that ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ and understand that positive results at Matric level are a culmination of work and support that started from Grade 1.
Donations for essential resources can be dropped off at any Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Building, including City Hall in Gqeberha, metro customer care centres, and operational libraries around the metro. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 01/16/2025 - 11:16
66 views
Secretary Says Judge Asked Her for a “BJ”
Third day of testimony held before Judicial Conduct Tribunal into sexual harassment complaint against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge
Select Committee on Education Welcomes Matric Result Progress in Rural Provinces
The Select Committee on Education, Science and Creative Industries has noted with appreciation the improvement in Grade 12 results for provinces that traditionally achieved lower pass rates. The Chairperson Mr Makhi Feni said it gave him great pleasure to see KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) move up to second place and closing in on a 90% pass rate.
“The last provinces have improved as well, particularly the Eastern Cape, which registered a 85% pass rate. This effort is highly appreciated and noted. This is an indication that provinces have their eyes on the ball,” Mr Feni noted.
“We are seriously moving to curb the differences between rural and urban provinces when it comes to results and output. This speaks to equal share and adequate support availed to all schools when it came resources, curriculum needs, materials, and learning and teaching times,” he said.
Matric results were announced by the Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe Gwarube, on Monday, 13 January. The Free State achieved the highest pass rate, followed by KZN for the first time. Overall, the country achieved an 87.5% of the pass rate.
However, Mr Feni said the committee is concerned about the pending educator job cuts in the Western Cape.
“It seems the committee will need to invite the province, as the DBE clarified that there won't be educator job cuts. The Western Cape has been threatening these for a while now. We do not want public and township schools to be affected by these 2 000 lost posts, as it will have significant effects,” Mr Feni said.
“Educator job cuts have a potential to bring about regression. The talk should now be about how to strengthen teaching in public schools. The committee will be watching with keen interest this matter and others such as school safety, as well as the implementation of the recently signed Basic Education Laws Amendment Act.”
Mr Feni said the committee congratulates all educators, learners, school governing bodies and education stakeholders.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Hlabisa meets with constitutional bodies to tackle initiation deaths
Hlabisa meets with constitutional bodies to tackle initiation deaths
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa has recently met with constitutional bodies to discuss the critical challenges associated with customary initiation practices.
The goal of the meeting was to develop actionable solutions to prevent future fatalities following the tragic deaths of 28 young men during the summer initiation season in the Eastern Cape.
The Minister has since met leaders from the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious, and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) and the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) to tackle the issue on Tuesday.
The Minister was accompanied by Deputy Ministers Dr Namane Dickson Masemola and Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe.
The chairperson of the CGE, Advocate Ntabiseng Sepanya Mogale, and the chairperson of the CRL Rights Commission, Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva, also attended alongside their respective teams.
There was a recommendation to convene an indaba with all stakeholders before the 2025 winter initiation season.
According to the department, the indaba’s purpose will be to chart the way forward and agree on a comprehensive strategy for achieving zero fatalities during initiation seasons.
During the meeting, the Minister highlighted the urgent need to examine cultural practices that threaten lives, emphasising that “serious discourse and proactive solutions should be prioritised to protect life and cultural integrity“.
The meeting addressed various critical areas, including the legislative framework, health and safety standards, the review of qualifying requirements for participants in initiation practices, and strategies to enforce legal consequences for non-compliance and negligence.
They also spoke about specific issues contributing to initiation fatalities in the Eastern Cape and the common factors leading to the tragic loss of lives.
“The meeting concluded with several actionable recommendations to strengthen the implementation of the Customary Initiation Act and reduce initiation-related casualties,” the department said.
The department has since agreed to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate root causes of initiation deaths and provide comprehensive recommendations.
They also believe that law enforcement and increasing arrests and prosecutions for offenses related to initiation practices should be enhanced.
This includes holding key role players accountable, including principals of initiation schools, traditional surgeons, and caregivers.
They are of the view that ensuring adequate resourcing for Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committees (PICCs) and related interventions is also paramount.
The leaders also said they will investigate intensifying awareness campaigns and capacity-building programs for initiation schools and caregivers and strengthening partnerships among all stakeholders to improve compliance and implementation.
Meanwhile, a follow-up engagement with Kings in the Eastern Cape will be held by the end of January, with the participation of both commissions, to seek long-term solutions to the challenges faced in the province.
“This collaborative effort reflects the department’s commitment to preserving cultural practices. All stakeholders in the meeting agreed on a continuous engagement to address all challenges surrounding the initiation cultural practice and safeguarding lives and the dignity of initiates.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 01/15/2025 - 09:59
188 views
Judge Asked Secretary for Nude Picture of “Top Part”
Second day of testimony held before Judicial Conduct Tribunal into sexual harassment complaint against Eastern Cape Judge President Selby Mbenenge.
Eastern Cape celebrates improved Matric results
Eastern Cape celebrates improved Matric results
The Eastern Cape’s Class of 2024 has set a new record, boosting the province’s overall pass rate by an impressive 3.56 percentage points.
This year’s matriculants achieved an 84.9% pass rate, a notable improvement from 81.4% in 2023.
Over the term, this represents a shift from the 76.5% in 2019 to 84.9% in 2024, representing a 4.17% shift over the term. The Eastern Cape has produced a total of 352 524 passes over the term from 2020 to 2024.
This was announced by the provincial education department on Tuesday led by Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile Gade, together with Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, at the International Convention Centre in East London.
“The Class of 2024 represents a watershed period in the learner performance trajectory of the Eastern Cape, characterised by unprecedented improvements in average pass, bachelor passes, subjects pass marks, as well as performance by examination centers.
“The year 2024 is also marked by improved quality of school-based assessments (SBA) submitted to Umalusi for resulting. The emphasis on quality SBA has paid off handsomely again in 2024,” the MEC said.
The number of Bachelor passes increased by 6.1 % from 39.6% in 2023 to 45.7% in 2024. In real terms it means 45 662 of the 99 739 learners obtained a Bachelor pass.
“Equally improving is the number of distinctions over the last 5 years, moving from 29 064 in 2020 to 35 640 in 2024. Year on year improvements have equally scaled up from 4.2% in 2023 to 5% in 2024. This is evident in the quality of passes in each subject written in 2024,” MEC Gade said.
The MEC also announced that subject performance, across the spectrum, has improved in 2024. Of the 56 subjects that were written, 30 subjects have shown an upward trajectory, and only 14 subjects dropped by low margins.
High enrolment subjects, with no less than 10 000 learners for the specific subject, exhibited commendable improvements, with Mathematics, Physics and History showing unprecedented upward trajectories.
District performance also took a new turn in 2024, with 11 districts performing above 80%, with only one district remaining at the upper 70%. Six more districts, compared to 2023, have joined the 80% benchmark.
The top five performing districts in 2024 are: Chris Hani East being number one at 88.5%, a 4.5% improvement from 84% in 2023, Amathole East is number two at 87.8%, a 5.4% improvement from 82.4% in 2023, Alfred Nzo West is number three at 86.9%, a 2.1% improvement from 84.2% in 2023, Nelson Mandela is number four at 86.7%% a 3.6% improvement from 83.1% and Nzo East is number five at 85.9%, a 0.8% improvement from 85.1% in 2023.
The MEC mentioned the tragic incident where five candidates were raped while preparing for examinations. Despite the tragedy, the candidates insisted on writing the exams and all obtained Bachelor passes.
“The unfortunate incident was that of five candidates’ gang- raped while preparing for their examinations in OR Tambo. However, these kids insisted on writing despite their demise, and I am happy to report that they all obtained Bachelor passes and have joined us for the ceremony,” he said.
Minister lauds the EC for its performance
Minister Gwarube lauded the province, adding that no province in the country scored below 84%.
She said this was a result of years of investment and hard work by previous leaders.
“This province has come a very long way over the years, to get to the point where it is. It's also incredibly encouraging to know that in South Africa today, in 2024 there is not a single province that has scored less than 84% of the pass mark in the country.
“And that is not something that happens overnight, that is years and years in the making… it takes investment into the system.
“It's incredibly important for us to pay tribute to those Ministers and MECs who've come before us, who have essentially planted the seed before we arrived, to say this is the direction in which we need to go and now finally, we are able to see and reap the benefits of their hard work over the years,” Gwarube said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 01/14/2025 - 15:30
48 views
Police arrest 16 718 suspects during nationwide Operation Shanela
Police arrest 16 718 suspects during nationwide Operation Shanela
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 16 718 suspects during its Operation Shanela crime crackdown, which ran from 6 - 12 January 2025, targeting criminal activities across the country.
“Through Operation Shanela, SAPS continues to take a bold and decisive approach in dealing with crime in the country. These crime fighting activities include tracking operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, stop and searches, as well as tracing of wanted suspects,” SAPS said in a statement.
All Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province.
Just this week alone, the following arrests were made:
- 2 907 wanted suspects were arrested. These suspects were wanted for various serious and violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, business and house robberies.
- 122 suspects were arrested for murder. The majority of these suspects (36) were arrested in Gauteng, followed by the Eastern Cape (29).
- 112 suspects were arrested for attempted murder.
- 223 suspects were arrested for rape. The majority (80) were arrested KwaZulu-Natal.
- 1 845 suspects were arrested for assault grievous bodily harm.
- 835 drug dealers were arrested.
- 2 282 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs, with the majority (1 088) of these suspects arrested in the Western Cape.
- 129 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms, and the majority of these suspects were arrested in KZN (36).
- 1 341 illegal foreign nationals were also arrested during this period
- 419 drivers were arrested for drunken driving, with the majority of arrests in Gauteng (114).
Police registered the following successes:
- 129 firearms were confiscated in the past week.
- 1 129 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated.
- 65 hijacked and stolen vehicles were also recovered during this week’s operations.
The police also highlighted major successes, which include the arrest of a 39-year-old man by police in Mpumalanga following a shooting incident where eight people were shot and killed outside a tavern in Pienaar on Saturday.
The team confiscated a pistol and ammunition during his arrest and the suspect is expected to appear in court soon.
Police in Limpopo also apprehended eight suspects, including a councillor, on allegations of extortion at a construction site along the R555 road in Roossenekal, on 9 January 2025.
In a separate incident, a joint operation conducted by Sandringham SAPS, Gauteng Serious Organised Crime Investigation of the Hawks, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department and a private security company led to the arrest of three Ethiopian foreign nationals suspected of trafficking in persons, kidnapping, extortion and contravention of the Immigration Act.
The team acted on a tip-off from neighbours about suspicious activities at a house in Sandringham and found 26 Ethiopian nationals who were held captive inside the house. A pistol and one magazine were also seized.
Operation Vala Umgodi task teams continue to record commendable successes in the country.
Just last week alone, police arrested 62 suspects for illegal mining, and the majority of these suspects were arrested in the Free State.
A joint operation by Northern Cape Crime Intelligence, Organised Crime, North West Organised Crime, and Potchefstroom Public Order Police led to the arrest of a 36-year-old man suspected of business robbery in Potchefstroom. The team seized a pistol with its serial number filed off.
Meanwhile, police in Mpumalanga arrested three men who allegedly shot and killed three men in an incident related to taxi conflict in Piet Retief on 9 January 2025.
Four firearms, including a rifle and three pistols with ammunition, were seized in the incident. The three suspects are facing three counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder.
“Police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the State to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country,” the SAPS said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 01/14/2025 - 10:23
429 views
Class of 2024 achieves historic pass rate
Class of 2024 achieves historic pass rate
The Matric Class of 2024 has achieved an overall pass rate of 87.3%, making it the highest matric pass rate in the history of South Africa.
“I am proud to announce that in 2024, 615 429 learners passed the National Senior Certificate (NSC) – more than any other time in our history. South Africa’s national pass rate for the 2024 National Senior Certificate has therefore increased from 82.9% in 2023 to 87.3%,” Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube said on Monday.
Addressing the announcement of the 2024 NSC results in Johannesburg, Gwarube said this was the highest matric pass rate in the history of the country and should be a moment of great pride and celebration for all.
Nearly half of the learners who wrote the NSC examinations received a Bachelor pass.
Bachelor passes
According to the Minister, 47.8% of candidates qualified for admission to Bachelor studies, which is a significant improvement from last year’s 40.9% and represents the highest number of Bachelor passes in recent history.
“This is a 6.9% increase from last year. In 2014, we produced 150 752 Bachelor passes. In just a decade this number has more than doubled in 2024 to 337 158 Bachelor passes.
“It is also encouraging to see that some of our provinces with the highest numbers of learners are achieving high numbers of Bachelor passes.
“In 2024, I am pleased to announce that KwaZulu Natal achieved the highest number of Bachelor passes with 84 470, followed by Gauteng with 66 979 and the Eastern Cape with 45 662,” the Minister said.
Approximately 67% of the Bachelor passes achieved in 2024 came from Quintile 1 to 3 schools, which are typically found in poorer communities.
“This percentage represents an increase from 2023. This means that poorer communities are producing more and more candidates who can go on to become doctors, engineers, accountants and scientists,” she said.
Distinctions
The Class of 2024 achieved an impressive number of 319 651 distinctions.
“This represents a significant increase of over 65 000 distinctions from last year. Some of these increases were seen in key subjects, including Mathematics. I am pleased to report that every province increased the number of distinctions achieved in 2023.
“KwaZulu Natal was once more the top performing province in terms of the percentage of candidates obtaining distinctions, with 10.8% distinction potential achieved.
“Coming in second with 6.3% of distinction potential achieved was the Western Cape, followed by Gauteng with 5.3%. Notable progress was made by Mpumalanga and Limpopo in this regard where we saw this percentage increase by over 1% in 2024 when compared to the results for 2023,” Gwarube explained.
Every province improved on its performance from 2023, and every province achieved above 84%.
Mathematics and Physical Sciences
In 2024, 69.1% of learners passed Mathematics, which is an increase from 63.5% in 2023.
However, in Physical Sciences, while 75.6% of learners passed, this was a decrease from 76.2% in 2023.
“While the number and percentage of learners achieving distinctions in Mathematics increased in 2024 from 2023, the number and percentage of learners achieving distinctions in Physical Sciences has dropped.
“The improvement in performance in Mathematics is encouraging. However, the decreasing participation rates in these key subjects, and the decrease in performance in Physical Sciences, highlight the urgent need to improve foundational literacy and numeracy to ensure that our schooling system produces learners who are confident and capable enough to choose and excel in Maths and Science subjects throughout their schooling career,” the Minister said.
Improvements
In 2024, more high schools achieved a pass rate in the NSC examinations of between 80% and 100% than in 2023.
“In 2023, the number of high schools achieving this was 4 493 and in 2024 this number increased to 5 387 representing 77.7% of our high schools. Also important to note is that the number of underperforming schools has decreased,” the Minister said.
Approximately 97% of learners enrolled for Grade 12 in 2024 ultimately wrote the NSC exams in 2024.
“In 2024, we saw the number of full-time candidates writing the National Senior Certificate examinations increase from 691 160 in 2023 to 705 291 in 2024.
“We also saw the number of learners with special education needs who wrote the National Senior Certificate examinations increase from 5 288 in 2023 to 6 470 in 2024.
“Furthermore, we saw 556 726 learners who are beneficiaries of social grants writing the National Senior Certificate exams in 2024 – 12 938 more than in 2023,” the Minister said.
She said the 2024 National Senior Certificate results for 2024 show that the schooling system was maturing, but that there was still much work to be done to improve the quality of education outcomes.
READ | Class of 2024 commended for their resilience
Earlier in the day, the Minister together with mobile network provider, MTN hosted a Ministerial Breakfast in honour of 39 matric top achievers. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 01/13/2025 - 20:10
30 views
Judge President Accused of Sexual Harassment Faces Inquiry
All evidence before the Judicial Conduct Tribunal into Judge President Selby Mbenenge will be public
Call for justice following alleged rape of initiate
Call for justice following alleged rape of initiate
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa has called for swift justice following the alleged rape of an 18-year-old male customary initiate in Centani, in the Eastern Cape.
The incident comes in the wake of a rise in initiate deaths, with the toll now at 28, predominantly reported in the Amathole, Chris Hani, and Alfred Nzo districts.
“This heinous incident shines a light on the scourge of gender-based violence that continues to destroy our communities,” Hlabisa said.
In a statement on Thursday, the Minister called on parents and community members to take an active role in the customary initiation process, emphasising the need to protect children and preserve the sanctity of this traditional practice.
READ | Hlabisa commends Matatiele communities for safe return of initiates
In December 2024, Minister Hlabisa conducted an emergency oversight visit to the Eastern Cape, expressing grave concern over the management of initiation schools.
During the visit, he urged all stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring the safety and well-being of initiates and improving the operational management of initiation schools.
Against this backdrop, the Minister has called on the justice system to expedite the trial and ensure that the suspect faces the full consequences of his actions.
“Any form of abuse against initiates is intolerable. Perpetrators must be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” he said.
Further stakeholder engagements on initiation processes are planned for early 2025 as part of ongoing efforts to achieve “zero deaths” during upcoming initiation seasons.
“The Ministry of COGTA [Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs] remains committed to safeguarding the cultural heritage of initiation while ensuring the safety and dignity of all initiates. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Fri, 01/10/2025 - 12:50
52 views
Preliminary probe sheds light on Van Reenen’s Pass horror crash
Preliminary probe sheds light on Van Reenen’s Pass horror crash
The preliminary investigation into the horrific accident involving a truck and minibus at the N3 Van Reenen's Pass on Monday has revealed that the minibus taxi lost control and swerved toward the right oncoming traffic lane and collided with a truck head-on.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, said the initial stages of the investigation revealed that the truck driver was driving from Johannesburg towards Durban, whilst the minibus taxi was traveling from Durban towards Johannesburg.
“At the time of the collision, the truck was driving in the [right] lane southbound, whilst the minibus was driving in the [right] lane northbound. From the video footage obtained during this initial stage of the investigation, it is very clear that the minibus lost control and swerved toward the right oncoming traffic lane and collided with the truck head-on,” Duma said.
While the cause of the minibus losing control is unknown at this stage, Duma said they "strongly suspect" that the accident was due to heavy rainfall, speed, vehicle defect, or driver negligence.
He said the second phase of the investigation will focus on speed as the cause of the accident.
Duma also confirmed that a total of 17 people were declared dead on the scene of the accident, not 18 as initially reported. Only one passenger, a baby girl, survived, and is currently being treated in hospital.
“Based on the initial stages of the investigation, a taxi affiliated to Uncedo Taxi Association was travelling from Qumbu in the Eastern Cape to Johannesburg. Seven men, three women, three boys and four girls [were killed in the crash].
“I requested the HoD (Head of Department) and the entire team to visit the brave little girl in hospital. We are comforted by the fact that she is recovering, [and] we thank health professionals for ensuring the provision of quality healthcare,” Duma said.
Duma has extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased.
“At this stage, we wish to indicate that according to the owner of the minibus taxi, the families of the deceased have been identified and notified. Arrangements are being made by the owner and Uncedo Taxi Association for family members to travel to Ladysmith to identify their loved ones,” the MEC said.
Truck driver’s identity uncovered
The investigation has also discovered the identity of the truck driver – a 37-year-old Zimbabwean national.
“The truck belongs to Pangolin Logistics. We remain concerned about the fact that the driver of the trucking company contacted the owner of Pangolin Logistics before disappearing.
“We are asking ourselves many questions, [such as] who assisted him in disappearing from such a remote area at night?” Duma said.
Duma commended the dedicated team from the Road Traffic Inspectorate, including Emergency Rescue Services, and other key personnel who responded swiftly, as part of the rescue and cleaning up operation. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 01/08/2025 - 12:45
26 views
Deputy Ministers engage communities affected by crime
Deputy Ministers engage communities affected by crime
The Police Ministry, led by the Deputy Ministers of Police Cassel Mathale and Polly Boshielo, will lead a crime prevention imbizo in communities affected by high levels of crime on Tuesday.
According to police, the purpose of the community engagements is to find lasting solutions to communities affected by gun and gang violence.
The engagements will start at Avondale Primary School in Atlantis on Tuesday and proceed to Sophumelela Secondary School in Samora Machel on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, through its high-density operations, commonly known as Operation Shanela, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 13 105 suspects from the period starting on Monday, 30 December 2024, and ending on Sunday, 5 January 2025.
“Through Operation Shanela, the SAPS continues to take a bold and decisive approach in dealing with crime in the country. These crime fighting activities include tracking operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, stop and searches, as well as tracing of wanted suspects.
“All Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province,” said the police in a statement.
In this period, the following arrests were made:
- 1 743 wanted suspects were arrested. These suspects were wanted for various serious and violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, business and house robberies.
- 142 suspects were arrested for murder, majority of these suspects were arrested in Eastern Cape (36).
- 81 suspects were arrested for attempted murder.
- 241 suspects were arrested for rape. KwaZulu-Natal arrested majority of these suspects with 119 arrests.
- 1 646 suspects were arrested for assault grievous bodily harm during this period.
- 473 drug dealers were arrested in the past week.
- 1 337 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs, majority of these suspects were arrested in Western Cape (635).
- 126 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms, majority of these suspects were arrested in KZN (37).
- 1 166 illegal foreign nationals were arrested during this period.
- 873 drivers were arrested for drunk and driving in the past week. The majority of arrests were in Eastern Cape (181).
Police registered the following successes:
- 125 firearms were confiscated in the past week.
- 752 rounds of ammunition were also confiscated.
- 51 hijacked and stolen vehicles were also recovered during this week’s operations.
Police in Mpumalanga arrested two suspects, who shot and killed two men while sitting inside a Toyota Avanza in Ermelo. The suspects then fled the scene after the incident.
Police said they managed to trace and arrest the suspects and they are facing two counts of murder.
A multidisciplinary team comprising the SAPS Sekhukhune Task Team, Operation Vala Umgodi members and private security, rearrested Zimbabwean fugitive, Lovemore Musoyi, after escaping from police custody.
The 32-year-old is facing more than 10 criminal cases, including murder, attempted murder, armed robberies, house robberies, business robberies, kidnapping, assaults, stock theft, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition that occurred in Elandskraal, Motetema, Dennilton and Rakgoadi policing areas in Sekhukhune District.
A joint operation conducted by the Gauteng Counterfeit Unit, Vispol, Commercial Crime, Brand Protectors, and Reservist units resulted in the seizure of counterfeit and illicit goods worth R 627 290 in Midrand, Johannesburg.
Members of the Anti-Gang Unit in the Western Cape arrested a 35-year-old man after found him in possession of an AK47 assault rifle and ammunition.
On 5 January 2025, police in the North West apprehended five suspects in connection with the kidnapping and murder of 26-year-old Lesego Klaas Makaku in Hartbeespoort Dam. The suspects dragged the victim outside a tavern to the street, where they allegedly assaulted him to death.
Police arrested suspects and they are facing charges of kidnapping and murder.
“Operation Vala Umgodi task teams continue to record commendable successes in the country.
“Just last week alone, police arrested 54 suspects for illegal mining, and the majority of these suspects were arrested in the Mpumalanga province. Again, the team deployed in the North West is still monitoring ongoing operations in Stilfontein,” said the police.
A suspect was fatally shot in a shootout with police and one was arrested after a house robbery in Barberton, Mpumalanga.
“The armed suspects held the family, including a nine-month-old baby, hostage and robbed them of an undisclosed amount of cash before they drove away with them with their Ford Ranger. Police spotted the vehicle, and the suspects fired at the police who also returned fire. A pistol with ammunition as well as a magazine were seized in the incident.”
The police said they will continue with their operations “by asserting the authority of the State to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country”. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Tue, 01/07/2025 - 09:45
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Hlabisa commends Matatiele communities for safe return of initiates
Hlabisa commends Matatiele communities for safe return of initiates
The Minister of Corporative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, joined the community of Phamotse village in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, as they welcomed back home 114 initiates this past weekend.
The cultural and traditional event brought the community together in celebration, characterised by song and dance.
The Minister was accompanied by the Eastern Cape CoGTA MEC, Zolile Williams, as well as the leadership of the Matatiele Local Municipality and traditional leaders from the surrounding area.
Hlabisa applauded the safe return of the initiates, emphasising that this is "what is needed across the country".
“As we welcome the 114 initiates, we remember the families whose children were unable to return from initiation schools in the Eastern Cape.”
The Minister once again conveyed sincere condolences, on behalf of government, to the families that lost their children after at least 28 initiates died in the province.
Hlabisa stressed that the safe return of the 114 initiates meant it was possible for all initiates across the country to return to their homes safely.
“We should all be motivated to engage as stakeholders in finding a lasting solution that will ensure the safe return of our initiates. The safe return of initiates anywhere across the country confirms that our tradition and culture do not kill.
“We should use successes like the one we are celebrating in Matatiele today as an important case study to benchmark and learn from, as we practice this important age-old culture and tradition, which must be protected,” Hlabisa said.
He described the initiates who went through the rite of passage to manhood as the "pride of the tradition and culture".
“We should all come together and declare zero tolerance to the death of initiates. This means that going forward, it cannot be business as usual,” he stressed.
Hlabisa warned against those who continue to “disrespect” the cultural practice and disregard norms and standards, as contained in the Customary Initiation Act. He said they will face the full might of the law.
The summer initiation season unfolded within extreme weather conditions, as the South African Weather Services (SAWS) predicted a heatwave for the same period.
This meant that extra care had to be taken, including ensuring that all initiates were well hydrated.
The Minister commended the local traditional leader, Morena Tsheliso Lepheana, for his guidance during the time of initiation.
Hlabisa also encouraged the leaders to take a stand against various societal ills and protect women and children.
The MEC echoed the Minister’s words that to ensure safer initiation seasons, it will take the involvement of all role players and stakeholders.
The Minister will continue to engage with traditional leaders and other stakeholders on all issues around safe traditional initiation. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 01/06/2025 - 09:48
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Higher traffic volumes as holidaymakers return home
Higher traffic volumes as holidaymakers return home
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has called for vigilance, patience and respect for the rules of the road as the festive season comes to an end and travellers return home.
Roads leading out of coastal areas and neighbouring States are expected to experience high traffic volumes. Law enforcement officers have been deployed to monitor driver behaviour on the roads and reduce the number of crashes and fatalities.
In a statement, the RTMC said 7 448 people were arrested on South African roads over the festive period for various offences, including drunk driving, speeding, and attempted bribery.
The arrests were made between 1 December 2024 and 1 January 2025.
“The highest breath alcohol level recorded was 2.47mg/1 000ml on the R61 in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, on 27 December 2024. Eastern Cape recorded 455 arrests for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol in December.
“The highest speed recorded was in Limpopo on the N1. A motorist was caught driving at 209km/h in 120km/h zone on the 17th of December.
“As of 1 January, a total of 1 157 032 vehicles were stopped and checked by road traffic authorities as part of the festive season enforcement plan aimed at promoting safety on national roads. Officers issued 408 783 written charges for various traffic violations and 6 034 vehicles were discontinued,” said the RTMC.
It urged motorists to be cautious when driving under rainy conditions.
Drivers are reminded to put their lights on, reduce speed, increase following distance and avoid the use of cellphones and other distractions when driving in rainy conditions. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Mon, 01/06/2025 - 09:55
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Public health facilities record 1 448 births on New Year’s Day
Public health facilities record 1 448 births on New Year's Day
The country’s public health facilities have recorded a total number of 1 448 births on the first day of the year 2025, the Department of Health announced on Thursday evening.
In a statement, the department said this is a decline compared to the 1 703 deliveries recorded last year this time.
Though the number of teen mothers has also decreased from 190 recorded last year, to just over 80 recorded this year, the department called on all sectors of society, especially families, to join hands with government and other non-governmental organisations to address teenage pregnancy.
“Teenage pregnancy often leads to irregular school attendance, poor performance and ultimately school dropout, especially for mothers who lack family support structures to take care of the babies when the mothers go to school.
“The Department of Health, working together with sister Departments of Social Development and Basic Education, will continue to support all mothers through existing programmes to ensure their babies survive and thrive,” the department said.
The breakdown of births per province revealed that Gauteng recorded the highest number of births with 387, followed by Eastern Cape (219) and Limpopo (191).
| Breakdown of births per province Province | Boy child | Girl Child | Total |
| Eastern Cape | 106 | 113 | 219 |
| Gauteng | 195 | 192 | 387 |
| Free State | 33 | 52 | 85 |
| Limpopo | 104 | 87 | 191 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 72 | 113 | 185 |
| Mpumalanga | 78 | 76 | 154 |
| North West | 49 | 40 | 89 |
| Northern Cape | 18 | 19 | 37 |
| Western Cape | 58 | 43 | 101 |
- SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 01/03/2025 - 09:35
226 views
RTMC to assist Eastern Cape to improve road safety
RTMC to assist Eastern Cape to improve road safety
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has announced that it will step in to strengthen efforts to reduce road crashes and fatalities in the Eastern Cape as holidaymakers prepare to return to the cities and workplaces in the coming days.
In a statement, the RTMC said the interventions will involve the mobilisation of traditional leaders, engagement of public transport operators and will seek to reduce crashes and fatalities in a district with a number of high crashes and fatalities in the province.
“The analysis of fatal crash statistics since the start of the festive season has revealed the Amathole District in the Eastern Cape as one of the top ten districts experiencing a high number of crashes and fatalities nationally.
“The district is one of seven districts in the province and it stretches from Idutywa to Fort Beaufort and includes towns such as Butterworth and Stutterheim,” the RTMC said.
Statistics have further revealed that fatal crashes in this district involved public transport vehicles that had driven long distances between the Western Cape or Gauteng without sufficient rest.
“Law enforcers and the South African Taxi Council have observed that some drivers did not depart from designated areas in district during peak period and travelled inter-provincially to pick up passengers and were fatigued when the crashes occurred,” the RTMC said.
Other districts that will be given attention due to the high number of fatal crashes are eThekwini, City of Johannesburg, City Cape Town, City of Tshwane, Capricorn, Ekurhuleni, Cape Winelands, Vhembe and Fezile Dabi.
“Traffic is expected to peak again from January 1 to the 6th and law enforcement will intensify focus on public transport and visibility. A dedicated team has been put in place to monitor implementation of the road interventions and progress.
“Motorists are reminded to plan their routes appropriately and avoid travelling at night. Statistics show that 37.6% of fatal crash occur between 18:00 and 01:00 and involved pedestrians,” the RTMC said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 01/02/2025 - 09:28
119 views