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Main entry points in Mthatha blocked, affecting essential services

Location: News

Main entry points in Mthatha blocked, affecting essential services

The Eastern Cape Department of Health has confirmed that services have been affected in hospitals in and around Mthatha by the blocking of the N2 and R61 roads.

“Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital, Mthatha Regional and St Barnabas Hospital staff, who worked the night shift, could not go home, while those who were supposed to report for duty could not get to work because of the blocked roads,” a statement from the department read. 

This is after all the major entry and exit points into Mthatha were blocked, as taxi violence erupted. 

According to reports, the taxi drivers allegedly hijacked trucks and used them to block both sides of the N2 and R61 roads. 

Reports suggest that the taxi operators’ actions were because of a crackdown by authorities following an outbreak of violence last week.

The actions have since forced hospitals to operate with a skeleton staff. 

“As soon as roads reopen, those who are supposed to be on duty will go to work to relieve those who worked the night shift. 

“The blocked roads mean patients in desperate need of higher level of care cannot get it as ambulances cannot get to Mthatha.” 

In emergency cases, the department said it will use aeromedical services to transfer patients.

Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson, Unathi Binqose, told reporters that law enforcement is on the ground and that they are getting reinforcement from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to try to bring the situation back to normality.  

“Unfortunately, it has affected a lot of things, including schools and airports — just about everything,” he said. 

Those travelling to, from and through the Mthatha area are urged to either delay their travel time or avoid the town, as law enforcement is busy trying to control the situation.

Meanwhile, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS), five suspects were arrested at about 9am on Monday after shots were fired at Public Order Policing and Mthatha Vispol members. 

“Two suspects sustained injuries while the other three were arrested. Two firearms were also confiscated. A case of attempted murder and possession of firearms is opened for further investigation,” the SAPS statement read.

SAPS said Public Order Policing, the National Intervention Unit and Tactical Response Teams are in Mthatha policing the situation.

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene, has since issued a stern warning against those circulating videos and messages that appear to incite unrest. 

“Such actions are not only irresponsible but also illegal. We will take strict action against anyone found to be engaging in activities that threaten the safety and security of the public and the integrity of the election process,” warned Mene. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 14:19

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Public warned against sharing videos inciting violence

Location: News

Public warned against sharing videos inciting violence

Eastern Cape Transport and Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha has warned the public that the State will deal decisively with any fear mongers responsible for voice notes and videos calling for a shutdown on social media.

This comes as voice notes and videos were shared on social media seeking to intimidate, incite violence and threaten people’s democratic right to participate in the upcoming elections.

The MEC has assured that public that there will be no shutdown of Mthatha, and has directed the police to track down and bring to justice the man responsible for the video and any other person or persons responsible for similar social media posts.

“The most recent of these social media posts is a brazen video recording by a man, allegedly who calls for a complete shutdown of Mthatha; a stop of elections campaigns in and around Mthatha, less than 48 hours before the elections. The call comes after the police confiscated pistols and assault rifles following the resurgence of taxi violence in the Mthatha, Tsolo and Maclear areas,” the department said on Monday.

Nqatha has termed these acts as selfish, immature and irresponsible actions that seek to undermine the rule of law in this province, and in Mthatha in particular.

“The utterances of the man who recorded the video in particular are an insult to the sacrifices of many of our liberation struggle heroes and heroines. He is virtually spitting in the faces of all our anti-apartheid heroes and heroines, many of whom have sacrificed with their lives for this right to vote and the right for freedom of movement that we now want to take away from our people.

"We can never allow any person to do that on our watch, for that will be a betrayal of this freedom that we now enjoy, and the sacrifices of those who fought so hard for it,” the MEC said.

He said his department is working closely with the police to end the taxi violence in the province. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 13:14

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Vulture Protection, Wind Farms and Biodiversity in the Eastern Cape: The Complex Interplay

Location: MyPR

Makhanda, 24 May 2024 : The Eastern Cape of South Africa is a region of immense natural beauty and biodiversity. It is also a place where the interests of conservation and renewable energy are currently intersecting in complex ways. On one hand, organizations like VulPro are working tirelessly to protect vultures, a group of birds …

Read moreVulture Protection, Wind Farms and Biodiversity in the Eastern Cape: The Complex Interplay

20 Reasons to Invest in KZN South Coast

Location: MyPR

The KZN South Coast, extending from Umkomaas to Port Edward, presents lucrative investment opportunities, both locally and internationally. Through its collaborative approach, South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is working with stakeholders to identify and package these unique opportunities for investors. Deborah Ludick Manager, Acting CEO of SCTIE, said the entity is committed to …

Read more20 Reasons to Invest in KZN South Coast

Construction of Stellantis forges ahead

Location: News

Construction of Stellantis forges ahead

The final building blocks have been laid for the establishment of South Africa’s latest automotive manufacturing site, paving the way for construction to begin at the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay, in the Eastern Cape.

Stellantis, the world’s third biggest automotive manufacturer by volume, and South Africa’s largest development funder, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) have concluded key milestones that will lead to a joint venture. 

The investment estimated at R3 billion is expected to facilitate the creation of massive employment opportunities in the Eastern Cape. 

The Coega Development Corporation (CDC), which is supplying the ground on which the factory will be built, has begun preparing the site for the start of construction.

“I welcome the progress made with concluding all modalities with Stellantis that will enable construction to commence this year and start of production of a new auto model to roll off the assembly line by the end of 2025,” said Ebrahim Patel, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition.

“The SA auto industry is Africa’s largest producer of cars, bakkies and trucks and this new investment by Stellantis will consolidate the country’s position, helping us to achieve the goal of producing 1.4 million vehicles by 2035.

“The biggest attractions for new investors are the size of the domestic market, together with the auto industry masterplan, which supports local production for both South Africa and export markets,” said the Minister.

He added that Stellantis has a strong growth vision with an excellent range of vehicles in its global stable. 

“We look forward through this investment to increasing the range of locally manufactured cars available to motorists,” Patel said.

The Minister said it was heartening to see the manner in which the combination of expertise within the collective of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), the IDC, CDC and Stellantis united to form a cross functional team that is making excellent progress.

“It’s this teamwork that will realise not only having Stellantis as SA’s eighth OEM, but most importantly in realising the plans for employment and investment in South Africa and support our industrialisation drive. 

“We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship between Stellantis and South Africa,” Minister Patel said.

Stellantis Middle East Africa (MEA) COO, Samir Cherfan, Stellantis SA MD Mike Whitfield, IDC interim CEO David Jarvis, including CDC Acting CEO Themba Khoza agreed with Patel’s sentiment stating that progress made so far was in line with their respective organisation’s strategic development goals.

“The construction of this plant is critical to Stellantis’s Dare Forward 2030 strategy. This strategy also speaks to the South African industrialisation plan which is a very important tool in helping us achieve our target to produce a million units in the MEA region by 2030 – a factor that will help us attain 22% market share in this region. 

“Our medium to long-term objective is to ensure that 90% of vehicles sold in the MEA region are sourced from our production plants in this region,” said Cherfan.

The project is a major vote of confidence in South Africa as an investment destination and as a gateway into Africa. 

“We are very proud of being involved in this; the construction of this plant is a major statement of faith in this country and the capacity of South Africans to be entrusted with running a project of this magnitude. 

“This is a factory of which we can all be proud of, not just because of what it will represent to the people of the Eastern Cape, but also because of the technological advances that it will incorporate and the environmentally conscious way that it has been planned, will be built and will be operated,” Cherfan added.

All fauna and flora have been successfully removed from the site and rehomed as per the environmental impact study conducted by Coega.

Coega Acting CEO Themba Koza said: “Coega is focused on delivering the finest plant for Stellantis, reinforcing the Coega SEZ as an automotive hub in the country, in line with its vision to be the leading catalyst for the championing of socio-economic development. 

“The impending construction of the Stellantis factory has acted as a catalyst to other investors. We have had numerous requests to support the automotive sector in Coega and to rapidly grow our planned supplier park.”

IDC’s Jarvis said the new company to house the Stellantis-IDC JV is on track to be registered. 

“The milestones concluded thus far will help to kick start a project that will significantly improve the economic fortunes of the Eastern Cape,” Jarvis said. 

He added that the IDC is pleased to be partnering with such a reputable automotive manufacturing company of Stellantis’s stature. 

“Stellantis’s success with other manufacturing plants around the world is well-known. Together, we are highlighting the IDC’s intent to continually participate and drive investment to develop the regional automobile value chain,” Jarvis said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 05/23/2024 - 12:44

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Universal Ballot Template widens access to democracy

Location: News

Universal Ballot Template widens access to democracy

The Electoral Commission (IEC) says the Universal Ballot Template, a voting aid designed to empower persons with disabilities and special needs, will help this section of the population to exercise their democratic right independently and with the utmost secrecy.

This, according to the Commission, was developed in collaboration with the South African National Council for the Blind.

Speaking at the launch of the National Result Operation Centre (ROC) in Midrand on Wednesday, the Electoral Commission Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo, said on 27 and 28 May, the Commission will accept Special Votes from the 1 668 076 South Africans who were approved for this category of votes.

“The Commission will visit 624 593 voters at their homes or places of confinement, and 1 043 483 will be assisted at voting stations where they are registered,” he said.

Mamabolo said in addition to trained staff, agents from political parties and independent candidates, as well as accredited observers will be present when the special votes are cast.

“As we embark on this momentous journey, we find inspiration in the unwavering commitment of our staff, who will be present at all 23 303 voting stations, diligently attending to the needs of those unable to visit the stations, ensuring a seamless and inclusive voting experience for all,” Mamabolo said.

Mamabolo said the appointment of 202 500 voting officials, including a new category of staff dedicated to enhancing the counting quality, underscores the Commission’s resolute dedication to upholding the integrity of the electoral process.

“The Commission takes immense pride in announcing the completion of ballot printing and delivery of over 90 million ballots meticulously prepared for this historic occasion.

“Voters will be presented with three ballot papers: The National Compensatory Ballot for political parties, the Provincial Ballot, and the Regional Ballot for parties and independent candidates. We remind all voters of the sacred principle, 'One ballot, One Mark'," Mamabolo said.

According to Mamabolo, provinces with the most approved special votes for both home visits and voting station visits are Gauteng (335 480), KwaZulu-Natal (320 010), Eastern Cape (286 059), Limpopo (159 800), Western Cape (137 558), North West (132 627), Mpumalanga (126,112), Free State (86,908), and Northern Cape (83,504).

“It is important to point out that in addition to our trained staff, agents from political parties and independent candidates, as well as accredited observers, will be present when the special votes are cast,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 05/23/2024 - 10:55

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“Nerve centre” ready for capturing, auditing, collating elections results

Location: News

"Nerve centre" ready for capturing, auditing, collating elections results

The National Result Operation Centre (ROC) for the 2024 national elections has been launched in Midrand.

The ROC, at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, will be the nerve centre for capturing, auditing, collating and announcing the election results next week after Election Day.

Speaking at the official launch of the results centre on Wednesday, the Electoral Commission (IEC) Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said it will serve as the “beating heart of the democratic process”, bringing together commission members, operational areas, representatives of political parties and independent candidates, observer missions and media representatives from across the globe.

There will also be ROCs across all the nine provinces, Mamabolo said.

He said it was an honour to welcome a record-breaking 160 organisations, collectively deploying over 5 000 observers from around the world to witness and validate the integrity of the commission’s electoral process.

“This includes esteemed international bodies such as the African Union, The Carter Centre Democracy Program, and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, alongside a legion of domestic observers committed to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability.”

He reminded all voters of the principle that governs the elections - a person votes at the voting station where they are registered. 

“The only exception to this rule is for those who have duly notified the commission of their intention to vote outside their registered voting district,” he said.

With less than a week before Election Day, Mamabolo called on all South Africans, both at home and abroad, to participate in this defining moment for the nation.

Chairperson of the Electoral Commission Mosotho Moepya said the ROC was not merely a physical space but was a testament to the unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity in the electoral process. 

“The ROC stands as a beacon of transparency and accountability, illuminating the path toward a future characterised by free and fair elections. Here, within the walls of what we affectionately call ‘The ROC’, South Africa's commitment to free and fair elections finds its stronghold,” Moepya said.

Moepya said the results centre would witness the announcement and certification of results in national, provincial, and local elections and that it symbolised the nation's steadfast dedication to democratic principles.

“I extend a warm welcome to representatives from all political parties and independent candidates participating in these elections. 

“Your presence here underscores the collaborative effort required in the management of elections. Through the National Political Liaison Committee, we have engaged transparently at every stage of the electoral process, ensuring inclusivity and fairness,” he said.

Moepya said each voting station result undergoes rigorous audit authentication before being posted, ensuring accuracy and accountability. 

“The capture and verification of results at each voting station, independent audits, and real-time accessibility of data to stakeholders exemplify our commitment to integrity,” he said.

Special Votes

On 27 May and 28 May, the commission will accept special votes from the 1 668 076 South Africans who were approved for this category of votes.

The commission will visit 624 593 voters at their homes or places of confinement and 1 043 483 will be assisted at voting stations where they are registered.

The province with the most approved special votes for both home visits and voting station visits is Gauteng with 335 480.

The rest are as follows: KwaZulu-Natal with 320 010, the Eastern Cape with 286 059, Limpopo with 159 800, the Western Cape with 137 558, North West with 132 627, Mpumalanga with 126 112, Free State with 86 908 and the Northern Cape with 83 504. 

The ROC is supported by nine other provincial elections centres across the country. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 05/22/2024 - 21:33

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Arennarh | Biography & Media| Nompilo Qasha

Location: MyPR

Nompilo Qasha, also known as Arennarh, is a talented South African singer-songwriter, influencer, and model. She gained recognition as a member of Quenellx95 record label “X95WORLDMUSIX” and has been working with him since being featured on the song “Loveless” in the album “purple Mind” in 2022. Nompilo Qasha Personal information * Full Name: Nompilo Katlego …

Read moreArennarh | Biography & Media| Nompilo Qasha

MPA Day attracts international support from world-renowned conservationists

Location: MyPR

The 4th annual Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Day on 1 August 2024 welcomes even more support from around the world as the event continues to grow. Themed Celebrating MPAs – for People and for Nature, MPA Day invites people across the globe to recognise the importance of these ‘nature reserves of the sea’. Joining the …

Read moreMPA Day attracts international support from world-renowned conservationists

Huge turnout for SA Agulhas II tour

Location: News

Huge turnout for SA Agulhas II tour

Members of the public turned out in their numbers for free guided tours of South Africa’s polar research and supply vessel – the SA Agulhas II, during an open day in Gqeberha.

“This event provided a fantastic platform for the public to learn about the important research conducted aboard the SA Agulhas II and the critical role it plays as a supply vessel to the three research bases in Antarctica, Marion and Gough Islands in the Southern Ocean," Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy said on Saturday.

The event hosted by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) in the Eastern Cape, drew an impressive crowd of more than 3 000 members of the public who had the unique opportunity to tour the renowned research vessel.  

The vessel arrived at the Port of Port Elizabeth on 16 May and on the 17 May 2024, 1000 learners from 40 schools around the metro were hosted.

 In addition to exploring the SA Agulhas II, visitors on both days were able to engage with a diverse range of exhibits and interactive displays at an expo organised by DFFE and its partners.

The expo showcased the vital work being done in marine research, conservation, and environmental stewardship.

 "We are thrilled with the overwhelming response by the residents of Gqeberha to the SA Agulhas II Open Day in Gqeberha. The open day offered a valuable opportunity for members of the community to gain insight into the cutting-edge research and innovation driving South Africa's efforts in marine conservation,” the Minister said.

The vessel plays a crucial role in supporting research.

“It therefore plays a crucial role in supporting the country's research in Antarctica, the sub-Antarctic Islands and the Southern Ocean. The SA Agulhas II has just completed a relief voyage to Marion Island and is heading back to its home port in Cape Town.

“Through the open day concept, which is usually hosted in Cape Town, thousands of South Africans in different coastal cities have an opportunity to experience and learn about South Africa’s marine research, the SA Agulhas II as a mobile research laboratory and a supply vessel. The ports previously visited by the vessel include, Port Elizabeth (2015), Durban (2018), Dar es Salaam (2018), Comoros and East London (2019),” the department said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Sun, 05/19/2024 - 12:41

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R1.5 million irrigation system to boost vegetable farmers

Location: News

R1.5 million irrigation system to boost vegetable farmers

Vegetable farmers in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, are set to increase their agricultural productivity and income, thanks to a brand-new irrigation system received from the Provincial Rural Development and Agrarian Reform Department.

Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC, Nonkqubela Pieters handed over an irrigation system worth R1. 5 million to vegetable farmers at Nonkobe in Orange Grove village, Mthatha, in a bid to support the enterprise to access formal markets.

The enterprise has 24 members, including 18 females and six young people producing a variety of vegetables.

Pieters said the department has invested a total of R2,7 million to ensure the enterprise has good agricultural activities (GAP) certification that will allow them to sell their products to supermarkets and other places.

The enterprise was originally assisted by the Department of Social Development in 2006 and was converted from a farrow irrigation system to a sprinkler irrigation system.

Pieters said the department’s investment will ensure that all 17 hectares used by the enterprise will be irrigated and fenced, while storage facilities will be constructed. 

The department will also assist the farmers with water rights application.

Pieters commended the active involvement of young people in the enterprise, noting it will ensure the continuity of the enterprise.

“We urge young people to understand that farming is a credible source of income. We want to motivate you so that this enterprise can reach commercial stages,” Pieters said.

To show their commitment, the members bought two diesel engines that amounted to R500 000 from their produce. 

Enterprise Chairperson, Walter Mnqwazi described the department’s investment as a game changer for their enterprise, noting that the youth is now showing interest in joining the enterprise.

“Since the installation of the irrigation system, we have seen a huge difference. We have increased our production, and our income has also increased,” Mnqwazi said. 

While serving both the formal and informal market, Mnqwazi said the enterprise has well established ties with Kei Fresh Produce Market. 

Local headman, Msindise Mdemka commended the government for the assistance, saying the tools of trade will make an enormous impact in the development of the area.

The MEC also handed over vegetable seedling, fertilisers, and knapsack to assist the enterprise to spread pesticides in their field. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/17/2024 - 11:23

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Eastern Cape small-scale fishermen get a shot in the arm

Location: News

Eastern Cape small-scale fishermen get a shot in the arm

Small-scale fishermen in the Eastern Cape got a shot in the arm when Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) MEC, Nonkqubela Pieters, handed over much-needed fishing gear and equipment to help improve their fishing.

The handover comes after the 2023/24 financial year, when the department injected a R1.7 million investment to kick-start support to small-scale fishing cooperatives along the province’s coastline as part of driving agricultural development programmes. 

The fishing equipment was handed over to the fishing cooperative members from Lusikisiki, Port St Johns and Xolobeni during an event held at Madakeni Village, on Wednesday.

The equipment was handed over to the fishing enterprises, including small-scale fishing permit holders, who received their fishing permits, as part of government’s deliberate effort to ensure that they have proper equipment and gear for fishing. This is part of ensuring that the communities benefit from the marine resources near them.

The equipment includes fishing rods, wet suits, fishing nets, blades, sucking pumps, safety boots, head lamps, life jackets and masks with snorkels.

Pieters said the handing over the equipment forms part of the department’s ongoing investment in coastal communities aimed at helping coastal communities with fishing permits to improve their fishing and increase income from fishing. 

Pieters said while the province has 75 fishing cooperatives with fishing rights, most of them are unable to harvest the marine resources due to inadequate infrastructure, fishing gear and equipment.

She said the support will benefit five cooperatives, with 195 fishers in the OR Tambo, Amathole, and Alfred Nzo District Municipalities. 
 
“As the custodians of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform programmes in the province, the department prioritises supporting previously disadvantaged communities and individuals with appropriate fishing gear and equipment to improve their livelihoods,” Pieters said. 

Pieters reiterated that the department seeks to enable subsistence and black fishing cooperatives to derive optimum economic benefit out of their agricultural activities. - SAnews.gov.za 

GabiK
Thu, 05/16/2024 - 09:49

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SA unemployment rate increases

Location: News

SA unemployment rate increases

The Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) indicates that the number of unemployed persons increased by 330 000 to 8.2 million during the first quarter of 2024.

According to Stats SA, the official unemployment rate stands at 32.9 %, an increase of 0.8 of a percentage point in first quarter of 2024 (Q1: 2024) compared to the fourth quarter of 2023 (Q4: 2023).

The results of the QLFS also indicate that the number of employed persons increased by 22 000 to 16.7 million in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the fourth quarter of 2023.

“Additionally, the number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement decreased by 214 000 to 13.1 million, while discouraged work-seekers decreased by 1 000 in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. This resulted in a net decrease of 215 000 in the not economically active population.

“The above changes in employment and unemployment resulted in the official unemployment rate increasing by 0.8 of a percentage point from 32.1% in the fourth quarter of 2023 to 32.9% in the first quarter of 2024. The unemployment rate according to the expanded definition also increased by 0.8 of a percentage point to 41.9% in Q1: 2024 compared to Q4: 2023,” Stats SA said on Tuesday.

Formal sector employment increased by 56 000 in Q1: 2024, while informal sector employment decreased by 100 000 over the same period.

“The industries that contributed to the net employment increase include trade (up by 109 000), manufacturing (up by 99 000), private households (up by 44 000), transport (up by 39 000), agriculture (21 000) and mining (9 000). Employment losses were recorded in community and social services (122 000), construction (106 000), finance (50 000) and utilities (17 000),” Stats SA said.

Provinces that recorded increases in employment were KwaZulu-Natal (35 000), Gauteng (26 000) and Northern Cape (4 000) when compared to the previous quarter Q4:2023 and Q1:2024.

Those that recorded decreases in employment were Western Cape (17 000), followed by North West (13 000), Mpumalanga (8 000), Eastern Cape (4 000) and Limpopo (3 000), while Free State remained unchanged.

“The youth (15 to 34 years) remain vulnerable in the labour market; the first quarter of 2024 results show that the total number of unemployed youth increased by 236 000 to 4.9 million while there was a decrease of 7 000 in the number of employed youth to 5,9 million. This resulted in an increase in the youth unemployment rate by 1.3 percentage points from 44.3% in Q4: 2023 to 45.5% in Q1: 2024,” Stats SA said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 12:39

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Eastern Cape intensifies fight against stock theft

Location: News

Eastern Cape intensifies fight against stock theft

Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane and Rural Development and Agrarian (DRDAR) Reform MEC Nonkqubela Pieters will on Tuesday kick start the use of the Livestock Identification and Traceability System (LITS) as part of efforts to fight stock theft.

LITS is a technology-based ear-tag gadget that government is delivering to 120 cattle farming enterprises across the province. The technology is also part of efforts to strengthen biosecurity measures to improve the international trade of cattle.

As part of this rollout, 30 000 cattle will be ear-tagged for identification and traceability purposes in Tsolo.

The rollout of LITS is a commitment made by Premier Mabuyane during the 2024 State of the Province Address, and as part of implementing an agreement between government and the red meat industry.

LITS will ensure individual animal identification so that livestock owners comply with the Animal Identification Act.

This will improve the prosecution rate of people charged for livestock theft and strengthen biosecurity measures in farms to improve international trade of cattle opportunities.

All ear-tagged animals and identities of their owners are registered onto a central database, where animal movement is recorded to make it easy to trace the animal back to the owner.

Once the system is fully implemented, each animal slaughtered in any abattoir can be traced to where it was farmed, the farming conditions where the animal was farmed, and all animal health practices the animal was exposed to.

This will also make it possible to identify owners of registered animals, thus improving the recovery of stolen animals.

DRDAR is implementing this national policy through collaboration with the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).

Currently, the department has trained and registered more than 250 veterinarians, scientists, animal health technicians and extension advisors to lead the implementation of the system. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 05/13/2024 - 10:11

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