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NCOP approves Climate Change Bill

Location: News

NCOP approves Climate Change Bill

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, has welcomed the approval of the Climate Change Bill by the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

“Climate change is here, and we have relatively little time to respond. The Bill empowers us to respond at the necessary scale and speed, building on the considerable amount of work we have already done,” the Minister said on Monday.

The objectives of the Climate Change Bill are, among others, to enable the development of an effective climate change response and a long-term just transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy and society for South Africa in the context of sustainable development.

“The NCOP’s approval of the Climate Change Bill is a landmark in our response to climate change.

"Since 2011, when we outlined South Africa’s response to climate change in our National Climate Change Response White Paper, we have been putting in place the instruments for an integrated response. Now, this Bill will integrate all of these components into a robust legal framework, and mainstream climate action across government,” Creecy said.

The Minister said the Bill will provide the much-needed legal framework to regulate activities that contribute to climate change, ensure an effective response in all spheres of government and by the society at large, ensure a just transition, and maximize the opportunities afforded to the economy by the global shift to a green economy.

The Bill sets out to ensure that the climate actions are facilitated and coordinated across spheres of government.

“It establishes Provincial Forums on Climate Change and Municipal Forums on Climate Change, which will be integrated into current institutions and planning processes. It provides for the development of provincial and municipal climate change needs and response assessments, and corresponding climate change response implementation plans.

“The Bill places the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) on a formal footing as an independent organ of state to provide advisory on matters of just transition. The PCC will continue to be headed by the President, which sends a strong signal of South Africa’s commitment to addressing the complex challenges of responding to climate change and the urgency with which this needs to be achieved,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said.

It further provides clear frameworks for mitigation, adaptation and a mechanism to support and finance the country’s climate change response.

“On mitigation, the Bill provides for a just transition away from our current carbon-intensive energy system and towards a decarbonized economy and society, while meeting our critical development challenges.

"To achieve this, the Bill formalises our Greenhouse Gas Inventory to strengthen the evidence base for further climate action, and our current reporting processes.

“The Bill also provides for the development of a long-term national greenhouse gas emissions trajectory and its review from time to time, and establishes a clear legal basis for allocating sectoral emissions targets to relevant sectors, and carbon budgets to large emitters,” the department said.

On adaptation, the Bill provides for the establishment of national adaptation objectives, the development of climate scenarios to assess vulnerabilities, and a National Adaptation Strategy and Plan to manage adaptation in a clear and coordinated manner.

“The Bill provides the mechanisms to support and finance the climate change response, providing guidance and a governance framework to promote planning and implementation by national, provincial and local government.

"This will provide much-needed support to expedite our climate change response, thus climate-proofing our society and economy,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Mon, 04/29/2024 - 14:37

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Presidency ‘rejects’ narrative on BHP, Anglo American proposed deal

Location: News

Presidency 'rejects' narrative on BHP, Anglo American proposed deal

The Presidency has moved to dismiss media speculation and reports that BHP Billiton’s proposed takeover of Anglo American, excluding South African assets, is a sign of reluctance to invest in the country.

This is according to Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya who was briefing the media in Pretoria on Monday.

Anglo American mines diamonds, Platinum Group Metals (PGM) and iron ore in South Africa.

“Some analysts and sections of the media have sought to portray this market activity as a vote of no confidence on South Africa. The Presidency rejects the notion that a commercial approach by BHP Billiton equals to a hostile environment for investors,” he said.

Magwenya said the issues cited in media that impact doing business in South Africa are being resolved “with the participation and partnership of business”.

“In June 2023, President Cyril Ramaphosa along with members of his Cabinet and senior business leaders agreed to establish a partnership to reverse the economic downturn and rebuild confidence in the country’s trajectory.

“Three priorities were identified as undermining investor and societal confidence, namely: load shedding, the challenges in the freight logistics sector as well as crime and corruption.”

Magwenya said the collaborative government-business partnership has resulted in many initiatives including the Joint Initiative on Crime and Corruption (JICC).

“The [JICC] was established to drive collaborative efforts to tackle the most serious forms of crime and corruption and support government’s efforts to remove South Africa off the FATF [Financial Action Task Force] greylist. The [JICC] is an example of government’s commitment to work with social partners to foster a safer and a more ethical South Africa,” he said.

He told the media that government’s own efforts to rebuild the credibility of critical law enforcement has resulted in, among others, appointing new leadership in the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Hawks, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the State Security Agency (SSA) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

This has resulted in significant progress in the fight against corruption and crime including:

  • The recruitment of 20 000 more police officers and an additional 4 000 public order policing members.
  • Establishing of 20 specialised SAPS economic infrastructure task teams to tackle illegal mining, construction site extortion, cable theft and vandalism to infrastructure. They had, by November 2023, made at least 7000 arrests.
  • Since 2019, the NPA recorded an average conviction rate of some 91% in high courts, 82% in regional courts and 95% in district courts.
  • At least 34 state capture and corruption matters have been taken to court by the NPA Investigating Directorate involving 203 accused and 65 entities.
  • Since 2019, the NPA has secured the conviction of more than 500 government officials and nearly 800 people in the private sector on corruption related offences.
  • The corruption busting Special Investigating Unit has recovered some R8.6 billion of stolen funds from corrupt individuals.
  • The NPA Asset Forfeiture Unit has obtained freezing orders worth some R14 billion related to State Capture with some R5.4 billion returned to state coffers.

“While much still needs to be achieved to turn the tide around completely, the significant steps taken to rebuild credible institutions have begun to bear fruit and set the stage for further progress. President Ramaphosa will continue leading a multi-stakeholder effort to accelerate existing government interventions to address the scourge of crime and the impact on the economy.

“This partnership should reassure both local and foreign investors that considerable resources and expertise are being leveraged in government and in the private sector to curtail crime, continue improving the functionality of our ports and enable an investor and societal environment that fosters inclusive economic growth and prosperity,” he said.

Investment appetite

Magwenya pointed towards the success of the SA Investment Conference which, over five years, reached R1.5 trillion in investment pledges as an indicator of investment appetite in South Africa.

“President Ramaphosa also finds it satisfying that both domestic and international investors continue to demonstrate confidence towards South Africa through their continued investments as evidenced in the last few years and in exceeding the investment targets set at the beginning of the term. President Ramaphosa is confident that the rebuilt capacity of the state remains firm and focused on responding to crime and corruption.

“The Presidency would implore the investor community to note the optimism expressed by the business community in various publications and platform on the progress achieved across the three focal areas. This should reassure investors that momentum is building and will be maintained to reduce crime and corruption, continue improving energy supply and resolve logistic backlogs,” Magwenya said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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Mon, 04/29/2024 - 15:00

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SA heads to the polls in a month’s time

Location: News

SA heads to the polls in a month's time

With one month to go, the Electoral Commission (IEC) is in the final stretch of preparations for the seventh democratic elections, which are believed to be the most contested in the history of the country.

South Africans will go to the polls on 29 May 2024 to the elect the leadership for the seventh administration out of the 70 political parties and 11 independent candidates that were published by the IEC as final contestants in these elections.  

In total, there are over 14 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.

“The finalisation of the list of candidates contesting seats in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) means that the Commission can now go ahead with the printing of ballot papers for the elections. The 27.79 million registered voters will receive three ballot papers to elect candidates to represent them in the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures.

“In consort with the provisions of the election timetable, the Electoral Commission has also published the list of addresses of the 23 292 voting stations that will be used in these elections. The route for mobile voting stations has also been published,” the IEC said recently.

The highest number of voting stations will be in Kwazulu-Natal (4 974), then the Eastern Cape (4 868) and Limpopo (3 216). All voting stations are now contracted with lease agreements concluded with landlords or owners.

A list of the voting stations can be found on the Electoral Commission’s website.

Special votes

For those who would like to apply for special votes, for the purposes of home visits and voting station visits, there is still time to do so as the deadline for applications is on 3 May 2024.

“Home visits are intended for those voters who are unable to travel to voting stations whilst special votes at voting stations are for everyone who is unable to be at the voting station on Election Day. Special voting will be conducted on the two days preceding Election Day, on 27 and 28 May 2024,” the IEC said.

Special votes may be accessed using one of the following modalities:

  • Using the secured online application form found at www.elections.org.za.
  • By SMSing your identity number to 32249 (R1.00 per SMS) for voting station visit only.
  • By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1B form for a voting station special vote.
  • By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1A form for a home visit special vote. Forms can also be hand-delivered, but someone else can deliver a form on behalf of a voter.

Special votes will also be administered at South Africa’s diplomatic missions abroad to service 58 000 registered voters. These voters will be provided for at the diplomatic missions of the Republic.

Security plan

Government has, meanwhile, assured citizens that the elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.

“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars. We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS [Justice, Crime Prevention and Security] Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said.

Government also urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or IEC offices.

“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes.

“Prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mon, 04/29/2024 - 11:36

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Security plan in place for upcoming elections

Location: News

Security plan in place for upcoming elections

With just 30 days left until South Africans head to the polls, government has assured citizens that the seventh National and Provincial Elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.

“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that the law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said on Sunday in Pretoria.

Addressing a media briefing by the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster, the Minister emphasised that no one has a right to intimidate and prevent others from exercising their Constitutional right to vote for a party of his or her choice.

“We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” the Minister said.

The 2024 General Elections are believed to be the most contested in the history of this country. Overall, 70 political parties are contesting the elections, 11 independent candidates, and the national contestants are 52.

In total, there are over 14, 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.

“Our approach as the JCPS Cluster is to ensure coordinated and intelligence-led planning and operations pre-, during, and postelections where multi-departmental teams work together to ensure that all South Africans exercise their Constitutional rights without fear of intimidation or violence.

“This coordination is managed by National and Provincial JOINTS [ Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] structures of the JCPS Cluster and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). Inter-departmental Priority Committees were established in 2023 at both the National and Provincial levels to safety and security planning.

“Our law enforcement agencies have led in developing the national security plan which has been approved by the Ministers of the JCPS Cluster. NATJOINTS [National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure] has done a thorough threat and crime pattern analysis to inform the development of a security plan and they want to ensure that nothing is left to chance,” the Minister said.

Fit-for purpose

Based on the threat and crime pattern analysis, NATJOINTS has recommended a fit-for-purpose deployment plan that will deal with any potential threats of crime and violence in and around voting stations and national and provincial results centres.

“We have also put measures in place to protect all public facilities that will be used for voting, national key points and other essential infrastructure that might be targeted by criminal elements. In addition, the Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015 states that any person who tampers with or damages essential infrastructure is guilty of a criminal offence and he/she can be sentenced to a maximum of 30 years if found guilty

“The South African Police Service (SAPS) Ministry and SAPS management have conducted several oversite roadshows in all provinces where they met with the station commanders of all police stations and district commissioners to assess the SAPS state of readiness and preparedness to ensure safety and security.

“The management of SAPS and Ministry are satisfied with the level of readiness of all the provinces and districts to provide policing services pre-, during and post-the elections,” Modise said.

The elections will be policed within the relevant prescripts and laws and police officers will enforce the law accordingly.

“We want to reiterate that the security plan will be constantly reviewed as the situation changes and we will adapt as required. As the JCPS Cluster leadership, we want to send a clear message to the public that no incitement to violence, lawlessness, destruction of infrastructure, or barricading of roads will be tolerated. Anyone who participates in any form of criminal activity will be dealt with.

“We therefore reiterate to all South Africans that political rights for citizens are guaranteed and should not be violated. The JCPS will ensure that all the rights enshrined in the Constitution are not violated,” she said.

Among these rights are the rights to freedom, security, and protection from all forms of violence from either public or private sources.

“Although the Constitution allows all citizens to participate in protests, pickets and present petitions, those who participate in these activities must do so peacefully and not violate the rights of those who do not want to participate. Anyone who is found to have contravened these critical provisions of the Constitution during this period will be met with the full authority of the state,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Sun, 04/28/2024 - 11:18

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Celebrating freedom in language

Location: News

Celebrating freedom in language

With South Africa today commemorating Freedom Day, the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) has highlighted the importance of individuals being able to express themselves in languages they understand.

“Today as we celebrate this remarkable milestone, it is essential to recognize that for democracy to flourish, linguistic diversity must be valued as a reliable guide towards the future. Engaging people in a language they understand is critical for genuine participation in democracy,” Chief Executive Officer of the PanSALB, Lance Schultz said on Saturday.

On 27 April 1994, South Africa changed forever as millions of people went to the polls to cast their vote in the first democratic elections.

Schultz’s comments come as President Cyril Ramaphosa led the 2024 Freedom Day national celebrations at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

“As we mark three decades since the transition from apartheid to democracy, it is worth celebrating the incredible progress we’ve made in recognizing and promoting linguistic diversity,” said the CEO.

He added that South Africa’s expansion from two official languages during the apartheid era to 12 in the new dispensation is a restatement to the great strides that have been made in safeguarding language rights.

“There is no doubt that one of the key aspects of democracy is engaging and communicating with people in languages that they understand and for the past 30 years, the right to use one’s own language  has been protected,” said Schultz.

The PanSALB is entrusted with the Constitutional responsibility to ensure that all official languages enjoy priority of esteem and elevate the status of indigenous languages to be recognised as languages of science, technology, and business.

“Furthermore, it is PanSALB’s duty, within the socio-political system of South Africa to promote greater democratic participation by creating an environment where people engage in discussions over linguistic authority, knowledge production and self-determination through their use of language.”

Celebrated Under the theme: “30 Years of Democracy, Partnership, and Growth,” this year's Freedom Month celebrations hold special significance as they also coincide with the 28th anniversary of the enactment of the South African Constitution as the supreme law of the land. -SAnews.gov.za

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Sat, 04/27/2024 - 14:38

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Navigating Breast Health: Understanding Mammograms and MRI Scans

Location: MyPR

In the realm of women’s health, proactive measures are key. One essential aspect of this is regular breast screening. Whether you’re searching for “mammogram near me” or exploring options for an “MRI breast scan,” understanding the nuances of each procedure is vital. What is a Mammogram? A mammogram is a specialised X-ray of the breast …

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Launch of cutting-edge recycling facility in Namibia

Location: News
Coca Cola Beverages Africa

A N$24 million (over US$1.2million) investment through a partnership between Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) (www.CCBAgroup.com) in Namibia and Plastic Packaging has culminated in the opening of a new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flaking plant in Okahandja which will double the capacity of the only mechanical recycler of plastic waste in the country.

The plant was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta.

“The Coca-Cola system aims to drive systemic change through a circular economy for packaging. We are leading the industry to help collect and recycle a bottle or can for every one we sell by 2030. We have a responsibility to help solve complex plastic waste challenges facing our planet and society, and we're leveraging our scale and reach to achieve our sustainability goals and reduce packaging waste,” said CCBA Chief Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Officer, Tshidi Ramogase.

“This facility is an example of how we work with partners across business, government and civil society to support or create closed loop systems to ensure our packaging is collected and recycled or reused.

“Supporting the establishment of a circular economy for packaging has both environmental and economic benefits since recycling has the potential to create jobs and to empower the informal waste collection sector in a circular economy.

“Unlike a traditional linear economy in which packaging is made, used and disposed of; a circular economy preserves the economic value of packaging through robust collection and recycling systems,” said Ramogase.

The completion of this cutting-edge recycling facility will enable Namibia Polymer Recyclers (NPR), a subsidiary of Plastic Packaging, to recycle up to 500 tons per month.

The recycling plant transforms discarded beverage bottles made from PET material into PET flakes with an international market value. The flaking process of post-consumer PET bottles involves sorting, shredding it into PET flakes, hot-washing and drying of flakes, which are then sent for further processing into recycled PET pellets and other end-uses.

This reduces the need to use virgin PET, while diverting waste from landfills and the environment.

“We are investing in infrastructure and exploring ways to support additional recycled PET capacity in each of the regions where we operate. These investments not only provide a source of recycled content for our packaging but also create additional demand for empty packages, driving increased collection.

“At CCBA, we are a proud industry leader in developing increasingly sustainable ways to produce, distribute and sell our products. We use our industry leadership to be part of the solution to achieve positive change and to build a more sustainable future for our planet,” said Ramogase.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca Cola Beverages Africa.

Issued By:
Enid Johr
PACS Director
CCBA in Namibia
Tel: +264 81 778 5381
Email: ejohr@ccbagroup.com

Wendy Thole-Muir
Head: Reputation and Communication
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Tel: +27 83 795 8524
Email: WThole-Muir@ccbagroup.com

Follow us on:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4dfq8AC

About CCBA: 
CCBA is the 8th largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 18,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 720,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. The group was formed in July 2016 after the successful combination of the southern and east Africa bottling operations of the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages businesses of The Coca-Cola Company, SABMiller plc and Gutsche Family Investments. CCBA shareholders are currently: The Coca-Cola Company 66.5% and Gutsche Family Investments 33.5%. CCBA operates in 15 countries, including its six key markets of South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique and Namibia, as well as Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Malawi.
Learn more at https://www.CCBAgroup.com

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NPA ‘a long way down the road’ on its vital rebuild

Location: News

NPA 'a long way down the road' on its vital rebuild

National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Shamila Batohi, has stated that despite unrelenting pressure and the devastation of State capture, the turnaround of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has been remarkable.

Batohi was speaking during a media roundtable on the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) priorities and strategic initiatives held at the entity’s headquarters in Pretoria.

Batohi – who was appointed as NDPP in 2019 – said the rebuild of what was then a “fractured” organisation, truly began when a full leadership was appointed.

“In March of 2021 we had, finally, the full leadership in place. We could really start properly, as a full leadership team, thinking about this rebuilding process. What we have achieved in that just over three years, is nothing short of remarkable.

“The NPA now is a well run constitutional entity. We have a solid strategy. There are many incredible strategic initiatives… that put the NPA firmly on track to deliver to the people of this country,” she said.

Reflecting on her tenure so far at the entity, Batohi said she came in believing that State capture cases in particular would have moved faster.

“When I came back from the International Criminal Court [where I was a senior legal advisor to the Prosecutor], I had a sense of the challenge and I thought, 'how difficult is it going to be to get one really big corruption case that’s going to swing sentiment around very quickly'?. I was really quite wrong about that.

“In so far as State capture related cases… I thought we would have been further down the line. For everything else in the NPA, I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved and how far we’ve come since the new leadership came in,” she said.

Stated objectives

Batohi looked back on some of the objectives that she set when she took office, including:

  • Addressing the leadership crisis of the NPA.
  • Conducting a review of high profile cases relating to the decision to prosecute or not.
  • Reviewing the structure of the NPA.
  • Securing sufficient budget for the NPA and expanding its partnerships.
  • Managing cases related to State capture.
  • Creating the Investigative Directorate (ID).
  • Stakeholder management.
  • Strengthening staff morale and empowerment.
  • Instilling the value support of the Independence, Professionalism, Accountability and Credibility pillars.

“It’s not been easy. We’ve been, in the past five years, really hard at work under a lot of pressure. The pressure… in the past five years, has been unrelenting, mainly with regard to State capture. But in the middle of all of this, we’ve been doing incredible work to turn this ship around.

“We’ve stabilised the leadership of the NPA. [The NPA executive]… are the people of the highest standards of integrity, who will do only what the Constitution and the rule of law demands. We have increased staff capacity and capability. We’ve partnered with civil society and the private sector to secure specialist skills that we need in certain very high profile and complex corruption related matters.

“We’ve established the office of ethics and accountability in the NPA. We’ve developed a very forward looking organised crime strategy. We have really focused a lot on building the NPA into a strong entity once more. We’ve come a long way to do that,” she said.

Batohi said since the objectives were set out in 2019, the global landscape has changed dramatically with “deeply troubling” geopolitical tensions, outbreak of conflict and a world impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are working in an environment where… it’s a complex political environment. We have a country where we have load shedding, the poorest and most vulnerable are without basic amenities. We have a country that is wracked by the highest levels of various types of crimes.

“It is in this context… that, as the NPA and as a country, we can’t give up hope. We have to… keep fighting the good fight. And that we have to, as the NPA, being a vital Constitutional entity that’ll contribute to the rebuilding of this country… [we have to] keep fighting the best we can and [the best] we know,” Batohi said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 04/24/2024 - 12:57

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Enhancing security and efficiency: LG’s customised solutions for mining control rooms

Location: MyPR

When mines want to keep their operations secure, it’s crucial to carefully assess each operation’s specific needs before partnering with a provider of security control room solutions. Security control rooms play a pivotal role in the mining industry, serving as the nerve centre for monitoring operations, ensuring safety, and safeguarding valuable assets. These control rooms …

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Leagas Delaney Group South Africa celebrates growth with new Cape Town office

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CAPE TOWN, South Africa – April 19, 2024: Independent, global communications agency, Leagas Delaney Group South Africa (LDSA), continues to build on its successes in Johannesburg, with the opening of a new office in Cape Town. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the agency as it continues to solidify its presence on the continent. …

Read moreLeagas Delaney Group South Africa celebrates growth with new Cape Town office

Worker share ownership schemes important to economic transformation

Location: News

Worker share ownership schemes important to economic transformation

President Cyril Ramaphosa says giving workers a seat at the table where strategic corporate decisions are made fosters good morale and innovation and also builds a resilient economy.

The President said this when he delivered the keynote address at the inaugural Worker Share Ownership Conference held in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

The conference serves as a platform for advocacy for Employee Share Ownership Plans in private companies.

“This conference is an opportunity for meaningful dialogue among a diverse array of participants, including trustees, CEOs, labour and business representatives, and company chairs. It is an opportunity to develop a model of worker ownership that can serve the needs of our economy.

“When workers participate as owners, the workers also develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that face their own companies, enabling more fruitful partnerships to unlock opportunities for growth, investment and job creation.

“This is a paradigm shift, which aims to empower workers not only as wage earners but also as partners, as stakeholders with ownership in capital,” he said.

President Ramaphosa added that beyond social justice “worker ownership initiatives make sound business and economic sense”.

“They are key to building a more resilient economy whose benefits flow equitably through society. Worker share ownership initiatives boost morale and productivity.

“Workers who feel valued and respected by their employers are more likely to contribute ideas for improving processes, products and services. It is human nature that one is more inclined to contribute one’s best efforts when one has a vested interest in the success of that particular venture,” he said.

Economic transformation

The President emphasised that government has done much to improve transformation of the economy following devastating apartheid legislation which deliberately excluded black South Africans from “participating meaningfully in the economy of their own country”.

The democratic government has done this through enacting laws in competition to bolster small and medium-sized enterprises, introducing labour legislation to ensure decent working conditions and the promulgation of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Act.

“Yet, despite the measures of successive democratic administrations that we have introduced to transform patterns of ownership in the economy, we still have much more to do.

“This is therefore a good time to collectively assess the impact of the enabling legislative environment to examine the learnings over the past two decades. A vital measure of economic empowerment is the extent to which ownership and control of the economy is broadened, particularly among black and women South Africans.

“Worker [share] ownership schemes are valuable instruments to broaden ownership and, with time, to enable greater control of the economy. Also known as Employee Share Ownership Programmes, these schemes are underpinned…by the [BBBEE] Act, together with the Competition Act, the Companies Act and the various number of others,” he said.

Shared commitment

The President highlighted that government plays an important role in providing guidance on the design and implementation of these programmes through the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and also provides catalytic funding through the Industrial Development Corporation, the National Empowerment Fund and others.

He added, however, that a shared “commitment to economic transformation” is imperative.

“It is vital that we harness the spirit of partnership as we chart the course for the future of these programmes and for an even better, more sustainable worker shareholder regime.

“By championing worker ownership, we are building a future where every employee has a stake in the success of their company. Together, we are paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous society in which no-one is left behind,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tue, 04/23/2024 - 12:46

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Minister Pandor co-chairs the VII Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
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The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Minister Pandor, will co-chair the VII Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission (JC) on 23 April 2024 in Brasilia, Brazil, with her counterpart, Minister Mauro Vieira, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil.

On 13 December 2003, South Africa and Brazil signed an agreement to establish a Joint Commission. A Declaration on Strategic Partnership and an Action Plan was signed in 2010.

The Joint Commission serves as a mechanism to monitor and facilitate the implementation of the Action Plan in several areas such as agriculture; defence; economic and commercial relations; environment; health; higher education and technical cooperation; justice and correctional services; minerals and energy; science, technology, and communications; sports, arts, and culture.

The Joint Commission is composed of 10 sectoral Working Groups (WG).

A Senior Officials Meeting was held on 10 April 2024 to review the work done by the working groups in preparation for the JC.

South Africa shares a common history and cultural heritage with Brazil's over 100 million population of African descent (African Diaspora), the second largest African Diaspora in the Americas region.

Brazil will host the Sixth Region Diaspora Conference in the state of Bahia on 20-22 May 2024 as one of the preparatory meetings for the Ninth Pan African Conference that will be held in Togo in October 2024.

South Africa and Brazil as member countries of the Global South, actively advance the developmental agenda of the South through, amongst others, the UN, IBSA, BRICS, G20, WTO, and International Financial Institutions.

Brazil is currently holding the IBSA Chair, G20 Presidency and in 2025 will chair the BRICS Plus as well as COP30. On 1 December 2023, South Africa became a member of the G20 Troika, with India and Brazil and will assume the Presidency of G20 in 2025

Brazil is South Africa's largest trading partner in Latin America and is the second largest trading partner in the Americas after the USA. South Africa is Brazil's second largest export partner in Africa.

The resumption of LATAM Airlines' and SAA's direct flights between Sao Paulo and Johannesburg in 2023 has opened opportunities to scale up tourism, trade, and people-to-people relations.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Read moreMinister Pandor co-chairs the VII Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission

Dignity for those in need: Gauteng launches mobile shower facilities for homeless people

Location: News

Dignity for those in need: Gauteng launches mobile shower facilities for homeless people

The Gauteng Department of Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment has unveiled mobile shower services for homeless people in the province.

MEC Mbali Hlophe said the services are aimed at restoring dignity for people who find themselves homeless in the province.

“It’s about giving them warm food and a shower. It’s also about ensuring that our social workers have access to them and they are able to direct them to the broader services that we have. That’s about family reunification, which is really an ideal one because we want to make sure that we are able to unify families.

“But where we can’t, we are able to place them within our shelters where they are provided with skills to make sure that they are able to take care of themselves and to be sustainably out of the streets,” Hlophe said.

According to the department, the mobile shower service is in line with “Pillar 1 of the Gauteng City Region Strategy on Street Adult Homelessness, which is advocacy, awareness, and prevention of crisis and early intervention”.

“The service, which will go out to locations daily, will provide access to bathrooms, ablution facilities, laundry services and linking the homeless with other services such as access to shelters and social work interventions,” the department said in a statement.

The mobile wash services will go to areas where homeless people can be found.

“The wash trailer and office will be towed by a vehicle to the identified homeless hot spots. The proposed locations for the service are parks, open areas, under bridges, and on streets where the homeless community sometimes reside.

“The mobile services have separated showers and ablution facilities and an office. The wash trailer, which is 6m long, with an estimated weight of 2 800 kilograms, has three showers and three toilets, and the estimated office weight is 1 800kg,” the department said.

According to the department, the launch is “an expansion to an already existing package of assistance to the homeless” in the province.

This includes homeless shelters in regions; provision of daily meals for the homeless; social work services; link to skills development; substance abuse rehabilitation, and family reunification.

New lease on life

At shelters, homeless people are afforded an opportunity to learn skills, including basic computer skills, construction skills, including brick laying and agricultural skills.

A resident at a homeless shelter, Michael Rasebokoa, said the opportunities he gained at the shelter have given him the restart he needed.

Rasebokoa holds a Business Administration qualification but found himself homeless when he lost the job he had.

However, through a non-profit organisation at the shelter, he was linked to a new job opportunity.

“I am grateful for the opportunities that the Gauteng Department of Social Development has afforded me.

“The NPOs that are funded by the department has made it possible for me to secure a job. I am currently working as a Financial Advisor in Sandton,” Rasebokoa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Four new reports released on Open Internet approaches in Africa

Location: News

European Union External Action
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By looking at case studies in Burundi, Kenya, Senegal and South Africa, the four reports unpack Open Internet connectivity as a promoter of human-centric development. They also shed light on the crucial role of a free, global, reliable, affordable and secure internet in driving social and economic growth in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the objectives of the African Union's Agenda 2063.

According to the new reports prepared by a team of independent experts contracted by the European Commission “Digital technologies and the Open Internet are two distinct concepts that, if blended into a consistent policy approach, create a digitisation process that maximises the opportunities for social and economic growth.”

The realisation of the Open Internet's potential for locally driven growth requires a holistic approach, separate but intrinsic to the investment in technology and connectivity, that is focused on the deployment of Open Internet digital infrastructure, the development of enabling policy and regulatory environments for Open Internet, investment in Open Internet skills and competences, the creation of an Open Internet economy, and participation in Open Internet governance.

Each of the four reports serve as a roadmap for other countries and regions, for how  Open Internet approaches can create an environment that will enable and support  digital development, capitalise on its economic potential, while respecting fundamental rights and values.

As part of the EU's policy of promoting an open, free, global, stable and secure internet based on the multi-stakeholder model of internet governance, the reports build on the ideas covered in a previous report on The Open Internet as cornerstone of digitalisation. As  the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said in her State of the Union 2024 speech: “The internet was born as an instrument for sharing knowledge, opening minds and connecting people. But it has also given rise to serious challenges (…) In response, Europe has become the global pioneer of citizen's rights in the digital world.”

The reports were produced in the framework of “Promotion and Development of the Open Internet in Africa”, a project funded by the EU Global Gateway.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of European Union External Action.

Read moreFour new reports released on Open Internet approaches in Africa

Government activities for the week 22 – 26 April 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 22 – 26 April 2024

On Monday, 22 April, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will officially open a new Home Affairs office at The Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville, KwaZulu-Natal.

On Tuesday, 23 April, President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the Inaugural Worker Share Ownership Conference at the Sandton Convention Centre.

On Tuesday, 23 April, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Makhotso Sotyu, will launch Community Forestry Agreements in Butterworth, Eastern Cape.

On Wednesday, 24 April, President Cyril Ramaphosa will officiate the 20 Years celebration of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and launch the Phase V of the programme in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape.

On Thursday, 25 April, a Webinar on the National Treasury two-pot system will be held via Zoom at 11am.

On Thursday, 25 April, the International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister, Alvin Botes, will host his Swedish counterpart for a bilateral meeting.

On Friday, 26 April, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake a working visit to the United States of America. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Combat Pest Invasions in Your Retail Space with Eco-Friendly Solutions

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, South Africa – Are unwanted pests turning your peaceful retail environment into a battleground? We’ve got you covered! Pest Control WR, a leading pest control company in Johannesburg, is here to help you reclaim your space from pesky intruders. Pest infestations in retail environments can be a silent menace, causing damage to stock, posing …

Read moreCombat Pest Invasions in Your Retail Space with Eco-Friendly Solutions

Phaahla condemns acts of violence at Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga

Location: News

Phaahla condemns acts of violence at Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, says he has noted with concern and has condemned the acts of anarchy, violence and criminality targeting healthcare facilities to disrupt the provision of essential health services and depriving patients of lifesaving treatment. 

This comes after members of a local business forum who were disgruntled about procurement processes recently allegedly attacked healthcare workers at Themba Hospital in Kabokweni, Mpumalanga. 

Reports suggest that the hospital had to be closed for almost three weeks due to the unrest which forced doctors to down tools. 

According to Phaahla, these acts that threaten the safety and security of the health workers, patients, service providers and infrastructure are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. 

“We welcome the swift response and interventions by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies to normalise the situation to enable the health workers to perform their lifesaving duties in a safe and protected environment without disruption and acts of violence.”  

According to the Minister, government will continue to respond proportionally to these criminal acts to protect those who need help in the hospital, the healthcare workers and the infrastructure. 

“We are already working with the SAPS to ensure that healthcare service continues undisrupted and prevent future incidences. We want to assure the healthcare workers and community at large that similar acts will not happen unattended and will be responded with speed and appropriately,” said Phaahla.  

The department and the SAPS signed a Memorandum of Agreement in 2019 committing to cooperate to ensure the security and safety of patients, workers in the health facility and the entire infrastructure. 

“The SAPS in response to criminality in the health facility will deploy a dedicated team to ensure the security of the facility.” 

Phaahla has called on anyone with evidence of unethical behaviour by health officials and who has concerns about the level of service delivery or operations to raise them through proper channels instead of resorting to violence and intimidation. 

“We will not entertain any form of anarchy and feeling of entitlement in our facilities because we follow normal procurement processes like any other public institution. 

“We implore people to exercise their constitutional rights to protest peacefully within the confines of the law, without infringing the rights to life by others and access to healthcare,” he stressed.  

In addition, the Minister confirmed that no life has been lost at the facility due to the recent violent incidents. 

However, several patients could not access their chronic medication and some planned surgeries had to be rescheduled, while other patients were transferred to nearby hospitals and stable patients were discharged. 

“The situation is now under control and the hospital is fully operational. Staff members are back at work.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Minister Joe Phaahla on state of public health service

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of Health
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Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla notes with concern and condemns in strong terms the acts of anarchy, violence and criminality targeting healthcare facilities with the intention to disrupt the provision of essential health services, depriving patients of life-saving treatment.

The recent acts of violence committed in Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga which threatened the safety and security of the health workers, patients, service providers and infrastructure is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. These acts disrupt the provision of essential health services, threaten the safety and security of health workers, patients, and health infrastructure.

We welcome the swift response and interventions by members of the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to normalise the situation to enable the health workers to perform their life-saving duties in a safe and protected environment without disruption and acts of violence, and at the same time enable the patients to access essential health service including life-saving treatment.

The government will continue to respond proportionally to these criminal acts to protect those who need help in the hospital, the healthcare workers and the healthcare infrastructure we have. We are already working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that healthcare service continues undisrupted and prevent future incidences. We want to assure the healthcare workers and community at large that the similar acts will not happen unattended and will be responded with speed and appropriately.

The National Department of Health (NDOH) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have signed Memorandum of Agreement in 2019, at which have committed to cooperate to ensure security and safety of patients, workers in the health facility and the entire infrastructure. The SAPS in response to criminality in the health facility will deploy a dedicated team to ensure security of the facility.

We call upon anyone with evidence of unethical behaviour by health officials or concerns about the level of service delivery, operations of the health facility or whatsoever, to raise them through proper channels instead of resorting to violence and intimidation because that will not be tolerated, and the law will take its course.

We will not entertain any form of anarchy and feeling of entitlement in our facilities because we follow normal procurement processes like any other public institution. We implore people to exercise their constitutional rights to protest peacefully within the confines of the law, without infringing the rights to life by others and access to healthcare.

We can confirm that no life has been lost in the facility due to the recent unfortunate violent incidents, but a number of patients couldn't access their chronic medication, while some planned surgeries had to be rescheduled. Other patients were transferred to nearby hospitals, while stable patients were discharged. The situation is now under control and the hospital is fully operational. Staff members are back at work.

Human Resources for Health

The Department of Health continues with efforts to address the challenge of unemployment of health professionals, including medical doctors who completed statutory community service programme. We are working closely with Provincial health departments focused on all critical vacant posts to strengthen healthcare delivery to adequately respond to the needs of our people. We are making progress in the recruitment of the qualified health professionals across the country. Let me dispel the myths by some critics and allay fears that the department is dragging its feet to recruit and appoint unemployed health professionals.

There are 2012 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors on the health sector establishment at the current moment across nine provinces which require R2,4 billion to fill them. This numbers excludes other categories of health professionals like nurses, pharmacists, radiographers, dentists et cetera. We are happy to announce that a total of 2066 health professionals have been appointed between January and March 2024 across the country.

This consists of 1121 medical officers on Grade 1 of entry level, 579 professional nurses, 127 Allied Health workers, 100 pharmacists, 91 Radiographers, 23 Dentists Grade 1 and 9 Environmental Health Officers. The recruitment processes are continuing in provinces to finalize more appointments scheduled to enable the successful candidates to assume duties in May 2024.

The Ministry continues to work closely with the provincial Health MECs to activate unfunded vacant posts using the allocated additional budget to enable recruitment of more health workers. It is our wish to employ as many health professionals as possible to play a meaningful role in the public health system of the country. It is important to emphasize that the filling of posts is done in line with the employment guidelines as issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration. This means the applicants should not limit themselves to the provinces or districts of their residence.

Cholera Update

The country has recorded more than 150 suspected cholera cases, 12 laboratory- confirmed cases and one death between 1 January and 18 April 2024. Eleven of these cases were recorded in Limpopo and one in Gauteng. Three of these cases are imported from Zimbabwe, with no definite history of contact with other confirmed cases. The demised patient was a 48-year-old male South African citizen from Musina, in Vhembe District who experienced diarrhoeal symptoms and was admitted in hospital on 16 March, unfortunately he passed away on 21 March 2024 in Pietersburg hospital.
 
The risk of both imported cases and local transmission remains high due the cross- border movements to and from both Zimbabwe and Mozambique. We appeal to the organisers of social gatherings including religious and traditional events to ensure strict compliance with personal hygiene (including handwashing) especially during food preparation and serving, and ablution facilities to prevent possible transmission of cholera and other foodborne and waterborne diseases.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Health.

Read moreMinister Joe Phaahla on state of public health service