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Government harnessing Land Reform to support growth of agriculture and job creation 

Location: News

Government harnessing Land Reform to support growth of agriculture and job creation 

President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that government is actively implementing various programs and initiatives to enhance the effectiveness of land reform aimed at bolstering agricultural growth and to foster increased employment within the industry.

President Ramaphosa was responding to questions for oral reply in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
 
A Member of Parliament asked the President to elaborate on the integrated plan that government has in place to maintain growth and job creation in the agricultural sector through land reform. 

“Government’s land reform programme is supported by several complementary programmes and initiatives to enable growth and job creation.   

“Through these complementary programmes and initiatives, we are working to ensure that land reform is harnessed more effectively to support the growth of agriculture and agro-processing and to expand employment and livelihoods in this vital industry,” the President said. 

The President told Members of Parliament that land reform is vital to the transformation of our society and to correct historical injustices.   

He noted that redistribution, restitution and the provision of secure tenure also contribute to greater agricultural activity and enable more people to earn a living off farming.   

President Ramaphosa highlighted that in May 2022, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development signed the Agriculture and Agro-processing Master Plan with partners in business and labour.   

Among many other things, the plan supports the acceleration of land reform and outlines actions that the private sector can take to support optimal use of land available to black farmers as a result of land reform projects.

These actions include support to black farmers and SMMEs at the processing level to have better access to domestic and export markets.   

The plan also encourages large commercial farmers to participate voluntarily in the land reform programme by donating land to historically disadvantaged farmers or participating in joint ventures to facilitate linkages between small- and medium-scale farmers operating on a commercial basis.   

“If the proposed interventions are implemented effectively, the social partners believe that by 2030, the agricultural sector can grow by an additional R32 billion above the ‘business-as-usual’ baseline.   

“Through this plan, they intend to maintain the existing jobs in the sector and create 75,000 new jobs by 2030.   For the economic potential of our land reform programme to be fully realised, we are prioritising broader rural development,” the President said. 

The Integrated Rural Development Sector Strategy of 2023 aims, among other things, to revitalise the rural economy through investment in, and development of rural infrastructure.   

This includes investment in roads, bridges and other transport infrastructure, water and irrigation schemes, public health and education.   

The strategy also provides for support to industries that support rural development, including agriculture and agro-processing, mining, the digital economy, the ocean economy, tourism, arts and culture.   

“Improvements in rural infrastructure are necessary if we are to reap the economic potential of land reform. Beneficiaries of the various land reform projects need to be able to access water resources, get their produce to market, participate in local economic activity and have ready access to funding and other support,” he said. 

The President highlighted that the land reform programme is also supported by initiatives that support skills development and employment, particularly for the youth.   

Through the National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC) government provides young people with the skills and capabilities to participate in the economy. 

He explained that through such rural development initiatives, more than 1 100 jobs have been facilitated in the current financial year.

He further stated that through the Presidential Employment Stimulus, more than 180 000 agricultural production input vouchers have been issued to subsistence producers.   

The Presidential Employment Stimulus has also worked with the provincial departments of agriculture and social partners to provide support to more than 62 000 subsistence and smallholder producers to strengthen self-employment and food security. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 03/19/2024 - 15:02

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Eliminate red tape to make it easier for African entrepreneurs to do business – Mashatile

Location: News

Eliminate red tape to make it easier for African entrepreneurs to do business - Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for the elimination of red tape to facilitate cross-border trade for African entrepreneurs.

“Countries on our continent typically perform poorly in various categories related to corporate performance and competitiveness due to an unfriendly environment, particularly in terms of intra-continental trade,” the Deputy President said on Wednesday. 

This is the reason he believes that countries should take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which seeks to eliminate barriers to trade in Africa. 

READ | Africa is an oyster for young entrepreneurs

“The AfCFTA will significantly boost intra-African trade, particularly trade in value-added production and trade across all sectors of Africa’s economy,” Mashatile said.

The country’s second-in-command was delivering a keynote address at the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC+ Africa) at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

GEC+ Africa is a gathering of entrepreneurs and leaders from more than 50 African nations committed to advancing entrepreneurial activity throughout their own countries in Africa.

Hosted by the Department of Small Business Development, the two-day event includes other international leaders who have become a part of the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) movement that advances entrepreneurship as a means of building economies and expanding human welfare.

“As policymakers, we have to create an enabling environment for our entrepreneurs,” Mashatile said. 

He told delegates that leaders should ensure that the core foundations of the digital economy are in place, including digital infrastructure, digital skills, cybersecurity capabilities, and affordable and accessible data.

Mashatile said nations need to do more to implement the African Union’s Digital Transformation Agenda, adopted at its Summit of Heads of State in 2019.

“We must ensure that by 2030, every individual, business, and government on the continent will be digitally enabled and ready to support a growing digital economy.” 

He emphasised the need to enhance governance systems, such as combating corruption, improving macroeconomic management, and resolving disputes through negotiation rather than violent conflict.

“We must do more to shift the narrative that Africa is a difficult place to do business.” 

SMMEs

Mashatile said it was crucial to address the Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMME) and start-up credit gap. 

“Africa has 18% of the world’s population but attracts only 2% of global capital, and even less global venture capital for start-ups.

“In South Africa, Minister of Small Business Development Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams has proposed a SMME and Cooperative Funding Policy, which was recently gazetted for public comment,” he announced.  

The policy requires that the Business Development Service providers in South Africa institutionalise the practice of assisting SMMEs and cooperatives with pre-funding support. 

“Without funding, our best start-ups are leaving for tech hubs abroad,” Mashatile said. 

Skilled labour force

The Deputy President believes it is crucial to retain skilled professionals within the continent’s borders.

“The loss of skilled professionals, also known as ‘brain-drain’ is one of the major reasons for the unsteady growth in our respective countries.

“To prevent this, we need to make it easier for skills to move across the continent and increase the number of people who can learn new skills, especially in areas that are important to the digital economy.” 

However, he said South Africa was making inroads in reforming visa requirements, which allows high-tech expertise to work in the country and develop the economy. 

“This move is supported by the underpinning principles of the AfCFTA, and propels us towards the integrated Africa that we want.”

In addition, the Deputy President called on the continent to work together to achieve socio-economic transformation that benefits everyone and one way to start is by assisting small businesses.

“Together, this and the AfCFTA are important steps towards the Africa we want. I am confident that this inaugural GEC+ Africa Congress will provide the appropriate policy advice and partnerships to take us there.”

Trade

The Deputy President has described Africa as a continent overflowing with untapped potential, a hub of innovation and invention waiting to be re-awakened.

“However, Africa still plays a subordinate role in global value chains, and is confronted by deeply established structural constraints that stem from our previous position as an exporter of unprocessed raw commodities.”

South Africa, like the rest of the continent, according to the Deputy President, needs to be strategic in increasing its competitiveness in higher-productivity trade-able commodities and services, as well as in becoming ready for a digital and environmentally friendly future.

“We must recognise that there is a link between the environment, economy, and agriculture. All economic activities either affect or are affected by natural and environmental resources.”

He also called on farmers to adapt to current farming methods that increase production efficiency. 

“African innovators and entrepreneurs have the power to transform our economy, which will eventually allow us to participate in the global economy as players with equal status.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 15:05

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SA must join forces to create youth employment, says Mashatile

Location: News

SA must join forces to create youth employment, says Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile emphasised the need to strengthen multi-sectoral partnerships to increase opportunities for youth empowerment and participation in the labour market.

“Together, we can contribute to national efforts to create employment and get South Africans working,” he said on Tuesday. 

Deputy President Mashatile was speaking at the National Council of Provinces during a question and answer session. 

In 2020, he said Cabinet approved the National Youth Policy (NYP) 2030, which is a cross-sectoral policy intended to redress the injustices of the past and deal decisively with new challenges affecting the youth.

To reduce youth unemployment, the Deputy President said the Minister of Finance set aside R7.4 billion for the Presidential Employment Initiative for the 2024/25 financial year. 

“Thus far, the Presidential Employment Initiative has assisted over 1.7 million people through a combination of job creation, job retention and income and skills support interventions," Mashatile said.

He also touched on the South African Employment Services System, which serves over seven million job seekers, and provides nationwide platforms for youth to register for employment, match with employment opportunities, and receive placement counselling. 

Through public-private partnerships, government supports various internships, learnerships, and apprenticeship programmes across various government departments to provide experiential learning and facilitate entry into the labour market for young people.

By supporting the growth of Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), he stated that government is playing a critical role in addressing South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis. 

“Government is also implementing the Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act to promote SMMEs that are key to job creation, and economic growth,” he added. 

Agricultural land 

Shifting his focus to agricultural land, he said government is accelerating land redistribution through a variety of instruments, such as land restitution and expropriation of land, to boost agricultural output. 

In 2023, the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure announced that 221 land parcels measuring 148 796 hectares have been released to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development for transfer to the approved land claimants. 

“Approximately 1 576 hectares of land is earmarked to be released before the end of this financial year,” he announced. 

In addition, he said 125 land parcels, measuring 25 549 hectares of agricultural land were released to support subsistence farming and food security. 

“This is in keeping with what we have been doing over the last 30 years,” he explained. 

Meanwhile, the government is transferring State agricultural land, through Financial Assistance Land (FALA) properties, where there has been compliance with the rent-to-buy agreements. 

On top of that, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, he said, is developing criteria for category 3 and commercial farmers as part of the rollout plan for the release of state land. 

“Category 3 includes medium to large-scale commercial farmers who have already been, or intend to farm commercially at various scales, but are disadvantaged by location, size of land, and other resource constraints limiting their growth,” the Deputy President explained. 

As per the country’s second-in-command, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure holds national State-owned land. It receives requests from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development for releasing land to settle claims for restitution and agricultural purposes as part of the land reform programme. 

“As a government, we will prioritise providing extension and technical support to ensure that we distribute properties that are productive and contribute to South Africa’s food security,” Mashatile said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 03/13/2024 - 11:27

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Read moreSA must join forces to create youth employment, says Mashatile

Kempsdale Dam wall expansion to ensure reliable water supply

Location: News

Kempsdale Dam wall expansion to ensure reliable water supply

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, is looking forward to the start of construction to raise the Kempsdale Dam Wall from four meters to 7.8 meters in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal. 

According to the Minister, the expansion will address the current water shortages and secure future demand for the Greater Kokstad community.

Mchunu further reiterated government’s commitment to fast-track service delivery projects, particularly those meant for the provision of adequate and consistent water supply, as water is one of the essential services and a basic human right.

The Minister was on a working visit in Kokstad, in the Harry Gwala District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday. 

The Executive Mayor of the District, Councillor Zamo Nxumalo joined him in conducting a sod-turning ceremony to signal the handover of the raising of Kempsdale Dam wall to the appointed contractor. 

The delegations included Greater Kokstad Mayor, Councillor Lwanda Madikizela, other local mayors from the district, traditional authorities, and departmental and municipal officials. 

The R160 million project, which is anticipated to take three years to complete, is envisaged to boost raw water capacity in the dam to meet a projected future demand up to 2040. 

The project will also ensure there is an adequate, safe, reliable, and sustainable potable water supply in areas such as Kokstad town, Kokstad C-Max prison, and Shayamoya and Bhongweni areas. 

“The development involves the raising of the existing Kempsdale Dam wall height from four meters to 7.8 meters and the construction of a new pump station downstream of the dam to be treated at the already existing 18 megalitres per day Kokstad Water Treatment Works,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS explained. 

The current water demand for Kokstad is 10.35 millilitres per day and is estimated to increase to 14.45 millilitres per day by 2030. 

The project will benefit eight wards within the Greater Kokstad Local Municipality with uninterrupted, adequate and clean water supply upon completion of the collaborative initiative between the DWS, municipalities concerned, farming communities, businesses and residents.  

Speaking at the construction site during the handover, Mchunu and Nxumalo indicated that the Kempsdale Dam wall would ensure there is enough water storage which will be supplied to the communities. 

“What is happening today is a culmination of what the district has been doing with our support. there is going to be quite a substantial increase of the dam wall, it is clear that the water services here in Kokstad are working very well,” Mchunu said.  

The District Mayor echoed the Minister’s sentiments and highlighted that water supply interruptions would now be a thing of the past. 

“The project is aimed at alleviating water challenges in Greater Kokstad Local Municipality for a period of 50 to 100 years, and this will be dependent on the development of the area,” Nxumalo stated.  

The leaders also took the opportunity to engage various stakeholders and the community of Kokstad. 

Mchunu acknowledged there were challenges. However, he reiterated government’s commitment to ensure that basic services such as water and sanitation are provided to the people and made an undertaking that the situation will improve. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Sun, 03/10/2024 - 11:17

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Free State focuses on job creation

Location: News

Free State focuses on job creation

Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana says the province is hard at work to lessen the burden of unemployment.

In his State of the Province Address on Friday, Dukwana said unemployment fell from 38.5% in the third quarter of 2023 to 37% in the fourth quarter.

“Our Expanded Public Works Programme and the Presidential Employment Stimulus is a demonstration of our efforts to ignite economic growth,” he said.

Dukwana said since 2019, the province has created 282 907 work opportunities against a five-year target of 260 000 work opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).

“The Presidential Employment Stimulus enabled us to benefit from the creation of 87 357 job opportunities, supporting 24 733 livelihoods and retaining 1 680 jobs in the period between April to December 2023.

“These statistics include the 6 964 Education Assistants and 8 285 General School Assistants in the Department of Education. At the core of this education programme is the placement of unemployed youth in schools.

“This further illustrates how we give practical effect to our commitment to address youth unemployment. We must strengthen the coordination and maximise our participation in this programme,” Dukwana said.

He said a strong agricultural sector is key for food security, job creation, poverty alleviation and rural development.

“Work is underway to position the Free State as the champion of the agricultural green revolution in the country. A total of 4 543 producers were trained, and 249 students graduated from the Glen Agricultural College.

“We facilitated 19 023 export certificates, 29 419 hectares of land was rehabilitated and 987 hectares was cultivated using conservation practices. This will preserve the environment and increase production of organic products.

“Work is underway to avail provincial and municipal land for youth, women, people with disabilities and military veterans for farming purposes. We will increase investment to support the commercialisation of black farmers, investment in agro-logistics infrastructure and open new markets,” he said.

Dukwana said the province is hard at work to position the Free State as the country’s central energy logistics, distribution and beneficiation hub.

“The province has immense opportunities in natural gas, solar, coal, ethanol, wind, uranium, hydropower and hydrogen to power the future of our country,” he said.

30 Years of democracy

Dukwana said with 2024 marking 30 years of freedom and democracy, there is much to take note of.

“It is a year that builds a bridge between our tragic past, encouraging present and a brighter future... With the birth of democracy, the stage was set to carve a path anchored firmly on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights,” Dukwana said.

The Premier said central to the democratic transformation process is improving the living conditions of South Africans and fostering shared economic growth.

“Driven by the relentless desire for a better life for all, we have over the past 30 years, invested time, resources and commitment in fighting the triple challenge of unemployment, poverty and inequality.

“The courage of our people continues to be rewarded. Their hopes and dreams continue to be the spark that impels us to even greater heights. Signs are everywhere that the Free State is a province on the move, confident in our actions and optimistic in our future trajectory.

“We are making the most of our potential, harnessing our development efforts and leaving no one behind in a Social Compact with our people,” Dukwana said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 13:28

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Gauteng emerging farmers urged to apply for funding

Location: News

Gauteng emerging farmers urged to apply for funding

Emerging farmers in the priority areas of poultry, piggery, grains, vegetables, red meat, cannabis, aquaculture, rabbit, bee farming and agri-processing have been invited to apply for funding.

This is part of the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment’s efforts to grow the agricultural sector, create jobs and alleviate poverty in the province.

The CASP which closes on Friday, is informed by the department’s elevated priority focus to maintain sustainable food security in the province.

“We are making a call to the historically disadvantaged and the vulnerable groups, our women, youth and people living with disabilities to apply for the farmer support grant and become part of our relentless fight against food insecurity,” said Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Mbali Hlophe, on Sunday.

Hlophe said the farmer support programme is aimed at providing Small Medium and Micro Enterprise farmers with a much needed boost towards their farming establishments.

The relief programme is building on its previous successes which has seen an average of 250 beneficiaries per annum empowered into the mainstream economy since its establishment in 2004.

The annual subsidy is available to groups and individuals as a once-off intervention so that the department can cover a wider spectrum of beneficiaries for reasonable impact.

To remain transparent, the process takes place under the microscope of an independent evaluation and adjudication panel.

The panel consists of professionals from various fields including economists, animal scientists, crop scientists, engineers, and food scientists.

Potential beneficiaries need to meet the following conditional requirements to apply:

• Application form must be signed and dated

• Registered business on the farmers registers

• South African Certified ID (not more than three months)

• Valid confirmation of land tenure/ownership such as tittle deeds, permission to occupy land and/or minimum five years lease agreement.

• Already farming

• Farming operation’s ability to create permanent or seasonal jobs

• In cases where the Environment Impact Assessment certificate is required, such evidence must be provided.

Once all these have been met, applications may be emailed to: GDARDFARMERSUPPORT@gauteng.gov.za.

Prospective applicants can obtain forms from the following satellite offices:

  • Germiston Regional Office, 247 President Street
  • Vereeniging Regional Office, 36 Merriman Street,
  • Temba Animal Clinic,Stand 16 Stellenbosch, Jubilee Road and
  • Bronkhorstspruit, 55 Market Street

SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 15:00

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Tee off 2024 with the right balance of work and play on KZN’s ‘Golf Coast’

Location: MyPR

Golf remains one of the world’s most popular sports, and a key strategy for business networking and engagement. The KZN South Coast, known colloquially as ‘The Golf Coast’, is home to 11 different courses with a backdrop of ocean views, coastal forests, and sunny skies. This quality MICE destination, with top accommodation, conferencing, and teambuilding …

Read moreTee off 2024 with the right balance of work and play on KZN’s ‘Golf Coast’

SIU updates Parliament on NLC corruption investigation

Location: News

SIU updates Parliament on NLC corruption investigation

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has completed 90% of the second phase in its three-phased National Lotteries Commission (NLC) investigation.

The unit said in a statement on Wednesday the investigation in its totality is worth approximately R1.4 billion which the state and the NLC have allegedly lost due to corruption at the organisation.

The value of each phase is:

• Phase 1 - R279 710 409.

• Phase 2 -R246 659 310.

• Phase 3 - R905 901.910.04

The SIU appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry on Wednesday to give an update on the investigation. In the presentation, SIU revealed new investigation findings.

One of the findings is related to award-winning actress, Moiteri Pheto, who unduly benefitted once again from the NLC grant funding.

The NLC approved grant funding of R5 million to Zibisibix Non-Profit Company for a chicken farm in December 2018. After receiving the R5 million, money moved from the account and the following payments were made:

• Black Planet Trading (Director: Thula Sindi) of an amount of R140 000.00

• Tsoseletso (Director: Moitheri Pheto) - R253 000.00

• Pheto Safe and Cleaning (Director: Dimakatso Pheto) - R124 000.00

• Sunguti projects (Director: Moitheri Pheto) - R2 800 000.00

• Moitheri Pheto’s personal bank account - R182 000.00

• Dimakatso Pheto (Moitheri’s sister) - R315 500.00

• Vehicle dealership- R252 400

• Agricultural Supplies- R209 500

The farm was purchased for R850 000, and the SIU found that the former chairperson of the NLC board Professor Alfred Nevhutanda signed the offer to purchase the farm in the Vaal area.

“Furthermore, the evidence that SIU gathered revealed that the farm was purchased for the benefit of Dimakatso Pheto. The case has been referred for civil litigation for recovery and criminal referrals are being prepared,” it said.

The SIU also presented to Parliament how the South African Youth Movement (SAYM) applied for grant funding on behalf of the Presley Chweneyagae Foundation, which belong to award winning actor, Presley Chweneyagae.

The main purpose of the application was for the Take Back the Future Musical, Documentary and Poetry Arts programme. The NLC approved a grant funding of an amount of R15 million.

From the R15 million, R2 999 967.00 was transferred to Iron Bridge Travelling Agency and Events in August 2016. Iron Bridge Travelling Agency and Events is owned by the former NLC Chief Operating Officer, Phillemon Letwaba’s wife, Rebotile Malomane.

In May 2017, a further R950 190.00 was transferred to VNMM Consulting Engineers CC. VNMM Consulting Engineers is owned by Prof Nevhutanda’s son-in-law, Meshack Makhubela. On 25 May 2017, an amount of R500 000 with a reference plot purchase was transferred to conveyancing attorneys.

From the balance of R 450 190, Prof Nevhutanda received R100 000 for a bus purchase and a further R60 000 for a funeral and debit orders for a car finance account.

The SIU investigation revealed how a non-profit organisation (NPO) was hijacked and funds that were meant to uplift poor women in Marikana and the surrounding areas in the North West province on a chicken farming project were misused.

The application was adjudicated and the grant funding for the value of R13 million was awarded to an NPO and was to be paid in two tranches of R7 million and R6 million. In November 2020, the hijacked NPO made an application for additional funding and received a further R3.5 million.

The SIU’s investigation revealed that a shelf company named Silverlite Trading bought the land in Marikana for this project for R400 000. Advocate William Huma, a former NLC board member is the current sole director of Silverlight.

The SIU went on a site visit and found that the farm was well-built and completed. The chicken farm contains a workers' house, guard house, egg packaging and storehouse and chicken egg production house and there is a borehole.

However, since the chicken farm is not in operation. It is being vandalised, and some of the electric cables and solar panels were stolen from the farm.

The SIU has so far made eight criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Unit and 11 disciplinary referrals to NLC officials.

The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R32 of 2020, authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of NLC and the conduct of NLC officials and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State.

In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 13:22

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Gauteng Health cautions against risky sexual behaviour as STI infection rises

Location: News

Gauteng Health cautions against risky sexual behaviour as STI infection rises

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has cautioned the public against engaging in risky sexual behaviour, as this increases the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV infection.

Between April and December 2023, 167 109 males presented at public health facilities across the province and 67 400 (40%) were treated for male urethritis syndrome (MUS). 

According to the provincial department, the MUS data accurately reflect newly acquired STIs. 

Symptoms of MUS include discharge from the penis and burning urination. 

If left untreated, complications can include pain and swelling of the testes, while gonorrhoeae and chlamydia are the most predominant cause of MUS in South Africa.

In 2020, the MUS incidence in the province was recorded at 12% and has increased over the years to 15% in 2023. 

The department said it has noticed a peak of STI incidence in sub-districts E (Alexandra and Sandton) and F (Inner City, Braamfontein and Hillbrow) in Johannesburg. 

Some areas include the Merafong sub-district in the West Rand, Katlehong, Ekurhuleni South, Germiston, Katlehong and Vooslorus, Lesedi in Sedibeng and Bronkhorstspruit in Tshwane.

Sub-districts E and F in Johannesburg have tertiary institutions and high-risk individuals such as sex workers and people who inject drugs.

Meanwhile, Merafong is a mining area with a majority male population. Region 7 has farming areas, where cultural norms hinder the uptake of services, especially amongst men.

Ekurhuleni South and Lesedi have technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges, informal settlements, truck stops and hostels.

The GDoH has implemented a combination of prevention intervention approaches, which incorporate STI components in these areas such as the promotion of consistent use of male and female condoms, which are free and available in health facilities. 

The interventions also involve encouraging the reduction in the number of sexual partners, increased uptake of HIV counselling and testing, STI screening, delayed sexual debut, as well as the promotion of sexual wellbeing.

The MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has urged people who are sexually active to use male and female condoms, which they can access free at their local healthcare centres to protect themselves against STIs and HIV.

She said the rise in MUS is attributed to high rates of unsafe behaviour such as non-use of condoms while engaging in vaginal or anal sex, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, high levels of substance use and cultural norms.

“Our clinics provide free condoms and STI and HIV prevention, testing and treatment services. We should not let STIs go untreated, as they increase the risk of HIV infection and transmission, which will hamper the province’s goal to reduce new HIV infections by 2030,” emphasised Nkomo-Ralehoko.

In addition, the MEC encouraged women to start early antenatal care as soon as they realise that they are pregnant for thorough screening of any STI, and appropriate and timely treatment for those who test positive.

Between April and December 2023, she said 1 255 out of 66 377 pregnant women who presented at our facilities for antenatal care for the first time tested positive for syphilis.

“If left untreated in pregnant women, syphilis can have adverse outcomes for the growing baby as well as increased morbidity in the mother. It can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy (congenital syphilis), leading to stillbirths, health complications, congenital deformities and even infant death,” said the concerned MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.

The MEC also said that there has been a noticeable increase in women who are presenting at health facilities to be initiated on Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), which is an antiretroviral drug prescribed for HIV-negative people to prevent them from becoming infected with HIV. 

Between April and November 2023, 38 305 females aged 15 to 49 years were initiated on PrEP, compared to 11 988 males.

“We believe that the high uptake of PrEP among women has led this group to have unprotected sex resulting in a high incidence of MUS. The studies have reported that STI incidence is also high among young women receiving PrEP.

“We would like to encourage more males to get initiated on PrEP to protect themselves against STIs. Additionally, both men and women who are on PrEP should use condoms to protect themselves against STIs, HIV and unwanted pregnancies,” the MEC said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Mon, 02/12/2024 - 11:29

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Read moreGauteng Health cautions against risky sexual behaviour as STI infection rises

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

Serenity Hills shows its commitment to conservation

Location: MyPR

As an eco-focused estate, Serenity Hills on the KZN South Coast is developing an environmentally-conscious space in harmony with the incredible nature assets found in this space. This commitment is underscored by Serenity Hills’ recent acquisition of the title ‘Green Custodians of FreeMe Wildlife’ earlier this month. From the start, developers have prioritised real sustainability …

Read moreSerenity Hills shows its commitment to conservation

Naspers Labs-backed SA Harvest Programme Empowers Youth with Agriculture Skills

Location: MyPR

Ten post-graduate students who were previously unemployed recently embarked on a remarkable journey from Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, to Tzaneen, Limpopo Province, as part of the SA Harvest entrepreneurial incubator initiative. Supported by Naspers Labs, this programme aims to equip young individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become self-sufficient agri-food entrepreneurs. These ten students …

Read moreNaspers Labs-backed SA Harvest Programme Empowers Youth with Agriculture Skills

Nguni cattle handover boosts commercialisation efforts

Location: News

Nguni cattle handover boosts commercialisation efforts

Farmers in the Eastern Cape have welcomed the handover of 17 Nguni cattle bulls as part of the Livestock Production Improvement Scheme (LPIS).

The handover was recently officiated by the Eastern Cape MEC of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Nonkqubela Pieters.

The provincial Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) is driving the commercialisation of livestock development in communal and smallholder farming communities in order to increase red meat production in the Eastern Cape.

Through partnerships with the private and public sector, the department continues to support farmers to participate in the agricultural value chain, contribute to the economy and create jobs.

The livestock was handed over to farmers in the Sarah Baartman, Amathole and OR Tambo Districts. The initiative was made possible by the department in partnership with the East Cape Nguni Club and the Dohne Agricultural Development Institute.

“…These cattle [are beautiful] and they are given to [the farmers] so that they can make money. I’m giving [them] a responsibility to guard their money.

“Our aim is to develop farmers to become commercial, hence this programme and we encourage farmers to guard and use these animals wisely for the benefit of their businesses,” Pieters said.

Farmers expressed their gratitude, saying the bulls will improve the quality of their livestock and fetch good prices at the market.

Ntombomzi Qeqe-Lwana, of Die Vlagte farm in Somerset East, hailed the department’s endeavours to ensure communal farmers are given resources and investments that will help them produce quality meat and get profits.

“I thank the department very much for these Nguni bulls because it will assist me to change my flock and my customers will get satisfaction. This handover came at a good time. When we start the new year, we will know we have quality breeds to develop our cattle.

“It’s a good programme as it assists us to venture into markets and get profits so that we can fend for our families and create employment,” Qeqe-Lwana said.

Sicelo Rozani from Libode said he was farming with both cattle and sheep. He applied for assistance from the department and was elated to get two bulls.

“We are very grateful to the department for this gift. It will assist us in growing our enterprises in the rural space,” Rozani said.

In the 2023/24 financial year, the department set aside a budget of R12.8 million to support communal and smallholder farmers with 250 cattle, 500 sheep and 200 goats to enhance red meat and animal fibre development in the province. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 11:09

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Makhathini Lower Pongola water association to ensure objective water management

Location: News

Makhathini Lower Pongola water association to ensure fair water management

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu says the Makhathini Lower Pongola Water Users Association will ensure fair water management for those living in the uMkhanyakude and Zululand Districts, KwaZulu-Natal.

Mchunu made the remarks following the launch of Makhathini Lower Pongola Water Users Association, which will manage water resources, including the Jozini Dam, Pongola River and Makhathini Canal to benefit all water users in the two districts.

Accompanied by Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Minister, Thoko Didiza, and her Deputy Nokuzola Capa, Mchunu and his Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, recently held a community engagement activity in the two districts.

The ministerial visit to the districts formed part of Mchunu’s continued efforts to intervene in the challenges faced by uMkhanyakude District to restore, augment and expand water supply to the communities that have been experiencing water challenges.

Mchunu assured the community of Jozini (in uMkhanyakude District) and the Pongola farming community (under the Zululand District Municipality) that there will be fair and equitable access to water for consumption and farming.
 
“The newly established Makhathini Lower Pongola Water User Association will facilitate and coordinate stakeholder consultation for ensuring equitable decision-making when water is being released from Jozini Dam for environment and socio-economic purposes. This will enable both domestic and agricultural users to have equitable access to water,” Mchunu said.

The community of Kwa-Gumbi, near Pongola in Zululand District, who had water use licence issues, requested the Minister to intervene.

The community, which consists of small-scale farmers represented by Emvokweni Community Trust, are beneficiaries of the land restitution programme from the the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DARRLD). 

Both Mchunu and Didiza have pledged their commitment to assist the farmers to restore farming operations. Mchunu also assured the farming community of water availability to ensure sustainable irrigation on their farms.

The 32-kilometre Makhathini Canal was officially unveiled by Mchunu following its transfer to the Department of Water and Sanitation from the landowners, Silwane Trust. 

The process of the canal transfer was facilitated by the Agribusiness Development Agency (ADA), a public entity under the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development in KwaZulu-Natal.

During the walkabout to assess the canal, Mchunu and Mahlobo noted that some parts of the canal have been vandalised, with some community members making illegal connections, which has led to infrastructure damage. Water pollution has also been identified as one of the major problems at the canal. 

Mchunu said an estimated R122 million will be required to refurbish the dilapidating canal to function optimally.

He said the water canal, with a capacity of 141 754 cubic metres, is meant to benefit both agriculture and domestic users. 

“It abstracts raw water from Jozini Dam to six different pump stations and the pressurised water is distributed from the pump stations through an extensive network of underground pipelines to four different types of irrigation systems that are being used, which are sprinklers, centre pivots, floods and drip,” Mchunu said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Mon, 12/18/2023 - 10:48

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Cabinet welcomes measures establish in plot by Transnet

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes measures put in place by Transnet

Cabinet has welcomed measures and plans put in place by Transnet to resolve the backlog at ports in Durban and Richard’s Bay. 

Briefing the media on the Cabinet meeting that took place on Wednesday, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said Transnet is making intensive efforts to mobilise equipment, such as cranes, from all over the world to ensure a successful execution of its implementation plan. 

“The progress made by Transnet in clearing most of the backlog at the Cape Town Container Terminal, with only one vessel at anchorage, is encouraging. Transnet remains committed to working with all role-players to address the challenges within the logistics sector,” the Minister said on Thursday.

Last week, Transnet said it was implementing a number of urgent interventions to address the backlogs at the Port of Durban and to ease the congestion at Richards Bay.

At the time, Transnet said the backlog was being caused by factors including inclement weather conditions and equipment availability.

Transnet Board Chairperson, Andile Sangqu, said: “The problem of port congestion is a complex one and it is something that was due to happen at some point, as a result of many years of underinvestment in equipment and its maintenance.

“We are working on a number of measures to turn the situation around. We need to caution that this is going to take some time as the lead times for some of the equipment is anything from 12 to 18 months. The team is working around the clock to procure this important equipment, to ensure our port facilities are in line with global best practice”.

Infrastructure development

Meanwhile, Cabinet has welcomed progress that is being achieved in the development and revitalisation of infrastructure for social development. 

“In this regard, Cabinet is pleased by the opening of Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. The hospital, which was opened by President Cyril Ramaphosa, will service the growing healthcare needs of the approximately 1.5 million residents of Inanda, Ntuzuma and Kwa-Mashu, and communities in adjacent areas,” Ntshavheni said. 

In addition, Cabinet has also welcomed the opening of the uMgungundlovu Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college (Msinga campus) in KwaZulu-Natal by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande. 

The TVET college campus that was built at a cost of  R143.5 million offers training in areas such as Farming Management and Mechatronics, amongst others. 

“This campus is part of government’s commitment to ensure that there is at least one TVET college per district, and more than one in districts with a larger geographic spread. It is part of government’s continued and intentional investment to improve access to post-matric education, as part of equipping the nation for the future,” Cabinet said. - SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 11/30/2023 - 15:43

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Husqvarna’s Versatile TF 545DE Diesel Tiller – The Small Farmer’s “Swiss Army Knife” Solution

Location: MyPR

For small farmers, keeping production costs as low as possible isn’t just a financial strategy, it’s a survival tactic. With profit margins that are often as narrow as a furrow, every Rand conserved is a victory won – so innovations that save time and money are a massive plus. Husqvarna is passionate about land care …

Read moreHusqvarna’s Versatile TF 545DE Diesel Tiller – The Small Farmer’s “Swiss Army Knife” Solution

Investment in teaching and learning infrastructure pays off

Location: News

Investment in teaching and learning infrastructure pays off

Gabi Khumalo

Government’s commitment to strengthening and developing the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector, has brought about change to the community of Msinga.

The community recently witnessed the opening of a new state-of-the-art campus of the uMgungundlovu Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College.

Officially opened by Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, the Msinga Campus which is located in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, is part of the response to the community, which has been calling for the building and upgrading of the college.

This commitment to strengthening the PSET sector was made through investing in infrastructure to provide quality teaching, learning and research, and innovation spaces.

The campus, which was built by the Department of Higher Education and Training, as part of its TVET Infrastructure Development Programme, is funded in part through the National Skills Fund (NSF) and the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA).

The R143 561 753.44 Msinga campus commenced with formal programme provision at the new site in January 2022. To date, the campus has three buildings.

These include the administration block that contains offices, a staff room, exam centre and the official reception site. The theory building consists of two computer laboratories that can accommodate up to 70 students each, and double sized classrooms. Included on the campus is an engineering block that consists of four workshops, as well as smaller skills venues on the upper floor.

Programmes offered

The campus offers National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) programmes, including Nated Public Management (N4-N6), Nated Business Management (N4 – N6) and Farming Management.

The campus also offers a new National Certificate Vocational programme in Mechatronics Level 2 – Level 4, which the Minister described as a cutting edge Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) programme.

The decision to offer this programme to the young people of Msinga according to Nzimande was because “we want this youth to be highly skilled and be able to compete at any level with the youth that is based in urban areas, including competing with the any youth at an international level.”

“Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field that refers to the skill sets needed in the contemporary, advanced automated manufacturing industry. Mechatronics specialists work with massive industrial robots, smaller robots in pick-and-place operations, control systems for bottling or packaging of food and drink products, drones, designing control systems for rides in amusement parks, [and] prototype development.

“Some mechatronics specialists are employed in firms where it is necessary to design and maintain automatic equipment [and] this includes industries such as manufacturing, mining, aviation, robotics, defence, and transport. Other mechatronic specialists are employed by large manufacturing companies involved in high-volume production,” Nzimande explained.

Nzimande also highlighted that mechatronics is a financially lucrative career with the average mechatronic engineer earning around R360 000 per year or R185 per hour in South Africa. He said the entry-level positions start at R300 000 per year, while most experienced workers make up to R4 050 000 per year and more.

Investment

The Department of Higher Education and Training has identified the expansion of the TVET sector as a national priority in the Post-School Education and Training system. This as 13 new campuses have been identified for development with three existing campuses identified for additional buildings.

“We have embarked on this intense expansion programme to ensure that our post school education and training sector produce[s] many technical and vocational skills and to also reinvigorate the South African construction industry and the economy in general,” Nzimande said.

The department has invested over R2.880 billion in the development and refurbishment of 16 new TVET campuses that will enable the expansion of the TVET system over the medium term.

Of the 16 sites, 10 campuses, including Thabazimbi, Umzimkhulu, Graaf-Reinet, Nongoma Msinga, Aliwal North, Kwagqikazi, Ngqungqushe, Nkandla A and Bhambanani are completed.

Nzimande said the three new campuses, including Greytown, Sterkspruit and Balfour are at their final stages of completion, while the remaining three sites of Vryheid, Giyani and Nkandla B will be completed by the end of the 2023/24 financial year with enrolments planned for 2024/25.

Skills

The Minister reiterated the vision and objective for the public TVET colleges sector, which is to expand and strengthen the TVET sub-system in order to provide quality technical and vocational education and training to prepare students for the world of work, self-employment and other forms of sustainable livelihoods.

However, Nzimande acknowledged the constraints caused by skills ‘mismatches,’ --as being real and perceived-- towards the attainment of the TVET colleges’ objective, particularly the ability to grow the country’s economy, which further perpetuates a barrier to social inclusion and poverty reduction.

In response to this mismatch, the department has since developed a one country one skills plan – the Master Skills Plan, which is an implementation plan of the Human Resource Development Strategy.

“In order for our sector to invest in relevant skills development, we are also using the National List of Occupations in High Demand (OIHD) in South Africa, which is one of the many instruments that guides government’s investment in skills development.

“This list has 345 occupations that are in high demand [and] tells us which occupations are likely to have what vacancies and which occupations are likely to grow due to new investments, by both government and the private sector,” he said.

The Minister is confident that the skills that students will acquire at Msinga College, will take them to greater heights with prospects of a successful career.

To further illustrate government’s commitment to massify skills development, in 2018 the department embarked on a campaign to launch 26 Centres of Specialisation located in 19 of 50 TVET colleges prioritising 13 occupational trades in high demand.

This move aimed to curb the shortage of trade and occupational skills, while reducing unemployment and poverty.

The centres were provided with resources to upgrade their workshops and equipment to deliver effectively on much-needed skills.

“These Centres of Specialisation are well positioned to prepare students for the workplace, or for self-employment, through the maintenance of close working relationships with employers in their areas of study. We have also established entrepreneurship hubs at TVET Colleges to support students to move into self-employment after completion of their programmes.”

Artisans

Nzimande also believes that the country is well on track to produce 30 000 qualified artisans per year by 2030.

This follows the launch of the Decade of the Artisan campaign in 2013, which promotes artisanship as a career of choice for the youth.

Launched under the theme: “It’s cool to be a 21st Century Artisan”, the campaign ensures the development of the necessary artisans to successfully implement the country’s Strategic Infrastructure Projects, which include the construction of roads, schools, universities, harbours, power stations, and other social and economic infrastructure.

“The reality is that South Africa needs at least 60% of school leavers to pursue artisanal type training to meet the country’s demand for scarce skills. We honestly need to do more to encourage school leavers to pursue technical trades.

“Our Government’s National Development Plan (NDP) and our White Paper for Post-School Education and Training expects of us that by 2030, the country should be producing 30 000 qualified artisans per year. At present, our country is producing an average 20 000 qualified artisans per year,” Nzimande said.

He stressed the need to ensure that the number increase drastically leading up to 2030 for the country to realise the NDP target.

“We however do believe that we are well on track to attain this goal and even surpass it. The Msinga campus is very much part of this agenda and will help us greatly to produce more artisans.”

Nzimande said with the current challenges within different sectors in society, more artisans are needed than ever before and the work of artisans will always be guaranteed.

Progress made to date, shows that government is burning the candle at both ends. – SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 15:37

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