Government

4 January 2024

Memorial service held for the tardy Dr Ngema

Location: News

Memorial service held for the late Dr Ngema

A memorial service reflecting on the life of the late legendary playwright, Dr Mbongeni Ngema, was held at the Playhouse Theatre in Durban on Wednesday.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, who attended the service, highlighted Ngema's contributions to the region and the world. The MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs in KwaZulu-Natal, Siboniso Duma, underscored Ngema's influence on economic development, tourism and environmental affairs, saying his work had a "multidimensional impact" on many of his work.

Ngema was killed in a car crash on Wednesday, 27 December on his way to KwaZulu-Natal after attending a funeral in the Eastern Cape.

“The Playhouse Theatre, a cultural hub in Durban, became a solemn space to pay tribute to Mbongeni Ngema, an internationally acclaimed playwright, director, singer and author. Ngema's impact on the arts and his role in shaping the cultural landscape were evident in the distinguished attendees who came to honour his legacy,” said the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government in a statement.

Bishop Vusi Dube, a Member of Provincial Legislature, shared reflections on the profound spiritual and societal dimensions of Ngema's creations, emphasising their resonance in the hearts of the people.

The memorial service was not only a gathering of political and cultural figures but also a reflection of Mbongeni Ngema's diverse and far-reaching influence.

On Monday, Dube-Ncube has expressed her gratitude to President Cyril Ramaphosa for granting the composer, director and theatre producer a Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2.

The Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2, which includes elements of police ceremonial honours, is reserved for distinguished persons specifically designated by the President of South Africa on request by the Premier of a province.

Dube-Ncube said Ngema distinguished himself as a true South African legend, who used creative art and theatre to contribute to the fight for freedom the country is enjoying today.

In his tribute to Ngema last month, President Ramaphosa said his “masterfully creative narration of our liberation struggle honoured the humanity of oppressed South Africans and exposed the inhumanity of an oppressive regime”.

“The many productions he created or to which he contributed inspired resilience and pride among us as fellow South Africans, and took South Africa and our continent into the theatres, homes and consciousness of millions of people around the world. May his soul rest in peace,” said President Ramaphosa at the time.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, 5 January. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Thu, 01/04/2024 - 11:00

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3 January 2024

Parliament Saddened by the Passing of Veteran Photojournalist, Peter Magubane

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Presiding Officers of Parliament, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Mr Amos Masondo, join the nation in mourning the passing of one of South Africa's world-renowned veteran photojournalists, Mr Peter Magubane.

Mr Magubane cut his teeth as a photojournalist during apartheid and at the height of political segregation and oppression of the black majority in South Africa. He made his name by documenting our country's political and socio-economic injustices and major political events through scintillating photos.

“Mr Magubane stood out among the few journalists who braved the brutality of the apartheid regime by documenting the struggles of the black majority. He used his lens to shine a spotlight on the injustice meted out by the government of the day,” said the Presiding Officers.

“His photographic records of events such as the Sharpeville massacre, the arrest of the late Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, the Rivonia Trial, the Women's March to the Union Buildings against the Pass Laws, and many other iconic moments were evidence of the might of his camera lens. His passing saddens us as it marks the end of an era of brave and fearless journalists who risked their lives to tell the South African story in every way possible. Through his lens, he contributed to the hard-earned democracy that we enjoy today. As a nation, we owe it to his legacy to continue to work tirelessly to get rid of all social ills,” said the Presiding Officers.

Parliament extends its deepest condolences to the Magubane family, his associates in the media and arts fraternity, and to all South Africans.

May his soul rest in peace.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

3 January 2024

Condolences for Japan following quake tragedy

Location: News

Condolences for Japan following quake tragedy

South Africa has offered its deepest condolences to the government and people of Japan following a series of deadly earthquakes that struck the country's west coast region.

“The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor has, on behalf of the government and people of South Africa, offered South Africa’s sincere condolences to the government and people of Japan following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake that hit the country’s west coast on 1 January 2024 at 16h00,” said the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement on Wednesday.

It said that the 7.6 magnitude earthquake has led to extensive loss of life and rising numbers of severe injuries in its aftermath.

“In the ensuing five hours following the earthquake, a swarm of approximately 30 earthquakes were reported throughout Japan.”

Pandor said that the government and people of South Africa's prayers are with Japan, particularly the families who have lost their loved ones in the wake of the tragedy.

She further commended the tireless efforts of the rescue and emergency personnel participating in the ongoing rescue operation. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 10:47

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3 January 2024

Kodwa to visit Magubane family

Location: News

Kodwa to visit Magubane family

Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, is expected to visit the family of legendary photographer and anti-apartheid activist, Dr Peter Magubane, to pay his respects.

Wednesday’s visit follows the passing of Magubane on Monday.

The Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture said the Minister will be joined by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Morakane Mosupyoe.

The Minister, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Mosupyoe are among those who have expressed their condolences following the passing of the 91-year-old icon.

“I have learned with great sadness of the passing of… Peter Magubane. On behalf of government and the nation, I offer my deep condolences to the Magubane family, our veteran’s friends and his countless associates around the country and globally,” said President Ramaphosa.

The President said Magubane created “iconic visual records of our struggle for freedom and of the full range of life in our country".

Kodwa wrote on social media: “South Africa has lost a freedom fighter, a masterful storyteller and lensman. Recognised in the ‘Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series’, Dr Peter Magubane fearlessly documented apartheid’s injustices. My thoughts and prayers are with Dr Magubane’s family.”

Meanwhile, Lesufi mourned the passing of the acclaimed photographer and anti-apartheid activist, saying Magubane documented the raw images of the horrific Sharpeville massacre and other crimes committed by the apartheid regime, which helped to change public sentiment against the system throughout the world.

“Dr Magubane was a gift to South Africa. With his camera lens, he shaped and changed South Africa’s destiny. He was a national treasure who will be remembered for his contribution to the field of photography and respected for his courage in the face of oppression.

“He never wavered in his resolve to record the truth, even in the face of attempts by the apartheid regime to intimidate and silence him. He leaves behind a rich legacy of having changed South Africa for the better,” said the Premier in a statement on Tuesday.

The life and times of an icon

Magubane was born on 18 January 1932 Vrededorp (now Pageview, a suburb of Johannesburg), and grew up in Sophiatown. He began taking photographs as a schoolboy.

In 1954, he read a copy of Drum magazine, which detailed the effects of apartheid. He decided he wanted to be part of the magazine.

Magubane started employment at Drum as a driver. After six months of odd jobs, he was given a photography assignment under the mentorship of Jürgen Schadeberg, the chief photographer. He covered the 1955 African National Congress (ANC) convention.

Magubane photographed most of South Africa's historic moments, such as Sharpeville in 1960 and Nelson Mandela's Rivonia trial in 1964.

He was arrested in June 1969 while photographing protesters outside Pretoria Central Prison, where Winnie Madikizela Mandela was jailed. Magubane was later held in solitary confinement for 586 days.

Magubane has worked for Rand Daily Mail and has worked on assignments for Time magazine, the United Nations and Sports Illustrated photographing a series about the South African teenage runner, Zola Budd.

Following Mandela’s release from prison, Magubane became his official photographer in 1990, until he became the country’s President.

Magubane received several prestigious awards and honours throughout his illustrious career. Some of the notable recognitions he received include the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Press Photographers' Association (NPPA).

In 2017, Magubane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver.

Other notable achievements include:

1958 – First black South African to win a photographic prize in the country – first and third prizes were awarded to him for Best Press pictures of the year.

1985 – Robert Capa Gold Medal.

1986 – Dr. Erich Salomon Award.

1992 – Special Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.

1995 – Martin Luther King Luthuli Award.

1997 – Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mother Jones Foundation and Leica Cameras.

1997 – Fellowship by the Tom Hopkinson School of Journalism and Cultural Studies, University of Wales, Cardiff

1999 – Order for Meritorious Service Class II from President Mandela.

2003 – Honorary Doctorate degree from the University of South Africa.

2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Fort Hare.

2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Technology from the Tshwane University of Technology.

2006 – Doctor of Law (honoris causa) Rhodes University.

2008 – Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, UK.

2010 – Cornell Capa Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography.

2010 – Honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College (Chicago).

2015 – Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity.

He published a total of 17 books, two of which were banned by the apartheid regime. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 11:53

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2 January 2024

President congratulates DRC President-Elect

Location: News

President congratulates DRC President-Elect

President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated the President-elect of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) , on his re-election as President of the central African country.

On 20 December 2023, millions of voters in the DRC participated in the synchronised general elections to choose national, provincial and local public representatives.

The outcome of these elections was announced by the Independent Electoral Commission (CENI) on 31 December.

Accordingly, President Ramaphosa strongly commended the people of the DRC for exhibiting maturity, a sense of calm and unity during the period of elections.

“The people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo have taken a solid step towards consolidating democracy in their country, and have expressed their desire for a peaceful, secure and prosperous future,” said the President in a statement.

The President has called for calm should any of the participants dispute the elections results and urges all parties to follow legal channels as set out in the constitution of the DRC.

South Africa is committed to enhancing bilateral relations with the DRC, and peace and security in the region. President Ramaphosa concluded a successful visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo in July 2023, where, together with President Félix Tshisekedi, co-chaired the Heads of State and Government segment of the 12th session of the DRC–South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC). The BNC is aimed at enhancing and nurturing the existing bilateral trade and political relations. - SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 12:50

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2 January 2024

Special Provincial Official Funeral for Dr Ngema

Location: News

Special Provincial Official Funeral for Dr Ngema

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has expressed her gratitude to President Cyril Ramaphosa for granting the legendary and internationally acclaimed playwright, composer, director and theatre producer, Dr Mbongeni Ngema, a Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2.

In a statement on Monday, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government said the Special Provincial Official Funeral Category 2, which includes elements of police ceremonial honours, is reserved for distinguished persons specifically designated by the President of South Africa on request by the Premier of a province.

Dube-Ncube said Ngema distinguished himself as a true South African legend, who used creative art and theatre to contribute to the fight for freedom the country is enjoying today.

“We made the request to the President to declare Dr Ngema’s send-off a Special Provincial Official Funeral primarily to recognise his contribution to our long and painful journey to freedom.”

The Premier said while Ngema has passed away, this noble gesture by the President will give the family and many South Africans some comfort that he received a send-off befitting his stature.

“We welcome the respect bestowed upon Dr Ngema by the President. This is indeed a befitting honour to Madlokovu, who worked tirelessly for many decades to put South Africa on the global pedestal through art.

“Armed only with his creativity and theatre, he confronted the brutal apartheid regime, in the process conscientising the world about the ruthless and dehumanising nature of apartheid. Madlokovu used his vast networks abroad to focus the attention of the world to the suffering of our people in this country under apartheid. He pencilled an indelible mark on our journey towards freedom,” said the Premier.

Ngema was killed in a car crash on Wednesday, 27 December on his way to KwaZulu-Natal after attending a funeral in the Eastern Cape.

“Madlokovu was a passionate and true ambassador of the theatre and music art form. He worked hard to unearth, develop and nurture talent from our townships and rural areas. Many practitioners today owe their success to Madlokovu.

“As we mourn his passing and send our condolences to his family, we expressed our gratitude that he lived during our lifetime,” said Dube-Ncube.

The provincial government, together with the family, will in due course communicate further details with regards to the funeral service.

Neo
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 13:25

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2 January 2024

Tributes pour in for legendary photographer, Peter Magubane

Location: News

Tributes pour in for legendary photographer, Peter Magubane

President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to veteran photographer and activist Peter Magubane, who passed away at the age of 91 on Monday.

“For most of his life, Peter Magubane created iconic visual records of our struggle for freedom and of the full range of life in our country.

“He documented our nation and the early years of freedom of President Nelson Mandela with a prosaic passion that was powered as much by what he felt from the heart as what he saw through his lens.

“He has sadly left us at the start of the year in which we are marking 30 years of freedom. As we revisit our journey to freedom and the progression of our democratic dispensation, Peter Magubane’s imagery will be an important part of our reflections.

“May his soul rest in peace,” said President Ramaphosa.

The life and times of an icon

Magubane was born on 18 January 1932 Vrededorp (now Pageview, a suburb of Johannesburg), and grew up in Sophiatown. He began taking photographs as a schoolboy.

In 1954, he read a copy of Drum magazine, which detailed the effects of apartheid. He decided he wanted to be part of the magazine.

Magubane photographed most of South Africa's historic moments, such as Sharpeville in 1960 and Nelson Mandela's Rivonia trial in 1964.

He was arrested in June 1969 while photographing protesters outside Pretoria Central Prison, where Winnie Madikizela Mandela was jailed. Magubane was later held in solitary confinement for 586 days.

Following Mandela’s release from prison, Magubane became his official photographer in 1990, until he became the country’s President.

In 2017, Magubane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver.

Other notable achievements include:

1958 – First black South African to win a photographic prize in the country – first and third prizes were awarded to him for Best Press pictures of the year.

1985 – Robert Capa Gold Medal.

1986 – Dr. Erich Salomon Award.

1992 – Special Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.

1995 – Martin Luther King Luthuli Award.

1997 – Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mother Jones Foundation and Leica Cameras.

1997 – Fellowship by the Tom Hopkinson School of Journalism and Cultural Studies, University of Wales, Cardiff

1999 – Order for Meritorious Service Class II from President Mandela.

2003 – Honorary Doctorate degree from the University of South Africa.

2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Fort Hare.

2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Technology from the Tshwane University of Technology.

2006 – Doctor of Law (honoris causa) Rhodes University.

2008 – Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, UK.

2010 – Cornell Capa Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography.

2010 – Honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College (Chicago).

2015 – Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity.

He published a total of 17 books, two of which were banned by the apartheid regime.

Tributes

Morakane Mosupyoe, the Gauteng MEC of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation described the passing of Magubane as a heart wrenching loss.

“Magubane's photography became a vital tool in documenting the realities of apartheid and the struggles of black South Africans.

“Peter Magubane was a luminary, a visionary photographer whose lens captured the essence of an era, revealing truths, and telling stories that went beyond mere images. His commitment to documenting the struggles, triumphs and everyday lives of people during apartheid was unparalleled.

“Through his lens, he not only captured moments but also echoed the aspirations and resilience of a nation. The legacy that Peter Magubane leaves behind is not solely within the frames of his photographs but in the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his work.

“His courage, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to his craft serve as an inspiration to generations of storytellers and activists. During this time of mourning, may the memories you shared with Peter bring you comfort and solace.

“His impact on the world will forever be remembered and cherished. Please accept my deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you, the Magubane family, and all those affected by this profound loss,” said Mosupyoe.

The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, wrote on social media: “South Africa has lost a freedom fighter, a masterful storyteller and lensman. Recognised in the ‘Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series’, Dr Peter Magubane fearlessly documented apartheid’s injustices. My thoughts and prayers are with Dr Magubane’s family.” – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 13:28

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29 December 2023

Four bodies recovered in Ladysmith floods

Location: News

Four bodies recovered in Ladysmith floods

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre has confirmed that search and rescue teams have discovered the remains of four people in Ladysmith.

The search and rescue teams and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are currently in the process of identifying the bodies, together with the families of those that were reported missing.

Heavy rains on Christmas Eve resulted in the Bellspruit River - which runs under the Mbonothu Bridge – bursting its banks, causing water to overflow onto the N11 road near the Limit Hill robots, in Ladysmith Town, resulting in several people losing their lives and others missing.

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, has extended her deepest condolences to the grieving families. Government has committed to providing support, including counselling and assistance with burial arrangements, to all affected families.

“Efforts to discover the missing people were intensified on Thursday through the deployment of additional resources from neighbouring provinces.

“The search operation continues on the ground. Updates will be promptly shared as soon as they are verified,” said the provincial government in a statement.

The MEC has expressed her gratitude to the dedicated search and rescue team led by the SAPS K9 Unit, working with PSS Medical Rescue, the AL-Imdaad Foundation for Disaster, and the South African Red Cross. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Fri, 12/29/2023 - 08:24

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29 December 2023

Tributes continue to pour in for Dr Ngema

Location: News

Tributes continue to pour in for Dr Ngema

Tributes for cultural stalwart, Dr Mbongeni Ngema, who passed away in a car accident this week, continue to pour in.

Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi has joined South Africans in conveying his condolences following the passing of Ngema.

“Premier Panyaza Lesufi, on behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government, joins the creative arts fraternity and the rest of South Africa in mourning the passing of dramatist, composer and theatrical director, Dr Mbongeni Ngema, who passed away on Wednesday evening,” said the Gauteng provincial government in a statement on Thursday.

It said Dr Ngema educated and enlightened the world about South Africa’s surroundings and circumstances through his artistic creations and storytelling.

It added that the world-renowned Sarafina musical production depicted the lives of black people under the racist system of apartheid, forcing the world to join South Africans and reject the atrocities of the white regime.

“Dr Ngema was an outstanding dramatist, socially aware, and astute visionary. His untimely and tragic death has left us devastated, yet the rich legacy of his work only serves to ease our sorrow,” said Premier Lesufi, in sending his heartfelt condolences to the Ngema family, the creative arts, and South Africans at large.

President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa are among those who have conveyed their condolences.

Born in the town of Verulam in KwaZulu-Natal, Ngema’s work touched and moved audiences around the world and made an important contribution in telling the South African story, said Minister Kodwa. -SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Fri, 12/29/2023 - 08:39

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29 December 2023

Public urged to hold precautions in severe weather

Location: News

Public urged to take precautions in severe weather

Government has urged residents in various provinces to take precautions and follow instructions from respective Disaster Management Centres to keep safe.

This as the South African Weather Service has issued severe weather alerts, including severe thunderstorms, damaging and strong winds, and disruptive rains in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, North West and Free State.

“Government has noted the damages already caused by the inclement weather and the responses of first responders in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo.

“The National Disaster Management Centre is supporting all Provincial and Municipal Disaster Management Centres to assist the affected communities.

“We all have the responsibility to assist government and disaster managers to keep us safe,” said a statement issued by the Government Communication and Information System.

Weather warnings are available at https://www.weathersa.co.za/home/warnings.

The contact numbers of the relevant Provincial Disaster Management Centres are:

Eastern Cape: 071 604 3160
Northern Cape: 083 390 2920
Western Cape: 082 550 6770
KwaZulu-Natal: 066 475 2308
North West: 066 030 8026
Free State: 066 487 4896

The contact number for the National Disaster Management Centre is Dr Elias Sithole on 082 490 9825. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Fri, 12/29/2023 - 08:39

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28 December 2023

Relief for Ladysmith flood victims

Location: News

Relief for Ladysmith flood victims

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government has offered support to the families of the flood victims in Ladysmith.

Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Nomusa Dube-Ncube has extended her condolences to the families of the flood victims in the province.

Seven people have lost their lives in the province following heavy rains.

This figure includes six people who died when a riverbank collapsed in Ladysmith, and in a separate incident, the body of an 8-year old child was discovered in Mandeni on Tuesday.

“On behalf of the provincial government, we would like to send our condolences to the families of the victims. The MEC for Cooperative Governance Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has already been on the ground to assess the damage and meet with the families,” said the Premier.

She visited the scene on Wednesday to oversee the distribution of disaster relief and monitor the ongoing search and rescue operations.

The MEC said provincial government will offer support to the families of the flood victims in Ladysmith.

“We met with the families of the victims and reassured them that government will provide full support during this distressing period,” said Sithole-Moloi.

The search and rescue teams have been intensified and will work tirelessly in their efforts to find the missing victims.

As of Wednesday, the search and rescue teams led by the SAPS K9 Unit, along with IPSS Medical Rescue and the Al-Imdaad Foundation for Disaster Response, intensified their search efforts in the Ladysmith area.

This after the number of missing individuals continues to rise.

Sithole-Moloi paid a visit to the Msimango family in the Rossboom area, a few kilometres from Ladysmith Town. The Msimango family lost six of its members, with three being discovered while the other three remain among those missing.

She further led the delegation of disaster teams that distributed disaster relief, including blankets, mattresses and essential amenities, to those who have lost everything.

"As a department, we have been providing assistance to all the affected families in collaboration with our disaster response partners.

“We are joined by various departments such as Human Settlements and Social Development, with representatives from the National Department also present. We wish to assure the affected families that we will stand by them throughout this difficult period.

“Counselling services will be made available, and preparations for the burials of those who have passed away are underway. Moreover, we want to assure the families that we will exert every effort to locate those who are still missing,” said the MEC.

As standard procedure, the disaster management teams will continue their assessments, working closely with all municipalities in the province.

Home Affairs and Social Development Department have been called in to provide support where some families have lost personal documents. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Thu, 12/28/2023 - 12:48

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27 December 2023

Condolences for Ladysmith flood victims

Location: News

Condolences for Ladysmith flood victims

Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Nomusa Dube-Ncube has sent condolences to the families of those affected by the floods in Ladysmith.

The provincial government said six people were killed and 10 others are missing.

Search and rescue teams are on the ground searching the area.

“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of victims who lost their lives,'' said the Premier. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:50

289 views

26 December 2023

#BlackExcellence: Breaking Barriers to Female Leadership

Location: News

Black women continue to break barriers across diverse industries, paving the way for future leaders with their resilience, intelligence and determination. The upcoming Global Black Impact Summit (GBIS), scheduled for February 27, 2024 in Dubai, is set to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Black women, while connecting movers and shakers from across the global Black community.

Black women play a crucial role in transforming industries, leaving an undeniable impact from entertainment to business, science to politics. In Africa, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – Liberia's first democratically-elected female president – has garnered international acclaim for empowering women, winning the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize and today advocating for female political participation. Meanwhile, Mozambican social scientist Alice Banze boasts a 25-year career in civil society and government and is the Executive Director of the Gender and Sustainable Development Association. Elected to the National Elections Commission in 2020 with support from the Women's Forum, she exemplifies transformative female leadership in Mozambique.

Many women are rising through the ranks across industries by forging their own paths. One example is Linda Mabhena-Olagunju, the founder and CEO of DLO Energy Resources Group, who leads a Black women-owned renewable energy company that focuses on wind power projects in South Africa. Other figures like Oprah Winfrey, who has built a media empire, and Ursula Burns, the first Black woman to head a Fortune 500 company, show the strength and determination of Black female leaders.

Yet despite their notable accomplishments, Black women in leadership often encounter systemic challenges to representation. In the US, Forbes reports that only 4.4% of Black women hold managerial roles, and merely 1.4% occupy executive-level positions, despite comprising 7.4% of the American population. In contrast, in Africa, women are making significant strides in governance roles. According to data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union, four African nations—Rwanda, Namibia, South Africa and Senegal—are among the top 15 countries globally for the highest representation of women in parliament. Rwanda leads with an impressive 61.3% of female parliamentarians, yet the sub-Saharan African average stands at 23.6%.

The intersectionality of race and gender amplifies challenges in the workplace for Black women, necessitating targeted efforts to address and mitigate specific barriers to leadership. Initiatives centered on diversity, equity and inclusion are crucial for dismantling these barriers and creating a more equitable playing field. To achieve this, companies and organizations must implement policies that recognize the unique value and perspectives of Black women in their respective industries, fostering a more inclusive environment that provides equal opportunities for success.

Celebrating Black women in leadership requires creating a supportive environment for future leaders through mentorship programs, educational initiatives and networking opportunities. Investing in the next generation of Black female leaders contributes to a more diverse and dynamic future, which the upcoming GBIS 2024 will facilitate by providing a platform for engagement, inspiration and unity.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About Global Black Impact Summit 2024:
The Global Black Impact Summit is an annual event that seeks to celebrate the achievements of the Black community, promote excellence and explore untapped potential across various fields. This year's summit is set to be a transformative experience, featuring influential speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that encourage attendees to reach new heights.

To secure your spot at this prestigious gathering, register promptly at www.GlobalBlackImpact.com.

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22 December 2023

International tourist arrivals continue to increase in SA

Location: News

International tourist arrivals continue to increase in SA

International tourist arrivals from January to November 2023 totalled 7.6 million, representing a remarkable 51.8% increase when compared with the same period in 2022.

This is according to the latest Statistics South Africa figures on international arrivals, which the Department of Tourism said shows the South African tourism sector’s rising momentum.

While recovery towards pre-COVID-19 numbers is encouraging, the department said this performance is 17.6% lower compared to the same period in 2019.

However, the department believes that South Africa remains an attractive destination for both domestic and international travellers.

“The numbers show that the tourism sector is successfully driving travel to South Africa while shaping cultural exchanges and contributing to inclusive economic growth,” the department said.

Africa

During the first 11 months of 2023, South Africa welcomed 5.8 million visitors from the rest of Africa, marking a significant 75.5% of all arrivals, compared to the same period in 2022.

Zimbabwe and Kenya stood out for their remarkable growth.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe saw an exceptional 77.5% increase in tourist arrivals, totalling 1.9 million, while Kenya recorded a 94.2% surge, reaching 37 414 arrivals for January to November this year compared to the same period last year.

Minister of Tourism, Patricia De Lille, noted Kenya’s remarkable performance, which could be attributed to the strategic decision by government to simplify the visa regime earlier this year as well, as targeted and effective insights-driven marketing campaigns.

“Overall, through focused marketing, various collaborations and leveraging various strategic opportunities by the Department of Tourism, South African Tourism and the broader tourism sector, we have been able to achieve these very impressive results on the continent,” she said.

Americas

Tourist arrivals from the Americas this year registered at 411 254, reflecting a 44.1% growth compared to the same period in 2022.

The United States contributed the most, with 320 948 arrivals, marking a 39.5% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

“The US remains a top international source market for South Africa and has been recording robust steady growth in arrivals in 2023.”

Based on December projections, De Lille said they anticipate recording pre-pandemic arrivals, well ahead of the forecasted recovery mooted for the 2024/2025 financial year.

Europe

With 1.1 million tourist arrivals, Europe contributed to 14.6% of the total arrivals, during the first 11 months of 2023.

The data mark a 43.2% increase when compared to the same period last year.

The United Kingdom remains the top European source market, with 315 054 tourists choosing South Africa marking a 30.4% growth.

Germany experienced a 47.9% increase in arrivals, amounting to 219 971 tourists, followed by the Netherlands, which saw an increase of 48.4% amounting to 117 948 tourist arrivals from this country.

Meanwhile, the Minister said Russia exhibited a “dramatic” growth of 83.9%, contributing 25 116 arrivals.

Asia

In the same period, the Asian markets also showed significant growth, with a total 182 497 arrivals from the region, representing an astounding 72.6% when compared to the same period last year.

In this region, India led the way with 73 037 tourists, a 46.3% growth, closely followed by China, which saw a massive 215.7% surge, amounting to 34 669 arrivals.

“The reopening of the Chinese market and the initiation of direct flight routes have catalysed a resurgence in arrivals, highlighting the vast potential and significance of this market to South African tourism,” the Minister said.

Middle East

The Middle East saw a robust increase, with 51 779 arrivals in the same period - a 37.5% growth when compared to the same period in 2022.

South Africa received 15 507 arrivals from Saudi Arabia, marking an increase of 40.9%.

In addition, the United Arab Emirates showed a remarkable 114.2% growth, accounting for 6 360 arrivals.

“I am committed to working with all partners and government colleagues to unlock barriers such as visa regulations, safety concerns and limited air access and airlift so that we can grow our sector and meaningfully contribute to our country’s economy,” De Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:58

477 views

22 December 2023

Communities urged to engage Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Position

Location: News

Communities urged to engage Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan

The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (CPBMJTT) has encouraged communities to read the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan, as well as the baboon-proof fencing summary report.

This follows the adoption and release to the public of the Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan (CPBSMP), which provides a framework for the sustainable management of the Cape Peninsula’s Chacma baboons.

Communities are also encouraged to propose strategies, actions and interventions for discussion.

In a statement on Thursday, the CPBMJTT said the plan will be supported and elaborated upon with area-based solutions developed jointly with affected communities.

The CPBMJTT consists of representatives from the South African National Parks (SANParks), CapeNature and the City of Cape Town.

In the new year, the CPBMJTT will commence with engagements with affected communities to collaborate on area-specific solutions and strategies applicable to an affected community.

“The Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan must be operationalised with specific local strategies that address the different needs, circumstances, resources and geographical concerns of impacted communities. This is to ensure these are best suited and most appropriate to respective areas and supported by residents,” the CPBMJTT said.

Work on the draft plan commenced in June 2022 after roundtable discussions on baboon management within the Cape Peninsula took place at Kirstenbosch.

A draft plan was presented to the public for comment in January 2023 and was followed by a stakeholder engagement meeting that was hosted in Tokai in March 2023.

“The CPBMJTT received and considered more than 800 individual comments emanating from the public participation period. In July 2023, the three spheres of government signed a Memorandum of Agreement that sets the foundation for cooperation between the three parties,” CPBMJTT said.

The Cape Peninsula Baboon Strategic Management Plan is available through the following links:

SANParks – https://bit.ly/3sb9mQJ

CapeNature – https://bit.ly/47c1mOd

City of Cape Town – https://bit.ly/3Qj2j1L and https://bit.ly/3tw3j9I

More information about this process will be made available early in 2024. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 07:58

357 views

22 December 2023

Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

Location: News

Over 900 Tourism Equity Fund applications initiated

A total of 985 applications for the Tourism Equity Fund (TEF) have been initiated by prospective applicants with 131 completed applications submitted that meet all application requirements.

This follows the opening of the TEF application process for businesses on 6 November 2023.

The Department of Tourism, together with the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (Sefa), an agency within the Department of Small Business Development, announced the opening of the application process for TEF on 2 November 2023, after Cabinet’s approval in September 2023 for the revised TEF implementation in September 2023.

The R1.2 billion fund aims to increase growth, transformation and stimulate more inclusive participation in the tourism sector in line with the targets of the Tourism Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Sector Codes.

The TEF is intended to address the funding challenges faced by Qualifying Small Enterprises and Emerging Micro Enterprises in the tourism sector.

According to a Sefa report, the 131 submitted applications represent a combined investment value of just over R2 billion.

Sefa reported that some of the 131 applications formally submitted have already been pre-screened, while pre-screening for the remaining applications will be completed by the end of the year.

Although no specific information is available yet on the type of enterprises, or the nature of projects for which TEF support have been applied for, Sefa’s preliminary report that 45 of the registered applications originated from Gauteng, 21 from KwaZulu-Natal, while between 10 and 14 applications were submitted between Limpopo, North West, Western Cape and Eastern Cape and with only one from the Free State.

Subsequent to basic or pre-screening, Sefa explained that the applications are subjected to a due diligence process, which includes a more detailed assessment of financial viability, Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA) compliance and reporting, credit and legal checks before preparation for presentation to the relevant investment committee for final adjudication.

“Depending on the readiness of projects, the applications may potentially be presented at upcoming committee meetings that Sefa has provisionally scheduled in Quarter 4 between January and March 2024,” the agency explained.

Tourism Minister, Patricia de Lille, said the department is encouraged by the level of interest and applications to the Tourism Equity Fund, which is aimed at driving empowerment and transformation to support the growth of new and emerging enterprises in the tourism sector.

“This is in line with our aims as government to support investment by the private sector to grow an inclusive tourism sector that can continue to contribute to the country’s economy and job creation. We will continue to keep businesses and the public updated on this important project in the coming weeks and months,” de Lille said.

The TEF will be implemented by:
•  Assessing and scoring applications against jobs to be sustained and/or jobs to be created, location and geographic spread, and targeted groups (youth, women, and people with disabilities).
•  Department of Tourism and Sefa in partnership with banking and/or financial institutions in the Republic of South Africa, which includes, amongst others, banks and developmental finance institutions that will offer affordable and tailor-made financial solutions, in an attempt to close funding gaps in the market, through the provision of a blended finance solution.
•  Disbursing a total of 80% of the TEF funds to existing Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the market to enable these businesses to grow. The remaining allocation of 20% of the funds will be disbursed to new businesses.

The Minister said Sefa will implement, execute, and manage the fund through a fund management agreement signed with the Department of Tourism. The department will support and monitor the implementation of the TEF on a monthly basis.

“The funding structure comprises grant funding, and debt financing, to meet the distinct needs of tourism enterprises that are either seeking equity acquisition, investment in new developments, or expansion of their existing businesses.

“The fund will focus on tourism enterprises in the accommodation, hospitality and related sectors-, and travel and related services-subsectors. The TEF will consider applications for start-ups, acquisitions, expansion and development projects in line with the Tourism B-BBEE sector codes,” de Lille said.

With consideration of Regulation Gazette No 11067, Volume 697, No 49018 published on 25 July 2023, withdrawing Regulation Gazette No 11241, Volume 668 of 19 February 2021. No 44172, all applicants (including previous applicants) are encouraged to submit new applications that will align with the new qualifying criteria of TEF.

For more information on the Tourism Equity Fund and the application process visit: https://www.tourism.gov.za/CurrentProjects/Tourism_Equity_Fund/Pages/Tourism_Equity_Fund.aspx. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:12

353 views

21 December 2023

SANRAL to inject billions into construction industry in 2024

Location: News

SANRAL to inject billions into construction industry in 2024

The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has started adjudicating tenders worth R6.43 billion that will be awarded early in 2024 to boost the construction industry.

SANRAL’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Reginald Demana, said the 77 tenders for various road construction projects were advertised at the end of November 2023 under the road agency’s Interim Preferential Procurement Policy (PPP) and submission closed on 14 December.

“SANRAL is currently adjudicating 77 tenders which will give the construction industry a good start in the New Year, helping to create thousands of jobs and inject billions of rands into the economy.

“While the rest of South Africa is winding down for the festive season, SANRAL is working hard to get South Africa’s construction industry off to a flying start in the New Year. The fact that our officials are working through the holidays to adjudicate these tenders is an indication of our commitment to fulfilling the promises we made to the South African public and it shows that we are getting back to business as soon as possible.

“We understand the role that construction and infrastructure development plays in the construction industry and we are determined to overcome the disruptions which resulted from court challenges to our PPP adopted in May 2023.

“We are squarely focussed on developing, maintaining and improving the national road network in line with our mandate from government,” Demana said on Wednesday.

After several court challenges launched by construction companies, SANRAL announced on 24 October that it was withdrawing the PPP adopted in May 2023 and embarked on a countrywide consultation process with interested and affected parties to adopt an interim PPP.

The 77 tenders, which are currently being adjudicated, were advertised in line with the interim policy.

Demana stressed that SANRAL was making every effort to catch up on time that the industry had lost by putting out 86 of the less complex consulting and construction tenders that were cancelled and subsequently re-advertised at the end of November.

The CEO said 1 040 bids were received for the 77 tenders and this illustrated the significance of SANRAL projects in the construction industry.

The breakdown of the 1 040 bids is as follows:

124 bids for national contracts with an estimated value of R350 million;
279 received for the Northern Region (Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North-West) with an estimated value of R548 million;
247 received for the Eastern Region (Free State and KwaZulu-Natal) with an estimated value of R2.1 billion;
240 received for the Southern Region (Eastern Cape) with an estimated value of R2.83 billion, and;
150 for the Western Region (Northern Cape and Western Cape) with an estimated value of R600 million.

“We are encouraged and at the same time humbled by this overwhelming response. It also tells us that the numerous engagements we had with interested and affected parties across the country has paved the way for more effective collaboration with all our stakeholders in the industry,” Demana said.

The official shutdown period for the construction sector commenced on 14 December 2023 and will end on 9 January 2024.

While all conventional road construction will be suspended during this time, SANRAL’s Routine Road Maintenance teams remain on standby to respond to any incident on the national road network.

“We wish to thank all our consultants and contractors for working around the clock to keep our projects on track and within budget. May you all have a well-deserved break with your loved ones and stay safe wherever you may travel,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 10:00

481 views

21 December 2023

Health department welcomes recall of lubricating gel

Location: News

Health department welcomes recall of lubricating gel

The Department of Health has welcomed the recall of the medical lubricant gel called Lubri-A, otherwise known as Sterile Lubricating Jelly.

This, after at least 380 patients developed a fungus infection, following use of the medical lubricant gel.

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) undertook an investigation from January 2022 to December 2023 into an unusually high number of patients in hospitals across South Africa with positive cultures of a fungus called Wickerhamomyces anomalus, previously known as Candida pelliculosa.

“The Health Department applauds the NICD and the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority’s (SAHPRA) decision to recall the contaminated health product.”

This product, according to the department, has been used in both public and private health facilities for medical procedures such as insertion of urinary catheters and ultrasound-guided insertion of venous catheters.

According to the NICD, current evidence suggests that a potential source of this fungus may have been a contaminated medical lubricating jelly used by health professionals across the health system in the country.

“This could have introduced the fungus into the bloodstream or other body sites in some patients,” the department explained.

“However, it is not yet certain if all cases in this outbreak represent true infections. A proportion of these cases may represent pseudo-infections.

“A pseudo-infection is a positive culture in the laboratory without a true infection in the patient which may occur, for example, if there was fungal contamination of the patient’s skin by contaminated lubricating jelly before collection of a specimen.”

An independent outbreak investigation conducted by the Western Cape provincial government earlier this year revealed that clusters of cases at two Cape Town hospitals may have been linked to the use of contaminated batches of lubricating jelly sachets.

The department said most of the cases at one Western Cape hospital were assessed to be pseudo-infections.

“This product has since been confirmed to be used by facilities with clusters of cases in several other provinces.”

The NICD reviewed public-sector laboratory records from 1 January 2022 through to 4 December 2023.

During this period, 380 patients with Wickerhamomyces anomalus positive specimens were identified in seven provinces.

“The department is working closely with SAHPRA, the NICD and the manufacturer Electro-Spyres to ensure the product in question is no longer used and is recalled with immediate effect and that all unopened lubricant sachets or batches are returned through the usual distribution channels.”

Although there are no reports of fatalities linked to this contaminated product, the continued use of the product may place the health of patients at risk.

“The NICD will support hospital teams to investigate individual patient cases to establish if lubricating jelly was used for any medical procedures before the positive culture and if patients had evidence of a true infection and any adverse sequelae.”

The department has alerted the provincial health authorities and clinicians to place all suspected batches on hold until further information from the ongoing investigation is known.

“There is no need for members of the public to panic as the situation is under control. Healthcare professionals who have used this product have been urged to monitor their patients for any signs of an infection and to liaise with their local laboratories to check if any of their hospitalised patients have had a positive fungal culture after use of this product.”

The signs or symptoms will depend on the body site that is affected.

Meanwhile, the department said the recall is limited to the product called LUBRI-A (2.5g and 50g sachets) and does not affect other lubricating gel products authorised for sale in South Africa.

“The department will always prioritise the health of the population using safe and effective medical products to improve health status through the prevention of illness, disease and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 10:31

414 views

21 December 2023

K-9, rural safety units fabricate inroads in battle against crime

Location: News

K-9, rural safety units make inroads in fight against crime

The Mossel Bay, Overstrand and Swartland K-9 Units, in partnership with the areas Rural Safety Units (RSUs), continue to make inroads in the fight against crime, particularly in their communities.

Between 4 and 17 December 2023, the units with various municipal law enforcement agencies and the South African Police Service, arrested 57 people for various crimes.

Of the 57 arrested, 32 were apprehended in the Overstrand municipal area, three in Mossel Bay and 22 were arrested in the Swartland.

This is according to the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety.

“In total, 18kg of dagga was confiscated in the last two weeks, along with more than 726 mandrax tablets. Other contraband, including West Coast Rock Lobster, their tails and abalone were also confiscated,” the department said.

It said the Mossel Bay K-9 unit had various operations, which included searches at two different addresses in Herbetsdale, where a combined total of 1kg of dagga, including more than 155 mandrax tablets and 21 plastic bankies, suspected to be tik, were discovered and confiscated.

One person was also found with half mandrax tablets at a taxi rank in the Mossel Bay’s central business district.

The department said the Swartland units had operations in Malmesbury, Moorreesburg, Riebeek-Valley, Vredendal, Vredeburg, Saldanha Bay, Yezerfontein and Piketberg with suspects arrested for among other things, dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, dealing in drugs and possession of stolen property.

The units also confiscated 505 mandrax tablets, 4kg parcels of dagga and 3 small zipper bags of tik.

“Amongst others, the Overstand arrests included 9 for possessions of drugs; 2 for dealing in drugs, 5 for illegal possession of marine life and 9 wanted suspects. This unit confiscated 13kg’s of dagga, 6 mandrax tablets, 32 West Coast Rock Lobster, 35 West Coast Rock Lobster tails and 35 whole abandoned abalone,” the department said.

Western Cape MEC of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Reagen Allen, commended the K-9 and Rural Safety Units for their continued effort.

Allen said the provincial government has made a commitment that the province’s K-9 and Rural Safety Units will be more visible throughout the festive season.

“These results are testament to their activity and effective execution. These units are demonstrating what the Western Cape Safety Plan seeks to achieve, particularly since we want our residents to live in improved and safer environments,” Allen said.

K-9 unit is a specialised group of law enforcement officers who use service dogs to perform the responsibilities of a general police officer. In addition to their usual duties, each K-9 officer is also a dog handler, meaning that they have to train and care for their canine partner. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 12:18

294 views

21 December 2023

Municipalities urged to prioritise infrastructure maintenance

Location: News

Municipalities urged to prioritise infrastructure maintenance

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has appealed to local authorities to prioritise the maintenance of water infrastructure in their area of operation to improve uninterrupted water supply to communities.

Mchunu said this during a joint Imbizo held at the King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi, on Wednesday.

The imbizo, which was an initiative of all spheres of government and attended by eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Bongi Sithole-Moloi, aimed to find lasting solutions to the water challenges experienced in Umlazi and some parts of eThekwini.

Delivering a keynote address, Mchunu said some water problems experienced in communities could have been easily resolved had local authorities stuck to the basics of operations and maintenance of infrastructure from the onset.

“The problems that we have currently, can be resolved and resolved quite urgently if we go back to the basics. Our infrastructure has a life span and we need to take serious care of it before it is too late.

“We must not allow our infrastructure to reach its life span. We need to act proactively to ensure that our house is in order. We are where we are because people are too relaxed at times and only react when there are problems,” Mchunu said.

The Minister said he was encouraged by the resolve shown by Kaunda to solve issues in a short space of time to the benefit of communities.

He underscored the need for urgency in the provision of water to communities.

“We need to accelerate the pace in which we do things [and] where there are issues, we need to be decisive and a sense of urgency is needed. We can’t relax when people do not have water. Let us talk, decide, and implement with a speed that is required and ensure that we fulfil our mandate of providing people with adequate water supply,” Mchunu said.

Kaunda said eThekwini Municipality is doing the best it can to resolve the current water challenges in the city and appealed to provincial and national government to give them the necessary support in their resolve.

“We are regulated by provincial and national spheres of government in our constitutional mandate as the Water Service Authority and we acknowledge our role and responsibility. We cannot do this alone. We need all the support that we can get, with capacity and resources,” Kaunda said.

Kaunda also dispelled the notion of mistrust of the quality of water in the city, reiterating that water gets tested twice a week by the city and independent scientists to ensure compliance with quality standards.

He further urged residents to work with the city and pay for services rendered to them so that revenue collected can be reinvested.

“Only those who are not working are exempted from paying for government services and they need to come to us and register as indigent, so that they can be on the indigent programme of the city,” Kaunda explained.

Operation and maintenance contract

Meanwhile, uMngeni-uThukela Water has entered into a short-term operation and maintenance contract with the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality to prioritise waste water maintenance.

As part of this agreement, Kaunda said uMngeni-uThukela Water will operate waste water works owned by eThekwini and two pump stations deemed critical and this represents 90% of the effluent that the city treats.

“uMngeni-uThukela Water has been working on priority projects to urgently improve compliance and has since delivered chemicals necessary for treatment in all the waste water works needing chemicals and is currently spreading the refurbishment of infrastructure.”

eThekwini Metro is supplied from two large water treatment plants - the Durban Heights Water Treatment Plant with a capacity of 615 Ml/d and Wiggins Water Treatment Plant with a capacity of 315 Ml/d.

Further supply is from Midmar Water Treatment Plant and DV Harris Water Treatment Plant via uMbumbulu pumpstation and Point M.

All these schemes abstract raw water from the Mgeni River System through Midmar, Nagle and Inanda dams. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:56

182 views

21 December 2023

Public urged to follow instructions of firefighting authorities in Simon’s Town

Location: News

Public urged to follow instructions of firefighting authorities in Simon’s Town

The public has been urged to follow instructions from firefighters managing the wildfire in Simon’s Town.

“We have a strong and professional team on the ground, and we request that the public do not panic and work with us.

“Our officials will request residents well in advance if they need to evacuate, and all firefighting decisions being made is with the safety of the public as number one priority,” Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Anton Bredell said on Wednesday afternoon.

The fire has been burning since Tuesday morning and firefighting efforts are currently focused on the flank moving from Castle Rock towards Simon’s Town.

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre has availed provincial aerial resources to the Simon’s Town fire. Currently, there are four Huey helicopters and a spotter plane, as well as an Oryx helicopter from the South African Defence Force, deployed.

“Staff from Working on Fire, Volunteer Wildfire Services, NCC Environmental Services, the City of Cape Town and South African National Parks (SANParks) have through Tuesday night worked tirelessly to protect people and property until they could be supported with aerial water bombing again since daybreak today,” the MEC said.

While Simon's Town is being addressed, several wildfires in the Cape Winelands District Municipality (CWDM) also need attending to.

Firefighters from CWDM Fire Services, CapeNature, Winelands Fire Protection Association, NCC Environmental Services and aerial resources from Leading Edge has been engaged in active firefighting on several fronts.

The provincial government said a fire is burning through dense and inaccessible vegetation along the Berg River in the vicinity of the Berg River Dam outside Franschhoek.

Efforts are focused on preventing the spread to farms and nearby infrastructure. A fire in Du Toit’s Kloof outside Paarl is currently mostly contained, with ground crews attending to isolated hot spots, monitoring for flareups, and doing general mopping up work.

The Western Cape Provincial Government has budgeted R16 million for the current wildfire season.

“Fires due to natural causes, such as lightning strikes or rockfalls, account for less than 3% of all wildfires. The other 97% is caused either intentionally, 25%, or through negligence, 72%. These statistics show the huge role ordinary citizens can play to protect not only our natural environment, but also our personal safety and infrastructure, from runaway wildfires,” the MEC said.

Bredell asked that people report any sighting of a fire as quickly as possible to the closest authorities.

“Experience over many years has taught us that the faster the initial response, the better our chances are of successfully controlling a fire before it spirals out of control,” he said.

The following numbers can be contacted to report any fire sightings:

City of Cape Town: 107 or 021 480 7700 from a cell phone
Overberg: 028 425 1690
West Coast: 022 433 8700
Garden Route: 044 805 5071
Central Karoo: 023 414 2603
Cape Winelands: 021 887 4446

-SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 10:59

189 views

21 December 2023

SONA set for 8 February 2024

Location: News

SONA set for 8 February 2024

President Cyril Ramaphosa has written to the National Assembly (NA) Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Chairperson, Amos Masondo, requesting them to convene a Joint Sitting of the two Houses for the State of the Nation Address (SONA) to take place on 8 February 2024.

The State of the Nation Address marks the official start of the parliamentary programme for the year ahead.

The President calls this Joint Sitting of the Houses of Parliament to set out government’s key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead.

“During SONA, the President also highlights achievements, flags challenges and outlines interventions that government will undertake to unlock development interventions for the coming financial year,” the Presidency said in a statement.

The 2024 SONA will start at 7pm. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 11:10

103 views

20 December 2023

Government refurbishes Wolwekloof Nature Reserve project to attract tourists

Location: News

Government refurbishes Wolwekloof Nature Reserve project to attract tourists

Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille has handed over the multimillion rand refurbished Wolwekloof Nature Reserve Project in the Witzenberg Municipality to CapeNature in the Western Cape.

The multimillion rand infrastructure maintenance project was funded by the Department of Tourism with the intension to stimulate demand by investing in tourist attractions to build and diversify the country’s tourism offerings.

“Tourism is a key sector in our economy, injecting billions into the economy each year and providing much needed jobs for our people. We must therefore continue to work with urgency and work as partners to grow our tourism offering so that we attract more tourists to our beautiful country. The more tourists we welcome, the more investment and jobs the tourism sector can create,” the Minister said on Tuesday.

The Wolwekloof Resort in the Witzenberg Municipality, near Ceres, was one of the few facilities that people of colour could visit during the apartheid era and it was a place of many great memories for families and friends.

In recent years, the facility was closed to the public and was used by various government user departments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) until a few years ago when Cape Nature was afforded the opportunity to take over management of the resort.

“The maintenance work at the Wolwekloof Resort sought to preserve the quality of product offerings at the identified site, as well as enhance the visitors’ experience and destination competitiveness.

“The scope of work entailed upgrading the existing pools, installing a new pool slide and installing new fencing to pools, construction of new braai areas and construction of walkways. The project site was handed over for implementation in December 2022 with a contract value of R3.7 million and reached practical completion earlier this year,” the Minister said.

This project is part of the national maintenance and beautification of provincial State-owned attractions, which initially were a part of the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme.

Throughout the duration of the contract implementation, the project has provided employment to 11 general workers of which six were youth who have assisted in duties such as bricklaying, painting, paving and plumbing including any general construction duties.

Opportunities were also offered to six Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), who participated in skilled labour such as works installation and repairs.

Apart from the work done by the Department of Tourism’s contractor at the Wolwekloof Resort, the department also conducted infrastructure maintenance work at several other sites in the Western Cape.

“The investment by government into these projects is critical to our mission to provide quality and enjoyable tourist attractions to local and international visitors. Infrastructure investment by government is about creating the conditions for further investment and job creation by the private sector.

“We are also pleased that these projects have been able to employ people from surrounding communities to assist with job creation and poverty alleviation measures by government. Although the Department of Tourism’s work at Wolwekloof is now complete, CapeNature is still conducting an extensive amount of work in a phased approach,” the Minister said.

The Wolwekloof Resort project is still in phase one with more work to be done on the water and electricity infrastructure at the site by CapeNature in the next three phases.

CapeNature’s vision is to reinstitute the site for recreational and leisure purposes with a modern twist.

“While we hoped the facility could be opened in time for the peak summer tourism period, CapeNature will be completing a range of important work to get the site up to standard and envisages to open the resort to the public in the Spring of 2024. It is my hope that we will continue to work as partners, all three spheres of government, together with CapeNature to restore this important tourist attraction to its former glory and upgrade it to be better than before,” De Lille said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 10:20

522 views

20 December 2023

NERSA welcomes imprisonment of criminals damaging Transnet infrastructure

Location: News

NERSA welcomes imprisonment of criminals damaging Transnet infrastructure

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has welcomed the arrest and successful prosecution of criminals tampering with the Transnet pipeline to steal petrol and diesel.

In two separate matters, a thief was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for damaging essential infrastructure, while in another, two men were sentenced to 10 and 15 years, respectively, for theft of fuel.

Regulator Member Primarily Responsible for Petroleum Pipelines Regulation at NERSA, Muzi Mkhize, said: “We commend the law enforcement agencies for the successful prosecution and incarceration of criminals set to commit acts of economic sabotage in the country. We further plead with municipalities and landowners, on which critical infrastructure traverses, to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to earnestly protect both public and private infrastructure against acts of criminality and vandalism, as this results in dire consequences for the country.”

In a question and answer session in October, President Cyril Ramaphosa said government is committed to combatting infrastructure damage.

He revealed that some 20 Economic Infrastructure Task Teams have been formed through the South African Police Service.

“A total of 946 personnel have been allocated to the 20 Economic Infrastructure Task Teams from existing structures within each province, district and station. They are experienced and knowledgeable personnel within their respective functional environments.

“The Task Teams integrate processes, resources and intelligence across all of the operational environments of the SAPS under a single command. This is to enable them to successfully combat essential infrastructure crimes, illicit mining and extortion within the construction sector.

“The Task Teams incorporate personnel from SAPS divisions such as Crime Intelligence, Visible Policing and Operations, and Detective and Forensic Services, as well as the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 11:24

495 views