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Ekurhuleni Investment Conference to be held this week

Location: News

Ekurhuleni Investment Conference to be held this week

The City of Ekurhuleni is expected to hold the Ekurhuleni Investment Conference 2024 from Tuesday.

The conference will be held under the theme: Ekurhuleni Economic Partnerships: Unlocking Opportunities, Building a Sustainable Future.

Keynote addresses at the conference are expected to be delivered by Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, and Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi.

In a statement, the city said it expected the conference to serve as a “catalyst for renewed investor confidence, economic growth, and sustainable development in the region”.

“This year’s conference will showcase the city’s industrial strengths and vast investment opportunities across key sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, and township economies. 

“With a clear focus on public-private partnerships, the event will facilitate strategic collaborations, advance our 10-Point Economic Plan, and drive job creation and economic revitalisation,” the statement read.

Key focus areas during the conference include:

  • Aerotropolis and airport city development: The city aims to strengthen partnerships and advance the Aerotropolis Master Plan, leveraging its strategic airport infrastructure to attract significant investment.
  • Industrial estate development: The conference will support local manufacturing growth, investor retention, and the promotion of industrial parks.
  • Critical infrastructure development: The city will engage the private sector in investing in data centers, energy solutions, and critical infrastructure to enhance service delivery.
  • Township economic development: Empowering township economies through entrepreneurship and inclusive growth initiatives remains a priority.
  • CBD and industrial estate revitalisation: The focus will be on urban renewal, fiscal incentives, and infrastructure improvements.

“Ekurhuleni, known as South Africa’s industrial powerhouse and home to the busiest airport in Africa, OR Tambo International Airport, has faced substantial challenges in recent years, including global economic shocks, energy instability, and infrastructure strains. However, our city remains a prime destination for investment, strategically poised to lead the continent in industrial and economic development.

“Ekurhuleni is committed to creating a vibrant, investment-friendly environment. By collaborating with key stakeholders, including InvestSA Gauteng, Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), and the Gauteng Industrial Development Zone (GIDZ), we are set to drive economic transformation and attract both domestic and international investors.

“As we move forward, this conference represents a crucial moment to transform challenges into opportunities, ensuring that the City of Ekurhuleni continues to be a place where people and businesses can grow and thrive,” the city said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 11/25/2024 - 10:53

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Kubayi pledges to hand over houses to GBVF victims

Location: News

Kubayi pledges to hand over houses to GBVF victims

As part of the 16 Days of Activism for no Violence Against Women and Children campaign, Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, has pledged to hand over 16 houses to the victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) throughout the 16-day period.

Kubayi said the initiative underscores the department's commitment to providing tangible support to victims and survivors of GBVF.

“By providing safe housing, the goal is to reduce survivors' reliance on their abusive partners, promoting independence and dignity. It also aims to accelerate collective action and whole-of-society accountability to end violence against women and children.

“Empowering women economically is also crucial in the fight against GBVF, and a safe and secure home serves as a foundation for individuals to build their lives and become productive members of society,” Kubayi said.

According to the Minister, when women are economically resilient, they gain the freedom to leave harmful situations, take control of their lives, and create a better future for themselves and their children.

Kubayi said during the campaign, the department aims to raise awareness and highlight practical efforts to reduce the vulnerability of women affected by GBVF by providing safe shelter.

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is today leading the national launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign, which is taking place in the Rustenburg Local Municipality in the North West.

This year's campaign is being held under the theme: “30 Years of Advancing Collective Action to End Violence against Women and Children", which builds upon previous efforts to tackle the root causes of GBVF, fostering a culture of positive masculinity, gender equity, and economic empowerment for women and children.

The sub-theme for the campaign is: “Harnessing Technology and Innovation to Combat Gender-based Violence and Accelerate a Gender Inclusive Digital Economy”.

Kubayi, alongside Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements, Tasneem Motara and Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza will also hand over Breaking New Ground houses to vulnerable groups at the Helderwyk housing project in Ekurhuleni.

The handover of houses in Gauteng is a significant initiative by the department to support the 16 Days campaign.

The department has developed the Special Housing Needs Policy to assist victims of GBVF.

To further demonstrate the commitment to support vulnerable groups, the department has produced an awareness advertisement highlighting interventions to address GBVF.

“The advert will be launched on today, marking the beginning of the campaign and will be aired on SABC TV platforms, ensuring widespread reach and visibility,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 11/25/2024 - 09:58

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Gangsterism, substance abuse a thorn in Ekurhuleni schools

Location: News

Gangsterism, substance abuse a thorn in Ekurhuleni schools

While the Gauteng Department of Education’s focus in on teaching and learning, the department says these plans continue to be interrupted by incidents of crime, bullying, gangsterism, vandalism, drug and alcohol abuse.

Speaking during the Ekurhuleni school safety imbizo in Tsakane on Saturday, Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane said these incidents have a negative impact on teaching and learning. 

The community-driven conversations during izimbizo aim to address critical safety concerns, while strengthening collaboration between local stakeholders, educators and students.

The first imbizo was held earlier in November in Kliptown, Soweto, where the department discussed several safety issues, calling for strong partnerships between schools and parents

“In order to curb these incidents, the department has put in place various measures. These include securing access into schools, search and seizures, deployment of security guards, recruitment and deployment of patrollers, as well as partnering with community structures and law enforcement agencies. 

“However, despite these interventions, I continue to receive reports – in fact – disturbing reports of violence, bullying, arson, vandalism, and several other reports,” Chiloane said. 

Talking to parents, pupils and community members in Tsakane, Chiloane said they have identified about 55 high risk schools in the region, where some of these incidents take place.

He said there are gang groups within the schools, with names such as Boofs, Gailos, Nkabination and Amabutho, among others. 

Chiloane said they have also identified issues of ongoing conflicts between School Governing Bodies and local communities over self-built projects; and increasing fights reported among learners, requiring immediate attention, and substance abuse challenges.

The MEC emphasised that it is important to recognise that schools are reflections of the communities surrounding them, and what occurs in these communities inevitably influences what happens within schools. 

He said peaceful communities tend to foster safe schools, while those marked by violence often see similar behaviours manifest in their educational environments. In such cases, he said, learners may bring dangerous items like knives, machetes and even firearms to school. 

“It is against this background that we must develop strategies to protect our schools from the social challenges impacting our communities. We must acknowledge that issues like violence and substance abuse cannot coexist with a healthy, conducive environment for learning and teaching.

“Today as we gather here to identify the challenges, we must with the same vigour think creatively to come up with permanent and lasting solutions to these challenges,” Chiloane said. 

The MEC told the gathering that there are intervention strategies in place, which include parental and community engagement, safety and security training, and educational and awareness programmes.

Food poisoning incidents

Over the past weeks, the department and the schooling community have been deeply impacted by tragic food poisoning incidents, which have left several children dead. 

The MEC said at the time of preparing his report, a learner from Dumezweni Primary School passed away, with two others in the ICU. 

As a result, he said the department had to act in the best interest of the learners by temporarily suspending the sale of food. However, they were also mindful of the potential adverse effect on informal traders and small businesses.  The department has now lifted the ban. 

The MEC emphasised that all traders and businesses must ensure that the food they sell is safe for consumption, and also secure the necessary permits from municipal offices.

READ | Guide to register spaza shops

Chiloane also urged traders to avoid selling repackaged or expired food - both perishable and non-perishable items.

“The department has issued a memo as well as regulations, guidelines and standard operating procedures that must be adhered to. These documents are critical in ensuring the safety and well-being of our learners, and should be consulted regularly.  This issue is about learner safety,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Sun, 11/24/2024 - 10:46

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Mother and son hospitalised after consuming food from spaza shop

Location: News

Mother and son hospitalised after consuming food from spaza shop

The Gauteng Department of Health has confirmed that a 38-year-old mother and her four-year-old son from Alexandra in Johannesburg, are currently receiving treatment at Edenvale Hospital, following a suspected foodborne illness. 

According to the department, both patients are in a stable condition and under medical care after allegedly consuming food from a spaza shop. 

The family’s 10-year-old daughter passed away after being rushed to the Alexandra Community Health Centre emergency unit on Friday, 2 November 2024.

According to the department, further reports are awaited on the cause of the sudden illness and death.

“The department extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time,” the statement read. 

Meanwhile, government said it was concerned about the rising incidents of foodborne illnesses, particularly those affecting children.

“The department is working closely with multiple stakeholders and the municipalities to heighten awareness in townships, informal settlements, and hostel communities.” 

On Friday, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, lamented the lack of food safety standards at some of the local spaza shops in Ekurhuleni townships.

The MEC, together with City of Ekurhuleni officials and local councillors, conducted a food safety blitz in the area, following the recent spate of deaths and children falling ill after eating snacks from local spaza shops across the country.

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, announced last week that forensic tests following the deaths of six primary school children from Naledi, Soweto – who had allegedly eaten snacks from a foreign-owned local spaza shop – showed they were killed by a highly toxic organophosphate called Terbufos.

The provincial department has urged the public to exercise caution when purchasing and consuming food items. 

In addition, the department said it was important to purchase food from reputable sellers with valid permits to operate, check expiration dates and avoid consuming expired products.

They also encourage locals to ensure that food packaging is intact and has not been tampered with and that shops adhere to the conditions of their permits, which include compliance with environmental health regulations and maintaining hygiene standards.

“We appeal to the public not to take the law into their own hands but to rather notify relevant authorities where they pick up noncompliance issues.”

According to the provincial department, the public can contact an Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) at the municipal offices closest to where the supplier is based.

The can also lodge complaints against suppliers that sell expired goods or foodstuffs without labelling and notify the Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs on 011 355 8006 or consumer@gauteng.gov.za. 

Alternatively, the public can contact the Gauteng contact centre on 0800 GAUTENG (4288364) or 0800 22 88 27 (toll-free), USSD *134*47472# or *134*GPGSA# (zero rated), email support@gauteng.gov.za and hotline@gauteng.gov.za.

The department is also available on X at @GautengHotline or WhatsApp 082 601 1000. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 09:55

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Gauteng Health MEC laments poor Ekurhuleni spaza food safety standards

Location: News

Gauteng Health MEC laments poor Ekurhuleni spaza food safety standards

Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has lamented the lack of food safety standards at some of the local spaza shops in Ekurhuleni townships.

The MEC, together with City of Ekurhuleni officials and local councillors, conducted a food safety blitz in the area following the recent spate of deaths and children falling ill after eating snacks from local spaza shops across the country. 

Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi announced this week that forensic tests unveiled those six primary school children from Naledi, Soweto, were killed by a highly toxic organophosphate called Terbufos.

The children aged between six and nine had allegedly eaten snacks from a foreign-owned local spaza shop that officials concluded was contaminated by this lethal pesticide.

READ | Death of six Soweto children linked to Terbufos

According to Nkomo-Ralehoko, who was part of the interdepartmental team that visited spaza shops on Friday, the initiative aims to educate the public about food safety and monitoring compliance with food safety standards by local businesses and protecting public health. 

Some of the things confiscated at one of the shops illegally occupying municipal land in Alra Park include spices and snacks and expired sour milk and meat. 

“Some of the foods are on the floor and not on the shelves. We’re going to close the shop to ensure they follow the right processes and channels. But this place mustn’t be open again for illegal trading even if it means the municipality has to demolish it,” she stressed. 

The MEC said she would also rope in the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) team after it was discovered they were also selling “wrong” medication. 

“These spaza shop owners aren’t compliant and the building itself, they’re using municipal land and that’s why we are closing it,” she said while speaking outside the shop with journalists.

Last week, the National Department of Health rebuffed claims that government is neglecting the issue of children dying from suspected food poisoning.

However, government said the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) is currently treating the recent spate of deaths as a national security threat.

“These increasing incidents in black communities have led to an unfortunate and unsubstantiated perception that authorities are turning a blind eye to this crisis and seem not to care about what’s happening to citizens. 
“Contrary to these beliefs and perceptions, this is what various authorities have been engaged in,” a statement from the department read.
READ | Food poisoning incidents treated as national security threat

The Health Minister has now involved the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) to assist in these cases. 
Meanwhile, the inspectors from the department are also working with the teams selected from the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Agriculture and the National Consumer Commission (NCC), under NICD’s direct supervision. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 11/01/2024 - 13:09

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Fourteen in court on fraud, money laundering charges 

Location: News

Fourteen in court on fraud, money laundering charges 

Fourteen people have appeared in court on allegations of fraud and money laundering, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) said on Wednesday. 

The 14 accused, including two former Nedbank employees, Nicolette de Villiers and Keitumetse Mathimbi, aged between 25 and 51 years were arrested on Tuesday in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni by the Gauteng Serious Commercial Crime Investigation of the Hawks on allegations of fraud and money laundering.

“It is reported that the main suspect unlawfully made payments from suspense accounts valued at over R157 million which were further transferred … to recipients who were [not] entitled to receive such monies. The amounts were between R50 000 and R20 million. Twenty-three recipients are involved in the matter including 15 individuals, seven entities and six banks.”

The 14 made their first appearance in the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in the Palm Ridge Magistrates court on Wednesday.

The Hawks said 13 of the 14 were granted bail while accused number 10’s bail application will be heard on 7 November 2024 in the same court.

“Accused No 10, Yu-Wei Fang's bail application will be heard on the 7 November 2024 in the same court, he was remanded in custody. The other 13 accused will appear again on 29 January 2025,” said the Hawks.

The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General (Dr/Adv) Godfrey Lebeya commended the concerted efforts by the investigation team, prosecutors and specialists to ensure speedy finalisation of the investigation and securing the attendance of the accused in court. 

“This is one of the complex high value serious commercial crime[s] that exhibits the elements of professional money laundering enablers. Investigations are continuing,” said the Hawks.

Meanwhile, the Hawks said three suspects are expected to appear in court following the murder of an unknown man whose body was found severely beaten, stabbed and dumped in a veld in Boksburg, Gauteng.

The three suspects aged 42, 33 and 31 were arrested in the early hours of Wednesday morning in a multidisciplinary operation led by the Hawks Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS), Benoni Flying Squad, Secure Tech, Graphite Security, Blue Hawk Tactical, DOT Towing and Brakpan Crime Prevention.

“Two suspects were arrested in connection with a murder of an unknown man whose body was found severely beaten, stabbed and dumped in a veld in Boksburg North. Through information received, the pair was traced to Brakpan. The third suspect was arrested also in Brakpan after he was found with a replica firearm and live ammunition which were confiscated for further investigation.”

The team also recovered a baseball bat and a panga which are suspected to have been the weapons utilised in the murder.

Investigations in the matter are continuing. -SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/31/2024 - 11:23

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Food poisoning incidents treated as national security threat

Location: News

Food poisoning incidents treated as national security threat

The Department of Health has rebuffed claims that government is neglecting the issue of children dying from suspected food poisoning.

According to the department, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) is currently treating the recent spate of deaths as a national security threat. 

“These increasing incidents in black communities have led to an unfortunate and unsubstantiated perception that authorities are turning a blind eye to this crisis, and seem not to care about what’s happening to citizens. 

"Contrary to these beliefs and perceptions, this is what various authorities have been engaged in,” a statement from the department read. 

Those affected have concluded that these sudden deaths, especially among school children, were because of food poisoning emanating from foodstuff, particularly snacks, sold by foreign-owned spaza shops.

The Health Department said NATJOINTS, which is the national structure responsible for coordinating the security of the State, is treating these incidents as a potential threat to the security of the country and its citizens. 

“Last week, NATJOINTS met to analyse this situation and after careful analysis, recommended that the Department of Health should coordinate all these investigations involving various institutions and bodies because in the final analysis, whatever is happening eventually leads to ill-health or even death.”

Meanwhile, the department said the South African Police Service (SAPS) detectives have been working around the clock to try unravel this “mystery”, especially where children have died, as is the case in Naledi, Soweto.

READ | MEC Chiloane concerned as 25 learners in Bronkhorstspruit fall ill after consuming snacks

In addition, the Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni metros have deployed their Environmental Inspectors to investigate the cause of these suspected food poisoning incidents.

The Environmental Directorate of the National Department of Health has also sent its inspectors to check compliance with health regulations.

“The Department of Agriculture has also sent in their officials to check if the problem might not be emanating their produce or from lack of compliance with some of their production regulations,” the department said, adding that the National Consumer Commission (NCC) has also deployed senior officials to investigate the possibility of a breach of consumer protection regulations.

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has decided to rope in the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) to assist. 

“This is because a few years ago, the country was bedeviled by a food-borne pathogen that doctors had diagnosed and laboratories identified as listeria monocytogenes. However, nobody knew what its source was. 

“It is the NICD that mounted a country-wide search that led to the identification of the source. The Minister thought that experience would come handy in the situation the country is faced with today,” the department explained. 

The team from the organs of State has concluded that they are dealing with a chemical agent as the cause of the illness.

They also announced that a plan has since been put into place to mount a systemic search for the agent causing this malady, and that action will be accelerated during the coming weeks. 

The plan entails unleashing an army of 80 health inspectors from the National Department of Health and the City of Johannesburg. 

They will be joined by teams selected from SAPS, Agriculture and the NCC, which have already gone through the NICD and have been provided with the necessary equipment and tools. The teams will be working under NICD's direct supervision. 

The team, the department said, will commence their work in Naledi, Soweto, today. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 10/21/2024 - 11:01

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Mineral and Petroleum Resources Committee Welcomes Temporary Joint Operation to Dispel Approximately 6,500 Illegal Miners

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Mineral and Petroleum Resources has applauded a temporarily arranged joint operation that dispelled approximately 6 500 people who participate in illegal mining and illicit business activities at Van Ryan illegal mining site in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.

The joint operation between the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and MI7 National Group private security was set up for the committee's visit today. As part of its week-long oversight visit to North West and Gauteng, the committee conducted a walk-about at Van Ryan illegal mining site to gain an appreciation of the extent of illegal activities taking place there.

The committee was deeply shocked to witness what looked like a fully flagged settlement, with holes to access underground shafts, as well as shelters under which illegally mined ore is processed and where illegal shebeens and restaurants operate.

Furthermore, the committee was dismayed to learn that since the core business of the area is illegal mining, those people operating secondary businesses, such as catering, shebeens and sex work, pay rent to unknown kingpins. Another secondary business is security.

In October 2023, illegal miners were cleared from the site on the orders of President Cyril Ramaphosa after the SANDF were deployed there in “Operation Prosper”. Full-scale illegal activities resumed after six months at the end of the SANDF's deployment period in April this year. On Friday, a joint operation between the SANDF, SAPS and MI7 National Group security moved into the area and dispelled everyone again.

Against this backdrop, the committee calls for sustainable measures to be put in place to prevent illegal activities permanently. Such measures have been put in place before at other sites, such as the Benoni Driving Range Racetrack, which used to be a hotspot for illegal mining.

The committee will develop an oversight report with recommendations for adoption by the National Assembly.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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SIU to probe academic fraud at Fort Hare

Location: News

SIU to probe academic fraud at Fort Hare

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed six new and two amended proclamations authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration at various institutions. 

The SIU has on Friday been given the green light to probe several provincial government departments and the affairs of the University of Fort Hare. 

According to the SIU, the agency’s investigation period for the university has been extended to start from 1 January 2004 until 4 October 2024. The new scope allows the unit to probe the registration or admission of non-eligible people to enrol for, study for or be awarded degrees, including Bachelor’s, Honour’s, Master’s and PhD degrees.

“Without limiting the scope of non-eligibility grounds, this includes persons who did not have the requisite degrees or matriculation results to enrol for, study for or be awarded the degrees in question,” the SIU explained. 

Investigators will probe the maintenance of the university’s infrastructure from 1 January 2022 to 31 March 2023 and zoom in on the installation of CCTV cameras and associated security features at the staff village in Alice in the Eastern Cape from 18 March 2022 to 2 June 2022. 

They will also look into the refurbishment and maintenance of student residences at the university’s Alice campus in 2009 and the Capacity Building Programme for the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature.

The SIU will further investigate the appointment of a Head of Department and the affairs of the university in the Nguni Cattle Development Trust.

“Serious maladministration and malpractices, as well as conduct which may seriously harm the interests of the public in the affairs of the university regarding the administration and payment of allowances for food, accommodation, books, stationery, cash and study-related costs to qualifying students.”

In addition, investigations will cover the university’s Faculty of Health Sciences’ Albertina Sisulu Executive Leadership Programme in Health and the Master of Public Health Programme including the registration or admission of non-eligible people to enrol for, study for or be awarded degrees. 

Further, the provincial Departments of Transport will be put under the microscope. 

According to the agency, the SIU’s investigation will continue to probe the registration and licensing of motor vehicles, registration of motor vehicle ownership or licensing details, issuing of driving licences, learner’s licences or professional driving permits, conversion of foreign driving licences and military driving licences to driving licences, and issuing of roadworthy certificates. 

The state agency will investigate conduct at the Limpopo Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and provincial Health Departments in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape. 

The SIU will also probe the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and Tlokwe Local Municipality. 

In the provincial departments and the municipalities, the matters are mostly related to tenders and contracts. 

The SIU will examine if the contracts adhered to National Treasury guidelines and ascertain whether the payments were irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for the department or the State. 

“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.”

In line with the SIU Act, the agency said it would refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action. 

Meanwhile, the agency is also authorised under the SIU Act to initiate a civil action in the high court or a special tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Sun, 10/06/2024 - 11:29

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President Ramaphosa calls on all to support BELA Act

Location: News

President Ramaphosa calls on all to support BELA Act

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on everyone to put their weight behind implementing the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act so that all children receive a good quality education regardless of their circumstances.

“The passage of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act is part of ongoing efforts to build an education system that is more effective and more equitable. 

“Among other things, the Act provides for early learning foundations to be strengthened, promotes greater accountability of parents for their children’s learning and promotes inclusivity in the classroom,” the President said on Saturday. 

President Ramaphosa was speaking at the 24th instalment of the National Teaching Awards as the globe commemorates World Teacher’s Day at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.

He explained that the spirit and purpose of this new legislation was to ensure there was uniformity and fairness in educational standards between schools and across the country. 

Last month, President Ramaphosa signed the Bill into law but delayed the implementation of two clauses 4 and 5, which deal with school admissions and language, by three months to make room for more discussion and deliberations after it received some opposition. 

“In the interests of inclusivity, we have created space for engagement among some concerned parties on aspects of the legislation. But that process cannot undermine the transformational nature of this law.” 

Meanwhile, the President told the people gathered at the conference centre that in order to produce more learners who excel in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, South Africa needs to invest more in supporting and upskilling its teachers and arm them with necessary resources.

“In some schools, resources are plenty, the schoolyard is safe, there are basic amenities, the pupil-teacher ratio is appropriate, and learning takes place in good conditions. But in others, educators struggle to obtain even the most basic resources for teaching, schools lack safe toilets and running water, and crime and violence from outside the school inevitably finds its way in.” 

However, according to the President, South Africa has made much progress in narrowing the gaps between schools. 

He said government was working to strengthen the foundations of early learning to ensure successful education outcomes in the future. 

The President announced that the education curriculum was being revised, updated and reformed to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world. 

“With the high rate of youth unemployment in our country, educators need to ensure that our schools are producing the skills our economy needs. They need to ensure that every school leaver has the confidence and capabilities that enable them to study further, find employment or be self-employed. 

“We are working to fully implement the three-stream model, which offers academic, vocational and occupational pathways for learners. Educators play an important role in identifying the best course for a learner.”

Shifting his focus to the National Teaching Awards, he noted that the enduring commitment to honouring educators speaks to their unique and treasured place in the country. 

“All of us are who we are because of the teachers we once had. I have the fondest memories of my own teachers at Tshilidzi Primary School in Soweto and Mphaphuli High School in Sibasa, Venda… All these years later, they still hold a special place in my heart,” he told the room full of teachers. 

The President described a good teacher as a role model who encourages a child to achieve their potential. 

He took the time to congratulate those who were awarded today and acknowledged teacher unions and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) who are working with government to build a resilient education system that meets the challenges of the future. 

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube thanked President Ramaphosa for his unwavering support not just for her but the sector. 

“The future leaders of our country deserves our fervent leadership.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Sat, 10/05/2024 - 13:15

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Basic Education top brass visit Gauteng

Location: News

Basic Education top brass visit Gauteng

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube and Deputy Minister Dr Reginah Mhaule will today visit Gauteng as part of the ongoing National Listening and Learning Tour.

This tour aims to directly engage with provincial education stakeholders, school leadership and the broader community to address challenges in the province's education sector. 

“This provincial visit will focus on critical issues such as the annual influx of learners to the province, school safety, literacy and numeracy levels, teacher training, as well as budget constraints...

“The purpose of these engagements is to identify areas for improvement, share best practices, and collaboratively develop solutions to the unique challenges within the province's educational landscape,” the Department of Basic Education said in a statement.

Gwarube and Mhaule will address the media following their engagements with provincial education stakeholders, providing updates on the outcomes of the visit and plans to strengthen the education system in Gauteng.

WATCH | National Listening & Learning Tour has arrived in Gauteng

 

The media briefing will be held at Olympia Park School in Springs, Ekurhuleni. 

The National Listening and Learning Tour commenced in the Eastern Cape on 2 September, with a visit to Limpopo on 16 September. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 09:53

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Read moreBasic Education top brass visit Gauteng

Gauteng NCOP Delegation Recommends Criminal Action Against Errant Project Developers Contractors

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The NCOP Gauteng delegation conducted a successful oversight visit to unfinished and abandoned human settlements, health, education, and road projects in the West Rand and Sedibeng regions on Wednesday.

The visit is part of the week-long NCOP Provincial Week Programme, held under the theme “Confronting the Challenges Facing the Timely Delivery of Viable Public Infrastructure to Communities.”

The Provincial Week Programme aims to provide permanent delegates to the NCOP and their counterparts from the Gauteng Provincial Legislature with an opportunity to conduct oversight visits to various community development structures, including incomplete road projects, housing projects and other delayed or abandoned public infrastructure projects in the province. These oversight sessions involve officials and managers from affected districts and provincial and national government departments.

Among the abandoned projects visited by the delegation yesterday was the Montrose Mega Project in Randfontein. The project started in 2017 and is expected to yield 13 792 mixed typologies upon completion.

Briefing the delegation on the challenges, interventions and way forward, the provincial Department of Human Settlements said the project had faced various challenges, such as non-performance by the developer, as he failed to resume site in January 2024. The developer also failed to disclose a liquidation order issued by the court against him in 2023 in favour of contractors. The delegation was informed that the developer failed to pay the Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), which he appointed as his service providers. The abandoned project is now facing a serious problem of vandalism of the units.

As part of the interventions, the department reported that it sought a legal opinion on the options available to act against the developer and a notice of termination was issued. The delegation was told that three criminal cases had been opened for the vandalism of the infrastructure, and some of the perpetrators had been brought to justice.

The department further reported that, as part of the way forward, they are appointing a security company to protect the remaining infrastructure and will commence negotiations with the land owner on acquiring the land.

The delegation also visited the Rus-Ter-Vaal Secondary School. The project was initiated in 2016 and set for construction in 2018. A contractor was appointed and initiated the construction process but abandoned the site without completing the project.

The delegation was told that the project remains abandoned as of August 2024. The department is set to appoint a contractor and hand over the site to the contractor by the end of September.

The MEC for Education committed to providing regular feedback to the NCOP on this delayed project and ensured that the contractors' contract would be terminated where there were unjustifiable delays.

The NCOP Gauteng delegation also conducted oversight at Kopanong Hospital in Vereeniging. Construction of the hospital started in 2021, with an original completion date of August 2022. The appointed contractor could not finish the project, and their contract was terminated.

The delegation was very concerned about the state of the Kopanong Hospital, which is in decay. The abandoned, incomplete wards were meant to accommodate emergency patients during COVID-19, but the contractor failed to finish the job.

The delegation also visited the R82 Old Johannesburg Road in Walkerville. The Initial consultant was terminated due to poor performance. A new consulting engineer was appointed on 23 August 2024. The delegation was informed that the project is scheduled to recommence the first week of October 2024. The contractor is mobilising to return to the site at the beginning of September 2024.

Some of the challenges facing the project include the encroachment of 10 households on the site—intervention to relocate the residents is being sought.

The delegation further visited the Bekkerdal Care of the Age Centre, New Simunye High School in Westonaria, and the Lethabong Mega Project in Sebokeng. The delegation applauded the Lethabong Mega Project, as it was the only site progressing well among all the visited projects.

The delegation, led by Ms Jane Mananiso, NCOP Gauteng Provincial Whip, recommended that criminal cases be opened against developers who are at fault for any of the projects' issues.

Highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency, Ms Mananiso said public representatives must ensure that every rand spent on infrastructure development translates into tangible benefits for the people. “The NCOP's oversight provides an invaluable mechanism for ensuring accountability and transparency, and I have no doubt that your engagements with us this week will help strengthen the systems that underpin effective governance,” she said.

The delegation is today, Thursday, 19 September, conducting oversight visits to projects around the Ekurhuleni and Tshwane regions. The projects include:

  • - Bakerton Library in Springs
  • - Barcelona Primary in Daveyton
  • - Semphato Junior Secondary School in Soshanguve
  • - Transoranje LSEN - Pretoria
  • - Women Living Monument in Pretoria

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreGauteng NCOP Delegation Recommends Criminal Action Against Errant Project Developers Contractors

Gauteng launches campaign to ensure business compliance in townships

Location: News

Gauteng launches campaign to ensure business compliance in townships

Gauteng MEC for Economic Development and Finance, Lebogang Maile, has launched the "Qondis’ Ishishini Lakho - Fix Your Business" campaign in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni.

This is part of government’s efforts to ensure business compliance in townships, informal settlements, hostels and CBDs.

A joint effort between the department, the Gauteng Provincial Treasury, the City of Ekurhuleni, SA Police Service, the Gauteng Liquor Board, the Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs, Gauteng Gambling Board and relevant government agencies, "Qondis’ Ishishini Lakho - Fix Your Business" is primarily meant to assist business to comply with regulations that govern businesses in Gauteng, while simultaneously enforcing compliance with the same laws.

During MEC Maile’s monitoring and compliance blitz in Ivory Park, Winnie Mandela and Olifantsfontein townships, most of the businesses were closed in the neighbourhood’s high street. 

This suggested that most of them were non-compliant and shut down to evade monitoring inspections.

However, for shopping centres in the neighbourhood, it was business as usual and that is where inspections focused.

Tembisa was chosen partly because between February and September 2024, 203 cases of foodborne illnesses were reported in Gauteng - Ekurhuleni accounted for 116 of those - including 10 deaths. 

Four recent deaths were reported in Ekurhuleni and the victims were children between the ages of 03 and 13. 

As part of ongoing community outreach and strengthening engagement with learners, government assigned environmental health officials to address food safety concerns in local schools and communities.

MEC Maile said government was committed to helping emerging businesses access funding and market opportunities and pledged to soon host a funding symposium with the banks to help compliant and qualifying businesses access funding. 

He urged township businesses to consider other options, including cooperative banks and to pool resources together to fund expansion.

“The township economy is worth at least R100 billion but most of that money leaves the township. Businesses need the help of government to change that. We also need to solve the problem of the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. Otherwise, the economy will not change,” he said.

MEC Maile undertook to attend the problem of the lack of ease of doing business, saying this was stifling the growth potential of many emerging businesses.

Also on site at the Rabasotho community hall were various government entities whose function is to register businesses and ensure their compliance. They availed their online services.

Ekurhuleni Member of the Mayoral Committee, Nomadlozi Nkosi, explained that they were providing on-the-spot assistance to small and medium enterprises in the Ivory Park, Olifantsfontein and Winnie Mandela communities. 

The initiative was a significant step towards fostering a more competitive and sustainable business environment by holding the hand and assisting with the much-needed interventions.

SAPS District Commissioner of Ekurhuleni, Major General Anna Sithole, said they had run scores of raids in line with the Operation Shanela weekly campaign on businesses in Gauteng and had confiscated 3089 of contraband and counterfeit products. 

Around Tembisa, 191 liquor outlets were inspected and 112 of those outlets were closed due to non-compliance. 

This also resulted in the confiscation of over 105 872 15 millilitres of alcohol. 

A total of 114 spaza shop-focused inspections resulted in the confiscation of 5 265 counterfeit cigarettes and a total of 880 illegal body creams.

Sithole said this would benefit communities and respond to their concerns about sub-standard goods being sold at some of the shops in the townships. 

She called for this to happen weekly in order to have the desired impact in Gauteng.

“We welcome this brilliant initiative. It is an initiative that will complement the Commissioner’s whole government approach to law enforcement.

“We as law enforcement agencies pledge 100% commitment to work with multi-sectoral agencies to ensure that communities feel safe when they purchase foods. We take this opportunity of correcting wrong with right to ensure that business owners fix their businesses. Those who don’t will not trade with peace. We urge them to do what is right,” Sithole said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 11:23

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Survey reveals Gauteng has the third-lowest HIV prevalence

Location: News

Survey reveals Gauteng has the third-lowest HIV prevalence

Compared to other provinces, Gauteng had the third-lowest HIV prevalence at 11.9% in 2022 which is slightly lower than the 12.1% reported in 2017.

This translates to an estimated 1 720 000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Gauteng in 2022, representing an insignificant 0.2% decline from the 1 780 000 reported in 2017.

This is according to the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), which released the key findings of the Sixth South African HIV Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour Survey (SABSSM VI) for Gauteng on Thursday. 

The findings also showed that, in 2022, HIV prevalence in the province was disproportionately higher among those aged 25 to 49 (20.0%), for females (24.9%) and males (14.1%). 

HIV prevalence was also higher among those residing in rural formal or farm areas (12.7%).

According to the overall principal investigator of the study,  the HSRC’s Professor Khangelani Zuma, the HIV prevalence peaked at 32.2% among those who are 50 to 54 years old in 2022. 

In 2017, the prevalence peak was in a younger age group, at 31.9% among those aged 35 to 39.

“There was a decrease in HIV prevalence in 2022 among all age groups younger than 40 years compared to 2017. It is, however, concerning that even though the epidemic is ageing, there seems to be a possibility of new infections still happening in the older age groups,” Zuma noted.

The data presented are for five priority districts of Gauteng, namely the City of Tshwane, the City of Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Sedibeng and West Rand. 

Among the five districts, the highest HIV prevalence was found in Sedibeng (13.2%).

The SABSSM VI survey, conducted between 2022 and 2023, aimed to maintain surveillance of HIV infection and behaviours in South Africa, evaluate the progress of the South African national HIV and AIDS, STI and TB Strategic Plan, and monitor HIV indicators for national and international reporting.

The survey’s key objectives included estimating HIV prevalence and incidence, viral load suppression, and exposure to HIV-related services among adults and children. 

Antiretroviral treatment

The data also shows that Gauteng’s antiretroviral treatment (ART) coverage increased to 73.4% in 2022 from 56% in 2017. 

The ART coverage translates to an estimated 1 210 000 PLHIV in the province receiving treatment in 2022.
ART use among all PLHIV in the province was lowest among those aged 15 to 49 (72.4%) compared to other age groups. 

“ART use in Gauteng was consistently lower among males compared to females in all the age groups, however, it was lowest in the West Rand (73.4%) and Ekurhuleni (73.6%) districts.”

Knowledge of HIV status

Zuma expressed concern that PLHIV aged between 25 and 49, which accounts for most PLHIV in Gauteng who are unaware of their HIV status (61.8%), are aware of their HIV status but not on ART (64.6%), and ART but not virally suppressed (64.6%). 

He also noted that adolescents and youth aged from 15 to 24 contribute disproportionally to gaps in treatment, accounting for just 6.8% of all PLHIV. 

However, 20% of those unaware of their HIV status, 13.4% of those aware of their HIV status but not on ART, and 12.1% of those on ART but not virally suppressed.

According to the study, females aged 15 to 24 account for the minority of all females living with HIV (6.4%), but a relatively larger proportion of those who do not know their status (15.2%), not on ART (13.4%), and ART but not virally suppressed (12.1%). 

Males aged 15 to 24 years account for just 7.8% of all males living with HIV, but 27.3% of those unaware of their HIV status, 19.4% of those who are aware but not on ART, and 18.9% of those who are on ART but not virally suppressed.

The survey further revealed that, among all districts, Ekurhuleni accounts for just 30.6% of all PLHIV, but 47.4% of all PLHIV do not know their status.

Sexual debut 

Regarding the key drivers of the HIV pandemic, Zuma noted that there was a change in the proportion of Gauteng adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 who reported having sex before the age of 15 in 2017 (14.8%) compared to 2022 (13.2%).
In 2022, the percentage of adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 who had their sexual debut before the age of 15 was higher among males (17.8%) than females (7.9%). 

The prevalence was lowest in Ekurhuleni (9.5%) and highest in West Rand (18.1%), followed by the City of Johannesburg (14.1%).

Multiple sexual partners

The survey revealed that in Gauteng, 7.8% of people 15 years and older reported having multiple sexual partners in 2022 compared to 12.8% in 2017. 

The proportion of people aged 15 years and older who reported having multiple sexual partners was four-fold higher among males (12.3%) compared to females (3.1%), and two-fold higher among those aged 15 to 24 (17.1%) compared to those aged 15 to 49 (8.6%). 

The proportion who reported having multiple sexual partners was highest in the City of Tshwane (13.7%) and lowest in West Rand (2.9%).

Condom use

Regarding condom use, the survey found that, in Gauteng, 30.3% reported using a condom with the most recent sexual partner in 2022 compared to 36.3% in 2017, representing a decline of six percentage points. 
Condom use with the most recent sexual partner among people 15 years and older was lower among those aged between 25 and 49 years (29.6%) compared to other age groups, females compared to males (27.6% versus 32.9%), and those residing in rural formal, or farm areas (18.9%) compared to other localities. 

Condom use with the most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 years and older ranged from 24.7% in the City of Tshwane to 37.9% in West Rand.

In Gauteng, a higher proportion (53.8%) also reported that they never used a condom with their most recent sexual partner. Only 4.7% reported that they used a condom almost every time.

Consistent condom use with the most recent sexual partner among people 15 years in the province was higher among adolescents and youth aged 15 to 24 (32.1%) compared to those aged 25 to 49 (19.3%). 

However, over 70% of those aged 25 to 49 years reported only using a condom sometimes or never. 

Consistent condom use with the most recent sexual partner among people aged 15 and older was highest in Sedibeng (23.4%) and lowest in the City of Tshwane (17%).

“We also recommend enhancing prevention efforts targeted at groups that are disproportionately affected by the drivers of HIV infection, such as women and young people,” concluded Professor Zuma. – SAnews.gov.za
 
 

Gabisile
Thu, 08/29/2024 - 12:40

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Assets linked to Lotteries scandal preserved

Location: News

Assets linked to Lotteries scandal preserved

The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), together with the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), have secured a preservation order for some R6.5 million in four high-value properties, financial transfers, and a vehicle linked to the looting of funds at the National Lotteries Commission.

In a joint statement on Wednesday, the two law enforcement agencies said the order ensures that the assets are preserved until a forfeiture order is granted.

“This decisive action is part of an ongoing investigation into the unlawful use of NLC [National Lotteries Commission] grant allocations meant to support community development projects.

“This preservation is part of implementing the Anti-Corruption Strategy, which sees law enforcement agencies coming together to eradicate corruption in South Africa,” the statement read.

The preserved assets include:

   • Property in Ekurhuleni 
   • Property at Waterfront Estate in Tshwane 
   • An agricultural holding
   • Property at Makhado in Limpopo
   • 2016 Toyota Hilux

“The preservation order ensures that the identified assets remain secured and cannot be sold or otherwise disposed of while investigations continue. The SIU and AFU are working closely to expedite the legal process to recover the misappropriated funds and bring those involved in these fraudulent activities to justice.

“The AFU and SIU remain committed to protecting public funds and ensuring that those responsible for the misuse of grant allocations are held accountable. All the properties mentioned above represent the proceeds of unlawful activity as provided for in the Prevention of Organised Crime Act. 

"Once forfeited, the property will be sold at a public auction, and the NLC will be compensated for its losses,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 10:42

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Review on metros’ performance in housing delivery

Location: News

Review on metros' performance in housing delivery

The Department of Human Settlements has started a series of engagements to review the performance of housing delivery in all metropolitan municipalities in the country.

Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, said the department was concerned about the performance of the metros, with leadership and governance instability being a major factor in the performance of human settlements delivery.

Kubayi said the department had therefore started a process of meeting all metros to assess performance and determine the interventions necessary to expedite delivery.

“Our first engagement was with the Gauteng Metros last week and it was noted that although improvements have been visible with some metros, there is a need for intervention in the City of Ekurhuleni.

“We intervened in Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan by establishing a War Room to complement the technical capacity in the city. We have seen the significant improvements with the Nelson Mandela Bay due to the intervention of the War Room,” Kubayi said.

She said the City of Ekurhuleni will be afforded a similar intervention, to ensure acceleration of service delivery and respond to the needs of the people of Ekurhuleni.

“We will continue these engagements with eThekwini, Mangaung, Buffalo City and the City of Cape Town in the next few weeks, and where necessary, we will provide the appropriate interventions for the metros,” Kubayi said.

Verification of housing subsidy beneficiaries

Meanwhile, Kubayi said the department is considering appointing a team of legal experts with expertise in large forensic investigation, forensic audit, and data analysis to deal with the injustices in the housing subsidy sector.

The Minister said the department has noted concerns raised by the public regarding housing subsidies provided by government through Breaking New Ground (BNG).

Kubayi said some BNGs were allocated to people who are not rightful beneficiaries, either because the beneficiary list was manipulated or because of syndicates operating across the country who illegally take housing units from rightful owners and sell them to non-deserving citizens.

“There are those that were sold BNG houses within a period of eight years in contravention of Section 10A of the Housing Act, that BNGs are occupied by foreign nationals with no information as to what led to that situation.

“The team is expected to provide a report that will provide clarity on the ownership of the houses, the occupants and where necessary initiate steps for legal action so that corrective measures are taken,” Kubayi said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 15:20

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Lives will improve in Ekurhuleni, vows government

Location: News

Lives will improve in Ekurhuleni, vows government

Government is committed to improving the lives of residents of the City of Ekurhuleni Municipality through interventions including “expanded support for small businesses and intensified efforts to spare communities from crime”.

Other interventions will be in security of tenure for people living and working on farms, and much needed repairs to major roadways that serve as economic arteries to the municipality.

On Friday, President Cyril Ramaphosa led a District Development Model Presidential Imbizo in the municipality.

READ | Strong municipalities needed to grow economy

The Presidential Imbizo was a platform for communities to interact and share their challenges with government leaders from all three spheres of government on service delivery challenges, and for the executive to respond to the community on what they are doing to resolve those issues.

“During this interaction, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza and other leaders outlined efforts address these matters and to improve economic prospects more broadly in the district,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement.

Water and electricity

After the community expressed their challenges, particularly those related to water, Xhakaza assured them that the city’s Water and Sanitation Department was working tirelessly to deliver services.

A new water pump station is in the pipeline for the area.

“The department has been allocated R590 million in 2024/25 for key projects including R30 million for a new 30Ml reservoir in Germiston; R15 million for the construction of a new sewer pipeline at Pomona and R10 million for a new water pipeline in Nigel.

“To mitigate the challenge the city power cuts and load reduction the City has undertaken to install backup generators at 21 water supply infrastructure sites such as reservoirs and pump stations. Some sites where the backup generators installed include Sunward Park, Tsakane and Germiston reservoirs,” the statement read.

Housing and employment

During the Imbizo, it was revealed that land claims totalling some R53 million are being fast tracked while housing is also getting attention.

It was revealed that the city, the provincial and national governments have partnered to under mega hosing projects which are at “various stages of pre-planning and construction”.

“The City has provided hundreds of serviced sites or stands that feature permanent infrastructure such as water, electricity and sanitation and are ready for top structures for integrated human settlements, and the development of transport services.

“Ekurhuleni is implementing a range of housing projects and related infrastructure totalling just under half a billion rand at Brakpan Old Location, Esselen Park, John Dube, Helderwyk, Birchleigh, Leeuwpoort, Daggafontein and Palm Ridge.

“Other actions under way and in the pipeline in the district include public employment projects such as the Vala Zonke pothole repair initiative; the opening in the coming weeks of a shared facility that will bring together small businesses under one roof; the revival of dormant industrial parks, and the provision of solar panels to needy residents in an initiative that has the potential to create 30 000 jobs,” the GCIS said.

Pre-Imbizo

Ahead of the Imbizo, leaders from all three spheres of government embarked on oversight visits to Ekurhuleni.

“Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy paid an oversight visit to the rehabilitation work construction crews are performing on 14km of the R21 freeway. 

“Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontsho presented title deeds to land tenure beneficiaries who now have security on land bought by government at a cost of R12 million,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 12:42

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Read moreLives will improve in Ekurhuleni, vows government

Strong municipalities needed to grow economy

Location: News

Strong municipalities needed to grow economy

Efficient and strong municipalities are key to ensuring that South Africa’s economy grows and jobs are created, says President Cyril Ramaphosa. 

The President addressed the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo at Tsakane Stadium in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, on Friday.

The Presidential Imbizo is a platform for communities to interact with government leaders from all three spheres of government on service delivery challenges, and for the executive to respond to the community on what they are doing to resolve those issues.

WATCH | 

“We have said as the Government of National Unity, our key priority is to grow the economy, and to create jobs and fight poverty. But to do this, we need strong municipalities. It is municipalities that are the engine room of development because they provide the services to our people but they also are economic engine rooms.

“We want our municipalities to work efficiently. To our councillors, we should not be continuously hearing that our people don’t even know their councillors. That must come to an end. Councillors have been elected to serve the people and they must show themselves in the community. They must hold meetings with our communities. We must not wait for an Imbizo to come and listen to our people raising their concerns,” the President said.

Turning to the City of Ekurhuleni municipality, President Ramaphosa said it is one of South Africa’s most important hubs.

“The Ekurhuleni Municipality is well positioned as an economic driver of job creation.  Ekurhuleni is a major transportation hub. But apart from that… it is the manufacturing capital of our country. Ekurhuleni plays a very important role in the life of our province, and in the life of our country and our economy.

“It is home to Africa’s largest and busiest airport… OR Tambo International Airport. It’s also a major centre for freight corridors in our country. This makes the metro a substantial economic player because manufacturing is one of the key contributors to the GDP,” he said.

President Ramaphosa acknowledged, however, that service delivery in the area must be improved. He assured the community gathered at the imbizo that government has heard their cries.

“We want to improve the services that are delivered to our people. We know that service delivery is one of the key challenges and particularly water and electricity.

“We are going to be giving more focus on water…building new reservoirs, increasing our bulk water delivery. We are also going to be focusing on housing. Housing shortage is one of challenges many of our people face and we will address that,” he said.

Another area of concern raised by community members is crime and the President said Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is focusing “on how we can deal with extortion, the construction mafia and gender based violence”.

“Those men who play football with the women of our country must stop and we are going to be focusing on that. Gender based violence is a pandemic and our people are working in a very focused manner on that,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 08/23/2024 - 17:03

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