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Mashatile, CoGTA and businesses to convene dialogue to strengthen local government 

Location: News

Mashatile, CoGTA and businesses to convene dialogue to strengthen local government 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in partnership with the National Business Initiative (NBI), will hold a dialogue to enhance service delivery through strengthening local government in cooperation with the Ministry of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA).

The discussion will revolve around co-creating a functional and efficient society, and how the public and private sectors can collaborate to strengthen local government.

Deputy President Mashatile, CoGTA Minister Thembi Nkadimeng, and Deputy Minister Parks Tau will lead the dialogue on Wednesday, 17 April 2024 in Sandton. 

“The dialogue will also see prominent government leaders across the three spheres of government, business leaders, non-governmental organisations, state institutions and international organisations come together to build a best practice forum, that will guide the public-private partnership model for a successful running of local government,” the statement read. 

The Presidency described this engagement as an important step towards implementing the District Development Model (DDM) strategic partnership framework.

The Deputy President is tasked to assist the President in the rollout of the DDM through effective coordination of the different spheres of government, which will improve the functioning of municipalities and address community concerns. 

“In this regard, the desired output of the dialogue is a collective implementation plan anchored on the DDM. It is within this context that a call for partnerships and collaborations is pursued, to harness all society’s efforts through the cooperation between the National Department of Cooperative Governance and the NBI.” 

According to the statement, the dialogue will reflect on the achievements of the last 30 years of freedom and democracy as well as build on the good work going forward towards the seventh administration. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/11/2024 - 12:08

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Home Affairs clarifies misunderstanding on visas

Location: News

Home Affairs clarifies misunderstanding on visas

Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has moved to clarify a misunderstanding on the gazetted regulations recommendations on the Critical Skills and General Work Visas.

This comes after some media reports had stated that the department had done away with the Critical Skills Visa in favour of a point-based system.

Briefing the media on the Second Amendment of the Immigration Regulation 2014 on Tuesday, Motsoaledi pointed out that section 19(4) of the Immigration Act states that a Critical Skills Work Visa may be issued by the Director-General to an individual possessing such skills or qualifications determined to be critical for the Republic from time to time by the Minister by notice in the gazette.

However, section 19(2) of the Act states that a General Work Visa may be issued by the Director-General to a foreigner not falling within the category contemplated in sub-section 4 and who complies with prescribed requirements. 

“Sub-section 4 is the one dealing with critical skills [and] this means general work is anything that is not covered in the critical skills list. The prescribed requirements mentioned in the Act are found in regulation 18 (3) of the previous regulation before the amendments.” Motsoaledi said.

He emphasised that the department has not cancelled the Critical Skills Work Visa but has changed the manner in which the visa was previously operating.

“In the past, a critical skills list visa was issued every four years, and the Minister of Home Affairs is supposed to gazette skills that are critical to the economy of the country. But Home Affairs does not have the capacity, nor the knowledge, nor the skills to know what is required. 

“What Home Affairs does is go to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). The DHET usually asks the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), and the council will work with other institutions, including labour market surveys, to put up a list of skills which they think are critical for the economy of the country,” Motsoaledi explained.

The Minister also noted that critical skills are not necessarily referring to important skills or prestigious skills like some people believe. 

“A critical skill is that which is critical for the functioning of the economy but there are few South Africans who can do that work, and so we are forced to go beyond the borders of this country to look for those people with such skills.

“Once the profession we have got appears on that critical skills list, which would have been gazetted by the Minister of Home Affairs, you get a letter of employment, then Home Affairs is forced to give you a Critical Skills Work Visa,” Motsoaledi explained, adding that the visa is one of the easiest to give, as it only requires a profession.

On the General Work Visa amendment, Motsoaledi said employers are no longer required to go to the Department of Employment and Labour, but the visa would be approved through a point-based system.

“We are going to give you points, and on the basis of that point you have to reach a particular mark, then you get your visa,” the Minister said.

The Minister said the point-based system will consider at least six criteria, including age; qualifications; language skills, work experience; offer of employment; and the ability to adapt within the Republic.
 
However, Motsoaledi said the department is considering replacing the ability to adapt within the Republic with income or salary being offered to an individual.

New work visa regulations withdrawn

Meanwhile, Motsoaledi announced the withdrawal of the new work visa regulations, which were gazetted on 28 March 2024 for public comments, a day before the closing date for public comments on the draft policy.

This follows the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) meeting held last week, where the process was questioned and NEDLAC demanded the withdrawal of the regulations.

“These regulations are being withdrawn in the government gazette, simply to rectify this small error, not that we are going to change them. In the process we will change other smaller issues which we have picked up which may not [have] been understood," he said.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Wed, 04/10/2024 - 09:06

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Unlocking Malawi’s Trade Barriers Through One-Stop Border Posts

Location: News

The World Bank Group
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Malawi's economy suffers from a lack of investment and high trade costs due to poor logistics and infrastructure; Clearing goods at the Malawi-Dedza border post with Mozambique previously took an average of three days; One-Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) reduce border waiting times and the cost of cross-border transactions.

The Dedza border post, situated between Malawi and Mozambique, is a busy place. On average, more than 80 trucks are cleared daily, carrying shop merchandise from South Africa to Malawi including fertilizers for Malawi's agriculture sector.

For the past few years, before the construction of the new One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) facility, it took about 24 to 36 hours to clear a truck carrying items such as wheat, fertilizers, groceries, and raw materials for Malawi's manufacturing industry. Drivers and clearing agents had to dash from one office to another between the two countries to clear the goods. Malawian traders traveling to and from South Africa through the Dedza–Mozambique border had difficulty locating the appropriate offices to present the required paperwork. In addition, the lack of parking facilities meant that the road leading to the border post was always congested, as trucks scrambled for space to park while waiting to be cleared.

Establishing One-Stop Border Posts

In 2015, the Government of Malawi embarked on an ambitious program to construct border posts in Dedza and Mwanza (both bordering Mozambique) and Songwe (bordering Tanzania), set up OSBPs with these neighboring countries, and establish the National Single Window (NSW). The NSW is an electronic platform system connecting international trade and transport stakeholders to fulfill all imports, exports, and transit border control procedures. World Bank support of $91.7 million was provided through the Southern Africa Trade and Transport Facilitation Project. The objective was to reduce the cost of cross-border transactions by supporting the modernization, simplification, and harmonization of the trade and transit procedures and policies.

The Dedza One-Stop Border Post, which was completed in 2023, boasts two examination bays for goods, parking spots for 100 freight trucks, and a modern passenger terminal.

“We now take less than half a day to process all the paperwork to clear the goods that we have carried, which is far less than the minimum of three days that we used to spend here,” says Flatella Makwakwa, a truck driver who has been using the Dedza border for more than three years. He also acknowledges the benefits of the new system when it comes to facilitating the passing of trucks and making life more comfortable for the users.

The new office infrastructure has made the process of clearing goods easier for the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), various other border officers, and users. The OSBP concept requires border officers from adjacent countries to be hosted in the same building. “It now feels good to go to work as the environment looks spacious and comfortable and we are looking forward to hosting our Mozambique counterparts very soon,” says Lucy Chikhawo, the MRA Station Manager for the Dedza border post which hosts more than a hundred government officers—including those from the Malawi Bureau of Standards, Immigration, Police, Agriculture and Health.

Traders also have access to better sanitation facilities as they wait for their goods to be cleared.

“From the feedback we have received so far about the Dedza OSBP, we feel encouraged to support the government in fast-tracking the completion of the other two border posts at Mwanza and Songwe in Karonga. Our main goal is to support initiatives that reduce time to clear passengers and goods, as any impediments are costly to the economy of the country,” says Chikondi Nsusa, Senior Transport Specialist at the World Bank Malawi Country Office, who is also the Task Team Leader for the project.

Improving Malawi's Trade, Logistics, and Infrastructure

The latest Malawi Country Economic Memorandum report highlights that Malawi's economy suffers from a lack of investment and high trade costs. Key reasons include poor logistics and infrastructure, compounded by being a small and landlocked country, as well as other non-tariff barriers at the borders.

According to the document, “the presence of non-tariff barriers at the border and in neighboring transit countries such as Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zambia add to the costs of trade for Malawian exporters and importers and there is lack of coordination between Malawi and its neighbors to address this issue that likely reduces both the number of firms exporting and the total value of exported goods.” In this context, establishing more OSBPs is a big step in the right direction.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

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President Ramaphosa, President Masisi to visit bus accident site in Limpopo

Location: News

President Ramaphosa, President Masisi to visit bus accident site in Limpopo

President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Botswana counterpart, President Mokgweetsi Masisi, will on Thursday visit the site of a bus accident in Limpopo that claimed the lives of 45 people.

A bus travelling from Molepolole in Botswana to Moria in Limpopo, to celebrate Easter, plunged off the bridge along the Mmamatlakala Pass on 28 March 2024. 

The tragic crash claimed 45 Botswana Easter pilgrims, with an eight-year-old being the sole survivor.

According to the Presidency, the Heads of State and Government will commence the visit in Limpopo with a closed briefing by officials in Mokopane before visiting the accident scene along the R518. 

“President Ramaphosa conveyed condolences on behalf of the government of South Africa to Botswana following the tragic accident of a bus transporting Easter pilgrims to Moria,” the statement read. 

The closed session briefing by expert officials will take place in Mokopane at 10:30am, followed by a bus accident site visit by the two Presidents at Mmamatlakale Bridge in the afternoon. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 14:24

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Mopping up and damage assessment continue after cut-off low system

Location: News

Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government
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“Although the extreme weather is over, the public are asked to please be aware of potentially dangerous conditions in large parts of the province,” Anton Bredell, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning said today.

 During the Joint Operations Meeting hosted by the Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) it was highlighted that many secondary roads and low-level river crossings are still flooded. The following road safety aspects were highlighted for the public:

  • Please obey all road signs.
  •  If you are driving and come across flooded roads, please take great care.
  • If the water is too deep for you to see the roadway, turn around and take another route.
  •  Where roads are underwater, the roadway may have been damaged or washed away.
  •  There may be obstacles under the water that you cannot see.
  • Water flow may be strong enough to wash your vehicle away.
  • Keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the road.

Rock falls and mudslides will remain a real danger for the next week or more, and the public are asked to remain vigilant in this regard.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde inspected the Bot River at the N2 earlier today which was washed away during heavy rainfall last year. He also visited the Buffelsjag River bridge near Swellendam which was overflowing as a result of the heavy rainfall. “I was relieved to see that the N2 at Bot River withstood the recent heavy rainfall. I appeal to the public to please exercise extreme caution on our roads following the severe weather.”

Premier Alan Winde said that the focus now shifts to humanitarian work, such as identifying people who lost their shelter and access to basic amenities during the storm. “Through the coordination of our Department of Social Development, we are working closely with the NGO sector, local municipalities, as well as national departments to ensure that affected people receive shelter and food.”

Municipalities will now start with damage assessments with the support of the Provincial Disaster Management Centre and relevant government departments. Once compiled, the PDMC will approach the National Disaster Management Centre for a disaster classification, which is the first step in applying for additional funding to repair damages.

In the Rarden Route, it was reported that most estuaries are subsiding from the very high levels reported yesterday. Gamkaskloof is still flooded, with reports of a total of 12 people possibly needing evacuation. The Gamkapoort dam, which reached a highpoint of 154% late last night, has already dropped to 146% early this morning. There will be focus today on evaluating the conditions of the Matjiesvlei and Huysrivier area, also with the possibility of some people being cut off from main access routes.

According to the South African Weather Services no additional weather warnings are being issued, although light rain during the day, and possible showers later in the afternoon will persist over parts of the Southern Cape today.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic Of South Africa: Western Cape Provincial Government.

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1 000 permanent officials appointed for the Correctional Services

Location: News

1 000 permanent officials appointed for the Correctional Services

The Department of Correctional Services’ National Commissioner, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, has approved the permanent appointment of 1 003 learners as correctional officials for the 2024/25 financial year.

According to the department, the move is a demonstration of government’s foremost priority of creating opportunities for young people and supporting them to access work opportunities. 

This means the youngsters, who took part in the 12-month Correctional Services Learnership NQF Level 4 programme in 2022 and were subsequently hired as auxiliary support officials on a contractual basis, have now been offered permanent positions starting from 1 April 2024.

The learnership programme also includes practical training at correctional centres. 

As per the statement, 466 correctional officials were appointed in the Western Cape, 214 in KwaZulu-Natal, 107 in the Eastern Cape, 75 each in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West, 69 in both Free State and the Northern Cape, 64 in Gauteng and eight at head office. 

Thobakgale believes the appointments will strengthen security at correctional facilities. 

“These appointments will go a long way to strengthen security in correctional centres and ensure more boots on the ground. This serves as a direct response to contributing to a just, peaceful and safer South Africa through effective and humane incarceration, and the rehabilitation and social reintegration of inmates,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 15:38

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E-toll payments soon a thing of the past

Location: News

E-toll payments soon a thing of the past

By the end of this week, Gauteng road users will no longer be charged for the use of the e-toll network.

This comes after Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga published in the Government Gazette a notice concerning the withdrawal of the toll declaration of the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), popularly known as e- tolls.

“This declaration will be effective on 11 April 2024 at 23h59, which means that from 12 April 2024, road users will no longer be charged for the use of the e-toll network. 

“It is important to note that, while these roads are no longer going to be tolled, the benefits of improved roads remain and that the gantries that have been installed for use on this scheme will continue to be used for other functions, such as fighting crime,” Chikunga said on Wednesday in Centurion.

The Minister explained that the obligation to pay e-toll remains until midnight on 11 April 2024.

“Road users will not be required to do anything when e-tolling is cancelled. Importantly, ‘current valid accounts’ can still be used for payments at toll plazas and other value-added services (i.e. parking). This is critical for the ongoing, long-term benefit of interoperability.

“The tag beeps will stop after midnight on 11 April 2024. The gantry lights and cameras will remain on for road safety purposes. The e-toll website will be updated with respect to the cancellation, including Mobility/Tag account functionality for services, i.e. interoperability and parking, etc.

“The e-toll stores will remain open as the tag can still be used for interoperability, account queries and other potential transport related services that will be determined in due course. The e-toll branding will be removed in phases,” the Minister said.

E-toll invoices will be rolled up until the last day and issued up until this period.

Due to potential delays in the postal system, invoices will still be received some time after 12 April 2024. However, no transactions post-midnight on 11 April 2024 will appear on the invoice or statement.

Although, the system of e-tolling was implemented after some consultation had taken place, it aggravated a lot of the public and concerned Cabinet.

“It is a concern that led to the formation of a three-member committee – made up of the Minister of Transport, Minister of Finance and Gauteng Premier – charged by President Cyril Ramaphosa in July 2019 to find a solution to the impasse.

“Between myself, as Minister of Transport, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, we finally reached agreement towards the end of March on how to conclusively deal with the debt resulting from e-tolls.

“…As a result, we were able to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to formalise alternative funding solutions for the GFIP debt repayment and deal with the backlog of maintenance and rehabilitation costs.

“We agreed that the MoA would also regulate the financial and funding contribution towards the SANRAL liability in compliance with the policy objectives and institutional framework for road infrastructure management in South Africa,” the Minister said.

The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has resolved its long outstanding application for increased borrowing limits from Treasury.

This will allow the Agency to approach the market to unlock funding from the private sector to fund its existing pipeline of capital expenditure projects.

“We hope that the resolution of the GFIP funding and the resultant withdrawal of e-tolls will give Gauteng motorists and South Africans in general certainty after a long period of uncertainty.

“We understand that the resolution of this issue might have taken longer than some people wanted, but it involved complex negotiations, which were handled in a mature and professional manner by all concerned,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 11:16

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30 years of freedom belongs to all of us – Kodwa

Location: News

30 years of freedom belongs to all of us - Kodwa

Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa says the achievement of 30 years of freedom in South Africa belongs to each and every South African.

The Minister was speaking during the National Dialogue on 30 Years of Democracy held at Freedom Park on Tuesday evening.

The celebration commemorates the eclipsing of the separatist agenda driven by the apartheid government and the ushering in of democracy and unity in the country.

Kodwa said democracy does not belong to any government or political party, but the entire population.

“Thirty years must be a celebration not of government, not of a governing party but of all South Africans because it is… South Africans who brought about this freedom. A South African who is in the villages, who is in town, who is in urban areas must feel part of the 30 years and must be given a voice,” he said.

The Minister said the dialogue is the beginning of a series of debates that will be held in the country to stimulate conversation around not only democracy but what defines a nation.

“One notion that we must always remind ourselves… is the notion of a nation. It’s only in our Constitution of 1996, which calls upon us to build a nation of all South Africans and the idea of a nation had never existed before.

“There are significant moments that define a nation, from a Sports, Arts and Culture perspective… we have seen what our national teams have done recently. We must celebrate significant moments that define us as a nation; one of which is the national flag.

“We are united around the flag. We are united around the national anthem. These are the important milestones that define this notion of a nation,” he said.

Turning to the upcoming National and Provincial Elections, the Minister emphasised the importance of the right to vote and the responsibility it bears.

“A right to vote is not just enough. It’s important that you must understand the manifesto of a party because… any party and leader that wins any election must give expression to the Constitution.

“Failure to give expression to the Constitution will result in issues… [of] people protesting, people just electing leaders on the basis of emotions, people electing leaders on the basis of populism and rhetoric. But it’s important that people must elect leaders who give expression to the Constitution…which states 'building a non-racial South Africa, which is united and all peoples belong to it'.

“People deciding not to vote must never be an option because an option to vote is a right that was denied for many years. I call upon all South Africans to exercise their right to vote and elect people that will give expression to the will and aspirations of the community,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 04/10/2024 - 11:05

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Pearson’s Test of English (PTE) facilitates study and work abroad opportunities in South Africa

Location: News
Pearson

To support the government's efforts in strengthening the nation's English skills for education and migration, Pearson (https://MiddleEast.Pearson.com), (FTSE: PSON.L), the world's leading learning company, successfully hosted a series of events across South Africa, emphasizing the value of English proficiency for study and work abroad opportunities.

Engaging with over 3000 individuals in pivotal locations such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, and the University of the Witwatersrand, the events showcased the Pearson Test of English (PTE) highlighting the vital role of English in both higher education and professional spheres, particularly for those aiming to migrate to English-speaking countries like the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. This effort gains particular significance in South Africa, where English, amidst its eleven official languages, emerges as the preferred medium (https://apo-opa.co/3TR0klF) of instruction. 

Ipek Aydin, Director – PTE, MEA & Turkey at Pearson, said, “PTE's expansion in South Africa underscores our commitment to enhancing global education and migration opportunities for students in the country. Our recent efforts demonstrate Pearson's dedication to making these opportunities more accessible and recognized across South Africa, empowering students and professionals to pursue their international aspirations.” 

PTE is a computer-based, AI-powered English proficiency test designed by Pearson for those who wish to study, work or migrate abroad. The exam leverages leading automated scoring technology to assess speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in a single, two-hour assessment, ensuring accuracy and impartiality in results. With a result turnaround of just two days, it offers candidates the fastest, fairest, and most flexible way of proving their English language proficiency.  

PTE is recognised by over 3300 institutions globally and can be taken across Pearson's existing network at more than 445 PTE centres in 117 countries. The UK, Australian, and New Zealand governments recognise PTE Academic for all visa applications, while universities across Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the UK, and the USA also accept it, making it widely acknowledged for educational and immigration purposes.  

For more information on PTE, visit https://www.PearsonPTE.com.   

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Pearson.

About Pearson:
At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to add life to a lifetime of learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That's why our c.18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world's leading learning company, serving customers in c.200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn't just what we do. It's who we are. Visit us at www.Pearsonplc.com. 

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Treasury releases R372 million for municipalities affected by floods

Location: News

Treasury releases R372 million for municipalities affected by floods

The National Treasury last month released R372 million from the Municipal Disaster Response Grant (MDRG) as an intervention for municipalities affected by floods in recent times.

This is after Treasury approved an allocation of R1.844 billion for the 2023/24 financial year to address the effects of disasters across multiple provinces. 

South Africa has been hit by more heavy rain, leading to various floods in KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, and the Western Cape since April 2022. This week rain caused havoc in the Western Cape with many schools across the province closed on Monday.

According to the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Thembi Nkadimeng, these funds are earmarked to facilitate urgent repairs, reconstruction, and infrastructure rehabilitation. 

“The focus is to ensure access to clean, reliable water and essential government facilities for affected communities,” she explained. 

The Minister was addressing the media in Vryheid, KwaZulu-Natal, on Tuesday, where she released details of the funds disbursed to municipalities and provinces for disaster interventions.

Nkadimeng announced that 199 projects across various municipalities in seven provinces have already been approved, with a total allocation of R372 001 000.

These include 65 projects in KwaZulu-Natal, 36 in the Eastern Cape, 30 in the Western Cape, 29 in Free State, 19 in Mpumalanga, 18 in Limpopo, and two in the North West. 

Nkadimeng assured South Africans that the allocation of disaster grants comes with stringent reporting and compliance measures to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilisation of funds. 

“Organs of state are mandated to submit monthly, quarterly, and annual reports to the NDMC [National Disaster Management Centre], covering both financial and non-financial aspects of their disaster management initiatives.” 

In addition, to oversee the implementation of projects and ensure adherence to quality standards, the NDMC, Provincial Disaster Management Centres (PDMC), Municipal Infrastructure Support Agency (MISA), and relevant sector departments conduct regular site visits to municipalities. 

“Through these concerted efforts, we strive to ensure that projects are completed efficiently and that affected communities receive the necessary support to recover and thrive.”

Warning systems 

Meanwhile, she said government is continuously improving early warning systems in collaboration with the South African Weather Service and other stakeholders.

“Furthermore, we are dedicated to having greater transparency, accountability, and engagement with our communities.”

The Minister said through concerted efforts and collaborative initiatives, her department is determined to build a more resilient and responsive disaster management framework that prioritises the needs and concerns of communities and empowers them to weather the storms that may lie ahead.

“I also want to take this opportunity to urge our people to heed the weather-related early warnings provided by disaster personnel and take the necessary preventative action even if it means just staying indoors or away from raging rivers. 

“Early warnings are a vital component of disaster preparedness and can save lives by providing crucial information and allowing individuals to take proactive measures to mitigate risks and minimise harm.”

Impact

According to the Minister, the impact of disaster in South Africa is far-reaching. 

“It is important that we acknowledge the gravity of the situation we have faced since 2018 as a result of national disasters such as drought and COVID-19.” 

She also described the 2022 KwaZulu-Natal floods as one of the most significant natural disasters in the history of the country. 

“These disasters have not only left a trail of destruction in their wake but have also broken family structures, disrupted communities, endangered livelihoods and put a lot of strain on our existing infrastructure.” 

Meanwhile, she said the aftermath serves as a reminder of the challenges in the collective pursuit of improving disaster preparedness, response, recovery and moving towards a more resilient state.

“Working through the NDMC, we have managed to allocate funds through the grants to disaster-stricken areas, thereby playing a crucial role in facilitating the recovery and rebuilding process. These funds are not merely financial assistance, but rather they represent hope, resilience, and the promise of a better tomorrow.” 

While government strives to accelerate response and recovery efforts in the aftermath of disasters, she acknowledged the frustrations that communities often endure. 

“We understand the immense challenges and hardships that accompany such trying times, and we empathise with the uncertainties and anxieties that our fellow South Africans may experience.

“We wish to reassure all South Africans that we are committed to enhancing our systems and processes for disaster response. We recognise the critical importance of continuously improving our capabilities and mechanisms to better serve and support our communities during times of crisis.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 13:03

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International messages of support on launch of Freedom Month

Location: News

International messages of support on launch of Freedom Month

Several international nations have joined a chorus of voices in commemorating and congratulating South Africa as the country celebrates 30 years of freedom this year.

The launch of Freedom Month was held at Freedom Park on Tuesday morning in Pretoria with much fanfare, including the unveiling of the 30 Years of Freedom logo.

Delivering her message of support during the programme, High Commissioner of Zambia to South Africa, Mazuba Bernadine Monze, encouraged South Africans to remember and speak of the historical ties that the two countries share.

During the fight for liberation, Zambia was a sanctuary for safety for anti-apartheid freedom fighters, including Oliver Tambo and former President Thabo Mbeki.

“This celebration is truly Zambia’s celebration. I bring a message that is succinct and clear to the peoples of South Africa [that] across the Limpopo lies a land that has and will continue to stand firm in solidarity and brotherhood, and that land is called Zambia. To those of you who know the story, share it. Tell it to the generations and even those that are yet to come about our deep historical ties that bind us together as countries.

“The role of Zambia in South Africa’s liberation struggle… during the dark period of apartheid in South Africa, emerged as a beacon of hope and a steadfast supporter of the liberation struggle. Please allow me to congratulate [South Africa] on this auspicious occasion and wish… the people of this great nation a happy 30th anniversary of your freedom,” Monze said.

Ambassador Enrique Orta González of Cuba praised South Africa as a “symbol of solidarity and the struggle justice” for the downtrodden peoples of the world.

The nation of Cuba contributed to the fight against apartheid by offering training, medical care and study for struggle heroes in the 1960s.

“Today, on the eve of the 30 years of democracy in this beautiful country, we can affirm that South Africa has become a symbol of solidarity and struggle for justice. We are glad to see today an apartheid free, independent, sovereign South Africa in solidarity with the people fighting for the just causes of the world – supporting Palestine, Western Sahara, Venezuela and Cuba.

“Three decades after the defeat of apartheid, South Africa has risen as an example of the global South on how a society can leave hate and discrimination behind in order to be a better country, in order to become a true symbol of reconciliation, and give voice to those who stay in silence for many years.

“Let me take this opportunity to congratulate the South African government and people on the 30th anniversary of democracy. On behalf of the government and people of Cuba, our sincerest wish is for prosperity, well being and happiness for our dear sister, the Republic of South Africa,” González said.

The High Commissioner of Lesotho, Ntsime Jafeta, noted that South Africa “defied all odds” by achieving democracy in the face of the brutal apartheid regime.

“On behalf of the government of the Kingdom of Lesotho… I wish to extend our sincere greetings and best wishes as you celebrate Freedom Month. We note with great joy and satisfaction the fact that this year’s commemoration coincides with the Lesotho bicentennial celebration to mark 200 years since the formation of the Basotho nation by King Moshoeshoe I in 1824.

“Despite your vulnerability and pressure from the apartheid regime, you defied all odds. You stood firmly on the side of freedom, peace and democracy. Let us… celebrate the gains brought by the struggles of our forebears, and ensure that sweat and blood nourish the tree that will bear the fruits of peace, democracy and justice to make the world a better place,” Jafeta said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 13:55

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Read moreInternational messages of support on launch of Freedom Month

Progress made in addressing socio-economic inequalities

Location: News

Progress made in addressing socio-economic inequalities

Government has made significant strides in addressing socio-economic inequalities through social welfare programmes in housing, healthcare, education and social services.

“Over the past few decades, the South African government has taken significant steps to address historical injustices and strive towards achieving social cohesion and socio-economic empowerment for all its citizens,” said Deputy President Paul Mashatile on Tuesday. 

The Deputy President was delivering a special public lecture on the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s democracy at the invitation of the University of Johannesburg’s School of Public Management, Governance and Public Policy, in partnership with the College of Business and Economics.

He also touched on the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) policies, which he believes have promoted economic transformation and ensured the marginalised become part of the mainstream economy. 

To demonstrate government’s commitment to building an inclusive and growing economy, he said the state has raised R1.5 trillion in new investment commitments, of which over R500 billion has already flowed into the economy.

“We have made further strides in addressing load shedding, ensuring energy security, enhancing logistics systems, and improving ports and rail networks.” 

In addition, the country’s second-in-command said government was on track to accelerate land redistribution. Black South Africans, he said, now own around 25% of farmland, while the state supported 1 000 industrialists in Black-owned firms.

However, despite these achievements, challenges remain in achieving a more inclusive and equitable society. 

“The triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality, as well as corruption, continue to pose obstacles to the nation’s progress. In addressing these challenges, we are conscious that, as government, we must strengthen social compacts by working together with all sectors of society.”

Achievements

Deputy President Mashatile highlighted the achievements that have been made over the past 30 years. 

These, according to the Deputy President, include investment in transport infrastructure such as the Gautrain, the Freeway Improvement Project and Bus Rapid Transport, the agricultural sector, the financial services sector as well as a thriving automotive sector. 

He said infrastructure investment was key to the country’s growth and told guests that projects worth about R21.4 billion have been completed. 

“I would like to see more young people and women-led businesses being involved in these projects because young people are the future of our country and women carry the hardest burden of communities.” 

The Deputy President also took the time to acknowledge some of the challenges that the youth in the country face. “Hence, over the years, we have been investing in initiatives for the development of our youth and our future.” 

Water and sanitation 

In addition, he said government has decided to move with speed to professionalise the public sector. 

“I would like to assure you and the people of our country that, as the government, we are committed to the delivery of quality services to our people.” 

This includes dealing with increased water and sanitation issues, as well as the energy availability factor. 

President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed the Deputy President to lead a task team on the water crisis in the country, and one of the urgent priorities is to fix the ageing infrastructure. 

“We have already started this work. Just this evening, we are meeting as the Water Task Team; on Friday we will be visiting eThekwini as well as other regions later on to engage with the province as to how best we can resolve the eminent water challenge.” 

Since the announcement of the Water Task Team’s establishment, his office has received numerous requests from individuals seeking to assist and collaborate with the government. 

He said the Department of Water and Sanitation has already allocated R10.1 billion to municipalities through the regional bulk infrastructure grant, R4.6 billion through the water services infrastructure grant, and R1.4 billion through the municipal recovery disaster grant to address water challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 14:59

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SA a better place to live in since 1994

Location: News

SA a better place to live in since 1994

Marking the historic milestone of South Africa celebrating 30 years of democracy, government has highlighted how the South Africa of 1994 is significantly different to the South Africa of 2024, while also emphasising that it is a better place to live in.

Addressing the launch of Freedom Month, which coincides with the celebration 30 Years of Democracy in the country, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said since 1994, the economy has grown significantly and government has improved the educational prospects for previously disadvantaged communities. It has also supported infrastructure development programmes and social welfare initiatives.

“In 30 years, we have achieved what few dared to dream. We know there are more hills to climb because South Africans aspire for a better future and a prosperous South Africa. The South Africa of today is not only built by government but also built by the private sector, labour and civil society. 

"The South Africa of today... is where the size of the economy has more than tripled since 1996, where the collection of revenue from our tax collectors moved from R143 billion in 1996 to over R2.1 trillion last year,” Ntshavheni said on Tuesday.

The Minister said the National Student Financial Aid Scheme has played an invaluable role in supporting access to higher education.

“South Africa today is a South Africa where Mam Mkhize’s children can go to a university or a tertiary institution paid for by government, without needing to apply to a Minister for permission to access a university because they were previously excluded to attend universities. South Africa today is where a young child from Soweto can dream to be a pilot or a robotics mechanic.

“The South Africa of today is where children who go to school receive three meals at school because there is a school feeding scheme, which ensures that no child goes to bed hungry,” the Minister said.

Through various initiatives like the National School Nutrition Programme, Early Childhood Development, the SAFE schools sanitation programme and the Second Chance programme for matriculants, government is working to ensure that the constitutionally guaranteed right to quality education for all is achieved.

“The South Africa of today is where the women of Bizana in the Eastern Cape know that tomorrow they will be able to trade their goods internationally because they have been supported as Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs).

“The South Africa that we celebrate embraces not only all in our diversity - but acknowledges the challenges that confront us, which we together as government, business, civil society and our international partners work together to  confront on a daily basis,” the Minister said.

This year marks 30 years since millions of South Africans cast their ballot in the first democratic election of 1994 for the first time in their lives. 

The 30-year celebration in the country will be premised on celebrating the gains, achievements, and the milestone of 30 years of democratic rule as well as living in a free and democratic society.

Annually, the month of April is designated as Freedom Month in South Africa. 

“As we mark these celebrations, which are going to be a yearlong celebration, we are going to be telling stories of the people of South Africa and the narrative of what government has done since 1994.

“We invite all South Africans to join in the national celebration of our 30 years. Let it be a celebration of all of us; a celebration of what we are still to achieve as we work in partnership to grow our country,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 04/09/2024 - 14:33

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Read moreSA a better place to live in since 1994

Reflecting on the achievements of 30 years of freedom

Location: News

Reflecting on the achievements of 30 years of freedom

As the country reflects on 30 years of freedom and democracy, government is taking stock of the gains that have been made, its achievements and milestones, as well as what could have been done better over the last three decades. 

“As government, we should count the successes and achievements that we have managed to achieve at this point in time. In areas where we have tried to intervene [and] the interventions were not successful, we now have the experience and innovation to resolve them,” Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) acting Director General, Nomonde Mnukwa, said in an interview with SAnews.

South Africa's Census 2022 national results show an increase in the proportion of households that had access to piped water inside their dwelling, from 32.3% in 2001 to 46.3% in 2011 and to 59.7% in 2022.

The data show that in 2022, over four-fifths (82.4%) of households in the country had access to piped water either inside their dwelling or inside their yard.

The proportion of households using electricity as the main source of energy for lighting increased significantly from 58.1% in 1996 to 94.7% in 2022.

“The majority of us grew up in areas where water access was a dream. We never thought we would have access to water. We never thought that we would have access to electricity. We never thought we would have access to free education. There are a number of non-fee paying schools that we have and a majority of those schools are contributing more than 60% of the Bachelor’s passes for matrics,” Mnukwa said.

She said South Africa reaching 30 years of democracy and freedom is a dream that has come true.

“We have come a long way. This is the year that we look back, particularly to 1994 when South Africa held its first democratic elections. It was one of those dreams that came true for us to be able to cast our vote,” Mnukwa said.

South Africans will once again go to the polls on 29 May 2024 to cast their votes in the 2024  National and Provincial Elections. 

This year marks 30 years since millions of South Africans cast their ballot in the democratic election of 1994 for the first time in their lives.  

The 30-year celebration in the country will be premised on celebrating the gains, achievements, and the milestone of 30 years of democratic rule as well as living in a free and democratic society. 

Annually, the month of April is designated as Freedom Month in South Africa. 

“As South Africans, we need to remember where we come from. We come from an era where people needed to carry a dompass to go out in public. There were areas that we could not access as the segment of the population, which comprised the majority of the population,” Mnukwa said.

She emphasised that when South Africa was transitioning to a democratic country, it managed to avoid a war.

The country attained democracy and freedom though peaceful negotiations and talks.

“There were some careers that we couldn’t do because they were restricted to the chosen few. There were some areas that we could not stay in despite the fact that we were South Africans. It is something to celebrate, it is something to talk about and remember but it is mostly something that we can reflect on as individuals,” the acting DG said.

In his 2024 State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa said government’s policies and programmes have over the course of 30 years lifted millions of people out of dire poverty. 

By 2010, the poverty rate had dropped to 60.9%, and it continued to decrease, reaching 55.5% in 2020, as reported by the World Bank.

“One of the most visible, impactful and meaningful achievements in the first three decades of freedom has been in providing homes to the people. Today, nearly nine out of every ten households live in a formal dwelling. 

“At the end of apartheid, only 6 out of 10 people had access to clean drinking water. Today, that figure has increased to nearly 9 out of 10 South Africans. 

“We have introduced laws and undertaken programmes to enable black South Africans and women to advance in the workplace, to become owners and managers, to acquire land and build up assets.  The proportion of jobs in executive management held by black people increased almost five-fold between 1996 and 2016,” the President said.

In addition, government has built more hospitals and clinics, especially in poor areas, providing better and quality healthcare to more South Africans.  – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 11:31

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Read moreReflecting on the achievements of 30 years of freedom

Department weighs in on consequences of teenage pregnancy

Location: News

Department weighs in on consequences of teenage pregnancy

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has raised concerns about the economic consequences of teenage pregnancy in the country.

Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, said the phenomenon of teenage pregnancy has devastating social and economic costs.

“Early pregnancy in South Africa forces many girls to drop out of school and trap others in a cycle of poverty and leaves most stigmatised by society for being teenage mothers or forced into early marriages,” Dlamini-Zuma said.

Dlamini-Zuma said the country continues to show the highest rate of teenage pregnancy globally, with nearly one in four girls falling pregnant before the age of 20 years.

Dlamini-Zuma said South Africa has recorded an estimated 150 000 girls between the age group of 10 and 19 years old, falling pregnant in the 2022/23 financial year.

“What is particularly disheartening is that individuals who became parents during this period were hardly teenagers, with some cases reported constituting statutory rape. The phenomenon of teenage pregnancy has devastating social and economic costs.

“Early pregnancy in South Africa forces many girls to drop out of school and trap others in a cycle of poverty and leaves most stigmatised by society for being teenage mothers or forced into early marriages,” Dlamini-Zuma said.

The Minister reiterated that working together with both public and private sector stakeholders to act against those who continue with the act of impregnating teenage girls by reporting them to law enforcement authorities is the first step towards ending teenage pregnancy, while providing psycho-social support is particularly important. 

She said the prevention of teenage pregnancies will contribute to the promotion and protection of the rights of the girl child, among others. 

Dlamini-Zuma also emphasised the need for coordinating and redirecting efforts to the hardest hit areas, with a specific focus towards prevention, early intervention, and impactful evidence-based programmatic interventions. 

Comprehensive gender-based violence prevention strategy

Dlamini-Zuma said government has developed a Programme of Action (POA) aimed at tackling the issue of teenage pregnancy by implementing a Comprehensive National Gender-Based Violence Prevention Strategy (CNPS).

Through consistent outreach programmes focusing on young mothers, Dlamini-Zuma said government, working with stakeholders, has put together tailor-made stakeholder programmes that are focused on the prevention of teenage pregnancy.

These include Ezabasha Dialogues and Risiha-Community Based Prevention, and social behavioural change programmes, which include ChommY and You Only Live Once (YOLO) programmes, which educate young people between the ages of 15 and 24 years about HIV and Aids, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy and being agents of social change. 

READ | Zulu to relaunch SheDecides Movement

Dlamini-Zuma reiterated government’s calls on families, communities, religious and traditional leaders to support the Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) of teenagers to prevent unintended/unwanted pregnancies. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 12:18

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President Ramaphosa Offers Condolences on Mozambique Boating Disaster

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the government and people of the Republic of Mozambique following a disaster at sea in which nearly 100 people have perished.

At least 97 people reportedly died, and a small number of people were rescued in the incident which took place near Lunga in Nampula Province on Sunday, 07 April 2024.

On behalf of the government and people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa offers his condolences to President Filipe Nyusi and the government and people of Mozambique and especially families who have lost relatives.

President Ramaphosa said: “As neighbours, we are deeply saddened by this tragedy and we wish authorities and citizens well in the recovery effort and the search for missing persons.

“We also pray for a speedy recovery for survivors of this incident.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Ramaphosa Offers Condolences on Mozambique Boating Disaster