health

14 March 2025

New fleet to aid Nelson Mandela Bay waste collection efforts

Location: News

New fleet to aid Nelson Mandela Bay waste collection efforts

In a move to enhance waste management services, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has unveiled seven advanced waste collection trucks, which is an investment in the city’s public health infrastructure and an improvement in service delivery efficiency.

Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Health, Thsonono Buyeye, commended the arrival of the new fleet, describing it as a crucial financial boost that will ease the financial pressures faced by the municipality’s waste management department.
The municipality is located in the Eastern Cape.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony held on Wednesday, Buyeye said the introduction of the state-of-the-art waste collection compactor trucks serves as a significant step forward poised at improving waste management services.

“This investment demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing efficient and effective services, thus underscoring the department’s dedication to maintaining a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment [for all residents],” Buyeye said.

The MMC explained that, as part of the city's strategy to reduce its reliance on outsourced waste collection services, the municipality has implemented a three-year fleet recapitalisation plan, which allocates R30 million annually starting this year.

“This acquisition will significantly alleviate financial pressures on the municipality, which previously spent substantial amounts outsourcing waste management collection trucks, compromising its ability to deliver other essential public health services,” the MMC said.

He added that the arrival of the trucks will significantly reduce the city’s financial burden previously placed on the municipality, due to outsourcing waste management.

The new trucks are equipped with cutting-edge technology and enhanced capacity, enabling them to manage larger volumes of waste with greater speed and efficiency. The advanced lifting gear of the trucks allows them to effortlessly collect a wider range of waste types, ultimately enhancing the waste collection and management process.

"As a municipality, we are thrilled, considering that the arrival of these trucks will significantly enhance our service delivery. Unfortunately, vandalism of municipal fleet, including waste collection fleet has been a great challenge.

“However, we are positive that together with law enforcement, and the community, we can protect these valuable waste compactor trucks, as our goal is to ensure that public health services reach every corner of our city,” Buyeye said.

Measures to prevent vandalism and theft

To address the persistent issue of vandalism, the MMC said the municipality has implemented a comprehensive security strategy to protect the new waste management fleet.

He said the municipality is also investigating recent incidents of vandalism that have affected the city’s existing waste collection vehicles.

He said a robust security strategy has been put in place to safeguard against vandalism and theft, ensuring its longevity and effectiveness.

The municipality also urged residents to work with the municipality, and law enforcement to protect and safeguard municipal assets that service all residents.

“This collective effort is crucial in preventing vandalism and theft, which severely impacts the delivery of essential waste management services, particularly in high-crime areas,” Buyeye said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/14/2025 - 11:14
80 views

14 March 2025

South Africa-European Union Summit concludes

Location: News

South Africa-European Union Summit concludes

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the European Union’s €4.7 billion Global Gateway Investment Package aimed at supporting strategic investment projects.

The President was speaking during a press briefing following the 8th South Africa-European Union Summit held in Cape Town on Thursday.

The package is aimed at supporting:
•    A clean and just energy transition in South Africa
•    Digital and physical connectivity infrastructure
•    The local pharmaceutical industry.

“The investment package covers areas such as critical raw mineral processing, green hydrogen, renewable energy, transport and digital infrastructure, local vaccine and pharmaceutical production, and resources for skills development.

“To boost the competitiveness of our economies, we agreed to launch negotiations towards a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership. This will support the development of cleaner value chains for raw materials and local beneficiation, renewable and low carbon energy, and clean technology,” President Ramaphosa said.

Furthermore, the partnership will also serve as a platform for “regulatory cooperation between the European Union and South Africa in areas of mutual interest related to clean supply chains”.

“This partnership is expected, for example, to deliver short and long term solutions to enable Sasol to export sustainable fuel, especially aviation fuel, to the European Union,” the President added.

Strengthening ties

President Ramaphosa noted that the summit – the first such held in seven years – reflects mutual commitment to “enhancing our Strategic Partnership for the mutual benefit of our people”.

As a regional bloc, the European Union (EU) is South Africa’s biggest trading partner recording some €49.5 billion in total trade in 2023 with EU foreign direct investment into South Africa reaching around €71 billion in 2022.

“Today’s Summit focused on strengthening our trade and investment relations, which are vital for the growth of our economies and the achievement of our development goals,” the President noted.

Discussions also focussed on other areas including green energy, science and health.

“We have prioritised the transition to green energy, ensuring that this process is just and inclusive and safeguards the livelihoods of those most affected by the transition. We also had discussions on our robust cooperation in education; science, technology and innovation; and health.

“We have recognised the vital importance of developing the skills and capabilities of young people, starting from early childhood development through to the training of young people in the skills of the future,” President Ramaphosa explained.

Global developments

On the global stage, President Ramaphosa said, “we reaffirmed our commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law and the central role of the United Nations in maintaining global peace and security”.

“We also expressed our resolve to resist actions that undermine multilateral cooperation. We reinforced our belief that the institutions of global governance must be reformed to make them representative and fit for purpose.

“We agreed that addressing the root causes of conflict is essential for achieving durable peace, security and stability in Africa.”

Turning to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Ramaphosa said South Africa calls on parties to assist in addressing the “dire situation of the people” caught in the blaze of the war.

“As South Africa, we have made a call for a humanitarian intervention for displaced people in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

“As we work to achieve a ceasefire and achieve a peaceful resolution of the conflict in the DRC, we are calling on the United Nations, African Union and EU to help to address the dire situation of the people affected by the fighting,” he said.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the Summit, President Ramaphosa described it as having further strengthened the strategic partnership.

“Today’s Summit has further strengthened our Strategic Partnership, which will support our efforts to drive inclusive economic growth, create jobs, eradicate poverty and address global challenges in a spirit of solidarity, collaboration and partnership.

“On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, it has been a pleasure to host you today, reaffirming our commitment to building strong, mutually beneficial relations with the European Union,” President Ramaphosa concluded.

In his opening remarks at the summit, the President said that as one of South Africa’s most important trade and investment partners, the European Union can play a catalytic role in unleashing the productive capacity of our economy and equip our people, especially the youth, to participate in the economy of the future.

READ | President Ramaphosa engages EU on new investment package

“We hope we can continue to rely on the support of the European Union and its member states in our efforts to alleviate poverty, transition to a low-carbon economy, invest in climate-resilient infrastructure and grow our industrial capacity,” the President explained. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 19:06
122 views

14 March 2025

Merck Foundation CEO and First Ladies of Africa jointly announce Winners of ‘More than a Mother’ and ‘Diabetes & Hypertension’ Song Awards 2023

Location: News

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, in partnership with the First Ladies of African and Asian Countries, announces the 2025 Call for Applications for two Merck Foundation SONG Awards - apply now at submit@merck-foundation.com

Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV and/ or Women Empowerment,

Merck Foundation Song Awards “Diabetes and Hypertension” to promote healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention of Diabetes and Hypertension and healthy lifestyle promotion in Africa.

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, in partnership with the African First Ladies, announced the winners of Merck Foundation's Song Awards 2023 under two themes - “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension.”

The awards were announced by Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' campaign, together with African First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' campaign.

Senator Dr. Kelej said, “I feel so elated to announce the winners of Merck Foundation's “More Than a Mother” and “Diabetes and Hypertension” Song Awards in partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. I congratulate and applaud our 13 talented winners.

Songs are a powerful medium for addressing and influencing social and health issues across Africa. This year's entries were exceptional, with lyrics that effectively conveyed impactful messages, sparking meaningful thought and dialogue within communities.”

The theme of “More Than a Mother” Song Awards was to raise awareness on any of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV and/or Women Empowerment at all levels and the theme of “Diabetes and Hypertension” Song Awards was to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension in the African countries.

Senator Rasha added, “I have always believed that music and art have the power to evoke emotions, which in turn inspire engagement and action. This belief led us to introduce our Song Awards in 2019. To date, we have celebrated close to 50 winners.

Moreover, we have produced over 30 songs and music videos to address many critical and sensitive issues across Africa.”

Click here to listen to Merck Foundation Songs: https://apo-opa.co/4iKrDsx

Here is the list of Merck Foundation ‘More Than a Mother' Song Awards 2023 winners:

English Language

Kobusinge Jackline, UGANDA- FIRST POSITION

Theme: Women Empowerment

Mark Mulwanyi, UGANDA- SECOND POSITION

Theme: Women Empowerment and GBV

Aobakwe Senokwanyana, SOUTH AFRICA- THIRD POSITION

Theme: GBV

French Language

VITA NKANZA Dep, DRC- FIRST POSITION

Theme: Child Marriage

Alain Oyono, SENEGAL- SECOND POSITION

Theme: FGM

MASSANGA MARCELIN JOWANE, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC- THIRD POSITION

Theme: FGM

Wax Dey ft Abz, CAMEROON- THIRD POSITION

Theme: FGM

Bouanga Kaba Paterne Lyonel Black Panther Slam, CONGO BR- THIRD POSITION

Theme: GBV and FGM

WANA-BONAH Romuald Euvral Evlin, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC- THIRD POSITION

Theme: Women Empowerment

Dangawana samuel, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC- THIRD POSITION

Theme: GBV and FGM

Here is the list of winners of Merck Foundation ‘Diabetes & Hypertension' Song Awards 2023:

FIRST POSITION:

Johannes Medard Tairo, TANZANIA- FIRST POSITION

Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (English)

Schela MUTAKA, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO- SECOND POSITION

Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (French)

Dennis Kimani, KENYA- THIRD POSITION

Theme: Diabetes & Hypertension (English)

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej further added, “I would also like to announce the Call for Applications for the 2025 Edition of the two Merck Foundation Song Awards ‘More Than a Mother' and ‘Diabetes & Hypertension', in partnership with First Ladies of Africa and Asia.

“I invite entries from all Singers, Musicians and young talents, to contribute towards making a difference in society with their inspiring songs with strong and relevant messages about critical and sensitive issues we face in our continent. Be the voice of the voiceless, break the silence and let's all join hands to create a cultural shift”, Senator Kelej added.

Details of Merck Foundation SONG Awards 2025:

1. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 “More Than a Mother”

Theme for the awards: Address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV and /or Women Empowerment.

Who can apply: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a song with the aim to address one or more of the above-mentioned social issues.

Categories: ENGLISH, FRENCH, PORTUGUESE, AND LOCAL LANGUAGE

Submission deadline: 30^th September 2025.

2. Merck Foundation SONG Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”

Theme for the awards: Promote healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Who can apply: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a song with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Categories: ENGLISH, FRENCH, PORTUGUESE, AND LOCAL LANGUAGE

Submission deadline: 30^th October 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: apo-opa.co/43QeNES
X: apo-opa.co/43LhE1Y
YouTube: apo-opa.co/43IxXfW
Instagram: apo-opa.co/4iJ4Ope
Threads: apo-opa.co/3FCNOma
Flickr: apo-opa.co/4iNzxkZ
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download the Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4hv7F44

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (apo-opa.co/43QeNES), X (apo-opa.co/43LhE1Y), Instagram (apo-opa.co/4iJ4Ope), YouTube (apo-opa.co/43IxXfW), Threads (apo-opa.co/3FCNOma) and Flickr (apo-opa.co/4iNzxkZ).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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13 March 2025

Raw Sewage Is Running Into the Kruger Park From Limpopo Town

Location: News

Phalaborwa residents lay criminal charges against local municipalities to try to end their sewerage problems

13 March 2025

SA focuses on improving diplomatic relations with United States

Location: News

SA focuses on improving diplomatic relations with United States

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says South Africa is working on stabilising relations with the United States of America (USA), given the long-standing ties between the two nations.

Addressing the 7th BizNews Conference (BNC#7) at the Hermanus Municipal Auditorium in the Western Cape, on Thursday, the Deputy President said this partnership is also significant to South Africa's economic development goals.

The BizNews Conference is an annual event focused on investment, business and political issues.

The Deputy President emphasised the need for collaborative efforts, in light of recent cuts to key health funding programmes, such as the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

PEPFAR was established by former President George W Bush in 2003 and continued under various administrations.

“The withdrawal of PEPFAR funding highlights the urgent need for South Africa to further strengthen its own interventions to reach the most vulnerable and access health services and support," Mashatile said.

He said the opportunity showed the importance of bolstering the country's own healthcare interventions and ensuring the delivery of health services without heavy reliance on external assistance.

"In this regard, we have been investing heavily in healthcare reform and responding to the dual epidemics of HIV/AIDS and TB. The Department of Health has put measures in place to ensure that patients receiving TB and HIV treatment are not affected and do not default," said the Deputy President.

Mashatile encouraged stakeholders to unite and support government in promoting South Africa's interests in the United States, including through mechanisms such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

"The loss of AGOA benefits would have the most devastating effect on South African farmers and agriculture workers. AGOA is presently providing support to South Africa's agriculture and manufacturing sectors, which is expected to generate around $21 billion in trade with the United States.

“Therefore, our position is that South Africa should maintain strong bilateral relations with the United States. Most importantly, as a country, we are committed to improving mutually beneficial trade, political, and diplomatic relations with the United States,” he said.

Diversifying export markets and growing the economy

The country’s second-in-command stated that South Africa should push for diversified export markets, citing ongoing engagement with global powers such as China, Russia, India, and various European countries.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is currently co-chairing the EU-South Africa Summit, which aims to deepen relations with the European Union (EU) across several domains, including trade, security, and sustainable development.

In addition, Mashatile highlighted the importance of intra-African trade and financial cooperation through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

According to the Deputy President, the AfCFTA is a crucial step toward reducing dependency on volatile global markets.

Mashatile believes that South Africa’s wealth of natural resources, including significant agricultural potential, is positioned as an attraction for investment.

He said government is committed to removing blockages to economic growth, lifting economic expansion to above 3% in the medium-term, and creating a cycle of investment, growth and jobs.

He outlined government’s plans to focus on improving productivity and innovating skills development through the National Digital and Future Skills Strategy as part of a broader vision for a knowledge-based economy.

Furthermore, he said the newly approved Reconceptualised Human Resource Development Strategy outlines priority goals aimed at enhancing early education outcomes, increasing youth employability, and ensuring that higher education aligns with market demands.

FATF grey list

The Deputy President said South Africa is making steady progress in efforts to be removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list.

"Through new legislation, we have strengthened our ability to prevent money laundering and fraud, and secure South Africa’s removal from the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force."

He said the country has addressed 20 of the 22 action items relating to combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

“These improvements are essential not only to remove ourselves from the grey list but also to strengthen the battle against crime and corruption, which is crucial for the betterment of all South Africans.

“We will continue to resolve both remaining action items by June, towards our removal from the grey list by October 2025,” he said.

Moreover, the Deputy President committed that South Africa will use its Group of 20 (G20) Presidency to place Africa’s development at the top of the agenda. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 13:52
339 views

13 March 2025

How Much Does Our HIV Response Depend on US Funding?

Location: News

Critical services in some high-burden districts have collapsed

13 March 2025

President Ramaphosa engages EU on new investment package

Location: News

President Ramaphosa engages EU on new investment package

With the 8th South Africa-European Union (SA-EU) Summit underway, President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa intends to hold further constructive discussions on a new investment package by the EU, to South Africa.

“Through this we aim to consolidate cooperation in areas such as science and technology, education and skills development, climate action, peace and security, health and critical minerals,” the President said on Thursday.

This as he is co-chairing the summit with the President of the European Council, António Luís Santos da Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Dr. Ursula von der Leyen, at Tuynhuys, in Cape Town.

READ | Summit to strengthen SA-EU relations

Held in the Western Cape, the 8th Summit takes place within the framework of the Strategic Partnership between South Africa and the European Union.

“As one of South Africa’s most important trade and investment partners, the European Union can play a catalytic role in unleashing the productive capacity of our economy and equip our people, especially the youth, to participate in the economy of the future.

In addition, the President welcomed the EU’s support for multilateral institutions and the fundamental principles of the United Nations.

“This Summit is taking place at a time of global uncertainty characterised by rising unilateralism, economic nationalism and a retreat from international law and human rights.

“We hope to work closely with the European Union and other partners to strengthen and reform institutions of global governance to make them more inclusive and capable of meeting the challenges of the present and the future.

We should collectively strengthen our voice in defence of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, including respect for international law and international humanitarian law. We welcome the support of the European Union for Africa’s developmental needs.”

Partnership

He emphasised that African relations with the European Union should be built on a mutually beneficial partnership in the spirit of shared ownership, responsibility, respect and mutual accountability.

“Today we will discuss our shared interest to advance peace, security, stability and sustainable development on the continent and across the world. This Summit affirms our long-standing and close relationship, which is underpinned by the South Africa-European Union Strategic Partnership.

“This is a partnership based on shared values and common interests. A partnership that seeks to create prosperity for our citizens and promote peace, safety and stability.

“We share a commitment to inclusive multilateralism as the most effective means to address the most pressing challenges facing the world. We agree on the need to strengthen economic cooperation and resolve challenges in our trade relations,” the President said.

Reforms

He mentioned that South Africa is forging ahead with far-reaching structural reforms to support economic recovery.

“We are modernising and transforming key industries such as energy, water, transport and digital communications. We have already made considerable progress, supported by institutions such as the European Investment Bank.

“These reforms are contributing to the improvement of the country’s competitiveness and investment environment,” the President said.

According to the Presidency, the Summit follows a series of preparatory engagements that included the Joint Cooperation Council (JCC) held in January in Brussels. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 16:00
26 views

13 March 2025

South Africa successfully hosts key G20 Working Groups and Task Force Meetings

Location: News

South Africa successfully hosts key G20 Working Groups and Task Force Meetings

As part of its G20 Presidency, South Africa has successfully hosted a series of high-level G20 working groups and task force meetings during this month, focusing on global challenges such as corruption, food security, disaster risk reduction, agriculture, and tourism.

The first Anti-Corruption Working Group Meeting, held in Cape Town from 3 to 5 March 2025, focused on mechanisms to enhance the implementation of legal instruments to fight corruption.

Cabinet said in a statement that this meeting was an opportunity for participants to establish the agenda and lay the groundwork for future discussions, encouraging dialogue and collaboration to strengthen anti-corruption strategies.

“During this meeting, participants discussed and agreed on these several key priorities which are strengthening Public Sector Integrity; Increasing Asset Recovery Efficiency; Inclusive Participation; and Whistle-Blower Protection,” Cabinet said.

Agriculture Working Group

The First Agriculture Working Group Meeting, held virtually on 3 and 4 March, discussed critical issues that affect agricultural stakeholders worldwide and agreed on priorities for the year ahead.

The group established four key priorities:

Promoting inclusive market participation and food security;
Empowering youth and women in agrifood systems;
Fostering innovation and technology transfer and
Building climate resilience for sustainable agriculture

Tourism Working Group

On 5 March, the First Tourism Working Group Meeting, also held virtually, deliberated on how tourism can be used to change people’s lives, communities and the world.

The group also identified four focus areas for the year ahead namely:

Leveraging People-Centered Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Innovation to support travel and tourism start-ups and SMMEs,
Enhancing tourism financing and investment to promote equality and sustainability,
Improving air connectivity for seamless travel, and
Boosting resilience for inclusive, sustainable tourism development.

Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group

First Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Meeting also held virtually on 5 March, discussed the acceleration of early warnings for all initiatives which is a key global target set by the United Nations and reinforced the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030.

“South Africa sees this meeting as a key international forum to drive the agenda of a shared responsibility to build resilience, strengthen our cooperation, and drive meaningful action that is needed to prevent an escalation or exacerbation of risk,” Cabinet said.

Key priorities included:

addressing Inequalities and Reducing Vulnerabilities
Global Coverage of Early Warning Systems
Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
Financing for Disaster Risk Reduction
Disaster Recovery, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction; and
Ecosystems-Based Approaches for DRR/Nature-Based Solutions.

Food Security Task Force

The First Task Force Meeting on Food Security, held virtually on 5 March, discussed policies and programs to improve food security.

“Participants agreed to build a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable food system. They also committed to address key challenges like trade barriers, funding for food production, and the impact of climate change on food supply chains,” Cabinet said.

Some of the priorities outcomes discussed are the following:

Stronger food security policies
Stable food prices
Clear regulations & standards
G20 Action Plan for Food Security; and
Ministerial approval & implementation

G20 Outreach Programme

On 7 March 2025, the G20 Outreach Programme was held at the University of Venda in Thohoyandou, to encourage public engagement in South Africa’s G20 presidency.

Citizens were urged to welcome international delegates, promote South Africa’s cultural heritage, and share positive narratives about the country.

“The gathering was used to encourage the people of this country to get involved in welcoming our guests to the country as we continue to host meetings in various parts of the country and to promote their culture and heritage. South Africans were also encouraged to tell a good story about their country,” Cabinet said.

The following G20 Working Groups and Task Forces meetings are scheduled to take place until the end of March 2025:

First Task Force Meeting: Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment, and Reduce Inequality: 17 March 2025 – virtual.
First Trade and Investment Working Group Meeting: 18-20 March 2025 – virtual.
Second Health Working Group: 26-28 March 2025 – Durban.
First Climate and Environment Sustainability Working Group Meeting: 25-28 March 2025 – virtual.

For more information on these various G20 meetings and their outcomes can be accessed on www.g20.org OR www.g20.org.za– SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 15:15
81 views

13 March 2025

Tanzania Declares End of Marburg Virus Disease Outbreak

Location: News

World Health Organization - United Republic of Tanzania
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Tanzania today declared the end of Marburg virus disease outbreak after recording no new cases over 42 days since the death of the last confirmed case on 28 January 2025.

The outbreak, in which two confirmed and eight probable cases were recorded (all deceased), was the second the country has experienced. Both this outbreak, which was declared on 20 January 2025, and the one in 2023 occurred in the north-eastern Kagera region.

In response to the latest outbreak, Tanzania's health authorities set up coordination and response systems, with support from World Health Organization (WHO) and partners, at the national and regional levels and reinforced control measures to swiftly detect cases, enhance clinical care, infection prevention as well as strengthen collaboration with communities to raise awareness and help curb further spread of the virus.

Growing expertise in public health emergency response in the African region has been crucial in mounting effective outbreak control measures. Drawing on experience from the response to the 2023 Marburg virus disease outbreak, WHO worked closely with Tanzanian health authorities to rapidly scale up key measures such as disease surveillance and trained more than 1000 frontline health workers in contact tracing, clinical care and public health risk communication. The Organization also delivered over five tonnes of essential medical supplies and equipment.

“The dedication of frontline health workers and the efforts of the national authorities and our partners have paid off,” said Dr Charles Sagoe-Moses, WHO Representative in Tanzania. “While the outbreak has been declared over, we remain vigilant to respond swiftly if any cases are detected and are supporting ongoing efforts to provide psychosocial care to families affected by the outbreak.”

Building on the momentum during the acute phase of the outbreak response, measures have been put in place to reinforce the capacity of local health facilities to respond to potential future outbreaks. WHO and partners are procuring additional laboratory supplies and other equipment for disease detection and surveillance and other critical services.

Marburg virus disease is highly virulent and causes haemorrhagic fever. It belongs to the same family as the virus that causes Ebola virus disease. Illness caused by Marburg virus begins abruptly. Patients present with high fever, severe headache and severe malaise. They may develop severe haemorrhagic symptoms within seven days.

In the African region, previous outbreaks and sporadic cases have been reported in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, South Africa and Uganda.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization - United Republic of Tanzania.

13 March 2025

Cabinet welcomes 2025 National Budget

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes 2025 National Budget

Cabinet has welcomed the 2025 National Budget as it seeks to maintain a balance between South Africa’s fiscal framework, fund the priorities of the seventh administration while mitigating negative impact on poor and middle-income households.

The budget was tabled by the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, in the National Assembly, on Wednesday.

He outlined all the financial, economic and social commitments the government will prioritise in its planned expenditure and provided a detailed plan for 2025 spending. This includes proposals for revenue collection to help fund the government’s planned interventions and commitments.

“The allocation of over R1 trillion to infrastructure development over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), the establishment of alternative infrastructure financing through a credit guarantee vehicle and the introduction of multiple bid windows on the Budget Facility for infrastructure is a demonstration of commitment to grow the economy through a strong infrastructure-build programme, whilst simultaneously improving service delivery.

“Mechanisms for private sector participation as announced with the Budget, which are part of Operation Vulindlela driven reforms, in the energy, transport and freight logistics sectors indicate government’s commitment to fast-tracking private sector investment and inclusive economic growth,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said on Thursday.

Minister Ntshavheni was briefing the media in Cape Town, following Cabinet’s meeting on Wednesday.

Operation Vulindlela is aimed at stabilising the supply of electricity; creating a competitive and efficient freight logistics system; reducing the cost and improving the quality of digital communication; ensuring a stable, quality supply of water; and reforming the visa regime to facilitate skilled immigration and support tourism.

READ | Operation Vulindlela records notable progress

Since its establishment in 2020, Operation Vulindlela has made real progress in achieving these objectives.

In light of new and persistent spending pressures in health, education, transport and security, government decided to raise value-added tax (VAT) by 0.5 percentage points in each of the next two years, which will bring VAT to 16% in the 2026/27 financial year.

READ | Government proposes VAT increase over two years

The first 0.5 percentage point increase in the VAT rate will take effect on 1 May 2025 and the second 0.5 percentage point increase will take effect on 1 April 2026.

“Acknowledging the impact of the tax increases, the Budget provides for mitigation measures against the increases such as no increase in the fuel levy, above inflation increases to social grants, with old age and disability grants increasing by R130 to R2315 in 2025 and significant funding allocation to PRASA [ Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa] to improve passenger rail transport which will reduce household income spend on transport costs.

“Most significantly, the tax increases are going to finance sustainability of this country, by maintaining 11,000 teachers in the classrooms, 9300 health-workers in their jobs, the employment of 800 post-community service doctors and allow an additional 700, 000 children (4-years of age) access to early childhood development which is the necessary foundation education they need for a successful education journey,” Ntshavheni explained. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 11:49
58 views

13 March 2025

Public comments sought on repeal of Construction Regulations

Location: News

Public comments sought on repeal of Construction Regulations

The Department of Employment and Labour has invited public comments on the newly published Draft Construction Regulations 2025, which aims to enhance Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) in the construction sector.

In a statement on Wednesday, the department said the proposed regulations are set to replace the 2014 Construction Regulations, and are open for written submissions from stakeholders, including industry professionals and the public.

“A comprehensive copy of the Draft Construction Regulations is available on the website https://www.gov.za for comment.

“The draft construction regulations were promulgated on 12 March 2025 for public comments. The Department of Employment and Labour did identify the need to revise the current construction regulations to ensure more stringent requirements are placed upon the client, designer and contractors to prevent construction related incidents,” the department said.

Key changes to the current construction regulations include:

Revision of existing definitions.
Addition of new definitions.
Redefining the scope of construction work.
Introduction of construction health and safety manager appointment.
Acceptance of electronic health and safety files.

These regulations are applicable to all persons involved in construction work for the duration of the project life cycle; and owners of structures for the future lifetime of the structures. The regulations, however, exclude the construction work carried out in relation to a single storey dwelling for a client who intends to reside in such dwelling upon completion thereof.

“In terms of OHS, interested persons who wish to comment on the draft regulations are invited to do so in writing within 90 days from the date of publication of this notice (12 March 2025). The closing date of submission is 12 June 2025,” the department said.

The department stated that anyone who contravenes or fails to comply with any provision of regulations will be guilty of an offence and upon conviction, may face a fine or imprisonment of up to 12 months.

In the case of a continuous offence, an additional fine of R200 per day, or one day of imprisonment per day of non-compliance may be imposed, with a maximum additional imprisonment period of 90 days.

All representations and comments must be sent by hand to the Director-General of the Department of Employment and Labour for the attention: Hilton Ganesen. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 03/13/2025 - 10:14
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12 March 2025

Government expenditure to reach R2.59 trillion in 2025/26

Location: News

Government expenditure to reach R2.59 trillion in 2025/26

Consolidated government spending is expected to increase from R2.4 trillion in 2024/25 to R2.83 trillion in 2027/28, at an annual average of 5.6%.

Consolidated expenditure will reach R2.59 trillion in 2025/26.

This according to National Treasury’s 2025 Budget Review document.

The majority of that spend will fund the social wage, which includes spend on health, education, social protection (grants), community development and employment programmes.

“Over the medium-term, economic development is the fastest-growing function at an annual average rate of 8.1%, driven by higher allocations to infrastructure projects.

“Spending is highly redistributive, with the social wage making up 61% of total consolidated non-interest spending over the next three years,” the Budget Review read.

Consolidated government expenditure by function is as follows:

Learning and Culture: R508.7 billion
Health: R298.9 billion
Social Development: R422.3 billion
Community Development: R286.6 billion
Economic Development: R289.8 billion
Peace and Security: R266.1 billion
General Public Services: R78.7 billion
Contingency Reserve: R5 billion

Spending pressures

The 2025 Budget will fund spending pressures of R232.6 billion over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period, including “provisional allocations for frontline service delivery departments amounting to R70.7 billion”.

“These spending additions are partially offset by drawdowns on provisional allocations and contingency reserves, resulting in a net increase in non-interest expenditure of R142 billion.

“The main spending additions are for critical infrastructure investments, social protection and a higher-than-anticipated public-service wage agreement, alongside provisional allocations for critical frontline services,” the Budget Review said.

Spending additions over the medium-term are attributed mainly to:

R46.7 billion for infrastructure investments.
R35.2 billion to extend the COVID-19 social relief of distress grant until March 2026.
R23.4 billion for the costs of the 2025 public service wage agreement.
R8.2 billion to increase the value of social grants by more than inflation.
R11 billion to implement early retirement measures in 2025/26 and 2026/27.
R5 billion for the carry-through costs for the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
R4.6 billion in 2025/26 for public employment programmes.
R3.2 billion in 2025/26 for national government’s share of the debt repayment for the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL). Gauteng province will pay R13.4 billion for its share of the debt repayment to SANRAL.

Addressing government debt

During the Budget Speech on Wednesday, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana said government debt is expected to stabilise at 76.2% of gross domestic product in 2025/26, with the consolidated budget deficit expected to narrow to some 3.5% by 2027/28.

“[As] debt stabilises, a growing primary surplus will enable government to reduce debt-service costs as a proportion of revenue.

“Debt service costs will amount to R389.6 billion in the current financial year. This translates to 22 cents of every rand we raise in revenue. It is more than what we spend on health, the police and basic education.

“We must reverse this trend and prevent the cost of debt from taking away resources that could otherwise be spent on our pressing social needs, or to invest in growth. In this regard, our fiscal strategy stabilises debt service costs as a percentage of revenue in 2024/25 by maintaining a primary budget surplus,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 03/12/2025 - 13:54
483 views

12 March 2025

Government’s three-year plan to spend R1 trillion on infrastructure

Location: News

Government’s three-year plan to spend R1 trillion on infrastructure

The South African government will spend more than R1 trillion over the next three years on public infrastructure in a show of government’s commitment to driving economic growth.

This is according to Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana who delivered the 2025 Budget speech in Parliament on Wednesday.

“[Infrastructure] is a key pillar of our growth strategy. It is the bedrock for economic development, a key source of jobs, and an avenue to scale-up service delivery.

“This budget reflects that understanding. Allocations towards capital payments are the fastest growing area of spending by economic classification. Public infrastructure spending over the next three years will amount to more than R1 trillion,” Godongwana said.

Current infrastructure focus is geared towards:

•    R402 billion on roads infrastructure
•    R219.2 billion on energy infrastructure
•    R156.3 billion on water and sanitation infrastructure
The Minister highlighted some of the key projects that will be underway.

“In transport, the South African National Roads Agency will spend R100 billion over the medium term to keep the national road network in good condition. Provincial roads departments will reseal over 16 000 lane-kilometres of roads in their areas of authority.

“The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa is making steady progress to rebuild infrastructure to provide affordable commuter rail services.

“In water, we are investing in several large-scale dam projects that are ramping up or entering construction. The Mkhomazi Project is expected to commence construction in November 2027, transferring water to the Mngeni Water Supply System. This will increase the total capacity of the system to 5 million households in eThekwini and 4 district municipalities in KwaZulu Natal,” Godongwana said.

In the 2025 Budget Review, National Treasury explained that investment in economic infrastructure – mainly by state owned entities – accounts for some 81.5% of the medium-term estimate.

“These funds are used to expand power-generation capacity, upgrade and expand the transport network and improve sanitation and water services. Social services infrastructure accounts for 15.5% of the total, with the two largest sectors, health and education, contributing 4.4 % and 5.5% respectively,” the review read.

Public-Private Partnerships

The department explained that infrastructure reforms are “underpinned by a commitment to significantly increase partnerships with the private sector”.

Some of these measures and reforms include:

•    From June 2025, projects below a total value of R2 billion will no longer have to clear onerous approval processes intended for large projects before proceeding.
•    A clear framework is being established to receive and process unsolicited PPP proposals or bids from the private sector.
•    New legislative amendments and regulations for municipal PPPs will also be introduced in 2025
•    Revised manuals and guidelines on PPPs are being produced and will be made available to the public

“During 2025/26, a single structure overseen by the National Treasury will be established to coordinate state participation in project preparation and planning, public-private partnerships (PPPs), funding and credit guarantees.

“It will be established by merging two units currently in the Government Technical Advisory Centre that coordinate PPPs and capital appraisals with the Infrastructure Fund in the Development Bank of Southern Africa,” Treasury said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 03/12/2025 - 13:56
394 views

12 March 2025

City of Ekurhuleni offers support to bereaved families of bus accident

Location: News

City of Ekurhuleni offers support to bereaved families of bus accident

The City of Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosiphindile Xhakaza, has assured the families of the 13 victims who lost their lives in an accident on Tuesday morning, that the city will provide them with the necessary support during this difficult time.

“We will ensure that we support them during this difficult time,” Xhakaza said.

Addressing the media on Wednesday, Xhakaza wished the injured passengers a speedy recovery.

“The accident which claimed the lives of 13 people happened yesterday [Tuesday] morning at about 6:32am, and the time, the bus was from Katlehong travelling to Kempton Park,” he said.

Xhakaza said the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) is assisting in the investigation into the accident and will be checking the surveillance cameras in the area.

Xhakaza confirmed that 77 passengers were transported to various hospitals across Ekurhuleni for medical care following the crash.

“We appreciate the manner in which our emergency services responded to the accident and assisted the injured. The city will provide counselling services to the affected family,” he said.

Xhakaza said the investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.

He confirmed that the bus involved in the crash belongs to the City of Ekurhuleni and was roadworthy at the time of the incident.

The mayor said the bus driver is an experienced professional, with both a valid driver’s license and a Professional Driving Permit (PDP), adding that at the time of the accident, the bus was carrying 89 passengers.

On Tuesday, Ekurhuleni Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Roads and Transport Planning, Andile Mngwevu extended his condolences to the families of the deceased.

According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the crash involved a collision between the bus and a light motor vehicle (LMV).

RTMC spokesperson, Simon Zwane, said preliminary reports suggest that both vehicles were travelling in the third lane (from the right) of the R21.

"It is alleged that the LMV suddenly applied brakes after missing the off-ramp exit lane. In an attempt to avoid a collision, the bus driver also braked and swerved, resulting in the bus losing control, rotating clockwise, overturning, and coming to a rest in the off-ramp lane, facing south," Zwane said.

Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones.

"The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery,” the Presidency said in a statement.

The President said the country must reflect on driver behaviour.

“Incidents such as these impact on people’s ability to earn a living; they impact on our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect business who lose personnel in this process.

“As we reflect on the lives that have been lost, we must also reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets in behind the wheel of a vehicle, big and small, in our country,” said the President. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 03/12/2025 - 14:13
363 views

12 March 2025

Government allocates R19.1 billion for teachers over the medium term

Location: News

Government allocates R19.1 billion for teachers over the medium term

The government has added R19.1 billion over the medium term to keep approximately 11 000 teachers in classrooms.

“Our learner-teacher ratios remain higher than we would like, meaning that we still need more teachers in classrooms,” Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana said on Wednesday in Parliament.

According to the Minister, paying salaries constitute 76% of provincial education budgets.

“This means that only R24 out of every R100 of their budget is left for funding school infrastructure, meals for learners from poor backgrounds, and stationery and textbooks, amongst others.

“To prevent compensation of employees from crowding out other equally important areas of spending, R19.1 billion is added over the medium term to keep approximately 11 000 teachers in classrooms,” the Minister said during the Budget Speech.

He said the foundation to building the next generation of citizens who contribute economically and socially to the nation is in early childhood development (ECD).

“Despite this, the subsidy for ECD has not increased from the 2019 level of R17 per day, per child. To remedy this, an additional R10 billion over the medium term is allocated to increase the subsidy to R24 per day per child. The extra funding will also support increased access to ECD for approximately 700 000 more children, up to the age of four years old.”

Meanwhile, the Department of Higher Education is implementing a pilot student funding model for the “missing middle”, which refers to students from families with annual incomes ranging from R350 000 to R600 000.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme will manage these loans using funds provided by the National Skills Fund, amounting to R1.5 billion in 2024/25 and R3 billion over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period.

“The apprenticeship and skills development levy systems will be reviewed. The goal, in collaboration with the private sector, is to double the number of artisans completing trade tests in the next three years through increased work-based learning opportunities.

“The arts, culture, sport and recreation sector is allocated R38.4 billion over the medium term to support school sports, national recreation events and selected sporting codes, as well as to preserve and promote the cultural, heritage and linguistic diversity of South Africa,” Treasury’s 2025 Budget Review document noted.

Health

Health spending will grow from R277 billion in 2024/25 to R329 billion in 2027/28 to support the equitable provision of public health services, including free primary healthcare.

“Like in provincial education, a significant portion of the provincial health budget is spent on the salaries and wages. R28.9 billion is added to the health budget, mainly to keep about 9 300 healthcare workers in our hospitals and clinics.

“It will also be used to employ 800 post-community service doctors, and to ensure that our pharmacies do not run out of medicines,” the Minister said.

National Health Insurance (NHI) policy

As part of strengthening the health system and preparing for the National Health Insurance (NHI) policy, the Department of Health will fund the development of a patient information system, a centralised chronic medicine dispensing and distribution system, and a facility medicine stock surveillance system.

Over the MTEF period, the indirect and direct conditional grants for NHI are allocated R8.5 billion and R1.4 billion respectively.
“Sustained allocations for direct and indirect infrastructure grants, including potential additional funding through the Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI), as outlined in the 2024 MTBPS, will focus on new or replacement buildings, upgrades, rehabilitation and maintenance.

“The total infrastructure allocation is R37.4 billion over the MTEF period, including provisional allocations from the BFI and new allocations for Siloam District Hospital and Tygerberg Hospital equipment through a public-private partnership in 2027/28,” National Treasury said. -SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 03/12/2025 - 14:23
403 views

12 March 2025

Budget: Social Grants to Increase and VAT Goes Up

Location: News

Finance minister announces above-inflation grant increases

12 March 2025

Former PRASA Acting CEO Pleads Not Guilty to Stealing Railway Line

Location: News

Mthuthuzeli Swartz and his co-accused plead after six years of court delays

12 March 2025

Condolences for R21 bus crash victims

Location: News

Condolences for R21 bus crash victims

President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his condolences to the families who lost loved ones in a bus crash on the R21 highway, near the OR Tambo International Airport, in Gauteng.

"The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery,” the Presidency said in a statement.

As of today, the death toll from the bus crash has risen to 16. Initially, 12 passengers were declared dead at the scene, with four additional fatalities occurring in the hospital.

According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the crash involved a passenger bus owned by the City of Ekurhuleni and a light motor vehicle (LMV). The bus was carrying passengers from Katlehong to Pomona.

RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said preliminary reports suggest that both vehicles were travelling in the third lane (from the right) of the R21.

"It is alleged that the LMV suddenly applied brakes after missing the off-ramp exit lane.

"In an attempt to avoid a collision, the bus driver also braked and swerved, resulting in the bus losing control, rotating clockwise, overturning, and coming to a rest in the off-ramp lane, facing south," Zwane said.

The injured were transported to OR Tambo, Tembisa and Edenvale hospitals.

The President said the country must reflect on driver behaviour.

He further added that “when we ask how safe our roads are, we actually need to ask how safe we are as drivers and pedestrians. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions.”

“Drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and must obey the rules of the road. They are there to keep us safe. Where drivers ignore these rules, they stand a chance of losing their lives or being critically injured. And where they survive, they will end up in our courts and correctional centres,” the President said.

Call for caution

Meanwhile, the Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy and her Deputy Mkhuleko Hlengwa have joined the President in expressing their condolences to the families and loved ones of those who perished in Tuesday’s crash.

The Minister and Deputy Minister expressed deep concern over the spate of recent road crashes involving passenger busses where lives were lost.

The Minister and Deputy Minister have called for heightened caution and vigilance from all motorists and road users to ensure they stay safe on the roads at all times.

They also wished the injured a speedy recovery.

In his statement, President Ramaphosa said his thoughts were also with the families of at least nine bus passengers who lost their lives in an incident in KwaZulu-Natal at this past weekend, in which 39 people were injured as well.

“While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors,” he said.

The accident occurred on Sunday afternoon when a bus, transporting members of the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity from Richards Bay to Shakaskraal, near KwaDukuza, experienced a tyre burst.

READ | Condolences following N2 bus crash

The incident caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Additionally, Minister Creecy has also expressed her concern at the spate of bus accidents.

“The Minister is extremely concerned that this is the third serious bus accident in the past week. Accordingly, she has instructed the RTMC to convene a meeting with all bus operators within the next week to discuss ways to enhance passenger safety in the bus industry,” said the department.

READ | RTMC to convene bus stakeholder engagement
-SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 17:14
297 views

12 March 2025

WHO Injects Fresh Support Into DRC Vaccination Drive

Location: News

UN News
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The UN World Health Organization (WHO) has stepped up efforts to improve vaccination coverage in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) by providing vital logistical support, including boats and motorcycles to reach remote communities along the Congo River.

The initiative aims to curb the spread of preventable diseases such as polio, measles and yellow fever which remain a persistent threat in hard-to-reach areas.

Speedy response

WHO delivered 79 outboard motors, two speedboats, 14 motorcycles and other essential equipment worth $750,000 to the country's Ministry of Public Health to expand vaccination campaigns in 89 health zones in nine provinces, the agency said in a news release on Tuesday (in French).

“These boats and vehicles will allow health workers to quickly reach children and communities who have long been cut off from essential services,” said Boureima Hama Sambo, WHO Representative in the DRC.

“This will significantly reduce the number of missed vaccinations and ensure that no child is left vulnerable to diseases that we can prevent.”

Fighting preventable diseases

The Congo River and its many tributaries form a vast network of isolated islands and remote settlements, particularly in provinces such as Équateur, Mongala, Tanganyika and Tshopo.

Many of these areas host large numbers of unvaccinated children, leading to repeated outbreaks of polio, measles and yellow fever, according to WHO.

In 2024, the DRC confirmed 25 cases of circulating variant poliovirus (types 1 and 2) and reported more than 102,500 suspected measles cases, resulting in over 2,200 deaths. Meningitis also remains a major concern, with 5,837 suspected cases and 465 deaths last year.

The WHO and DRC authorities have been working to address these challenges through mass immunization campaigns.

“Improving the availability of vaccines and other vital health supplies in the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) branches, health zones and areas, is essential to strengthening the health system and implementing advanced and mobile vaccination strategies. Integration with other health services will make a difference, bringing significant benefits to the most vulnerable populations,” said Dr. Sambo.

Ongoing Mpox outbreak

Even as the country battles vaccine-preventable diseases, the DRC continues to face a large mpox outbreak. Between 1 January and 2 March 2025, the country recorded 2,415 confirmed cases, with 1,080 of them occurring in the last six weeks alone.

WHO has declared the mpox resurgence a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) and warned that the virus is circulating in at least ten provinces.

The outbreak is being fuelled by sustained human-to-human transmission, particularly in the capital, Kinshasa, where genomic sequencing indicates that one specific strain has persisted since July 2024.

Impact of violence

Complicating response efforts is the ongoing violence in the eastern DRC, which disrupted healthcare services and made it difficult to track and contain the virus. In February, the virus was detected for the first time in the south-central Lomami province, expanding its reach further.

The WHO is also monitoring new travel-related mpox cases that have emerged outside the country, including in Belgium, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Meanwhile, South Africa has reported its first cluster of mpox cases linked to the same strain circulating in the DRC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

12 March 2025

People Living in Abandoned Cape Town Building Face Eviction

Location: News

About 30 people have been living in 104 Darling Street for more than two decades

11 March 2025

President Saddened by Loss of 16 Lives in Ekurhuleni Bus Crash

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the reported deaths of 16 persons in a bus crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport earlier today, Tuesday 11 March 2025.

The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery.

President Ramaphosa's thoughts are also with the families of at least nine bus passengers who lost their lives in an incident in KwaZulu-Natal this past weekend, in which 39 people were injured as well.

The President said: “While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors.

Incidents such as these impact on people's ability to earn a living; they impact in our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect business who lose personnel in this process.

As we reflect on the lives that have been lost, we must also reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets in behind the wheel of a vehicle, big and small, in our country.

When we ask how safe our roads are, we actually need to ask how safe we are as drivers and pedestrians. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions.

Drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and must obey the rules of the road. They are there to keep us safe.

Where drivers ignore these rules, they stand a chance of losing their lives or being critically injured. And where they survive, they will end up in our courts and correctional centres.”

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

11 March 2025

Nelson Mandela Bay shines in global business services sector

Location: News

Nelson Mandela Bay shines in global business services sector

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) has emerged as the fastest growing region in South Africa for the global business services sector, following Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.

This is according to data from the municipality's Economic Development, Tourism and Agriculture (EDTA) Directorate.

NMBM Member of the Mayoral Committee for the EDTA, Bassie Kamana, on Monday said she was encouraged by the rapid growth of the global business services sector (call centre services) within the city.

In collaboration with Business Process Enabling South Africa (BPESA), NMBM recently hosted a stakeholder engagement session in Newton Park, Gqeberha.

BPESA is a leading association that represents global business services and business process outsourcing companies in South Africa. The association’s key objectives include positioning South Africa as a prime destination for offshoring, driving local job creation, and promoting excellence in service delivery within the global business services sector.

BPESA partners with the private sector, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), and municipalities to promote South Africa's capabilities, empower youth through training and job creation, and strengthen the industry’s ability to deliver high quality services.

The purpose of the engagement session was to create a collaborative platform for sector stakeholders to share experiences, review their growth since establishing operations in Nelson Mandela Bay, and explore future opportunities for expanding the industry within the region.

The session also highlighted the support available from government and its entities to further develop the sector.

Participants included representatives from the Coega Special Economic Zone, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation, the dtic, Harambe Youth Accelerator, and various global business services companies.

Prominent players in the industry that have already established operations in Nelson Mandela Bay include Discovery Health, ISON, Startek, Dastile Wealth Insure, Outworks and Teleperformance. Teleperformance, which opened its office in late 2024, has already created over 500 jobs for young people in the city.

Addressing the session, Kamana highlighted the growing investments in the sector, noting that over 3 000 jobs have been created for youth with secondary and tertiary education.

"Working with our partners to mobilise resources and create a conducive environment for Nelson Mandela Bay to be a destination of choice is starting to pay off. We can already see ourselves being a major player among the major three cities that are leading in this sector, [and] that alone is encouraging news.

“What encourages [me the] most is the fact that this sector is able to offer jobs to youth, an area that we as the metro we are working around the clock to come up with solutions to,” Kamana said.

Teleperformance Vice President, Leanne Felix, expressed optimism about the future growth of the industry in Nelson Mandela Bay, and even greater expansion in the next five years.

Felix acknowledged the partnership the company has with NMBM.

“This partnership makes it easier for us to mobilise resources and market the city and its talent. The international industry is beginning to show interest in the talent, commitment and skills base we have here in Nelson Mandela Bay.

“We just need to do more in to showcase our capabilities as the Eastern Cape and open up about the support and incentives that are available to support the industry. When the demand came last year for the company to expand our operations from Cape Town, Nelson Mandela Bay became an obvious choice. The support we have received from the metro has been amazing,” Felix said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 09:44
203 views

11 March 2025

Health Ombud reveals serious findings at Helen Joseph Hospital

Location: News

Health Ombud reveals serious findings at Helen Joseph Hospital

Inadequate infrastructure, doctors not arriving for duty, food shortages, insufficient security and poor corporate management -- these are some of the serious findings contained in reports compiled by the Office of the Health Ombud and the Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC).

In September 2024, viral videos emerged featuring former radio host Thomas “London” Holmes, who was admitted at the hospital. In these videos, Holmes highlighted the alleged neglect and discourteous behaviour he experienced from hospital staff, as well as the overall poor conditions of the hospital.

His complaints ranged from alleged poor care, long waiting times, non-functional electrical plugs, a peeling ceiling, a broken water tap, apparent rudeness from some doctors, a stolen cellphone, a dead patient left in the ward for over four hours before being removed, and infrastructure disrepair.

Health Ombud, Professor Taole Resetselemang Mokoena, briefing media on Monday said that while investigators found the clinical care provided to Holmes to be adequate, the 58-year-old hospital faced several challenges.

The investigators, supported by the Executive Manager of Complaints Management and Mokoena, uncovered a shortage of clean linen caused by machine breakdowns at the Johannesburg Laundry, as well as widespread acts of vandalism and theft occurring at the hospital.

“There was no proper control of linen inventory, leading to shrinkages and linen shortages at the hospital.

“There were also food shortages due to invoice non-payment. Patients receive food from their families that may be inappropriate for the patient's medical condition, and surplus food may lead to infestations of flies and other pests,” the Health Ombud said.

The probe also uncovered systemic issues such as poor human resource (HR) management, lack of governance and inadequate infrastructure.

“The investigation established that there was theft of property, such as toilet equipment. While security guards were posted at all entrances, there was laxity regarding searching people and vehicles entering or leaving the hospital premises,” the Health Ombud said.

OHSC CEO, Dr Siphiwe Mndaweni, said her team also found that the infrastructure was outdated, with poor maintenance and inadequate cleanliness.

The hospital, according to Mndaweni, also faced intermittent water supply due to decaying pipes and infestations, untreated waste and ineffective waste management.

The OHSC also found that maintenance plans were not followed, with incidents affecting oxygen supply, vacuum systems, and other critical services.

Cleaning equipment, such as vacuum machines, were not serviced for over a year, and waste management practices were poor, with overflowing waste containers.

Mndaweni said the hospital’s leadership instability, with four Acting CEOs since 2019 and a dysfunctional board, exacerbated these problems.

The inspection team recommended immediate action to address these issues and improve hospital governance and accountability.

“The shortage of staff was reported in almost all the departments. This included nurses, mortuary attendants and cleaning staff.”

The OHSC CEO said it was even difficult to determine the vacancy rate because of poor record keeping.

“Helen Joseph Hospital doesn’t have a system to monitor renumerated work outside the public service and the management team admitted that they’re struggling with doctors that are not at work when they are supposed to be,” Mndaweni said.

Recommendations included refurbishing infrastructure, improving HR practices, and strengthening finance and supply chain management.

The Department of Health was urged to review staffing and leadership.

“All key positions at the hospital must be filled as soon as possible to ensure ongoing quality care and governance,” Mokoena said.

He also called for the prioritisation of key clinical posts in the neurology and dermatology units to ensure continuity of care within the Internal Medicine Department.

The Department of Health was recommended to review the establishment to align with the tertiary hospital function, and prioritise the CEO and senior clinical posts.

According to the Health Ombud, the hospital should prioritise infrastructure refurbishment and appoint ongoing maintenance committees.

Mokoena has also called on the Department of Health to develop and strengthen finance and supply chain management, segregate duties, and hire qualified personnel.

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, received the reports and promised his department would address the issue. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 03/10/2025 - 15:57
268 views

11 March 2025

Health Ombud reveals serious findings against Helen Joseph Hospital