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North West govt commits to completion of infrastructure projects

Location: News

North West govt commits to completion of infrastructure projects

Acting North West Premier Nono Maloyi has committed to meeting with the contractor responsible for the construction of Nelson Mandela Drive, which is a crucial node for the economy of the province.

Delivering the State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Tuesday, Maloyi apologised for the delayed refurbishment and maintenance of the road. Nelson Mandela Drive has been described as the busiest road in Mahikeng and an economic transport arterial road, which carries large volumes of traffic, especially during peak hours. 

“We acknowledge and apologise for the delays in the construction of Nelson Mandela
Drive in Mahikeng. This has impacted negatively on businesses along the road and the public who use the road daily,” Maloyi said. 

However, according to Maloyi, there has been progress on the road, as 3.2 kilometres have already been completed, with 450 metres nearing completion.

“After this address, I will be visiting the project to meet with the contractor to emphasise the commitment to complete the project,” Maloyi promised. 

Meanwhile, he said the rehabilitation and widening of the Phelindaba to Pecanwood Road is progressing well and is due for completion in December 2026.

In addition, the Hartbeesfontein to Ottosdal Road is envisioned to be completed ahead of schedule in June this year.

As part of addressing road infrastructure backlogs, Maloyi told the provincial legislature that 12 roads have been transferred to the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) for construction.

This includes portions of roads on the N18 from Mahikeng to Vryburg and the R30 that will cover Klerksdorp to Ventersdorp, as well as Orkney.

The Acting Premier explained that the remainder of these projects will be spread across Bojanala-Platinum, Ngaka Modiri Molema and Dr Kenneth Kaunda Districts.

Potholes

Maloyi said over 320 kilometres of potholes across the province will be resealed, creating 429 job opportunities.

“Municipalities such as Matlosana and JB Marks are to insource road maintenance and pothole patching on an ongoing basis, as a municipal function undertaken by municipal employees.” 

He explained that this initiative will be emulated in other municipalities across the province.

In addition, work on the Lichtenburg to Koster and Derby to Magaliesburg will commence in the new financial year.

“We have terminated and appointed a new contractor to start working on the Majakaneng to Sun City Road," Maloyi said. 

Load shedding

Maloyi acknowledged that the provision of electricity has increased significantly from 58.1% in 1996 to over 94.7% to date.

Shifting his focus to power cuts, he acknowledged the devastating impact of load shedding on their provincial economy and households.

As a result, he said the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) is coordinating efforts to assist municipalities to implement renewable and alternative energy sources.

To help put an end to load shedding, the province has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chinese National Import and Export Corporation.

The agreement aims to construct gas to electricity power stations worth R16 billion in the City of Matlosana and Moses Kotane Local Municipality, respectively.

The first phase of this project, he said, will see Matlosana producing 198 megawatts of electricity. 

Construction is earmarked for a maximum of 90 days per 100 megawatts.

The Chinese Import and Export Corporation, in addition to their project investment, has committed to investing further resources to assist in eradicating mud houses in the province by building 500 houses every year for the duration of this MoU.

This project is expected to create a minimum of over 10 000 jobs.

Improving governance in municipalities 

The Acting Premier said the provincial government is continuing to provide dedicated support to all municipalities to improve financial management through the implementation and monitoring of Financial Recovery Plans (FRPs).

This is after the province has finally exited the section 100 intervention phase, with the full restoration of all executive functions of provincial departments after it was placed under administration in 2018. 

Maloyi said the Executive Council has approved the appointment and deployment of Provincial Executive Representatives (PERs) to implement financial recovery plans for identified municipalities, under the joint coordination of the Provincial Treasury and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA).

In addition, he said the provincial government has rolled out skills and qualification audits in all municipalities, with 5 487 employees already being audited. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 13:36

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Read moreNorth West govt commits to completion of infrastructure projects

Ramokgopa sets sights on accelerated transmission line expansion

Location: News

Ramokgopa sets sights on accelerated transmission line expansion

Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says government is targeting to expedite the expansion of transmission lines to the Cape provinces in order to potentially unlock at least 2 335MW of energy in the short-term.

He was speaking during an engagement with business stakeholders in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday.

Ramokgopa explained that there are renewable energy projects that are already producing electricity but the lack of transmission lines is hampering their ability to add to the ailing grid.

“In the short-term, we can unlock about 2 300MW of stranded electrons. That is the route that we are taking and as the Minister, I’ll be making the necessary announcement. We already know the corridors where we are going to get this 2 335MW. It’s in Upington, the Juno Gromis 400kV line and all that in the Nama transformer in Upington (sic).

“Once we make those interventions, we get an additional 2 300MW. We don’t have to wait for 10 years. It’s the interventions that we are making now but we need to design a bespoke financing solution to help us to address the issues of transmission,” he said.

In the longer-term, some 14 000km of new transmission lines are to be built in South Africa to connect renewable energy projects and further strengthen the grid.

Turning to demand side management, Ramokgopa said the appetite – from both private persons and business – for rooftop solar has grown exponentially since government announced tax incentives and financial support to those willing to invest.

He said connected rooftop installed capacity has grown from some 983MW in 2022 to 4 412MW by mid-2023.

“Our anticipation is that the rate of growth will exceed what we would have seen in the previous calendar year. Two things are an impediment to an aggressive rollout of roof top solar. Firstly, it’s the availability of equipment.

“South Africa, compared to many countries in the world, has had the biggest import of solar panels. We have had conversations with some of the biggest manufacturers across the globe – invariably from China – to localise production here. We are confident we are going to do that.

“The second impediment is the skills to install these solar panels. We will be recruiting about 25 000 people to be able to install. In every crisis, there is an opportunity and that opportunity must be taken. We are looking to industrialise and… we are looking to create these new skills so that we get people into jobs,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:31

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Gauteng to establish solar park

Location: News

Gauteng to establish solar park

The Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) will go ahead with plans to establish a solar farm park which is expected to harvest at least “800 megawatts of solar power and supply it to the electricity grid”.

This was revealed by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi during the State of the Province Address delivered in Johannesburg on Monday.

“We are pleased to announce that the long term plan with Sibanye-Stillwater Board, has approved the land leases of the appointed six independent power producers who will develop a photovoltaic power station, also known as a solar farm cluster, in the Merafong Local Municipality.

“This is designed to harvest at least 800 megawatts of solar power and supply it to the electricity grid, which will be a game changer for our province,” he said.

Furthermore, the province is expected to add at least 100MW to the grid from April.

“This is an initiative of the GPG implemented by City Power on our behalf using the Open Cycle Gas Turbine technology facilities in Johnware and Durban Street. This will be available from the 1st of April 2024.

“We will continue to expand to 300 megawatts in the new financial year. This investment combined with smart metres can generate the megawatts needed to cushion our residents against two stages of load shedding, a critical step toward energy stability for the nation’s economic hub,” he said.

Other interventions

In the immediate term, the province has moved to protect some 21 healthcare facilities from load shedding with the installation of Solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage systems.

A pilot project for a microgrid in Alexandra township is also being rolled out which, the Premier said, will “provide a stand alone solution to meet basic power needs for low-income households within townships and informal settlements”.

The project is expected to expand to 13 other communities.

“Having identified the hardship of many of our communities languishing in the dark, some for up to three years due to illegal connections, cable theft, vandalism, and chronic non-payment, we intervened to address the situation,” Lesufi said.

The Premier added that the provincial government, together with Eskom and City Power, partnered to deliver some 429 transformers to communities.

“To date, 333 have already been installed and switched on, benefitting no less than 32 000 township households. We have impacted the communities of Kagiso, Boiphelong, Doornkop, Orange Farm and others.

“We will intensify this programme until every township and household has been legally switched on, especially Evaton, Ivory Park, Winterveld and many other communities,” he said.

Lesufi reflected on the effects that load shedding has on residents and the economy.

“The protracted electricity crisis has caused significant hardship for people in our province and has had a detrimental effect on the growth of Gauteng’s economy. Power shortages have a negative impact on the availability of healthcare services, food and water, the level of crime, and unemployment rates, amongst others.

“Although energy is not a competency of the province, load shedding’s crippling effect on the functionality of the state and its impact on broader society compelled us to intervene,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 11:37

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Read moreGauteng to establish solar park

Big Savings From a Solar Geyser System

Location: MyPR

With rising electricity costs and the growing urgency to embrace renewable energy, solar geyser systems are becoming increasingly popular. One option gaining traction in South Africa is the APEX SGS, a Cape Town-made system aiming to simplify access to solar water heating. But before you take the plunge, let’s weigh the pros and cons to …

Read moreBig Savings From a Solar Geyser System

Unveiling the World of Electrical Distribution Board Manufacturers

Location: MyPR

Introduction The manufacturing of electrical distribution boards is a critical aspect of the electrical industry. These boards are essential in managing the distribution of electrical power in both residential and commercial settings. Innovation in Design Manufacturers in this sector are constantly innovating to meet diverse needs. From compact designs for small spaces to large, complex systems for …

Read moreUnveiling the World of Electrical Distribution Board Manufacturers

Electricity Minister to engage KZN business stakeholders

Location: News

Electricity Minister to engage KZN business stakeholders

Minister in The Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, is expected to engage with business stakeholders in KwaZulu-Natal on energy challenges and interventions.

The engagement is expected to take place at the Durban Exhibition Centre on Tuesday, 20 February.

“The energy sector in South Africa is facing significant challenges which have implications for businesses, households, and the economy at large. The engagement will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to share their perspectives on the energy challenges businesses face in the region. 

“The primary objective of this engagement is to foster dialogue and collaboration between the Ministry of Electricity, supported by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and business stakeholders in the province,” the Ministry in the Presidency said in a statement.

Ramokgopa is expected to be joined by KZN Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube and eThekwini Municipality Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda.

Meanwhile on Sunday, power utility Eskom said it is working to restore power “as quickly as possible” following a high volume of electrical faults in Northern KZN.

The faults are due to damage to infrastructure following a storm in the area over the weekend.

“Eskom apologises for any inconvenience caused and reminds those affected by the loss of supply to treat all electrical installations as live and dangerous, as electricity supply may be switched on without notice.

“Customers are also urged to stay away from fallen infrastructure. Eskom will endeavour to restore power as quickly as possible and wishes to thank customers for their patience.

“Customers are encouraged to download the MyEskom Customer App from Google Play and the App Store, or use the Alfred chatbot on https://alfred.eskom.co.za/chatroom/ to report fallen infrastructure, report faults and follow up on progress,” the power utility said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 02/19/2024 - 10:40

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Read moreElectricity Minister to engage KZN business stakeholders

Strategic integrated projects

Location: News

Strategic integrated projects

By Nomonde Mnukwa

It is often said that water is life, and this is indeed the case as no life can be sustained without water.  However, very few people give a second thought about the infrastructure required to ensure clean, drinkable water.

In South Africa government is undertaking a massive infrastructure investment and build programme in the form of Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs), which are aimed at improving the quality of life for all South Africans.

Government is working to transform key sectors of our economy such as electricity, rail, ports and telecommunications through infrastructure. We are also working to rebuild and renew infrastructure in critical areas such as student accommodation, social housing water and sanitation.

Our focus on infrastructure is critical to driving economic growth and creating employment, while also ensuring that we can change lives and empower communities.

Over the medium-term the public sector is projected to spend R903 billion on infrastructure and a number of these projects have been completed, while many others are in the construction and procurement phases. In July 2020 a total of 62 Strategic Integrated Projects were gazetted that hold significant value in terms of growing our economy and driving development. These projects are currently being implemented across all three spheres of government, state-owned entities and the private sector.

Infrastructure in its most basic form is about bricks and mortar, but it is so much more than that.  Every new road built enhances mobility and creates economic activity for communities. New schools open up the doors of learning and progress, and new housing developments bring hope and dignity.

The Strategic Integrated Projects are breathing life into many sectors of the economy, including potentially new and game changing ones. South Africa has amassed a pipeline of Green Hydrogen Projects with a value of over R300 billion, which are in project preparation stages. Among these projects, is the Boegoebaai Green Hydrogen in the Northern Cape with a potential to progressively create around 35 000 work opportunities. .

Since the first round of SIPs were gazetted in 2022, an additional 26 have been added, bringing the number of gazetted SIPs to 88. These include infrastructure projects in energy, water and sanitation, transport as well as digital communications infrastructure. The SIPs also cover human settlements, agriculture, and agro-processing.

A number of projects to the value of R21.4 billion have already been completed covering roads, energy and human settlements, while the total value of projects currently in construction is R313.5 billion. A number of projects are also in the procurement stage to the value of  R295.2 billion.

There are various projects that have also been registered in the energy sector which once fully operational will assist in ensuring greater energy security for the country. The energy sector infrastructure project pipeline includes R180 billion of embedded generation investment.

Once all 88 SIPs are concluded there will be a massive increase in energy and water security. They will also further boost our Fourth Industrial Revolution ambitions and capabilities, while also ensuring that we provide homes, accommodation and revitalise the agricultural value chain.

Our investment in infrastructure is turning bricks and mortar into hope for a better tomorrow for all.  It is creating new frontiers of growth and progress and will ultimately ensure that we create the South Africa we want.

*Nomonde Mnukwa is Acting Director-General of the GCIS

Janine
Fri, 02/16/2024 - 14:53

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Parliament prepares to host National Budget Speech

Location: News

Parliament prepares to host National Budget Speech

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana will outline all the financial, economic, and social commitments that government will prioritise in its planned expenditure during the National Budget Speech next week.

Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA) and outlined national government's plans to tackle the country's energy crisis and other socio-economic challenges.

“The Budget Speech, among others, aims to balance economic growth and support for the vulnerable in our society, despite limited resources. Godongwana will provide a detailed plan for 2024 spending, including proposals for revenue collection to help fund government’s planned interventions and commitments.

"He will also introduce the Appropriation Bill and table the Division of Revenue Bill, which Parliament will process in the following months,” Parliament said on Wednesday.

The Minister will present the budget allocation for 2024 to Parliament on Wednesday, 21 February at 2pm at Cape Town City Hall.

“Godongwana’s 2024 Budget Speech will be broadcast live on Parliament’s DSTV Channel 408, livestreamed on Parliament’s website and social media platforms, including Parliament’s YouTube Channel. Parliament will also provide live feeds to interested broadcasters upon request,” Parliament said.

Parliamentary sittings are open to the media and the public.

Members of the public can follow parliamentary sittings live on Parliament TV (DSTV Channel 408), through a live stream on Parliament’s website, Parliament’s YouTube channel, and X (Twitter) page on the links below:

  • X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/ParliamentofRSA
  • Facebook: https://facebook.com/ParliamentofRSA
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ParliamentofRSA

– SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 02/15/2024 - 09:32

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Renowned dietitian shares 6 diet tweaks to assist manage ADHD

Location: MyPR

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly occurring disorders affecting South African children and adolescents, and while it is treated with medication and other interventions, studies show that diet can also influence ADHD symptoms. To assist in managing these symptoms, Laager Tea4Kidz partner dietitian, Mbali Mapholi, has shared six dietary tips …

Read moreRenowned dietitian shares 6 diet tweaks to assist manage ADHD

‘The conclude of load shedding is indeed in sight’ – Ramakgopa

Location: News

'The end of load shedding is indeed in sight' - Ramakgopa

Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says despite “obstacles, uncertainties and temporary setbacks”, the end of load shedding is in sight.

He was addressing the State of the Nation Address (SONA) debate held at the Cape Town City Hall on Tuesday.

“[The] path to achieving a stable and sustainable energy landscape has been fraught with obstacles, uncertainties, and temporary setbacks and yet, with each passing day, we continue to register progress as we chart the path to energy security.

“The end of load shedding is indeed in sight; the future is bright,” he said.

Eskom power stations

The Minister explained the steps government, in cooperation with Eskom, has taken to urgently address the energy challenge in the country including returning units to service on time or earlier and bolstering new generation capacity.

“Units 1 to 3 of Kusile [Power Station], which had been out of service since October of 2022, were successfully returned ahead of schedule. As planned, Unit 5 was synchronised to the grid in December 2023, contributing 800MW. The four Kusile Units collectively injected 3200MW of capacity into the grid.

“Medupi [Power Station] Unit 4 will return to service this year in September, a year ahead of schedule. Kusile Unit 6 will be synchronised in late November 2024. These units will add 1600MW to the grid. In addition, Unit 2 of Koeberg [Power Station] will return to service in September 2024, giving us 980MW following a planned outage. These interventions will collectively add 2580MW to the grid in 2024. The end of load shedding is indeed within sight,” he said.

Added to this, Eskom’s rigorous maintenance plan for power stations has been implemented, which Ramokgopa said is expected to ensure that “going into the winter of 2024, the fleet’s reliability will have been significantly strengthened”.

“This also means that heading into the winter peak demand period, we can claw back up to 2 000MW by tapering planned maintenance and strengthening available capacity.

“From March of 2024, we will begin reducing planned maintenance from the current 6 000MW to 5 000MW in April 2024 and to around 3 500MW in May 2024, a threshold that will be sustained during the winter demand period,” he said.

New generation capacity

Ramokgopa revealed that to further bolster future energy security, Eskom is in the process of appointing a team which is expected to “undertake a procurement process for partners to develop the Richards Bay Closed Cycle Gas Turbine”.

This is a plan to yield a further 3 000MW for the grid.

Furthermore, the procurement of nuclear energy is also on the table.

“Gas will increasingly feature prominently in our short- to medium-term base load requirements. Eskom is working on converting Gourikwa and Ankerlig [power stations] to gas from diesel on the Open Cycle Gas Turbine (OCGT) technology. This initiative is anticipated to yield an additional 2 000MW, with a further 1 000MW expected from the conversion to Closed Cycle Gas Turbines (CCGT).

“[Government] will commence the procurement process of an additional 2 500MW of new nuclear capacity this year on an affordable scale and pace basis, as well as 1 500MW of pump storage facility at Tubatse in Limpopo,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 10:42

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Read more‘The conclude of load shedding is indeed in sight’ – Ramakgopa

The Importance of Garage Door Repairs and Automation

Location: MyPR

Introduction: Garage doors play a crucial role in providing security, convenience, and curb appeal to homes. However, like any mechanical system, they require regular maintenance and occasional repairs to ensure smooth operation and longevity. In recent years, the advent of automation technology has revolutionised the way we interact with our garage doors, offering unparalleled convenience …

Read moreThe Importance of Garage Door Repairs and Automation

Sustainability – The novel frontier of luxury in Real Estate

Location: MyPR

Heading into 2024, sustainability emerges as the new frontier of luxury in real estate trends, transcending its status as that ‘cherry on top’ for potential homeowners and holiday seekers. It has transformed into a critical consideration. Bluegrass Developers, a company committed to sustainable development in the Greater Kruger Area. Their environmentally conscious developments – Shawu’s …

Read moreSustainability – The novel frontier of luxury in Real Estate

Government working to connect IPPs to the grid

Location: News

Government working to connect IPPs to the grid

Government has procured and connected more 7 000MW of generating capacity onto the grid through its Renewable Independent Power Producer Programme (REIPPP).

This is according to Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe.

The Minister was speaking during the debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) held in Cape Town on Tuesday.

The government-driven REIPPP aims to bring much needed additional megawatts onto the grid through private sector investment in renewable energy such as wind, biomass and small hydro.

Mantashe said that since the programme's launch in 2011, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has procured some 13 266MW from 140 Independent Power Producers (IPPs) whose technologies are based on renewable energy, diesel and battery energy storage.

“From these capacities, 7 362MW was from 95 IPPs, who are currently connected to the grid and supplying the much needed electricity. A combination of [renewables and base load] is required to deal with the challenges facing us. The remaining 45 IPPs, with a combined capacity of 5 904MW, are either in construction or preparing to reach commercial close.

“NERSA [National Energy Regulator of South Africa] has concurred with the Minister of Electricity [Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa] that 2500MW of nuclear capacity has to be connected,” he said.

Under the current administration, some 5 939MW has been procured from 46 IPPs, with some 150MW already connected to the grid and a further 1 587MW expected to supply electricity from September this year.

The Minister said South Africa has the potential to lead the way in the global energy transition.

“We firmly believe that South Africa holds significant quantities of minerals needed for the transition from high carbon emissions to low carbon emissions, which informs the view that our mining industry is a sunrise industry,” he said.

Delving deeper into mining, Mantashe said over the past 30 years of democracy, government has done much work in transforming the industry.

“When we did research two years ago… we discovered that at the nine major mining companies that we studied, each one of them didn’t have less than 50% of the management structure being black. We did see that in procurement initiatives created, a lot of business people who are not necessarily seen as part of the mining sector but who have developed on the back of mining.

“If you talk coal, only one major company is white, the majority of them are black. In the manganese sector… black ownership in mining companies is a long list. In gold…ARM is dominant, Harmony is dominant. In the PGMs [platinum group metals] …[there is] black ownership. If you look at all these companies, you can see that there is practical progress being made,” Mantashe said.

He said for the sector to continue growing, exploration is needed.

“Cognisant of the fact that mines are born out of exploration, we have just launched an exploration fund. It is important that we invest in exploration so that the future of this very important sector continues to be bright,” Mantashe said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 02/13/2024 - 12:01

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Read moreGovernment working to connect IPPs to the grid

Unlocking the Future: Rent to Own Solar Systems

Location: MyPR

The world is changing, and so are our energy needs. With a growing emphasis on sustainability and renewable energy sources, more homeowners are exploring the possibility of installing solar panels on their properties. Solar power not only reduces your carbon footprint but can also lead to significant long-term savings on electricity bills. However, the upfront …

Read moreUnlocking the Future: Rent to Own Solar Systems

Green projects to present investment pipeline of over $1 billion at Africa’s Green Economy Summit

Location: MyPR

CAPE TOWN, 30 January 2024: Africa’s Green Economy Summit, taking place from 21-23 February 2024 in Cape Town, not only features the continent’s major sustainability thought leaders, but also provides a springboard for companies operating in the green sector to sell themselves to investors. The event brings together key African stakeholders – including investors, project …

Read moreGreen projects to present investment pipeline of over $1 billion at Africa’s Green Economy Summit

Comments deadline for draft IRP 2023 extended

Location: News

Comments deadline for draft IRP 2023 extended

The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has extended the deadline for comments on the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2023) to 23 March 2024.

“The IRP is an electricity generation plan that seeks to ensure security of electricity supply by balancing supply with demand, while taking into account the environment and total cost of supply.

“The purpose of this publication is to solicit public comments on the assumptions, input parameters, scenarios, and observations made. Comments submitted will be considered in drafting the final policy adjusted plan which will map out the future energy mix for the country,” the department said.

The DMRE explained that the draft IRP 2023 focuses on two time periods up to 2050.

“The draft IRP 2023 is based on a scientific process that considers several scenarios and latest developments in the country’s electricity industry. It considers two-time horizons, the first being the period up to 2030 focusing on addressing prevailing generation capacity constraints and system requirements to close the supply gap.

“Horizon two covers the period from 2031 to 2050 and focuses on long-term electricity generation planning with pathways to achieve a resilient Net Zero electricity sector by 2050,” the department said.

A copy of the draft IRP and relevant documents are accessible on https://www.energy.gov.za/files/irp_frame.html.

Comments can be submitted online at https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=bDWXlV5Askqncn7nJnEGjdSCoIqfOslGi6lIYefKLn5UMjg2TjQ1WElTVURZTDhCN0szU0lUSjg2Wi4u or email IRP.Queries@dmre.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 11:21

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Read moreComments deadline for draft IRP 2023 extended

The Ultimate Luxury: Why Spa Treatments Deserve the Monthly Indulgence

Location: MyPR

Amid our hectic and demanding schedules, prioritising moments of relaxation and self-care are crucial for maintaining overall physical and mental well-being. Beyond mere luxury, spa treatments stand as a timeless indulgence that dates back to ancient civilisations. This is because they offer an array of health benefits which in fact, elevate them from an extravagance …

Read moreThe Ultimate Luxury: Why Spa Treatments Deserve the Monthly Indulgence

Revolutionising Home Comfort: The Era of Smart Blinds and Smart Light Switches

Location: MyPR

In the constantly evolving world of smart home technology, two innovations have significantly changed how we interact with our living spaces: smart blinds and smart light switches. These advancements are not just about embracing modernity; they are about enhancing convenience, energy efficiency, and personalising home environments to suit our lifestyles. Let’s delve into how these …

Read moreRevolutionising Home Comfort: The Era of Smart Blinds and Smart Light Switches

Exploring the World of Power Solutions : A Comprehensive Guide

Location: MyPR

In today’s fast-paced world, the need for reliable power solutions is more crucial than ever. Whether it’s for home, outdoor, or emergency use, understanding the different types of power equipment available is key to choosing the right product for your needs. Starting with Lithium-Ion Batteries, these are essential for high-efficiency, long-lasting power storage. They’re perfect …

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The Earthshot Prize Announces Earthshot Week and Awards in Cape Town this November

Location: News
MultiChoice Group

The Earthshot Prize will travel to Cape Town, South Africa this November for Earthshot Week 2024, featuring The Prize's annual Awards Ceremony. Across five days of landmark events, The Earthshot Prize will celebrate the groundbreaking work of fifteen global environmental solutions and convene leading innovators, Earthshot Alumni, partners, investors and philanthropists for inspiring conversations and action on catalysing solutions to protect and restore our planet.

The Earthshot Prize is an ambitious global environmental prize which aims to discover and help scale the world's most innovative climate and environmental solutions to protect and restore our planet. The Prize is centered around five ‘Earthshots'; simple but aspirational goals to ensure our communities, oceans and ecosystems can thrive together in harmony for generations to come.

This year, The Earthshot Prize will bring its annual celebration to South Africa for the first time, following events in London in 2021, Boston in 2022 and Singapore in 2023. Over the coming months, a rigorous selection process will unearth fifteen Finalists from around the world, of whom five will be awarded a £1 million (R23 800 000,00) prize to scale their solutions, during the ceremony in Cape Town.

Hannah Jones, CEO of The Earthshot Prize said: “This is the Earthshot Decade, a decade in which we must, by 2030, reduce CO2 emissions by over 40 percent, and protect 30 percent of nature, oceans, and freshwater. The nominations to The Earthshot Prize remind us that human ingenuity, grit and determination can turn the seemingly impossible into the new normal. We're delighted to be working with changemakers and partners across Africa to spotlight the incredible innovation emerging across the continent, to convene courageous conversations about scale and finance, and to partner with young creators and filmmakers to tell the story of changemakers across Africa.”

Nearly 400 nominees for this year's Prize are Africa-based, highlighting the trailblazing creativity and innovation across the continent with the potential to inspire optimism and provide pathways to transformative change around the world. One of The Prize's inspiring 2023 finalists was Cape Town's ABALOBI, a non-profit partnership between fishers and scientists aimed at protecting small-scale fishing communities while arming their customers with better information about the origin of their seafood.

Despite contributing the least to global warming and having the lowest emissions, Africa is the most vulnerable continent to the impacts of climate change. In 2022 alone, more than 110 million people across Africa were directly affected by weather, climate, and water-related hazards according to the World Meteorological Organization. Yet in the face of these challenges, nearly all African countries have committed to enhancing climate action through reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience.

Earthshot Week will begin with The Prize's annual Awards Ceremony, an evening of extraordinary storytelling and star-studded performances, celebrating the work of the fifteen Earthshot Prize finalists. The ceremony will be followed by Earthshot+, a day of thought-provoking conversations aimed at multiplying the impact of The Earthshot Prize Winners and Finalists.

During Earthshot Week, Cape Town will also play host to the annual Earthshot Fellowship Retreat which will kickstart the yearlong Earthshot Prize Fellowship Programme. The programme is a key element of the wrap-around support that each cohort of fifteen Finalists receives in addition to the £1 million prize, providing mentorship, resources and technical support, helping to accelerate the growth of each groundbreaking solution. That support includes access to the Prize's robust network of the world's largest businesses, philanthropists, investors and environmental organizations committed to climate action.

The Prize has recently completed its annual nominations process, culminating in nearly 2500 entries submitted from 432 Official Nominators from around the world, doubling the nominations from any previous year. Nearly 400 of the 2024 nominations are headquartered in Africa, three times more than in any previous set of nominations. The fifteen new finalists chosen this year will be emblematic of a growing global movement of innovators, gamechangers and entrepreneurs creating transformative solutions that, if scaled, could accelerate a green, just transition to a net zero world.

The Prize's first three cohorts of 45 Finalists have already driven incredible impact to repair and regenerate our planet with more than 1.5 million people benefiting directly from their solutions. Over 7,000 hectares of land and almost 2.1 million hectares of ocean have been protected or restored, while over 35,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been reduced, avoided or sequestered. The Prize's 2023 Finalists, announced this past autumn, are well on their way to creating similar impact.

The Earthshot Prize is proud to partner with MultiChoice Group to bring Earthshot Week to Africa. As a member of The Earthshot Prize Global Alliance of Partners, the MultiChoice Group is part of a global network of non-profit and international organizations committed to the environment and sustainable development. It is one of the fastest-growing entertainment providers globally, delivering entertainment products and services to more than 22m households across 50 countries on the African continent. In partnership with MultiChoice, The Earthshot Prize will provide a platform to African Youth Creators to spotlight and celebrate African solutions and the people behind them.

Imtiaz Patel, MultiChoice Group Chairman, said: “As the leading entertainment company in Africa, we are immensely proud to be the African Broadcast partner for Earthshot Prize at such a monumental time. This marks the first time the prestigious prize comes to our continent.

MultiChoice is well positioned to not only amplify the urgent message of climate change but also to inspire and galvanize innovators, corporate partners, and governments to prioritize sustainable solutions. This partnership signifies our ongoing commitment to fostering a sustainable future for Africa, and we look forward to playing a pivotal role in advancing the goals of The Earthshot Prize.”

The 2024 Earthshot Prize Finalists will be unveiled in September. More details about The Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony and Earthshot Week in Cape Town will be released in due course.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

Contact:
For The Earthshot Prize:
earthshotprize@fgsglobal.com

For MultiChoice Group:
Litlhare.moteetee@multichoice.co.za

Follow The Earthshot Prize on:
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/48bROCZ
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/3SUS1WR
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3ODf8m7
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/42z6WZS
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/42BYg4M
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/3w8KQBk

About The Earthshot Prize:
Founded by Prince William and incubated in the The Royal Foundation in 2020 for a year before becoming an independent platform/organization, The Earthshot Prize is a global environmental prize and platform designed to discover, accelerate and scale ground-breaking solutions to repair and regenerate the planet. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's Moonshot, which united millions of people around the goal of reaching the moon, The Earthshot Prize aims to catalyse an Earthshot challenge to urgently encourage and scale innovative solutions that can help put the world firmly on a trajectory towards a stable climate, where communities, oceans and biodiversity thrive in harmony by 2030. The five challenges are: Protect and Restore Nature; Clean Our Air; Revive Our Oceans; Build a Waste-Free World; and Fix Our Climate.

The Prize aims to turn the current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism by championing inspiring leadership and helping to scale incredible cutting-edge solutions. It will discover 50 winners over 10 years with the power to repair the planet. More than an award, The Earthshot Prize works in partnership with a Global Alliance of Partners to support the scaling of the solutions discovered and selected each year.

The Global Alliance Founding Partners are a group of leading global organizations and philanthropists, which act as strategic funding partners to the Prize, including Aga Khan Development Network, Bezos Earth Fund, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Breakthrough Energy Foundation, Coleman Family Ventures, DP World in partnership with Dubai EXPO 2020, Eleven Eleven Foundation, Holch Povlsen Foundation, Jack Ma Foundation, Law Family Charitable Foundation, Legado Para A Juventude, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, Marc and Lynne Benioff, Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Rob Walton Foundation, Sandy and Paul Edgerley, Standard Chartered Bank, Temasek Trust and Wyc Grousbeck and Emilia Fazzalari.

Global Alliance Partners are non-profit environment and sustainable development organizations that bring expertise, global reach and serve as nominating organizations each year. For full list see website: Global Alliance - Earthshot Prize.

Global Alliance Members are some of the world's largest and most influential companies and brands that will support The Earthshot Prize, implement ambitious changes within their businesses and accelerate the advancement of the solutions of Prize Finalists and Winners.

They are: Arup, Bloomberg L.P., Deloitte, Herbert Smith Freehills, Hitachi, Ingka Group (IKEA), Microsoft, The Multichoice Group, Natura &Co, Safaricom, Salesforce, Unilever, Vodacom Group and Walmart. For more information about The Earthshot Prize, visit: www.EarthShotPrize.org.

About MultiChoice Group:
MultiChoice Group (MCG), which listed in the Main Board of the JSE on 27 February 2019, is one of the fastest-growing video entertainment providers globally, delivering entertainment products and services more than 22m households across 50 countries on the African continent. Its track record of more than 30 years is reflective of a commitment to provide audiences with only the best local, sport and international content.

MCG's strong partnerships with distributors, installers and telecommunication companies, along with its well-established payment solutions, competitive pricing and choice of viewership packages continue to secure its place in the global market, while also providing solutions unique to the African market. Its direct-to-home (DTH), digital terrestrial television.

(DTT) and over-the-top (OTT) solutions enable the business to stay relevant and aligned to changing consumer habits while capturing new markets. Content is at the very core of the business. MCG aims to deliver quality content anywhere, anytime and on any device through a comprehensive video entertainment offering at different price points. As pioneers in African video entertainment, MCG plays an important role in making information and entertainment easily accessible to Africans.

MCG aims to secure content rights in a manner that is cost-effective and reflective of the diversity of its audiences. Its substantial portfolio includes award-winning local content (a key differentiator in its service offering), a leading sport offering (including production capabilities) and access to international content, which is all shared on the group's platforms: DStv, GOtv, Showmax, M-Net and SuperSport.

MCG has superior technology capability through the security solutions that Irdeto, its technology company, brings to the group. These solutions enable MultiChoice to protect its investment, create new offerings and combat cybercrime. With 50 years' expertise in software security, Irdeto's software security solutions and cyber services protect over 5bn devices and applications for some of the world's best brands.

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Read moreThe Earthshot Prize Announces Earthshot Week and Awards in Cape Town this November

Government supports call for men to commit to halt GBVF

Location: News

Government supports call for men to commit to end GBVF

President Cyril Ramaphosa says government supports the call for a pledge that men in South Africa are invited to take to demonstrate their personal commitment to ending gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“Our ultimate goal is to end gender-based violence altogether by mobilising all of society,” President Ramaphosa said during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Thursday night. 

Highlighting government’s efforts and achievements to end the scourge, which he described as the second pandemic in the country, the Head of State said together with civil society, government developed the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on gender-based violence as a society-wide response to this pandemic.

“Around R21 billion was dedicated over the medium term to the implementation of the six pillars of the plan, including the economic empowerment of women. 

“New laws were introduced to strengthen the response of the criminal justice system gender based violence and provide better support to survivors of such violence,” the President said.

The NSP on GBVF is driven by six pillars, including:
• Extensive legal reform;
• Support for survivors through the provision of evidence toolkits at police stations; 
• Psychology and social services;
• The establishment of the GBVF Response Fund which commits both government and the private sector to fund the fight against GBVF;
• Support for Thuthuzela and Khuseleka Care centres, which provide vital services for GBV survivors; and 
• The economic empowerment of women.

The President said women are also in the process of developing their own pledge.

As the country celebrates 30 years of freedom, the President noted that government has safeguarded and promoted the basic rights in the Constitution and these include freedom of speech, association, and belief. 

“We have defended media freedom and the independence of the judiciary. We have protected and advanced the rights of members of the LGBTQI [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning and intersex] community, and continue to combat all forms of prejudice and intolerance,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa further reaffirmed government’s commitment to continue to build an inclusive economy, focusing on the empowerment of black and women South Africans, advancing workers’ rights, intensifying land reform, and pursuing a just energy transition that leaves no one behind.

“We will continue to strengthen our law enforcement institutions, tackle gender-based violence and fight corruption to make South Africa a safe place for all. We will continue to strengthen local government, professionalise the public service and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions.

“We will continue to position our economy to grow and compete in a fast-changing world, to support small businesses, to give young people economic opportunities and to provide social protection to the vulnerable,” President Ramaphosa said.

This year’s SONA, which was the last one for the sixth administration, was held under the theme: “Following up on our commitments: Making your future work better”. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 02/09/2024 - 11:53

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Read moreGovernment supports call for men to commit to halt GBVF

State of the Nation Address in numbers

Location: News

State of the Nation Address in numbers

President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday.

Below is the SONA in numbers: 

Social Assistance 

 

  • More than 26 million – South Africans who continue to receive social assistance every month provided by the democratic state.
  • Some 9 million – unemployed people receiving the Special Social Relief of Distress Grant every month.
  •  

Unemployment and Job Creation

 

  • Two million ­– people who lost their jobs due to COVID-19.
  • 15 to 24 – the ages of millions of young people who were not in employment, education or training, by 8 February 2024.
  • More than 1.7 million – work and livelihood opportunities created through the Expanded Public Works Programme.
  • More than 1 million – school assistants placed in 23 000 schools through the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
  • 23 000 – schools where more than one million school assistants have been placed through the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
  • From 8 million to over 16.7 million – the increase in the number of South Africans in employment since 1994 until 2024.
  • Over 4.3 million –  young people engaged on SAYouth.mobi, a zero-rated platform for unemployed young people to access opportunities for learning and earning.
  • 1.6 million – young people who have secured opportunities through the SAYouth.mobi, a zero-rated platform for unemployed young people to access opportunities for learning and earning.

 

Crime and Corruption

 

  • More than 200 – accused persons being prosecuted by the National Prosecuting Authority.
  • R14 billion – value of freezing orders granted to the National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit for state capture-related cases.
  • Around R8.6 billion – value of corrupt proceeds that have been returned to the State.
  • R4.8 billion – unpaid taxes collected by the South African Revenue Service.
  • R64 billion – value of civil litigation instituted by the Special Investigating Unit.
  • 5 000 – extra police officers deployed to Public Order Policing.
  • Over 285 000 – arrests made by the South African Police Service since May 2023 through Operation Shanela.
  • 20 000 – police officers recruited over the last two years.
  • 10 000 – police officers to be recruited in the year to come.
  • Over 100 000 – people stopped by the new Border Management Authority from entering South Africa illegally.

 

Energy

 

  • More than 2 500 – megawatts of solar and wind power connected to the grid.
  • More than 120 – new private energy projects in development.
  • More than 14 000 – kilometres of new transmission lines to be built over the coming years to accommodate renewable energy.
  • Around R170 billion to almost R240 billion – increases in the value of financing pledges for the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan in the past year.

 

Economy and Investment

 

  • More than 60 – ships waiting to berth at the Port of Durban in mid-November 2023.
  • 12 – ships waiting to berth at the Port of Durban at the end of January 2024.
  • R1.5 trillion – value of new investment commitments raised through five South Africa Investment Conferences.
  • R500 billion – value of new investment commitments raised through five South Africa Investment Conferences that have already flowed into the economy.
  • Approximately 39% – black ownership of mining by 2024, compared with 2% in 2004.

 

Road Infrastructure

 

  • Nearly 25 000 – kilometres of roads being managed by the South African National Roads Agency Limited.
  • More than 1 200 – projects to the value of R120 billion awarded by the South African National Roads Agency Limited in the past five years.
  • R120 billion – the value of more than 1 200 projects awarded by the South African National Roads Agency Limited in the past five years.

 

Land

 

  • 25% – farmland owned by black South Africans through redistribution.
  • 30% – target of farmland to be owned by black South Africans through redistribution by 2030.

 

Labour

 

  • Around 1 000 – black industrialists supported with funding and other forms of support in the last five years.
  • More than 90 000 – workers employed by black-owned firms which contribute many billions of rands to the South African economy.
  • About 200 000 – workers who obtained ownership of shares in the companies in which they work.
  • Over half a million – status of worker ownership in companies in the South African economy.
  • Over 6 million – workers whose wages were raised by the introduction of the National Minimum Wage.

 

Matric

 

  • 82.9% – latest matric pass rate; the highest ever.

 

Poverty Alleviation

 

  • 71.1% – South African population living in poverty in 1993.
  • 60.9% – the drop in the poverty rate by 2010.
  • 55.5% – the drop in the poverty rate by 2020.

 

Health

 

  • More than 100 000 ­– South Africans who lost their lives to COVID-19.
  • 54 years – life expectancy in 2003.
  • 65 years – life expectancy in 2023.
  • 95% – persons diagnosed with HIV who know their status.
  • 79% – persons who receive antiretroviral treatment out of the 95% diagnosed with HIV who know their status.
  • 93% – persons virally suppressed out of the 95% diagnosed with HIV who know their status.

 

Housing, Water and Telecommunications

 

  • Nearly nine out of every 10 – households living in a formal dwelling.
  • Only 6 out of 10 – people who had access to clean drinking water at the end of apartheid.
  • 9 out of 10 – South Africans with access to clean drinking water by 2024.
  • 79% – households with access to the internet in 2022.

 

Gender-Based Violence and Femicide

 

  • Around R21 billion – money dedicated over the medium term to implement the six pillars of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-based Violence and Femicide, including the economic empowerment of women.

 

Janine
Fri, 02/09/2024 - 10:53

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Read moreState of the Nation Address in numbers