Squads Announced for White-Ball Tours Against Afghanistan and Ireland
JOHANNESBURG: White-ball head coach Rob Walter has today announced the squads for the upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan...
JOHANNESBURG: White-ball head coach Rob Walter has today announced the squads for the upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan...
Condolences for activist and poet, James Matthews
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his condolences to the family and friends of poet, writer and political and cultural activist James Matthews.
Matthews, who was an Esteemed Member of the National Order of Ikamanga, passed away at the age of 95 in Cape Town over the weekend.
“James Matthews’s voice will ring in our consciousness following his departure and we will remain captivated and inspired by the rage and elegance with which he articulated the stark struggles of the oppressed.
“We will be comforted by the many works he has left for us to revisit and by our memories of his appearances at rallies, ghoembas, the frontlines of street protest and intimate circles of kindred creatives where, beret askew on his head, he would feed the souls and fighting spirit of those around him. May he now rest in peace,” President Ramaphosa said.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde also conveyed his condolences.
“As prolific and talented as James Matthews was, he was so much more than just a writer and poet; he was integral to the anti-apartheid movement, giving a powerful voice through his writing to the oppressed. He was an important part of our province and country's artistic fabric. He will be sorely missed and his contribution rightly celebrated.
“I extend the condolences of myself and our whole government to James’ family, friends, loved ones and all those who knew him. We celebrate him and the lives that he touched. We also know that he lives on through the many other artists he inspired,” Winde said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 09/08/2024 - 12:21
Wilderness, Garden Route, South Africa – September 9, 2024 : Love Botha, a South African mother of four, has achieved an extraordinary feat by summiting seven of Africa’s highest peaks in just 14 days. Her journey through the Rwenzori Mountains in Uganda is not only a testament to remarkable endurance and resilience but also a profound …
Former PRASA engineering head's sentence a blow against corruption
The hefty 15-year sentence against former Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) Engineering Head, Daniel Mthimkhulu, for three counts of fraud is a “significant victory” against corruption.
This is according to Acting Minister in the Presidency Maropene Ramokgopa, who briefed media on Thursday on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
Mthimkhulu was convicted and sentenced in the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crime Court for, according to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), misrepresenting his qualifications to PRASA and submitting a fraudulent job offer letter that he claimed to have received from a German engineering firm for a position at its engineering department.
This resulted in PRASA counter-offering and suffering prejudice amounting to some R2.8 million per annum.
“Cabinet applauded the 15-year sentence of the former Head of Engineering at the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, Mr Daniel Mthimkhulu, by the Palm Ridge Commercial Crimes Court.
“This sentence marks a significant victory in the fight against corruption and government’s commitment to rooting out dishonest practices and ensuring accountability at all levels,” Ramokgopa said.
She said Cabinet also welcomed the work done by law enforcement agencies to hold the corrupt accountable for their misdeeds.
“Cabinet welcomes the preservation order of R6.5 million against those involved in looting funds at the National Lotteries Commission. These actions support the implementation of the Anti-Corruption Strategy, which brings together law-enforcement agencies in the fight against corruption.
“Cabinet further welcomes the ruling by a London Court to allow the extradition of British national and former Eskom contractor, Mr Michael Lomas, to South Africa to face corruption charges.
"Lomas will be extradited to face 41 serious corruption charges related to the construction of the Kusile Power Station. This ruling is also a vote of confidence in our criminal justice system and affirms our commitment to comply with international human rights obligations,” Ramokgopa said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed a proclamation authorising the Special Investigating Unit to conduct an investigation into allegations of corruption and maladministration at Eskom.
“The signing… strengthens efforts to hold those involved in corruption activities at the State entity accountable. The proclamation covers allegations of unlawful and improper conduct that occurred between 1 March 2006 and 30 August 2024, and nine contracts will be investigated.
“The President also amended a proclamation authorising the SIU to investigate further areas of allegations of corruption at the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.govza
NeoB
Thu, 09/05/2024 - 12:14
Auditor-General flags irregular expenditure and insufficient controls in 2023/24 report
Premier sends condolences to KZN road victims’ families
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has sent condolences to the families of road accident victims, who passed away in separate motor vehicle accidents in the province.
A two-vehicle collision took place on the R622 Mooi Plaza on Greytown Road over the weekend and claimed the lives of 11 people, while a taxi crash on the R74 Kranskop Road left six people dead and 10 critically injured.
“I would like to extend my profound condolences to the relatives and friends of those who lost their lives due to a fatal head-on collision, which took place on the R622, R74 and N2. It is heartbreaking that we continue to mourn the loss of loved ones as a result of road carnage,” Ntuli said.
The Premier said the causes of the collisions are not yet known, as crash investigators and law enforcement authorities continue to investigate what happened.
The Premier emphasised the importance of daylight driving, as it enhances alertness and visibility.
“I advise South African motorists to exercise great caution when driving at night. Road accident statistics continue to highlight to us that a lot of fatal crashes occur in the nighttime. I would therefore like to continue to echo the importance of daytime driving, especially for long distance travels,” Ntuli said.
The Premier also called on all road law enforcement agencies to execute all possible measures to reduce road carnage across the province.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety of all road users, especially during peak travel periods.
Ntuli appealed to the public to adhere to traffic rules, drive responsibly and cooperate with law enforcement officials to create safer roads for all.
The Premier further urged law enforcement to be vigilant, enforce traffic regulations, and increase visibility on all major roads to curb reckless driving, speeding and other violations contributing to road accidents.
“The loss of life due to road accidents is unacceptable, and we must do everything in our power to prevent it. I call upon all law enforcement agencies to strengthen their efforts and work together to ensure that our roads are safe for everyone,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:39
Nelson Mandela University hosts a Women’s Empowerment Event. Equipping students with the skills to succeed in the digital PR industry. Insights into the rapidly evolving PR landscape. Gqeberha, 04 September , 2024: The event took place on the 29th of August 2024 at the Ocean Science Campus at Nelson Mandela University. The event commemorating Women’s …
Springboks vs All Blacks: Park and ride for free around CT on Saturday
The City of Cape Town is rolling out an expanded free park and ride service on Saturday, 7 September 2024, as the Mother City hosts four-time Rugby World Cup champions, the Springboks, for their Castle Lager Rugby Championship game against New Zealand at the DHL Stadium.
A sold-out crowd is expected at the DHL Stadium for the 5pm kick-off as the Springboks return to play in Cape Town for the first time since their victory against Wales in front of a 52 000 strong crowd in 2022.
It is also the first time the Springboks go head-to-head with the All Blacks in the Mother City since 2017.
“Cape Town is a city united in pride and excitement as we prepare to host our world champion Bokke for this historic clash against our greatest rivals. To support this major event, the city is pleased to announce an expanded and free MyCiTi shuttle service for spectators,” said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
This will cover fans from Century City, the University of Cape Town (UCT), Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Thibault Square and Civic Centre stations.
Stadium gates are expected to open at 12:30pm ahead of the curtain raiser between the Springbok Women against the Barbarian Women at 1:30pm.
The first shuttle from all pick-up points will depart at 12pm.
At the Civic Centre, the city will open its 475 parking bays for ticketed rugby fans on a first-come, first-served basis from 11am.
The free parking areas are accessible from Hertzog Boulevard and Civic Road.
The shuttle service from UCT’s Upper Campus and Century City Steelbridge E-parking will operate until 4:45pm to ensure that all spectators get to the event before the kick-off of the Springbok game at 5pm.
At UCT, spectators can park on the Upper Campus and catch the shuttle at the UCT Shuttle North Stop (beside the dam).
Century City Steelbridge E-Parking will have 500 free parking bays for match ticket holders on a first-come, first-served basis. The parking area on Century Boulevard will be monitored by security but is at the owner’s risk.
On-street parking in the CBD is available for free from 1pm.
The last return bus from the stadium to the pick-up points leaves at 9:30pm.
“With the game sold out, we anticipate our roads will be congested on match day. But working with the event organiser, we have provided alternatives to single-occupancy vehicles to ensure people avoid being stuck in traffic.
“We would like to encourage spectators to make use of the park and ride system to alleviate the pressure on the roads,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
However, according to Smith, parking around the stadium is limited and people are discouraged from parking illegally in the residential areas.
“Illegally parked vehicles will be fined and/or towed away. We are deploying our safety and security personnel to work with SAPS in taking care of safety at this event. This is a wonderful occasion that a lot of people have been anticipating for some time. Let’s work together to make it a seamless and memorable experience for all,” Smith added.
Meanwhile, a dedicated e-hailing area will be established on P13 on Greenpoint Main Road between York Road and Wigtown Road.
Residents and motorists are advised that several roads will be closed and restricted on Saturday. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:07
As the world observes International Day of Charity on 5 September, Dr Armand Bam, Head of Social Impact at Stellenbosch Business School, urges South Africans to confront the pressing realities of giving in a nation scarred by its past. He challenges the public and private sectors to view philanthropy not as mere charity, but as …
Former Prasa employee sentenced to 15 years in prison
A former Passenger Rail Agency South Africa (Prasa) employee, who was convicted in the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court sitting in Palm Ridge on Monday, has been sentenced by the same court today.
Daniel Mthimkhulu was charged with nine counts including fraud, uttering and forgery by allegedly misrepresenting his qualifications to Prasa upon his arrest in July 2015.
He claimed, among other things, to have acquired a Masters’ degree from the University of Witwatersrand, as well as a Doctorate in Engineering Management from the Technische Universitat Munchen (Munich Technical University) in Germany.
“As a result of the misrepresentation and fabricated CV, Prasa suffered prejudice in that his annual salary was unduly hiked from R1.6 million, as executive manager to heading the engineering services for a salary to the tune of R2.8 million,” said the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Hawks, on Tuesday.
The Hawks’ Serious Economic Offences Unit of the Serious Commercial Crime Investigation was instrumental in ensuring that Mtimkulu was ultimately convicted.
The Johannesburg High Court had on Friday, 15 March 2024, attached both immovable and movable properties belonging to the convict in terms of the confiscation order of section 18 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act.
The court further ordered that Mthimkhulu pay an amount of R5.8 million to Prasa to recoup the proceeds of crime.
The court on Tuesday sentenced Mtimkulu to 15 years imprisonment on count 1 and on count 4 and 8, the court sentences him to six years imprisonment served concurrently with 15 years’ imprisonment.
“This is one of the State Capture cases that has been finalised and the public can be assured that other State Capture cases on the DPCI table will be dealt with amicably,” said the unit.
The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya welcomed the sentence and applauded the hard work and efforts of the investigation and prosecution teams.
"This should serve as a lesson to would be fraudsters that crime doesn’t pay," reiterated Lt Gen Lebeya. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 09/03/2024 - 14:05
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday 7 September. Windmeul Kelder and Rhebokskloof Estate outside Paarl will host a fun-filled day of festivities suitable for the whole family. The waterblommetjie (also known as Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos, Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae) is an indigenous delicacy that is only found in the Boland area of …
Innovative kitchen appliance designs transform urban living, delivering space-efficient solutions and improved functionality even in the most compact homes. As urban living continues to develop, homeowners and apartment dwellers alike face the challenge of making the most of limited space. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the kitchen, where appliances can quickly overwhelm smaller …
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced the 15-player squad for the Proteas Women’s T20 International (T20I) series against Pakistan and...
The Totalsports Women’s Race has much to celebrate in 2024. Each of the three events drew record-breaking numbers, with a combined total of 30 000 runners (7500 in Durban, 12 500 in Cape Town, and 10 000 in Joburg) participating during Women’s Month. In addition to this remarkable turnout, the event proudly raised an impressive …
Investing in high-quality winter clothing now will pay off later, stay warm with these jackets from Hi-Tec. Accessibility to the great outdoors shouldn’t be limited because of the weather. Bundle up in everything you need from windbreakers to rain jackets. You can be a trailblazer and retain peak functionality even in the coldest weather with …
Neutrogena, the world’s trusted Kenvue facial skincare brand is proud to introduce its new Body range, marking its entry into the body care market with the same commitment to excellence that has defined its facial skincare products. This new collection of lotions and balms is expertly designed to offer the high level of care and …
SAPS celebrates its Deputy Minister
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has embarked on a series of profiles to celebrate women in policing and in particular female leaders within its ranks who are playing key leadership roles within the organisation to ensure a safer and secure country for all.
As Women’s Month draws to a close, SAPS celebrates the recently appointed Deputy Minister of Police and Member of Parliament, Polly Boshielo.
Boshielo took up her new role in the Police Ministry in June 2024, following the establishment of South Africa’s seventh democratic administration under the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Section 93(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa stipulates that Deputy Ministers appointed in terms of subsection (1) (b) are accountable to Parliament for the exercise of their powers and the performance of their functions.
As a Deputy Minister in the Police Ministry, Boshielo's role, alongside Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale, is to support the Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu in the execution of his duties.
This is a task Boshielo does not take lightly and says she is “rolling up her sleeves” in the fight against crime.
Boshielo hails from Seshego, a township in Polokwane in the Limpopo province.
Growing up, Boshielo always knew she was destined for a life in the political realm and matriculated at Mmakgabo High school in 1989.
Her political leadership acumen led her to become a respected South African politician and a leader who served the country in various leadership positions, both in public and private sector, said the SAPS.
This year, the country observes Women’s Month under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Year of Democracy Towards Women’s Development”.
Boshielo is a sterling example of a woman in leadership that believes in continuous self-development and obtained the following academic achievements:
• Master’s in Philosophy (MPhil) in Transport Studies (2018), University of Cape Town
• Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) (2007), Turfloop Graduate School of Leadership, University of Limpopo
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) specialisation in Management (2004), University of South Africa
• Diploma in Road Transport (Passenger)(2000), then Rand Afrikaanse Universiteit
Boshielo is currently enrolled and studying towards a Doctorate’s degree in Administration through the University of Limpopo.
Over the years, Boshielo also completed a number of additional qualifications which include a Diploma in Office Administration, a Certificate in Personal and Team Effectiveness and a Certificate in Strategic Planning and Change Management.
The Deputy Minister went on to complete various other post graduate programmes among others, Executive Leadership Programme Certificate with the University of Cape Town (UCT), Senior Management Programme with the University of Pretoria (UP) as well as obtaining a Project and Programme Management certificate with the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).
Boshielo said her political career started as an Administrator in the Office of the Secretariat in the African National Congress (ANC), Northern Province, before her appointment as the Head of the MEC’s Office of Dr Aaron Motsoaledi from 1994 until 2007.
She also served as General Manager in the Department of Roads and Transport responsible for public, freight and air transport.
Her leadership qualities and capabilities were recognised following her deployment to the National Assembly where she was sworn in as a Member of Parliament on 21 May 2014 and served until 5 June 2015.
She was assigned to serve at the Auditor-General for Transport, Status of Women and Public Enterprises committees.
Boshielo was also appointed as the Speaker of the Limpopo Provincial Legislature from October 2015 to May 2019.
Following the inauguration of the provincial government in 2019, she was then appointed an MEC for Education from May 2019 until June 2022 and then re-deployed to the Transport, Safety and Liaison portfolio as MEC until October 2022.
Boshielo was then deployed back to the Limpopo Provincial Legislature where she was appointed Chairperson for Quality of Life and Status of Women, Youth and Disability portfolio from October 2022 until May 2024.
Prior to her political appointments, the Deputy Minister served in various senior positions in both public and private institutions.
“As the Police Ministry our goal is this - to ensure South Africans and visitors to our country are safe and feel safe. Professionalism is key in ensuring services of a high standard are rendered to the communities our members of the South African Police Service serve,” Boshielo said.
The Deputy Minister promised to plough her wealth of knowledge and experience into her new portfolio towards a safer environment for all. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/30/2024 - 11:52
Correctional Services officials allegedly involved in cellphone smuggling charged
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has instituted disciplinary action against officials who were alleged to have been involved in the use of cellphones at a Western Cape correctional facility.
This is according to DCS Minister, Dr Pieter Groenewald, who was answering questions in a sitting of the National Assembly on Wednesday.
A video of an inmate at the Goodwood Correctional Centre went viral on social media in July in which he is heard describing prison life as a “soft life”.
“It was quite clear that some of our officials were part of this breach. After an investigation, a total of six officials were identified for disciplinary actions to be instituted against them. An investigation was conducted and completed. The area commissioner of Goodwood took a decision…to institute the disciplinary action.
“The status at the moment is that all six are formally charged. Two of the six are finalised and four are still in process,” Groenewald said.
The Minister said the department is exploring ways to block signal at prisons but this brings its own challenges.
“There are various ways to deal with this matter of cell phones and connections from within our facilities. But it’s not that simple. For instance, you can have a jammer but some of our facilities are close to highways and the community itself and you cannot restrict the jamming just to the centre. That will have an influence on the community.
“So what we are doing is looking is looking at technology. There is sophisticated technology to make it more focussed but it is expensive and we will have to look at our budget,” he said.
The Minister vowed to crack down on errant officials in the department.
“The first step to deal with corruption is to ensure that there are consequences for those officials who transgress. Consequence management is essential if you want to eradicate corruption.
“I had a conversation with the members at head office…and I made it clear that corruption cannot only be fought by a minister but we must join hands to do it. Most of the correctional services officials are honest, hardworking people with integrity but we will have to work together to identify the rotten apples and disciplinary steps must be taken against them,” Groenewald concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 15:36
Lawyers say psychological aspect of domestic violence must be taken into account when sentencing women who kill abusive partners
The Boxer Super Run will take over the streets of Durban with waves of 5km fun on Sunday 13 October 2024. Entrants can choose the wave that best suits their running prowess. “The appeal of the Boxer Super Run lies in its accessibility and ability to accommodate a diverse range of participants, from elite runners …
Bara's burn unit gets a much-needed upgrade
The upgrading of the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) will go a long way in positioning the facility as one of the leading centres in Africa, focusing on the treatment of burns.
This is according to Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, who opened the new extended wing together with Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, and the Roy McAlpine Foundation.
The additional wing is expected to enhance critical care and specialist training.
Since its establishment 33 years ago, the burns unit at the hospital has admitted over 30 000 patients and performed more than 40 000 burn-related surgical procedures.
“The opening of this new wing is more than just an expansion of physical space; it represents a crucial step forward in our ability to provide lifesaving world-class care to the hundreds of patients who depend on the public health system.
“This centre of excellence will go a long way in ensuring that more patients, both adults and children, can be counted among those whose dignity was restored post severe burns,” explained Nkomo-Ralehoko.
According to the CHBAH Head of Burns Unit, Professor Adelin Muganza, the facility’s expansion includes 12 newly- equipped intensive care unit (ICU) beds and a new operating theatre to reduce delays in surgical procedures - a critical factor in treating severe burns.
The unit also boasts office space, a large outpatient service area ensuring that more patients receive timely follow-up care, and rehabilitation spaces for occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and recreational activities.
According to Muganza, all these are essential for the holistic recovery of burn victims, including a skin substitute laboratory to improve the training of specialists and patient outcomes through cutting-edge research.
The impact of this expansion is already being felt by patients such as 29-year-old Nontleko Sithole from George Goch in Johannesburg who suffered burns to her body and face.
She was admitted to the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit earlier this month after a devastating fire at her home, which sadly claimed her grandmother.
“I am impressed and happy with how the hospital treated my wounds and amazed about the progress I am making so far. I never thought I was going to recover so quickly, but now I am positive because of the work done on me by the healthcare workers,” she said.
Another patient, Bafana Alex Ntombela from Pimville, Soweto, was severely burned after collapsing onto a hotplate stove, causing significant injuries to the lower part of his body.
“I thought my life was over after seeing how badly I was burned. I underestimated Bara and its staff, but they surprised me with the treatment they gave me. They counselled me, and I have hope that I will recover. The progress of my healing is amazing.”
The facility is set to recruit additional specialists, medical officers, and nurses, further strengthening its capacity to meet the growing healthcare needs of the community.
This milestone underlines the GDoH’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and preparing for the National Health Insurance (NHI) by expanding and upgrading facilities to meet the increasing demand for healthcare services.
The facility will also significantly improve burns services not only in Gauteng but also across South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community region. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 10:23
Judge Nomonde Mngqibisa-Thusi was late with dozens of judgments
Schools are expected to receive their 2025 staff allocations on Friday
Major General convicted for corruption
The Kimberley Regional Court on Monday convicted Major General (retired), Advocate Thuto Gaogakwe Phefo (62), for contravention of the Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act brought against him in August 2017.
It was reported that the complainant, a former employee of the South African Police Service (SAPS) had applied for a Brigadier post and was shortlisted.
Further allegations were that during assessment, she was approached by the accused, who gave her a document containing what he said would be expected in the interviews.
The complainant said upon opening the document she realised that it was a case study. She further indicated that the accused solicited R70 000 for the document.
The complainant allegedly paid the accused R48 000. An enquiry was opened on 2 August 2017, which resulted in an entrapment operation being conducted.
The accused was arrested on 13 August 2017 after demanding and receiving the balance of R22 000. The accused was released on a R4 000 bail and has appeared 48 times in court until his conviction.
In the meantime, the complainant was dismissed from the police and the senior manager in question was acquitted in the departmental case. He took an early retirement on 31 March 2020.
The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Lt Gen (Dr/Adv) Godfrey Lebeya, has lauded the perseverance and dedication of the investigation and prosecution team in ensuring that the accused is convicted after many delays.
The case has been postponed to18 October 2024 for sentencing. After conviction, bail was not extended and the convict is remanded in custody. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 08/27/2024 - 10:46
