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Kubayi leads SA delegation to Ghana

Location: News

Kubayi leads SA delegation to Ghana

Human Settlements Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, is leading a government and business delegation on an official visit to the Republic of Ghana to participate in government-to-business engagements focused on creating an environment for investment conducive for affordable housing development.

The high-level engagements between the Ghanaian and South African government, which get underway from 25-27 October 2023, will focus on policy and technical exchanges, including a bilateral between Kubayi and the host Minister of Works and Housing, Francis Asenso- Boakye, to review areas of mutual interest.

“The visit will contribute to the strengthening of partnerships between South Africa and Ghana's business sector, while promoting South Africa’s capabilities and policy expertise in the development of human settlements and infrastructure development in general,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Tue, 10/24/2023 - 12:48

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New State-of-the-art Primary Healthcare Clinic to Meet Growing Health Demands in Botleng Extension 6

Location: News
GE

As part of GE Vernova's (https://www.GEVernova.com/) commitment to support communities in areas it operates in, GE Vernova's Steam Power business, is proud to announce the handover of the Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre, a first-of-its-kind primary healthcare facility in Delmas, Mpumalanga, South Africa. The clinic was officially handed over to the Mpumalanga Department of Health and marked by an official opening ceremony in Nkangala District of Victor Khanye Local Municipality.

The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents an approximated R75 million investment towards the turnkey construction and full equipment kitting of the clinic in efforts to uplift the local healthcare infrastructure. The clinic will play a critical role in meeting the growing healthcare demands of the community and its surrounding areas. Up to 100 000 local beneficiaries will have access to comprehensive primary healthcare services including 24-hour emergency care, maternity, dentistry, eyecare, medical dispensary, and mental healthcare services.

While Botleng Extension 6, part of a rapidly growing settlement in Victor Khanye Local Municipality was being serviced by a mobile clinic with restricted services that visits the area twice a week, the new clinic will alleviate the community's burden of travelling great distances to access quality healthcare services. The state-of-the-art facility boasts of a cutting-edge maternity ward equipped with premium GE Healthcare ultrasound/V-scan equipment, ensuring precision healthcare for expectant mothers and their babies. In addition to this, GE Healthcare will roll-out technical, clinical, and soft skills training programmes for nurses and midwives at the clinic, enhancing the quality of healthcare services.

Premier of Mpumalanga, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane expressed the provincial government's gratitude for this significant contribution to the healthcare infrastructure in the region. "This facility will be heralded and safeguarded by generations to come. Not only has it exceeded our standard infrastructural requirements but should be used as a benchmark for public service and infrastructural excellence," Mtshweni-Tsipane stated. "Thank you for leading by example and being a prime example of how private public partnerships can significantly aid our efforts and serve as catalysts for sustainable employment opportunity creation in our communities."

In line with its continuous strategy to empower local businesses, GE Vernova's Steam Power business supported local businesses and communities throughout the construction process where GVK-Siyazama Construction served as the principal contractor, overseeing construction activities. A minimum of 30% of the work was sub-contracted to local Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), and the general workforce was sourced entirely from the local community and empowered through accredited trade and skills development trainings. It was critical for the clinic's design approach to incorporate ecologically conscious solutions like rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient fittings and low maintenance landscaping throughout the construction process.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Emmanuel Thouet, GE Vernova's Steam Power SSA Regional Leader, expressed the company's commitment to driving social change through public-private partnerships. " Over the years, large infrastructure projects have provided us opportunities to create jobs and develop the critical skills needed to drive continuous growth in the energy sector. We recognize that for us to make a sustainable impact, we must be deliberate in our efforts to support social change," he stated. "Through our expertise and innovation, we are able to address social challenges by creating shared value. We are proud to be part of this transformative project that will significantly improve the social and economic vitality of the Botleng Extension 6 community."

Zandile Shange, Eskom General Manager for Kusile Power Plant Project, expressed her enthusiasm for the community-centric partnership Eskom enjoys with GE Vernova's Steam Power business in delivering this essential healthcare facility. " Health and wellness are fundamental human rights for all South Africans," Shange said. "The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre represents a crucial step in providing accessible healthcare services to the people of this region. We are proud to be part of this initiative, which aligns with our mission to support the well-being of our communities and in accordance with one of our core values, ‘Sinobuntu'."

The Botleng Extension 6 Community Health Centre stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between industry leaders, government agencies, and the community to address critical healthcare needs and uplift local communities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Kashumba Macombe
Middle East & Africa Content Creation & Communications Specialist
GE Vernova
+27 71 372 3110
Kashumba.Macombe@ge.com

About GE Vernova:
GE Vernova is a planned, purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses of Advanced Research, Consulting Services, and Financial Services. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world's challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with more than 80,000 employees across 140+ countries around the world. GE Vernova's Steam Power business provides a broad portfolio of technologies and services that help industrial and non-renewable energy power plants deliver reliable power as they transition to a lower carbon future.

GE Vernova's mission is embedded in its name –it retains its legacy, “GE,” as an enduring and hard-earned badge of quality and ingenuity. “Ver” / “verde” signal Earth's verdant and lush ecosystems. “Nova,” from the Latin “novus,” nods to a new, innovative era of lower carbon energy. Supported by the Company Purpose,The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova will help deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: GE Vernova (https://www.GEVernova.com/) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3Qc09j6).

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Mashatile to address National House of Traditional Leaders gathering

Location: News

Mashatile to address National House of Traditional Leaders gathering

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to participate and speak at a gathering convened by the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders. 

According to the Presidency, he will meet with the leaders as Chairperson of the inter-ministerial task team on matters of traditional and Khoi-San leaders, at the Ilanga Estate, Bloemfontein, Free State, on Tuesday, 24 October. 

The 2023 Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders Xivijo, will focus on promoting development and social cohesion in traditional communities through cooperation with government and the private sector. 

The meeting will emphasise the purpose and objective of building cohesive communities driven by the vision for development, Ubuntu and self-sustainability.

Xivijo is a Xitsonga expression of a gathering, usually called by the traditional leadership.

Representatives of the National, Provincial and Local Houses of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Congress of Traditional Leaders of South Africa (Contralesa), the Royal Leaders of South Africa (Rolesa), National Khoi-San Council, government and private sector representatives are expected to attend the gathering.

The aim, the Presidency said, is to engage on all matters affecting the institution of traditional leadership and its contribution to rural development.

“Established by the President, the inter-ministerial task team led by Deputy President Mashatile, will during this candid session, present progress reports on work carried out by various work streams led by Cabinet Ministers in addressing issues raised by the traditional leadership.”

 This programme will include progress achieved in several areas including: 

• Advancing land ownership, tenure rights and fast-tracking socio-economic development of rural communities.

• Building institutional capacity and ensuring support to traditional and Khoi-San leaders.

• Advancing infrastructure investment and skills development in rural communities.

• Promoting unity, social cohesion and nation-building in rural communities.

• Fast-tracking the finalisation of policy, legislative and constitutional matters.

“Government is committed to work together with the institution of traditional leadership in addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the country and it is also dedicated to strengthening the significant role they play, in the reconstruction and development of the country, especially in rural areas,” said the Presidency.

The Deputy President will be accompanied by Cabinet Ministers, Free State Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana, and senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 09:37

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Inter-faith community called on to encourage crime afflicted communities

Location: News

Inter-faith community called on to help crime afflicted communities

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has reiterated the call to the inter-faith community to continue praying for all communities afflicted by crime, gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), rape and murder.

“It is my view that crime prevention cannot be left to be the responsibility of government alone. Let us all hold hands and work together,” Dube-Ncube said.

Dube-Ncube made the call during the Provincial Youth Committee Gospel Arts and Culture Competition, held in Mthwalume, South Coast on Sunday. Participants in the competition showcased their talents and competitive spirit in gospel music, arts and culture.

The Premier said violence meted out against women in particular, is a shame and is a threat to all social cohesion and nation-building efforts.

“Today’s event reminds us that our communities are plagued by the scourge of GBVF and Crime in general. Crime here in the Mthwalume area in recent years and GBVF in particular has been a major worry. 

“While the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele has assured me that the crimes of murder especially GBVF are being attended to, I urge the community to work closely with the SAPS [South African Police Service] to do everything to address all the sources of crime in this area and in the rest of the province,” she said.

The Premier said the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), places power in the hands of artists.

“With access to technology artists can now interact directly with their audience, create songs and post to all streaming platforms without the help of a manager or record label. This can take place whether you are Johannesburg or New York or even in a backroom here in Mthwalume.

“While the labels and record companies still do have a place, artists are now positioned better to attract success before labels get to them. Today’s event is therefore more than just entertainment or competition, but is an opportunity to minister, and also to provide economic empowerment opportunities in music and the performing arts to artists from all over our province,” the Premier said.

She added that bringing a gospel competition to Mthwalume is a demonstration that gospel music, which is one of the most popular genres in South Africa, belongs to the people. She said it underlines her belief that development of rural areas is as important as addressing the issue of services in rural areas. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 09:51

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Government activities for the week, 23 – 27 October 2023

Location: News

Government activities for the week, 23 - 27 October 2023

Government has scheduled the following briefings/activities for the week: 23 to 27 October 2023. 

From Tuesday, 24 October, to Thursday, 26 October, South Africa will host the 7th Global Alcohol Policy Conference at the Cape Town Convention Centre in Cape Town.

On Tuesday, 24 October, the Electoral Commission will launch the 2024 National and Provincial Elections from 10:00 at the Ballroom, Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.

From Tuesday, 24 October, to Thursday, 26 October, Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, will host the BRICS Tourism Ministers meeting in Cape Town.

From Tuesday, 24 October, to Friday, 27 October, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies will host the National Digital and Future Skills Conference at the East London ICC in the Eastern Cape.

Janine
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 10:07

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Disaster teams respond to damage caused by heavy rains in KZN

Location: News

Disaster teams respond to damage caused by heavy rains in KZN

KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management teams are currently assisting people affected by heavy rainfall and strong winds that caused widespread destruction, particularly in Mtubatuba in the northern part of the province, at the weekend.

According to the provincial Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs’ (CoGTA) initial report, at least four people from Mtubatuba lost their lives due to a thunderstorm accompanied by strong winds over the weekend. 

The storm ripped roofs off houses and caused damage to infrastructure, including power cables, roads, bridges, and vehicles.

“Up to now more than 70 houses in the Somkhele and KwaMyeki areas have been identified as destroyed. Some houses suffered complete damage, rendering families homeless. 

“There are also reports of damaged vehicles and in certain areas Eskom poles and cables are scattered across roads and people's properties. Community halls and churches have opened their doors to the public, while others have sought alternative accommodation with relatives,” the department said in a statement.

In the Harry Gwala District, the Greater Kokstad Municipality has also experienced heavy rains and a hailstorm in the Pakkies Location. Approximately six households were affected, with no reported fatalities, injuries, or displaced individuals at the time of the report. 

In the Umzimkhulu Municipality, heavy rains in the Madakeni location affected four households, with no fatalities reported, while in the Umgungundlovu District, about 23 households in the Rosetta informal settlement under the Mpofana Local Municipality were affected by the hailstorm on Saturday.

In Ulundi, under the Zululand District Municipality, a block of rental rooms was blown away by strong winds, with no reported injuries.

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi has conveyed her sincere condolences to the families and friends affected by the incidents. 

Sithole-Moloi said disaster management teams will continue on-site assessments and provide relief including mattresses, blankets, food, and plastic sheeting.

“We are collaborating with other government departments, such as social development and human settlements, to aid all victims. Our teams, in conjunction with municipalities, will persist in assessments to determine necessary government intervention. 

“We extend condolences to those who lost loved ones during this period. While we acknowledge that certain incidents are unavoidable, such as the thunderstorm with strong winds that devastated houses in Mtubatuba, we encourage communities to take safety precautions, such as relocating to safer areas where possible,” Sithole-Moloi said. 

As heavy rains persist across various parts of the province, the MEC said provincial disaster management teams remain on high alert.

She said ongoing assessments will lead to an updated report, once the preliminary findings are consolidated.

Meanwhile, the MEC will today visit the affected families in Mtubatuba to convey her condolences to the families, and also conduct an assessment of the extensive damages in the area, where several homes were destroyed. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 10/23/2023 - 10:27

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Western Cape prepares for record-breaking summer tourism season

Location: News

Western Cape prepares for record-breaking summer tourism season

With preparations for the summer tourism season underway, the Western Cape province will - for the first time ever - have more than one million in-bound international seats, breaking the record for travellers during the festive season.

“Looking ahead, Cape Town International Airport’s seat capacity for summer 2023/24 is estimated to increase by an impressive 25%, compared to the same period last year. This means that inbound international seats this summer will exceed 1 million, for the first time ever,” the MEC for Finance and Economic Opportunities, Mireille Wenger, said on Sunday.

She said the province is pleased with the significant progress made over the past year in bringing the private and public sectors together to implement practical solutions to combat and pre-empt safety risks for visitors.

"Over the 2023/24 season, 250 tourism monitors will be deployed across the Western Cape to identified hotspots, and will be trained and equipped with mobile apps to link them to critical security services,” she said.

 In addition, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Cape Town Tourism will implement tourist-in-distress programmes, which ensure that visitors have professional support available when they most need it.

“I am also pleased that the Department of Tourism has secured a commitment from South African Police Service (SAPS) that police reservists will be available during the summer season to assist with tourism safety,” she said.

 The MEC said work is being prioritised to ensure a successful upcoming season, as well as future seasons.

“At the top of my list is making it as easy as possible for international visitors to holiday in the Western Cape and South Africa. I am determined to work with our national government partners to fix the inefficiencies. I therefore welcome the commitment from the Department of Home Affairs that the long overdue Remote or Digital Nomad Visa will be live by the end of March 2024,” Wenger said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 10:38

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President calls for UN to lead negotiations to resolve Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Location: News

President calls for UN to lead negotiations to resolve Israeli-Palestinian conflict

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a United Nations-led negotiation process towards resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

“The international community has a responsibility and a duty to support peace, and to create favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue,” the President said on Saturday.

He made these remarks at the Cairo Summit for Peace, which discussed the ongoing escalation of the conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip, and the urgent need for humanitarian support.

“As South Africa, we hold the firm view that the attack on civilians in Israel, the ongoing siege of Gaza and the decision to forcibly move the people of Gaza, together with the indiscriminate use of force through bombing, are violations of international law. More than that, these acts are an affront to our common humanity.

“We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of hostages, the lifting of the siege of Gaza, the opening of humanitarian corridors and the urgent provision of humanitarian aid on the required scale to the people of Gaza,” President Ramaphosa said.

The international community, the President said, has a responsibility and duty to support peace and create favourable conditions for negotiation and dialogue.

“As South Africans, we can relate to what is happening to Palestinians. Our people waged a brave and courageous struggle to achieve their freedom and were subjected to untold suffering just like the Palestinians are going through.

“The nightmare of apartheid was only brought to an end by the relentless struggle of our people and the courage and foresight of leaders, who put aside their differences and sought peace rather than revenge.

“We believe that peace is the only option to bring about peace between Israel and Palestine. To achieve this, steps must be taken now. We therefore call on all parties to exercise restraint and on all state actors to desist from providing weapons to either of the sides to the conflict,” the President said.

He expressed concern that the response of the Israeli government to the attack on its citizens will further deepen a conflict that has engulfed the region for many decades, and will make the attainment of a just and lasting peace even more difficult.

“We are also concerned that this conflict can spread to include other countries in the region. This must be avoided at all costs. The only way to bring about peace is the fulfilment of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people to human rights, dignity and statehood.

“This is in line with the decisions that have been taken by the United Nations that guarantees statehood for both Israel and Palestine based on the 1967 borders. Only through a negotiated settlement, supported by the international community, can the people of Israel achieve the security they seek and the people of Palestine realise the freedom they deserve,” President Ramaphosa said.

He encouraged the international community to call for a ceasefire, find a sustainable solution to the conflict and stand on the side of peace, justice and human rights for all. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 10:58

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Plans in space to ensure safe festive season in Gauteng

Location: News

Plans in place to ensure safe festive season in Gauteng

Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Elias Mawela, has outlined the province’s plans to keep communities safe this festive season.

Addressing the launch of the Safer Festive Season campaign on Saturday in Randfontein, Mawela said the Gauteng Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (ProvJOINTS) has resolved to heighten the crime efforts over and above the daily and weekly activities.

“Each government department will aggressively enforce its legislative mandate. We will increase the frequency of our crime prevention and crime combating operations by increasing police visibility through the blue light patrols and static deployment of rapid response vehicles at identified strategic routes,” Mawela said.

The Safer Festive Season campaign will be implemented under the theme: "Combating crime through decisive police action and robust community involvement".

This festive season police will focus on prevention of gender-based violence and femicide, as well as protection of members of the vulnerable groups, combating aggravating robberies, enforcing legislation in relation of firearms, liquor and second hand goods.

It will also include enforcing safety at recreational events, enforcing bi-laws as well as dealing with drunken driving, speeding and removing unroadworthy on the roads.

Law enforcement is expected to conduct roadblocks, which will include deploying more intelligence at hotspot areas.

Intelligence collection capabilities will be enhanced by working with community patrollers and community police forums.

Police Minister General Bheki Cele gave his marching orders to police officers who have been tasked with protecting communities.

“Criminals have declared war against the people of South Africa and you are the buffer between those people and the criminals. It is your job to protect them. I am making a call that you fight against criminals who have declared war against South Africans and the government,” the Minister said.

Cele encouraged the men and women in blue to ensure the safety of women, children and the elderly, emphasizing that their cases should be attend to when they have been reported.

He said government is set to improve police visibility by deploying about 10 000 newly trained officers in December. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 10/22/2023 - 12:55

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Calling All KZN Entrepreneurs! Play Your Fraction Ignite is here to give your business conceit a boost!

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg 20 October 2023 – Sometimes, all a great idea needs is a little fine-tuning to give it the confidence and gravitas it needs to succeed. A nudge in the right direction can be life-changing for many aspiring entrepreneurs in South Africa. Brand South Africa, through their Play Your Part Ignite roadshow, have been travelling …

Read moreCalling All KZN Entrepreneurs! Play Your Fraction Ignite is here to give your business conceit a boost!

Global Conflict Threatens Local War On Hunger Warns Development Group

Location: MyPR

Agripreneurship: a solution to enhance food security as global conflict proves a recurring threat to SA’s vulnerable food supply chain. 19 October 2023: Recent global conflicts such as the Ukraine-Russia War continue to send shockwaves throughout the world. Their impact has laid bare the critical need for developing African markets, such as South Africa (SA), …

Read moreGlobal Conflict Threatens Local War On Hunger Warns Development Group

Advocate Gcaleka recommended as next Public Protector

Location: News

Advocate Gcaleka recommended as next Public Protector

The National Assembly (NA) has voted to recommend to President Cyril Ramaphosa that he appoint Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka as South Africa’s new Public Protector (PP).

Gcaleka has served as Deputy Public Protector since February 2020, before acting as head of the institution when Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane was suspended in June 2022.

As set out in the Constitution, the PP’s office is a Chapter 9 institution with powers to, amongst others, investigate “any conduct in State affairs, or in the public administration in any sphere of government, that is alleged or suspected to be improper or to result in any impropriety or prejudice”.

The NA’s process to nominate a new PP began in May this year with the establishment of the Ad Hoc Committee to Nominate a Person for Appointment as Public Protector.

The committee issued a call for nominations or applications from the public in accordance with Section 59(1) of the Constitution, which obligates public participation in processes of the NA.

“Broadly, the provision states that the NA must facilitate public involvement in its legislative and other processes, and conduct its business in an open manner and hold its sittings, and those of its committees, in public. The Committee accordingly conducted its business in an open and transparent manner,” Parliament said in a statement.

Some 53 nominations and 17 applications were received as a result.

“Of the 53 nominations, 32 did not meet the nomination requirements as set out in the advertisement and two candidates subsequently withdrew from the process. Eight candidates were shortlisted for interviews and underwent reference checks and verification of qualifications.

“Following the rigorous interview process, the Committee met on 29 August to deliberate and agreed to recommend to the NA that it nominate Advocate Gcaleka for appointment as Public Protector,” the statement read.

Parliament explained the requirements that have to be met in order to be appointed as head of the Chapter 9 institution.

“The person must be a South African citizen, who is fit and proper to hold such office, and who is a Judge of a High Court or is admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having been so admitted, practiced as an advocate or an attorney; or is qualified to be admitted as an advocate or an attorney and has, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years after having so qualified, lectured in law at a university, or has specialised knowledge of or experience, for a cumulative period of at least 10 years, in the administration of justice, public administration or public finance,” Parliament said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 10:42

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N West appeals for unruffled after reports of alleged poisonous food from spazas

Location: News

N West appeals for calm after reports of alleged poisonous food from spazas

The North West Provincial Legislature is appealing to communities to remain calm after receiving messages from the public “panicking about the death of children after allegedly consuming poisonous food items bought from spaza shops”. 

The North West Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Tourism, Agriculture and Rural Development, chaired by Bitsa Lenkopane, has also called on communities to remain vigilant. 

The committee urged the provincial Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism and other relevant stakeholders to investigate these disturbing allegations. It urged the department to join hands with municipalities and activists to create awareness to ensure that communities understand the State’s mandate in such matters.

“We are calling on the department to do inspections and furnish the portfolio committee with a detailed report, which should indicate trader categories and their respective consumable products, which are further extended to school learners. 

“These must include trader status, whether licensed or not, compliant with the business regulation act or not -- which must indicate compliance with the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 about foreign-owned business,” Lenkopane said. 

The committee said it has been inundated with calls from members of the community following media reports on children's deaths after reportedly consuming poisonous food items bought from spaza shops. 

Earlier this month, the Gauteng Health Department confirmed the deaths of at least five children due to suspected food poisoning. This after the children allegedly consumed poisonous food from local shops and vendors. 

“While no formal and or authenticated information and evidence has been received, the portfolio committee has been receiving calls from panicking parents and community members seeking remedies to protect communities from alleged traders who sell them products containing deadly poison,” said Lenkopane.

The committee further urged officials to regularly communicate with communities through different platforms to ensure that they are accountable and responsible for all the operating businesses across the province to reduce the amount of panic. 

“The portfolio committee will rely on the report from the department that should be submitted within seven days and further engage communities on the work done and/or systems in place, including communication of the database of all businesses, regulated or not.” 

In addition, the committee appealed to communities to refrain from causing unnecessary unrest, and rather report incidents and provide proof to the nearest police service. 

“They should also provide accurate information to any government officials who might be dealing with the situation,” said Lenkopane. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 11:02

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Pandor calls for urgent provision of humanitarian aid as Israel-Palestine conflict escalates

Location: News

Pandor calls for urgent provision of humanitarian aid as Israel-Palestine conflict escalates

South Africa has called for an immediate end to hostilities and the unconditional provision of medical supplies and humanitarian aid as the conflict between Israel and Palestine escalates.

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, said this on Friday during her working visit to Zambia where she held talks with her counterpart Minister Stanley Kakubo in Lusaka. 

She described the conflict between Israel and Palestine as “grave”.

According to various media outlets, the death toll of those killed since 7 October 2023 in the Gaza Strip has reached 4 127, including 1 661 children, while 13 162 people have been injured. 

“The carnage and senseless destruction of property as well as the untold pain and suffering should be condemned unreservedly. These events remind us of our own suffering at the hands of apartheid machinery,” Pandor said. 

The Minister said the relevant United Nations (UN) resolutions and decisions should now be fully executed to ensure peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine for sustained peace. 

“In this regard, our struggle is not complete if the people of Palestine are not free.” 

In the same breath, Pandor said leaders should take the opportunity to reinforce their support for the people of Western Sahara in pursuit of their right to self-determination. 

“The immediate focus should be to ensure that the referendum is conducted in a free and fair manner. I am satisfied that we had an opportunity to exchange views on these important issues earlier on,” she added. 

Repatriation

Meanwhile, Pandor told the Zambian delegate that government was inundated with requests from South African families for assistance in identifying the grave sites and repatriation of mortal remains of their loved ones. 

“These are heroes and heroines of our struggle you sheltered during our dark days of apartheid.” 

South Africa, she said, was looking forward to working closely with the Zambian government to accord these families closure.  

“Whenever we touch down in this country, vivid memories of the support we received during the struggle against apartheid are evoked in our minds.”

According to Pandor, many of the freedom fighters either settled or transited through Zambia from as early as 1963 where the African National Congress (ANC) also established its headquarters in 1969.

“The Zambian people, within their means, provided security and shelter to our gallant fighters and their leadership, particularly OR Tambo whose leadership and resilience led to the intensification of our struggle in the 1980s,” she recalled. 

Strategic partner

She noted that South Africa and Zambia also remain strategic partners because of the shared history and vision to foster a stable, cohesive, integrated, and prosperous Africa. 

“South Africa will continue to work closely with Zambia and our regional partners to deepen peace and stability in Southern Africa and beyond.”

Pandor said a peaceful and stable region will enable the two governments to collectively rebuild their economies following the devastation of COVID-19 and restore people’s dignity.  

“We must take advantage of the regional value chain projects in our region and contribute towards the fruition of the SADC Integration Agenda as well as the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA).”

Both countries are currently in the process of preparing for the Inaugural Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) which will take place in Zambia. 

The BNC launch, she said, is overdue as the nations have not convened since 2017.

“We therefore need to utilise the occasion of the BNC to review the implementation of the existing 23 agreements and Memoranda of Understanding signed between the two countries.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 13:47

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Gauteng launches auto body workshop for its fleet management entity

Location: News

Gauteng launches auto body workshop for its fleet management entity

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has launched a state-of-the-art Panel Beating and Apprenticeship Training Workshop, which is set to benefit graduates, informal businesses and entrepreneurs.

Addressing the launch on Friday in Johannesburg, Department of Roads and Transport Director of Fleet Maintenance Unit at g-FleeT Management Sifiso Mhlongo explained that the new Panel Beating Workshop will offer full cycle panel beating services for all g-FleeT vehicles involved in accidents.

G-FleeT Management is a Trading Entity of the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport and is a provider of vehicle leasing and fleet management services for the public sector in South Africa whose clients include National, Gauteng Provincial and local government departments.

Historically, accident repairs have been outsourced through the RT46 Transversal Contract by the National Treasury of South Africa.

“Accident repairs are one of the major cost drivers for g-FleeT. Therefore, the main objective of the New Panel Beating Workshop is to assist g-FleeT to be in total control of a major part of its value chain, which impacts on the quality of fleet, turnaround times, customer satisfaction and g-FleeT’s self-sustainability,” Mhlongo said.

The anticipated benefits of the workshop include improved cost control, quality of repairs, skills development for qualified artisans and experienced staff as well as satisfied clients and self-sustainability of the entity.

“The Panel Beating facility would be manufacturer approved, and this would enable all repairs to be carried out at the manufacturer’s strict criteria and standard, with a plan to obtain industry Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), South African Motor Body Repairers' Association (SAMBRA) and Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (MERSETA) accreditation.

“It also has a built-in Training Facility for technical training and skills development, which would help g-FleeT contribute to the development of technical skills categorized as critical and scarce in the country.

“The Entity plans to operationalise the panel beating workshop, gradually build up internal capacity, and consider adopting a hybrid approach for in-sourcing and outsourcing of accident repairs,” he said.

G-FleeT has partnered with the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) to operationalise the Panel Beating Workshop, as the entity does not have the necessary skills internally.

“AIDC is a subsidiary of the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, which is an agency of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development. They specialize in both Automotive Hub establishment and Technical Skills Development, which made them a strategic fit for the operationalization of the Panel Beating Workshop, with an In-house Training Facility,” Mhlongo said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 13:58

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NSG, UJ sign MOU

Location: News

NSG, UJ sign MOU

The National School of Government (NSG) and the University of Johannesburg (UJ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate the secondment of academic personnel of the UJ to the NSG during their sabbatical leave.

The MoU enables UJ scholars to pursue education and research in line with the education, training and development (ETD) initiatives at the NSG for the duration of their sabbaticals.

The MOU will promote knowledge exchange and resource support, and will greatly enhance the NSG’s interventions in improving State capacity.

Public Service and Administration Minister Noxolo Kiviet has hailed the agreement as a progressive partnership towards the professionalisation of the public service, since the academics are expected to contribute to education, training and development programmes at the NSG.

“Building an ethical, capable developmental State is an apex priority of government. Such a partnership will go a long way towards the achievement of this goal,” Kiviet said.

Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) said: “I am delighted to announce the secondment of our esteemed academic personnel to the prestigious National School of Government during their sabbatical. This opportunity will not only enrich their own research and teaching expertise but also contribute to the advancement of public administration and governance practices in the country.

“We believe that this collaboration will pave the way for greater innovation, knowledge-sharing, and academic excellence in the field. Our commitment to fostering partnerships with leading institutions such as the NSG underscores our dedication to creating a positive societal impact and shaping future leaders in the public service.” 

The Principal of the NSG, Prof Busani Ngcaweni, welcomed the agreement and said the NSG looks forward to the benefit that the public sector will derive from this development.

“Academics will be able to share their expertise and gain practical experience of how the public service works, through being stationed in a government department for a period,” Ngcaweni said.

Government departments will also gain a lot from the expertise and research capacity of the academic personnel.

Ngcaweni said the NSG will explore the conclusion of a similar agreement with higher education institutions, as well to expand the pool from which government will benefit. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 10/20/2023 - 14:05

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Potchefstroom community raises concerns

Location: News

Potchefstroom community raises concerns

Members of the community in Potchefstroom in the North West have raised various service delivery challenges with President Cyril Ramaphosa and the leadership from the three spheres of government during the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo held at the Ikageng Sport Complex. 

The President kicked off the second round of the District Development Model (DDM) Imbizo in the North West province after visiting all nine provinces to address service delivery challenges. 

This visit provides an opportunity for the President to assess progress made in implementing the interventions pronounced during his visit on 12 March 2022 in Mahikeng.

Major service delivery challenges raised by community members at the Presidential Imbizo include basic services such as water and electricity, housing, the neglect of NGOs for disabled people, disabled people not being considered for employment, poverty and unemployment, corruption, dilapidated infrastructure in schools and limited healthcare facilities.

One of the community members, Edith Ndindwa, from Ward 15 in Jacaranda pleaded with the President to assist with her RDP house, which has been in construction for over two years. 

“The project has now stopped Mr President. Please assist us with this project to be completed. We do not even have toilets. We do not have electricity and water. Disabled people help themselves outside their houses. Please assist us in this regard,” she said. 

Another resident, Maki Ntayi, asked the President to assist with funding for NGOs for disabled people in the North West.

“We can’t get funds for the NGOs we run to assist disabled people. I am pleading that you assist us with electricity connection. President please take disabled people into consideration. Our centre is not in a good condition,” she said. 

The President and various Ministers provided some solutions to the issues that were raised by the community and also gave an update on progress made since the last Imbizo visit in the province.

“I thank you for giving yourselves time to come and listen to government’s plan and to voice your concerns to us. Plans to improve your lives in the North West. When we hold Izimbizo we allow everybody to speak so that we can get a clear understanding of what their concerns are,” said the President.

“We have heard you clearly, even I have written down what you are saying and the officials present have listened and taken note of your concerns. Now we have a clear understanding of how life is in this district. You all share similar concerns including the sewerage system, water, roads, jobs and housing.”

Some of the other issues raised included red tape when starting farming businesses and mining rights.

The president said he would call different Ministers to respond to the issues that are relevant to their departments.

“Almost all of Cabinet is here to listen and respond to the various issues raised and explain what the State’s plans are.”

President Ramaphosa started his morning with an oversight visit at the Potchefstroom Water Reservoir Project in Ikageng, in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality in the North West. 

The upgrading of the Potchefstroom Water Treatment Works project will see a 25 megalitre reservoir that will convey water to Ikageng Proper, Ikageng Ext. 1,4,5 9,12, Potchindustria, Mohadin and the Northern portion of Ikageng Ext. 7. 

The position of the new reservoir site is also suited to cater for any future developments once the urban edge is extended to the northwest of the reservoir site. 

President Ramaphosa was received by Acting Premier Nono Maloyi and Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu. Also, attending were Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Thembi Nkadimeng and Deputy Minister Parks Tau. – SAnews.gov.za

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Work underway for better water provision in the North West

Location: News

Work underway for better water provision in the North West

The Department of Water and Sanitation has rolled up its sleeves to accelerate the provision of water in the North West, through an initiative geared towards enhancing access to consistent and reliable water supply in the province.  

This is evident in the construction of the Ikageng 25 mega litres ground reservoir in the JB Marks Local Municipality. 

The reservoir construction forms part of the Potchefstroom Water Treatment Works project upgrading which consists of six phases, including the refurbishment and upgrading of the treatment plant, the extension of AC pipeline, upgrading of the Ikageng Pump Station, and the construction of a New Rising Main and Bulk Distribution Pipeline in Ikageng. 

The project is one of several mega water projects which are being accelerated by the department and other role players, through the Operation Bulela Metsi initiative, to ensure reliable water supply in the province. 

The department said the construction of the reservoir is funded through the department’s Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG), with the municipality as the Water Services Authority (WSA) appointed as the implementing agent. 

The construction of the reservoir commenced in January this year and is expected to be completed by July 2024, with more than 100 job opportunities for local people in the pipeline. 

“The reservoir and the new bulk distribution (gravity) pipeline will supply water to communities in Ikageng Proper, Ikageng Extension 1,4,5 9, 12, Potchindustria, Mohadin, as well as the Northern portion of Ikageng Extension 7.

“The project came about as a result of the decommissioning of the Ikageng West Reservoirs, which rendered the Ikageng Proper and Potchindustria networks without any storage capacity. 

“A new reservoir had to be constructed to meet the required storage capacity, with special care taken to position a new reservoir to ensure that it is not constructed in a dolomite risk zone. Close to 22 000 households and a population of 94 201 will benefit from the successful completion of the reservoir,” the department said. 

The department added that the reservoir site is suitable to cater for the future developments at Mooibank to the south of the N12 and the platform will be ready to accept additional ground reservoirs. 

“The position of the new reservoir site is also suited to accommodate any future developments once the urban edge is extended to the northwest of the reservoir site, as proposed in the recent Spatial Development Framework,” the department said.

Operation Bulela Metsi project is a culmination of the hard work carried out by technical task team established by Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu and the Provincial Government in January this year to conduct an assessment on the state of water and sanitation services provision in the province, and come up with measures to address the challenges and ensure sustainable provision of the services.

Meanwhile, during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s oversight inspection of the construction site on Friday, as part of the District Development Module (DDM) Presidential Imbizo in North West, Mchunu made a commitment to fast-track the implementation of bulk water projects in water strained communities. 

The department said it was working with the provincial government and its entities, as per the Minister’s directive, with an aim of ensuing water security in the province and across the country. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 10/20/2023 - 15:16

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Eastern Cape grain planting season kicks off

Location: News

Eastern Cape grain planting season kicks off

The Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform (DRDAR) MEC, Nonkqubela Pieters, has kicked-off the provincial annual grain planting season, as part of the department’s ongoing investment in commercial and communal grain production.

Launched at the Dalasile Agri Park (DAP) in Ngcobo in the Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality on Thursday, the grain planting season will see R93 million invested in the production of maize, oats, sorghum and soya beans in the province’s grain corridors of Alfred Nzo, Chris Hani, Joe Gqabi, OR Tambo and Amathole.

More than 9 000 farmers in the province will produce grain on 27 774 hectares through the R93 million investment of the department.

Speaking at the launch, Pieters said one of the department’s priorities is the transformation of the grain value chain in the province.

She said the department is investing money in black farmers to elevate them to a commercial level, while ensuring food security for families.

“The Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality will be supported with 2 025 hectares under the DRDAR Grain Development Partners through the agri park, while 1 905 hectares is split between mechanisation and production inputs to support smallholder grain producers,” Pieters said.

One of the beneficiaries, Nokwandisa Mdayi, said her life changed from doing menial jobs, such as laundry for families in her community, to becoming a self-sustaining farmer when she joined the commercial grain production programme, funded by DRDAR through its multimillion rand investment in the Dalasile Agri Park.

“The development in this project has transformed our lives and those of our children. I used to suffer a lot, doing laundry for people but now I am able to earn more money at the end of the month and provide for my children.

“The business does not only provide opportunities for its members, but also for other community members. During harvesting, I call women from the community to pick excess grain that is not picked up by the harvester and we pay them R120 a day,” Mdayi said.

Highlighting the positive impact of government investment in Nkondlo, DAP Chairperson, Yanga Dalasile, said the agri park has received an investment of R16.3 million from government under the partnership model for the past three years, and the investment has, in the past seven years amounted to more than R500 million, through the cropping fields.

“We have more than 15 off-take agreements, which enable us to sell our produce at commercial markets. The one that has been the best is Bester, which sold our soya beans to China at R9 000 per ton,” Dalasile said.

Dalasile said the area had been known as a crime hub where all forms of violence thrived, but now that bleak picture has been changed. 

“After the start of our grain business, the area is now known as an agricultural hub of the Eastern Cape because we are the second biggest communal land-based project in the province and we have been moving from strength to strength,” Dalasile said with pride.

AB Xuma Mayor, Siyabulela Zangqa, said the municipality has plans to construct a processing plant in the area for the production of animal feed.

“When we have a processing plant here, it means that we are going to have sustainable jobs and our fight against poverty, unemployment is going to succeed,” Zangqa said. – SAnews.gov.za 
 

GabiK
Fri, 10/20/2023 - 11:54

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