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Gautrain marks 14 years of operations

Location: News

Gautrain marks 14 years of operations

As Gautrain marks 14 years of operations, Gautrain Management Agency Chief Executive Officer, Tshepo Kgobe has described the high-speed rail network as a trailblazer in the South African rail and public transport sector.

In June 2010, the Gautrain saw the first ride for commuters leave the Sandton Station for O.R. Tambo International Airport, just in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Highlighting some of the Gautrain project successes, Kgobe said since it started operating on 08 June 2010, the project has successfully completed approximately 192.8 million passenger trips.

“The idea of a high-speed rail network with an 80-kilometre route between the North, South, and East of the Gauteng province, sounded like a pipe dream to many when the Gauteng Provincial Government announced it. Fourteen years later, 1 500 staff are employed across operations and administration of the Gautrain project and we have managed to maintain an average of more than 90% availability and punctuality across all Gautrain services. 

“The Gautrain’s transport network includes 10 stations that connect Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekurhuleni, and O.R. Tambo International Airport, 96 rail cars (24 x4 electric multiple units), a fleet of 125 heavy haul buses, and 29 midibuses. In many ways, the Gautrain is a trailblazer in the South African rail and public transport sector…it is the first and only rapid rail network in the country, and it was the first Public-Private Partnership (PPP) of its scale in South Africa when it was launched,” Kgobe said. 

On the 14th anniversary of Gautrain’s launch, and in a year that South Africa marks 30 years of democracy and freedom, Kgobe maintained the Gautrain has proven to be more than just a transport project saying it “it is playing a bigger role in transforming spaces, people, and the economy through mobility.”

“The Gautrain has brought jobs, new skills, the easing of mobility for ordinary people, and major economic developments around stations. It is estimated that R46 million total GDP [gross domestic product] impact has been added to the Gauteng Provincial Government economy and a total of 245 000 jobs have been created due to property development induced by the Gautrain.

“The Gautrain is a strategic national asset valued at R45 billion, and once the current concession expires at the end of its 19.5-year term, the costs of establishing this long-term asset will have been paid off, allowing the Post 2026 Gautrain Project to reap the economic benefits. With a shared vision and strong team effort, a dream of a world-class public transport system became a reality,”Kgobe said.

Kgobe also announced that the current concession agreement between the Gauteng Provincial Government and the Bombela Concession Company comes to an end in 2026, and the Gautrain Management Agency has already gone to market to invite bids for the next concessionaire. 

He added that the new delivery partner will operate, maintain, modernise, innovate, and upgrade the current Gautrain system so that it continues to provide a safe and efficient public transport service. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Sun, 06/09/2024 - 12:35

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Police commended for dedication during elections

Location: News

Police commended for dedication during elections

Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, has expressed her gratitude to all stakeholders within the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster for their unwavering dedication and professional conduct during the policing of the 2024 General Elections in the province.

“Force deployments, as well as the collective efforts by all stakeholders, played a pivotal role in ensuring a peaceful elections process,” said Otola, who is the Chairperson of the Provincial Joint Intelligence Structure.

Otola acknowledged the professional conduct of all law enforcement officers who executed their duties with integrity and in an impartial manner and commended the upstanding behaviour of the communities in the province.

“No serious incidents were reported and law enforcement agencies swiftly responded to all occurrences reported,” Otola said.

The Commissioner commended the cooperation with law enforcement and Electoral Commission (IEC) officials’ contribution towards a safe and stable environment.

“Law enforcement in conjunction with all JCPS Cluster stakeholders will not relax efforts during the announcement of the results and proceeding celebrations. Crime prevention operations and disruptive actions will continue unabated to ensure the safety and security of all inhabitants in the province,” Otola said.

High police presence will continue until post elections

Meanwhile, Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni has assured the people of Gauteng that a high police presence will continue in the province until the election process is complete.

“No serious incidents were reported during the casting of votes in Gauteng, even in areas that were classified as high risk,” Mthombeni said.

Joined by the Director-General for the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Advocate Doctor Mashabane and Ekurhuleni Chief of Police Isaac Mapeyeye, Mthombeni visited the Provincial Results Operation Centre in Alberton on Wednesday.

There he briefed the media on how law enforcement agencies were able to maintain law and order as people were casting their votes in Gauteng. 

KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has also assured that police deployed at strategic areas in KwaZulu-Natal will remain in place until after the new government has taken over the reigns and the province is declared stable.

Mkhwanazi and the National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale, monitored the police deployments from the skies and flew over some voting stations, including eThekwini District, which has the highest number of voting stations which were categorised as high risk. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 05/30/2024 - 14:20

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Threats to informal traders will not be tolerated

Location: News

Threats to informal traders will not be tolerated

Ekurhuleni MMC for Community Safety, Sizakele Masuku, has called on the metro police to deal with threats of violence directed at spaza shop owners in  townships. 
 
Masuku gave the directive to the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) following a brief visit to a spaza shop owner, Thulani Khumalo, on Tuesday after he allegedly received life-threatening messages from other traders suspected to be foreign nationals.
 
Khumalo claims he has been receiving threats from unknown people telling him to close down his shop “or else his life would be in danger”.
 
Last week, one of Khumalo’s friends was shot by unknown gunmen as he was leaving his shop. 
 
Khumalo said he and his family are now living in fear as suspicious armed characters in different cars come to his home and shop looking for him.

Masuku condemned the threats, emphasising South Africa promotes free trade, and everyone entering the space must be allowed to do business and have a fair shot at the market. 

“We cannot sit back and allow these threats as a municipality. The EMPD must act swiftly and ensure that those behind this are locked up,” Masuku said.

Masuku said precautionary measures will be taken to protect Khumalo and his family. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 05/08/2024 - 14:22

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Court orders “stolen land” to be transferred back to provincial department

Location: News

Court orders "stolen land" to be transferred back to provincial department

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has welcomed a forfeiture order by the High Court of South Africa: Gauteng Division, in Pretoria, to the SIU and Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) linked to the fraudulent transfer of government land to private entities and individuals.

The total value of the recovery is R53 million, the investigative unit said in a statement on Monday.

The order, dated 18 April 2024, orders that Farm 33 Zuurfontein, in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, must be transferred to the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development as the original title deed owner and RIC Development to pay that department R12 million.

“The order follows an SIU investigation which revealed that a syndicate of individuals and private entities defrauded the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform and the respective Deeds Registries in Vryburg, Johannesburg and Pretoria by fraudulently transferring government property to individuals and private entities for their benefit.

“The SIU’s investigation looked into fraud and corruption committed between January 2008 and February 2022.

“As part of the investigation, numerous affidavits were obtained by the SIU from internal Rural Development and Land Reform Department and Deeds Registry staff members, external witnesses and/or transferring attorneys,” said the unit.

The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R 7 of 2014 as amended by Proclamation R 599 of 2015 and Proclamation R 32 of 2017, authorised by the President to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration relating to the transfer of government land to individuals and private entities and to recover the loss the state has suffered.

“In line with the SIU Act, the SIU referred evidence pointing to criminal conduct to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

“The referral resulted in a criminal case being registered with the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations (Hawks),” it said.

The forfeiture order is for the following:

• Farm 33 Zuurfontein which was meant for the development of low-income housing and a school in the community. The land is worth R41 million.

• A payment of R12 million representing the property known as Holding Beverley Agricultural Holdings, which was bought by RIC Development from the government land theft syndicate.

The unit said RIC Development bought land from the “land thieves” and developed it without knowing that it was stolen.

“This forfeiture order is part of the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy by law enforcement agencies to strengthen its fight against corruption,” said the SIU. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Mon, 05/06/2024 - 12:57

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Blue light gang suspects shot dead

Location: News

Blue light gang suspects shot dead

Three blue light gang suspects who were allegedly terrorising motorists on the N3 freeway were shot dead by a multidisciplinary team of law enforcement officials on Sunday.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), this is after information about the gang, which allegedly committed blue light robberies on the N3 between Villiers and Heidelberg using a white Toyota Hilux, was received.

“A multidisciplinary team was mobilised and traced the suspects to [the] N3 highway, Grootvlei in Mpumalanga. The vehicle was spotted with blue lights on. 

“The suspects saw the police and sped away, resulting in a high-speed chase towards Zonkizizwe, Ekurhuleni. The suspects started shooting at the team and the team retaliated,” said the Gauteng SAPS in a statement on Monday.

Three suspects were fatally shot, while one gang member managed to flee the scene on foot.

The police seized two unlicensed firearms and ammunition, blue lights as well as the vehicle the suspects were in.

The multidisciplinary team included SAPS National Head Office Counter Intelligence, Secunda Crime Intelligence, Gauteng Tactical Response Team, Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit, DPC Tracking Team, Johannesburg K9, CAP Specialised Operations, Tracker Connect, ICB Insurance Crime Bureau, MZ Werke Security and Telesure Insurance Investigation.

“Crime Scene Management team combed the crime scene for more evidence while the vehicle was taken to the Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit for further analysis," said the SAPS. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

Gabisile
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 10:24

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PRASA reaches milestone with production of 200 trains

Location: News

PRASA reaches milestone with production of 200 trains

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has achieved a significant train production milestone with the 200 modern high-tech Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) manufactured in Gauteng.

“The first train set hit our railway tracks in February 2017. Today, we celebrate this progress made towards the overarching goal of 600 trains. With these new trains, we are contributing towards the reduction of carbon emissions and the promotion of sustainable transportation alternatives,” Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga said on Tuesday in Cape Town.

These efforts are part of PRASA’s Rolling Stock Fleet Renewal Programme which will, among other things, see the manufacturing of new trains. The programme is expected to create approximately 1 500 direct and 8000 indirect jobs over the 10-year period.

“As part of the first phase of the programme, 1 631 direct jobs have been created during the construction phase of the R1 billion factory, and Gibela has now employed over 1 198 full time employees.

“As this government we understand the need to create jobs that will benefit local communities. The workforce comes from local communities such as Duduza, Vosloorus, Katlehong, Kwa-Thema, Tsakane and Alfra-Park have benefitted from this project,” the Minister said.

In addition to the construction jobs, Gibela has employed a total of 1 205 people for both manufacturing and maintenance activities, 37% of those 1 205 come from immediate communities.

“Skills development and knowledge transfer is key for this government. About 20 000 training programmes have been established to enable the transfer of skills and development of employees from top management to unskilled employees.

“In 2019 Gibela Rail in partnership with Small Enterprise Development Agency and City of Ekurhuleni established a multi-sector business incubator, the doors opened in 2020 in the Kwa-Thema Township,” she said.

To date there are 140 Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) that were trained, mentored and coached. A total of 193 SMMEs also accessed Business Development Support.

“Gibela provides bursaries for universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, internships, learnerships, apprenticeships, a railway introduction course and other relevant programmes.

“Through these interventions, we are helping to nurture the next generation of skilled and capable individuals who will not only improve their own futures, but also the futures of their families, communities, and our larger society.

“Since the inception of the programme, we have contracted 1 665 bursars and spent over R127 million towards their studies,” Chikunga said.

Not only is government revitalising the railway and manufacturing industry through skills development that will reignite the industry at large, PRASA is also changing the lives of the previously disadvantaged people and the livelihoods of communities.

“Our young people are now trained as artisans, engineering technicians, technologists and designers, just to name a few. The investment made includes R135 million invested in Enterprise and Supplier Development initiatives, developing SMMEs.

“A total of R743 million has been invested in skills development to support inclusion in the rail sector. Over this 10-year period, Gibela has committed to train and develop 19 500 individuals in various skills such as engineers, artisans, technicians, and technologists.

“These were the contractual obligations that Gibela had to undertake as part of this 10-year project,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 13:08

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Ground Zero for the Doomsday Coalition

Location: News

The following speech was delivered by the Leader of the Democratic Alliance, John Steenhuisen, during his Rescue South Africa Tour in Springs, Ekurhuleni, Gauteng. Fellow Democrats, It is wonderful to be here in Ekurhuleni tonight. This city, the place of peace, is home to wonderful people and has the potential to be the industrial heartland …

Read moreGround Zero for the Doomsday Coalition

Government makes progress in recovering rail services

Location: News

Government makes progress in recovering rail services

While commuter rail services have deteriorated due to criminal syndicates over the years, government is making significant strides in restoring passenger rail services that are reliable, safe, modern and affordable.

“To date, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has restored 31 of the 40 lines nationally, with over 263 of the 463 stations that were vandalised refurbished to basic functionality,” Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said on Friday.

The Minister made these remarks after taking a trip on a train from the Nancefield to Johannesburg line, which was reopened recently.

In Gauteng, PRASA has recovered six more lines that were targeted for the 2023/24 financial year.

Trains are now running from Hercules to Belle Ombre, Pretoria to Kaalfontein, Leralla to Germiston, Germiston to Johannesburg, Germiston to Elsburg, Johannesburg to Naledi, Johannesburg to Nancefield, Johannesburg to Florida, connecting the three great municipalities of Gauteng: Pretoria, Ekurhuleni, and the City of Johannesburg - all the way to the West Rand.

“I am also pleased to tell you that since the recovery of the passenger rail services in the 2020/2021 financial year, over 70 million passenger trips have been made to date, from a low base of 7.4 million passenger trips made in the 2020/21 financial year. That is more than a tenfold increase and that makes us proud.

“Since the recovery of the Nancefield line, this service alone is making over 1 000 passenger trips per day.  Though we are not where we should be, this marks a significant improvement, and illustrates the demand for the service. It also tells the story that people are gradually choosing rail as their preferred mode of transport,” the Minister said.

PRASA anticipates that the numbers will steadily increase as more lines and stations are reopened.

“With the reopening of the Nancefield to Johannesburg railway line, we are seeing the transformative power of commuter rail services.

“Residents from Klipspruit, Mlamlakunzi, Sebokeng, Orange Farm, can now travel to industrial parks in Braamfontein, Germiston and various destinations by train. We are connecting people to places of work and economic opportunities - affordably.

“For soccer fans who enjoy watching games at the stadium, they can now travel to their favourite stadium via the Orlando station,” she said.

Chikunga said commuters have expressed that they are relieved now that the trains are back and can get to their various destinations on time, without the stress and uncertainty that came with the old PRASA train services.

“The people I have interacted with through this recovery journey appreciate the new high-tech trains, Isitimela Sabantu that we are rolling out on our corridors, proudly manufactured right at our backyard in Dunnottar, Gauteng.

“The people love the security features that come with the trains, they love the automated doors, the voice command that tells them of the next stopping stations and the air-conditioning system. More importantly, they appreciate the savings they make on travelling costs. They can now put more money back into their pockets,” the Minister said.

Chikunga said by providing affordable and efficient transportation options, government has empowered marginalised groups, improved access to opportunities, and fostered greater social and economic inclusion.

“Our people now have access to comfortable, modern trains that get them to their various destinations on time with the comfort of knowing that there is security onboard the train and on the station platforms.

“Work continues on these lines and the stations. Soon, residents from Katlehong, Springs, Midway, Roodepoort to Residentia, will be able to access these services.

“Our work now is to increase the frequency of the trains and reduce the waiting times for the next train to arrive. It is what they are asking for. The National signalling project has started in earnest,” the Minister said.

The new modern signalling system will ensure that trains run frequently and safely and this is while work continues to rehabilitate the stations.

“As national government, we made a commitment to not only empower our people but transform their lives. The investment made through our capital projects ensure that the economy continues to be the beacon of hope for many South Africans.

“Through the passenger rail capital projects, around R30 billion has been invested over the last two years to stimulate the economy, and over 5000 jobs have been created nationally just this last financial year,” the Minister said.

Another 312 jobs were created just on the rebuilding of the Nancefield line and16 local Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) appointed, boosting the local economy in these areas.

“The skills and on-job experience acquired go a long way in improving the lives of our people. The reopening of train services has also breathed in new life to the secondary/informal economy that was almost decimated when train services were suspended.

“Traders can now earn a living at our stations selling their products to commuters and visitors of various stations. We are making a positive impact on their well-being,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 11:14

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Call for a National Register of Polluters

Location: News

Call for a National Register of Polluters

Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, has vowed to tackle the pollution of the environment and water sources as the Vaal River coues to battle with invasive alien plants. 

Mchunu said the country needs to have a National Register of Polluters to deal with the pollution of the environment and water sources across South Africa.

He said a National Register of Polluters was necessary to make people account for their transgressions. 

“We want those in positions of authority, Mayors, CEOs of companies to have their names in the register so that they account for the neglect that leaves our rivers polluted,” he said on Friday.

The Minister was speaking at a workshop held at Emerald Resort and Casino in Vanderbijlpark. 

Several stakeholders attended the workshop, including mayors of Mafube, Ngwathe and Metsimaholo Local Municipalities, Rand Water Board Chairperson Ramateu Monyokolo, and representatives from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.

He announced the establishment of a sectoral forum of experts to urgently address the situation and devise practical solutions that will ensure that the current state of the Vaal River System becomes a thing of the past.

“The Vaal River is not just a vital water source. It is a lifeline for our communities, industries and ecosystems. 

“Its health is under threat from various sources, including wastewater discharge and we must collaborate effectively to mitigate these impacts and protect this invaluable resource for future generations,” the Minister stressed. 

The Minister is also expected to hold a meeting with the Mayors of Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Tshwane and Mogale City to look at the state of Centurion Lake and tributaries affecting the state of the lake. 

Mchunu believes all spheres of government need to have the upper hand in the resolve to deal with the pollution of water sources and the environment.

He took the time to highlight some of the interventions, including introducing measures to prevent the spread of alien invasive species, raising awareness among the public, and enforcing regulations on the importation and sale of potentially invasive species.

The Minister also spoke about the early detection and development of monitoring programmes to detect invasive species early on and implement rapid response measures to control their spread. 

He discussed restoring native vegetation and ecosystems to rehabilitate areas affected by invasive species. 

“This can help to restore the ecological balance of the river and improve its overall health.”

Government will also be working with its agencies, non-governmental organisations, and local communities to develop new and improved methods for controlling invasive species and restoring native habitats. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 04/14/2024 - 10:11

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President takes Imbizo to Ekurhuleni

Location: News

President takes Imbizo to Ekurhuleni

Residents of Ekurhuleni will have an opportunity to engage President Cyril Ramaphosa on the pressing matter of service delivery during the upcoming Presidential Imbizo.

The President will lead government’s interaction with communities and stakeholders in Tsakane Township in Gauteng on 11 April 2024 as part of the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo.

This visit will also allow the President and other leaders in government to assess progress made by government initiatives.

Themed "Leave No One Behind”, the Presidential Imbizo promotes participatory democracy and inclusive development by allowing community members and stakeholders to voice proposals and express any concerns or dissatisfaction they may have about conditions in the district or province.

The Imbizo is directed at enabling successful implementation of the “One District, One Plan” District Development Model in which residents, traditional leaders, business formations, organised labour and faith- and community-based organisations work with government across all phases of planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Government Ministers, MECs and the Mayors in the Ekurhuleni municipality are expected to conduct several community outreach activities ahead of the Presidential Imbizo. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Fri, 03/22/2024 - 09:54

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Planned maintenance to affect water supply in parts of Benoni

Location: News

Planned maintenance to affect water supply in parts of Benoni

The City of Ekurhuleni has reminded customers in Benoni of the planned seven-hour water shutdown to be undertaken on Tuesday.

The shutdown will affect customers in parts of Benoni. It will be implemented from 9am to 4pm to make way for the replacement of faulty valves.

The areas to be affected by shutdown include Airfield, Farrarmere, Farrarmere Gardens and Lakefield.

“To mitigate the effect of the supply interruption, water tankers will supply water to the affected areas. Updates on any development will be communicated through the city’s digital platforms,” the city said in a statement.

Meanwhile, water supply has finally been restored to all the areas in Region 7 following weeks of water outage caused by the breakdown of a pump at the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Plant in Tshwane.

The City of Tshwane said a new pump and motor were successfully installed at the plant last Friday, and pumping started in earnest at around 4pm.

“Full supply has been restored in Ekangala and Rethabiseng, except in Rethabiseng Extension 4, due to the infrastructure network connection. The section will start receiving water once there is enough water pressure in the whole area.

“The high lying area are also receiving water. There are indications that water is gradually trickling in at Ekandustria since this morning. The city apologises profusely to the residents for the inconvenience caused,” the city said on Tuesday. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 11:11

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Read morePlanned maintenance to affect water supply in parts of Benoni

More work needed for full Human Rights enjoyment

Location: News

More work needed for full Human Rights enjoyment

President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged that although government has made significant strides in advancing the constitutional and rights-based system, there remains a considerable amount of work ahead to ensure all citizens can fully exercise their basic human rights.

The country continues to be plagued by poor service delivery, especially in municipalities, said the President, adding that corruption deprives citizens of the fulfilment of their rights.

“Whilst we are rightfully proud of how far our constitutional, rights-based order has come, we know that much still has to be done to fulfil the promise of the full enjoyment of the basic human rights of all our people.

“The creation of employment for our people and promoting the rights that are enshrined in our Constitution are necessary to improve lives and lift millions out of poverty and despair. 

“We are duty-bound, not just as government but as all who have a stake in the future progress and prosperity of this great country, to work harder, sparing neither strength nor courage to fulfil the basic human rights of our people. The South Africa of today is a vastly different place to what it was thirty years ago,” the President said. 

He was addressing the National Conference on 30 years of Human Rights in South Africa at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Ekurhuleni on Monday.

The conference is being hosted by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development under the theme: “Three Decades of Respect for and Promotion of Human Rights”.

The three-day conference will see government officials and key stakeholders reflect on the work that has been done since South Africa’s democratic dispensation.

The President reflected that since 1994 government has prioritised the advancement and fulfilment of the Bill of Rights as a cornerstone of the country’s democratic order. 

He emphasised that human rights are the basic rights that all human beings should have. 

“Human rights embody the key values of our society such as equality, dignity and fairness, and define our nationhood. Human rights should manifest themselves through protection for vulnerable groups, freedom of speech and expression, religious freedom, freedom to love and other rights that promote the well-being of people.”

President Ramaphosa further acknowledged that there have been challenges and shortcomings over the past 30 years, and “we have a long way to go towards completely fulfilling the promise of the Constitution”.

That said, he added, the nation should not shy away from the immense progress that has been made.

The President outlined the pieces of legislation that have been passed that give effect to the Constitution. 

“The Bill of Rights enjoins the democratic state to enact various pieces of legislation to promote human rights between and among people. Amongst those we have put in place are the Promotion of Access to information Act, which gives effect to Section 32 of the Constitution; the Promotion of Administrative Justice Act which gives effect to section 33; and the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act, which gives effect to section 9. 

“To give effect to section 9 (2) of the Constitution, relating to measures of redress for the previously disadvantaged, we passed the Employment Equity Act, Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Act and others,” he said. 

He further highlighted that the constitutional order is premised not only on building a non-racial society, but also a non-sexist society. 

Over the past 30 years there have been significant changes in the position of women across society. Today, there are more women serving as leaders in both the public and private sectors.

“We have passed a broad range of laws to protect women from all forms of abuse and to advance their rights. These include laws around domestic violence, sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and workplace discrimination,” he said.

Strengthening constitutional democracy

To promote accountability, responsiveness and openness, the President said government has established various institutions to strengthen constitutional democracy. These include the South African Human Rights Commission, the Office of the Public Protector, the Commission for Gender Equality and others. 

President Ramaphosa said he was proud of these institutions supporting democracy and their establishment ushered in a new era of accountability and respect for dignity. 

“Before the advent of democracy, our country was a pariah state that was infamous for violating the basic rights of the majority of its citizens. We lived in a country where racial discrimination was at the core of government policy. 

“Today our country is revered as a country that upholds, protects and advances the basic human rights of the people who live in South Africa. Following our country’s admission as a fully-fledged member of the community of nations, the democratic state has signed, ratified and acceded to various international human rights law treaties,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Mon, 03/18/2024 - 14:33

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Read moreMore work needed for full Human Rights enjoyment

Indwe 4IR Lab a hub for communities: Manamela

Location: News

Indwe 4IR Lab a hub for communities: Manamela

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Deputy Minister, Buti Manamela, says the establishment of the Indwe 4IR Lab positions the Ekurhuleni East TVET College as a transformative hub for communities. 

Manamela made the remarks during the launch of the Indwe Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) Lab at the Ekurhuleni East TVET College’s Artisan and Skills Development Centre on Tuesday.

The state-of-the-art lab is set to provide staff and students at the TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) college with cutting-edge skills pertinent to 4IR.

The establishment of the Indwe 4IR Lab is a direct result of a collaborative private-public partnership involving the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA), Festo Didactic and the Ekurhuleni East TVET College.

Festo Didactic offers state-of-the-art learning concepts for technical basic and further training.The company’s customers include vocational colleges, universities, research centres, educational institutes and industrial companies all over the world.

The strategic alliance aims to introduce comprehensive 4IR educational programmes that will significantly boost the employability and productivity of the workforce, as well as enhance the capacity-building efforts for staff at TVET colleges.

Speaking at the launch, Manamela said the launch of the lab must be viewed as part of government’s strategic goals such as developing the relevant skills to help address the country’s pressing socio-economic challenges, but also “help steer our economy from being resource driven to one that is more knowledge driven.”

Manamela said the advent of the 4IR has rendered some skills and jobs obsolete, which will require the country to reimagine the content of what is taught at universities and TVET colleges, as well as their role in society.

“The other priority that our embrace of the 4IR must help us to address is the issue of youth unemployment and in particular, the disturbing phenomenon where over two million of our young people, are not in any form of employment, education, or training, what is commonly referred to as the NEET problem.

“As a country, we can’t hope to sustain our key national goals of skills development, education, and employment, if an important section of our population-our young people-are not in any form of schooling or training. This is a huge risk that threatens to undo much of the progress we have made thus far in education and skills development,” Manamela explained.

The Deputy Minister said the launch of the Indwe 4IR Lab also forms part the department’s programme to equip TVET colleges with 4IR related capacity.

“The Indwe 4IR Lab is also envisioned as a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation, offering opportunities for young people to engage with cutting-edge technologies. It also imagined to be a space where young people can acquire skills in exciting areas such as robotics, 3D printing, the Internet of Things, and advanced wireless technologies. 

“These skills are no longer optional but essential for success and prosperity in the digital age. There is therefore no doubt the establishment of Indwe 4IR Lab also positions the Ekurhuleni East TVET College as a transformative hub for the communities of Ekurhuleni,” he said.

Equipping young people

Manamela also encouraged the TVET college to reach out to the surrounding community and open its doors for the youth and young adults to access the cutting-edge technologies that can equip them with the knowledge and skills to get out of the debilitating grip of poverty and unemployment.

“As the Department of Higher Education, we remain steadfast in our support for visionary initiatives such as the Indwe 4IR Lab and this is because we value the role of our TVET colleges in equipping our young people with the skills, not only to pursue relevant careers, but also for them to be able to earn a living from what they are taught,” Manamela said. 

The introduction of 4IR programmes to TVET colleges initiative started at Maluti TVET College in the Free State, with Ekurhuleni East TVET College being the second beneficiary. 

The department said the initiative will be rolled out to additional TVETs nationwide, including Ehlanzeni in Mpumalanga; Lovedale Eastern Cape; Majuba in KwaZulu-Natal; Northern Cape Urban; South West Gauteng; Waterberg in Limpopo; West Coast in the Western Cape; and Taletso in North West Province. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Tue, 03/12/2024 - 15:35

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Read moreIndwe 4IR Lab a hub for communities: Manamela

KZN government engages businesses amid municipal strike

Location: News

KZN government engages businesses amid municipal strike

The KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has assured the business community in eThekwini that the provincial government is dealing accordingly with the strike by eThekwini Municipality workers.

READ | eThekwini Municipality obtains court interdict against striking workers

Dube-Ncube and eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda met with the business community, led by the KZN Growth Coalition, the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and individual businesses to brief them on government’s interventions to deal with the strike which started on 27 February 2024.

The meeting comes after a meeting held between the provincial government and the municipality to devise practical solutions to protect infrastructure and citizens from what the province has called “clear sabotage”.

Highlighting the progress made to deal with the situation, Dube-Ncube said a technical task team, including officials from all spheres of government, has been established to implement coordinated interventions by the relevant departments.

To address the challenge of intimidation and attacks on non-striking workers, Dube-Ncube said the Metro Police and private security have been sourced to escort staff to service delivery points, including the clearing of roads, electricity faults, water leaks, burst pipes and refuse removal. 

“Both the municipal and provincial law enforcement agencies are on high alert and will act without any fear on the acts of impunity. We are confident that this intervention will allow staff to respond to reservoirs overflowing or running empty, valves being closed, burst pipes and water leaks.

“As part of the business continuity plan, the municipality has made provision for some key employees to work remotely. Contractors have also been engaged to do some work, such as refuse collection and attending to water and electricity faults,” Dube-Ncube said.

A team has also been set up to analyse all video footage of the destruction of property, including the abuse of State vehicles that were in the hands of municipality officials who participated in the illegal strike. 

The Premier said this process is well underway, warning that “culprits are being identified through internal processes and they will be arrested soon”.

She said the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has provided a four-person team to fast-track the disciplinary action of those who would be found to have been involved in untoward behaviour.

“The eThekwini leadership will meet with the leadership of the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) to explain to them that no amount of grievances should result in destruction of infrastructure and denying citizens their rights to basic services. 

“Importantly, those who are involved in this anarchy will be liable for litigation for damages. Our legal units have been tasked to analyse that area,” Dube-Ncube said.

The municipality has further engaged the Department of Water and Sanitation, COGTA and Umgeni-Uthukela Water to provide technical assistance and additional water tankers.

Through Operation Sukuma Sakhe, the Premier said all field workers have been activated in the province to conduct clean-up operations throughout the city, as part of Operation Mbo (an integrated service delivery events within a particular area to ensure services are delivered to many community members at the same time).

On the strike, Dube-Ncube said the municipality has not received a memorandum of grievances or petition from SAMWU, apart from the Ekurhuleni Municipality pay scale, which was submitted to the Office of the City Manager on 27 February 2024.

“Based on the information submitted, it would seem that SAMWU is demanding pay parity to that of Ekurhuleni Municipality and/or implementation of Category 10 pay scales. The matter regarding the implementation of the Wage Curve is still under negotiation at national level, as it is a national competence,’’ Dube-Ncube said. 

The municipality has since obtained an urgent interdict in the Labour Court, which prohibits the striking employees from intimidating, harassing, assaulting, threatening or perpetuating acts of violence against employees, service providers or those accessing offices or workstations.

“We want to emphasise that all spheres of government are working together to resolve this challenge and we are in discussion with the national government to support the city and province through the provision of intelligence services and deployment of additional police officers in key hotspots to enhance safety and security capacity,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 14:33

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Read moreKZN government engages businesses amid municipal strike