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Defeating Cervical Cancer: Improving Access to Testing to Save Lives

Location: News
FIND

Although cervical cancer is now a vaccine-preventable disease, 1 woman dies every 2 minutes globally of cervical cancer. Women in low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected. 

In South Africa (SA), over 10,700 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed each year, with over 5,800 deaths. Cervical cancer is a preventable tragedy, and South Africa has the tools and knowledge to turn the tide. 

We can eliminate cervical cancer by addressing the principal cause: the human papillomavirus or HPV. This is done by 1) vaccinating both boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 15; and 2) expanding access to HPV screening for all women. Screening for early diagnosis is critical because when diagnosed early, cervical cancer is considered treatable/curable. 

SA is making significant strides in expanding access to both vaccination and screening, but significant barriers remain. Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, CEO of FIND (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA), whose mission is #DiagnosisForAll says, “The fight to eliminate cervical cancer is far from over, but there is hope on the horizon. FIND is working with the public and private sectors in South Africa to find innovative and scalable solutions to test for HPV”.  

Recent research by FIND and partners provides critical insights that could transform how we approach cervical cancer prevention and management. The project explored the acceptability and demand for HPV self-collection testing among South African women as a means of increasing access to HPV screening. 

Key findings from the client surveys include 

1. Low Awareness of Cervical Cancer and HPV: 

  • 58% of women surveyed had little or no knowledge about cervical cancer or its link to HPV. 
  • 46% cited nurses and doctors as their primary sources of information, showing the critical role healthcare providers play in education. 

2. HPV DNA Testing: The Preferred Choice: 

  • 77% of respondents chose HPV DNA testing as their preferred method, valuing its reliability and less invasive nature. 
  • Among these, 71% preferred self-collection, citing privacy and convenience as the main reasons for their choice. 

3. Pharmacy Accessibility: 

  • 74% of women who preferred self-collection indicated they would purchase kits from pharmacies. 

4. Affordability and Willingness to Pay: 

  • Most respondents indicated that a price point between $18 and $36 would make the test more accessible. 

5. Home vs Clinic Preferences: 

  • 59% preferred collecting samples in clinics or hospitals, 28% preferred to self-collect at home, and 14% at a laboratory. 

A Promising Solution: HPV Self-Collection Testing 

One of the standout findings from the research is the high level of interest in HPV self-collection testing. This innovative approach empowers women to take control of their health by collecting samples in the privacy of their homes or at a convenient location. The research further revealed that many women are willing to pay up to $36 (approximately R680) for this service if made available at pharmacies.  

Self-collection testing eliminates the need for invasive pelvic exams in clinical settings which many women find uncomfortable or stigmatising. It reduces the logistical challenges of accessing clinics, particularly for women in rural or underserved areas where healthcare facilities are not readily available. Making self-collection kits available in pharmacies could significantly increase screening rates and achieve early diagnosis. 

The Knowledge Gap Among Healthcare Practitioners 

While self-collection testing presents an exciting opportunity, its success depends on a well-informed and capable healthcare system. Unfortunately, the research revealed a concerning lack of understanding among healthcare practitioners regarding the national cervical cancer management protocols.  

Without proper guidance, healthcare providers may fail to offer appropriate counselling, follow-up, or referrals for women with abnormal screening results.  Addressing this issue requires targeted training and capacity-building initiatives. FIND, in partnership with the National Department of Health (NDOH), trained over 700 health practitioners between September and October 2024, 

The Public Awareness Deficit 

Equally troubling is the lack of available information for the public about cervical cancer, its causes, and prevention methods. Many women remain unaware of the importance of regular screening.  Through its community arm, the African Cervical Health Alliance (ACHA), FIND, NDOH, and private sector partners engaged community health partners to develop, adapt and distribute over 10,000 copies of materials to communities about prevention and treatment of cervical cancer. 

A Vision for the Future 

To reduce the burden of cervical cancer in South Africa, we need a multi-pronged approach that combines education, innovation, and systemic reform. This includes: 

  1. Policy Support: Advocating for policy changes to integrate self-collection testing into the national screening program and subsidize costs for low-income populations. 
  2. Expanding Access to Self-Collection Testing: Making HPV self-collection kits widely available at affordable prices. 
  3. Enhancing Practitioner Training: Ensuring healthcare providers are well-versed in national cervical cancer management protocols. 
  4. Strengthening Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching nationwide initiatives to educate women and communities about cervical cancer prevention and the availability of new screening options. 

When women have access to convenient, affordable options like HPV DNA self-testing, we're not just improving health outcomes – we're giving women control over their health decisions.” Says Dr Ntombi Sigwebela, Regional Director of FIND (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA)

The South African G20 Presidency is prioritizing health equity, solidarity and universal health coverage. Addressing the diagnostics gap for women's health is crucial to achieving this agenda and building an equitable and inclusive global health architecture.  

For more information on FIND's Cervical Cancer Elimination Project, visit: FIND South Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4jMkyJA)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FIND.

Watch our educational webinars:
FIND's YouTube Channel (https://apo-opa.co/3CwQXTx)

Contact details:
Beatrice Bernescut
Director, Communications
FIND 
+41 (0) 79 963 86 78 
www.FINDdx.org 

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DRC Emergency: Next 24 Hours Are Critical, Warn UN Agencies

Location: News

UN News
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Dead bodies lie in the streets, hospitals are overwhelmed and there has been an uptick in reports of sexual violence, rape and looting.

“Roads are blocked, ports are closed and those crossing Lake Kivu risk their lives in makeshift boats,” said Shelley Thakral, spokesperson for the UN World Food Programme (WFP) – one of many UN agencies on the ground striving to provide assistance and protection wherever possible. “I spoke just moments ago to an activist In Goma and he told me, ‘We're here, we're hiding. We don't know who will come to help us.'”

The UN aid coordination office, OCHA, echoed the humanitarian community's deep concerns about the spiralling violence across the resource-rich region that has uprooted some 300,000 people from camps around Goma in a matter of days.

Aid targeted

“Our colleagues in the DRC report heavy, small arms fire and mortar fire across the city and the presence of many dead bodies in the streets,” said OCHA spokesperson Jens Laerke. “We have reports of rapes committed by fighters, looting of property, including of a humanitarian warehouse and humanitarian and health facilities being hit.”

The emergency has left hospitals in Goma reportedly overwhelmed by the influx of wounded people, electricity and water supplies “compromised” and internet services cut off on Monday. “Goma is still offline this morning,” Mr. Laerke told journalists in Geneva.

The development came amid urgent calls from the international community including the Security Council in New York, where ambassadors on Tuesday demanded an immediate halt to the M23 rebel offensive and called for the group to withdraw from territories it has seized.

The ambassadors reiterated their support for the UN peacekeeping force in the DR Congo, MONUSCO, and paid tribute to blue helmets who have lost their lives from South Africa, Malawi and Uruguay in recent days.

The Council also condemned the presence of “external forces” in eastern DRC – amid reports Rwandan troops are heavily involved in the offensive – and called for all parties to adhere to the ceasefire and return to diplomatic talks.

Years of crisis

Before the latest escalation in violence in eastern DRC's Kivus, some 5.1 million people had already been displaced by years of insecurity in the mineral-rich region and forced to live in overcrowded camps with little food and no security.

UN agencies and partners continue to monitor the highly unstable situation which has forced WFP to temporarily pause food assistance activities in around Goma. “The airport and major access roads within the region have been cut off…Depending on the duration of violence, the supply of food into the city could be severely hampered,” said WFP's Ms. Thakral.

“This is a huge test for Congolese trapped by fighting in Goma and surrounding areas…the next 24 hours will be critical as people start to run low on supplies and will need to see what they can find to survive.”

Disease fears

The highly mobile nature of the emergency has prompted additional fears that existing diseases may spread quickly among uprooted populations, although preventive measures were taken before the latest escalation, the UN World Health Organization (WHO) said. 

For the moment the immediate concern is to help victims of the violence.

“There are currently hundreds of people in hospital, most admitted with gunshot and shrapnel wounds, with secondary infections becoming a health risk,” said Dr Adelheid Marschang, Emergency Response Coordinator for the DRC.

She noted that before Goma airport closed on Saturday, WHO had sent critical medical supplies for trauma and emergency care, infection prevention, cholera and more.

The UN agency's response to the crisis has also included providing tents for hospitals to cope with the increasing number of injured. It has medical hubs in North and South Kivu, in the cities of Goma and Bukavu to support health care needs in eastern DRC.

Last year the provinces of North and South Kivu reported high numbers of cholera, measles and malaria cases and deaths, Dr. Marschang said, warning of a “heightened risk for spillover of cholera” into neighbouring countries and provinces.

The area was also the epicentre of an outbreak of a new strain of mpox, declared a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024. Dr. Marschang warned that the new wave of displacement will make it increasingly hard to track and treat the disease.

Amid the lethal violence, hospitals and health workers themselves are in danger, the WHO official said, with “reports of health workers being shot at and patients including babies being caught in crossfire”.

“Attacks on healthcare violate the rules of war. Healthcare must be protected at all times,” she insisted.

Sexual violence alert

WHO and other UN agencies and partners said that they are especially worried about the increasing risk to women and girls from violence, including rape.

“Pregnant women are at risk, with very high maternal death rates, even before the violence escalated,” WHO said.

“Sadly, hospitals and health workers are in danger.  We are hearing reports of health workers being shot at, and patients, including babies, being caught in the crossfire.  WHO reminds everyone that attacks on healthcare violate the rules of war.  Health care must be protected at all times.”

Echoing those concerns, WFP's Ms. Thakral reported that mobile teams and mobile clinics are at work amid reports that women had been raped multiple times while searching for firewood or after leaving the perimeter of their camp.

Other reports indicated “an increase in rape along the pathways that some of the conflict partners are now taking into South Kivu,” she said, underscoring the agency's efforts “to have some solutions to follow the populations as they move”.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

Read moreDRC Emergency: Next 24 Hours Are Critical, Warn UN Agencies

South Africa outlines G20 Presidency plans at WEF

Location: News

South Africa outlines G20 Presidency plans at WEF

As the world convened in Davos for the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting recently, South Africa presented its vision for the G20 Presidency this year – outlining a path towards a more equitable and sustainable future.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who addressed the country through his weekly Presidential newsletter on Monday.

South Africa’s theme for the Group of Twenty (G20) Presidency is Solidary, Equality, Sustainable Development.

“We made the point that it is in the interests of all countries, large and small, wealthy and poor, to reduce global inequality. That is why one of our priorities is ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries. By freeing up funds for debt relief in these countries, they will be in a better position to invest in infrastructure, industrial development, education, health care and other forms of development.

“Another focus area, which both reduces poverty and promotes sustainability, is the mobilisation of finance for a just energy transition. Through this, developing economy countries will be able to pursue a low-carbon development path while protecting the interests of affected workers, businesses and communities,” the President said.

Related to this, the President spoke of the “mobilisation of special financing and insurance to enable vulnerable countries to rebuild after being struck by natural disasters” and harnessing critical minerals “to promote inclusive growth and development”.

He emphasised, however, that in order for sustainable growth to be achieved, countries must work together.

“We stressed that our themes and priorities are underpinned by the principle of cooperation. Throughout history, human progress has been possible only through collaboration among peoples and countries. 

“We therefore renewed our call for the resolution of global challenges through multilateral actions. We called for inclusive solutions that recognise that the world is more interconnected than ever before,” he said.

Pressing further, the President emphasised that the current world climate shows that “no country can go it alone”. 

“No country can sustain its growth, stability and development without working together with other countries to overcome common problems,” he said.

Positive sentiment

President Ramaphosa revealed that South Africa’s message at WEF “resonated with the participants in Davos”. 
“It was a sentiment shared by many of the business leaders with whom we interacted, as well as with other heads of state and multilateral institutions.

“Many of the people we spoke to endorsed South Africa’s G20 priorities. They saw the value of our focus on Africa and the interests of countries with developing economies. They appreciated the importance of reducing inequality within and between countries and the need for new growth paths that are climate-friendly sustainable,” he said.

READ | President Ramaphosa outlines SA's G20 Presidency priorities at WEF

Furthermore, there was a much-improved sentiment towards “South Africa and the prospects for our economy in the years ahead”. 

“They commented on the successful transition from the 6th to the 7th administrations and the formation of the Government of National Unity. They saw this as a sign of stability and a common commitment among parties to inclusive growth, employment and a capable state. 

“They welcomed the far-reaching reforms that are underway in areas such as energy, logistics, telecommunications and water to grow and transform our economy.

“The South African delegation left Davos with a sense that there are many leaders in the world that share our vision of an inclusive, just and equal world. And that they are prepared and willing to work with us through our G20 Presidency towards the achievement of such a world,” President Ramaphosa concluded.

The annual WEF meeting held from 20 to 24 January 2025, convened global leaders to address key global, and regional challenges. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 01/27/2025 - 11:17

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South African mining reports record low fatalities in 2024

Location: News

South African mining reports record low fatalities in 2024

South Africa’s mining sector has recorded the safest year in history in terms of fatalities with the industry reaching a record low in deaths and no disaster-type incidents recorded.

This is according to Minister of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, Gwede Mantashe, who released the 2024 Mine Health and Safety Statistics in Pretoria on Thursday.

“The South African mining industry recorded 42 fatalities in 2024 marking the lowest ever number of fatalities in the history of mining in South Africa. This represents a 24% improvement, year-on-year, compared to 2023 when we had 55 fatalities. 

“There were no disaster type accidents reported in 2024 compared to one disaster-type accident in 2023, 13 mine employees lost their lives in a conveyance accident in the platinum sector,” Mantashe said in a written statement.

In the industry, a disaster-type incident is described as one where at least five miners lose their lives in one accident.

The fatalities recorded per commodity in 2024 were as follows: 

  • 11 in the gold sector, compared to 20 in 2023, a year-on-year improvement of 45%. 
  • 19 in the platinum sector, compared to 22 in 2023, a year-on-year improvement of 14%. 
  • 6 fatalities in the coal sector, compared to 7 in 2023, a year-on-year improvement of 14%. 
  • 6 fatalities for the category of other mines, compared to 6 in 2023, showing no improvement year-on-year. This category includes mining in diamonds, chrome, copper, zinc, sand, lime, granite, manganese, nickel, bricks, etc.

The Minister emphasised that the improvement was due to work done between labour unions, mining houses, government and the at least 479 000 miners working in the industry.

“This record is as a result of concerted effort by all parties that are involved in providing and maintaining a working environment that is safe and without risk to the health and safety of employees and all those that may be directly affected by the activities of mining.

“The continued collaboration and implementation of the necessary measures on health and safety throughout the year have demonstrated that significant improvements in results can be achieved. 

“We, therefore, commend the collective efforts which have gotten us here, and urge all stakeholders to redouble our efforts to reach the goal of Zero Harm,” the Minister said.

Occupational injuries and diseases

Occupational injuries in the sector also reduced from some 2181 reported injuries in 2023 to about 1841 in 2024.

“This translated to a 16% improvement year-on-year. Of great concern to us is that most of these injuries are mainly because of repeat accidents categorised as fall of ground, transportation and mining and general types of accidents. 

“We therefore urge the employers and labour to be explicit about their respective roles and programs for the provision and maintenance of a safe working environment that is free of risks,” the Minister said.

Turning to occupation diseases, Mantashe noted that “significant progress has been made in reported occupational diseases”.

These dropped from some 2233 to 1864 cases.

“Much of the progress is attributable to the manganese, iron, chrome, coal, diamond, copper, and platinum sectors. There was also a decrease in silicosis, Pulmonary TB, Coal Workers Pneumoconiosis and other diseases. 

“It is, however, regrettable that during the reporting year 2023, the gold sector reported the highest number of occupational diseases for both silicosis and pulmonary tuberculosis cases, whereas the platinum sector reported the highest number of noise induced hearing loss cases,” he said.

The Minister encouraged industry stakeholders to continue working together and “share good practices” to ensure zero harm in the industry.

“All employers and employees are encouraged to work safely and apply zero tolerance on sub-standard work and conditions. All mineworkers and supervisors are reminded that unsafe work practices always lead to undesirable circumstances.

“We, therefore, urge all mineworkers not to risk their lives and, thereby urge them to exercise their right to refuse dangerous workplaces. By so doing, every mineworker will return home unharmed, and our ultimate goal of zero harm will be attained,” Mantashe concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 17:25

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Read moreSouth African mining reports record low fatalities in 2024

R60 billion lost to illegal mining in 2024, says Minister

Location: News

R60 billion lost to illegal mining in 2024, says Minister

Illegal mining is waging war on the South African economy, with the illicit trade costing the economy at least R60 billion in 2024.

This is according to the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, who briefed the media on Thursday.

“Our view on illegal mining remains unchanged. Illegal mining is a criminal activity and a war on the economy. There can be no two ways about it. 

“The truth of the matter is that those that are involved in illegal mining, both the syndicates and the active illegal miners, have no regard for the health and safety of others, nor are they concerned about the laws that regulate the industry. They are in it for their own selfish gains and have no regard for the country. In 2024 alone, the country lost an estimated R60 billion to illicit precious metal trade,” Mantashe said. 

The Minister insisted that the department was working with law enforcement to root out the scourge. 

“As government, we will continue our fight against illegal mining through initiatives such as the Operation Vala Umgodi which continues to help us deal decisively with illegal mining in Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Free State, Northern Cape and the North West.

“We wish to assure the nation that the state will not take responsibility for the reckless actions of illegal miners,” he said.

Replying to questions from journalists, the Minister called on mining companies to take responsibility for rehabilitating mines.

“An operational mine must do rehabilitation as they operate. There are big chunks of holes which were left…[these are] what we call derelict and ownerless mines. Those are mines that were operated under Apartheid where there was no legislation enforcing rehabilitation. The state has taken responsibility to attend to that,” he said.

Turning to the situation at Stilfontein where at least 78 illegal miners have died, Mantashe called out the owners of the abandoned gold mine – urging them to take responsibility.

“If you go to…a mine that’s neglected, you go and stay there for three months and you starve yourself to death, how does that become the responsibility of the state? Capital owned mines exploit them, make money and when there’s a risk, that risk must be offloaded to the state…that cannot be correct.

“The Stilfontein goldmine…is not an ownerless and derelict mine. It is owned by an existing company and that company must take responsibility. The state intervened to facilitate the rescue operation as an interim measure. But that owner must take the ultimate responsibility for that disaster, not the state,” he said.

 The rescue operation at the abandoned Buffelsfontein gold mine near Stilfontein was recently concluded with at least 246 illegal miners being brought to the surface alive, while 78 bodies were recovered. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 17:29

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Health Department convenes first G20 Health Working Group meeting

Location: News

Health Department convenes first G20 Health Working Group meeting

The Department of Health will convene the first virtual Group of 20 (G20) Health Working Group meeting on Friday, 24 January 2025, as part of the country’s G20 Presidency activities planned for 2025.

“The objective of this meeting on health is for South Africa to present its G20 Health Working Group priorities to the Member States and other invited stakeholders to be informed about the country’s priorities and also to make inputs accordingly,” the department said in a statement. 

The mandate of the Health Working Group is to improve global health by addressing health challenges, building resilient health systems, and promoting equitable access to health services.

This virtual meeting will focus on the theme: ‘Accelerate Health Equity, Solidarity, and Universal Coverage’ and will include representatives from all G20 Member States, invited non-Member States and international organisations.

The health priorities identified within the broader South African G20 Presidency will form part of the deliberations on the day and include the strengthening of primary healthcare as a pathway towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the Pandemic Prevention Preparedness and Response, and strengthening of health and care workforce. 

The leaders will also focus on stemming the tide of non-communicable diseases and science and innovation for health and economic growth. 

“This will be the first of the planned meetings, both in-person and virtual, scheduled to take place throughout the year across the country,” the department explained, adding that the outcomes of these technical working group meetings will inform part of the discussions at the meetings for G20 Health Ministers culminating in a G20 Health Working Group declaration. 

South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency, being the first African country to do so, on 1 December 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 13:34

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SA calls on US to reconsider withdrawal from Paris Agreement

Location: News

SA calls on US to reconsider withdrawal from Paris Agreement

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called on the United States of America to take its commitments under international law seriously, and carefully consider the ramifications of its intended withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.

This comes after reports indicate that President Donald Trump has started the process to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement again.

In a statement on Thursday, George expressed profound regret over the decision of the United States of America to withdraw from the Paris Agreement again.

“The Paris Agreement represents the most flexible and dynamic approach to addressing climate change. The US played an important role in the negotiation of the Paris Agreement, and the withdrawal of the USA is not only an abdication of the global responsibility that we all have to humankind, but damaging to multilateralism, international law and carefully built trust between nations,” the Minister said.

The Paris Agreement is aimed at strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change by keeping a global temperature rise this century well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5°C.

“The Paris Agreement is premised on a common and very strong understanding that we all have a common responsibility to act, whilst noting that nations over time have contributed to the problem differently, and have varied capabilities to respond. 

“Historically, the US has contributed very significantly to global emissions, still having the highest cumulative historical emissions, and therefore to global warming and the climate crisis we all face. 

“Therefore, Americans have a pressing moral obligation not only to lead in reducing emissions, but to support developing economies in contributing to the global effort, and to provide support to poor countries experiencing the impacts of climate change,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said.

The department said during the recent 29th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP 29), the United States committed to reduce emissions and its recently communicated mitigation target for 2035. 

“It appears now that these commitments will not be upheld. We hope that this is not the case. The United States has been a leader in both the science of climate change and in technological innovation underpinning the global response to climate change. 

“We recognise the outstanding contribution made to the fight against climate change in the US by past Administrations, states, cities, scientific organisations, civil society, business and ordinary Americans. 

“We applaud the continuing efforts of US citizens and non-state actors to address the climate crisis with the diligence, creativity and imagination we have come to expect,” the department said.

South Africa reiterated its unwavering commitment to the realisation of the goals set out in the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Paris Agreement. 

“We must and we will seize this moment to innovate and drive forward sustainable solutions. The global effort to curb climate change and address its impacts cannot be put on hold. There is an urgent need for action. We remain hopeful that the momentum of the collective effort to address climate change will only accelerate. 

“The international community regards climate change as the single biggest threat to wellbeing, health and socio-economic development currently facing humanity. Its impact is widespread, unprecedented and places a disproportionate and unjust burden on the poorest and most vulnerable in our country, our continent and globally. 

“In 2024, the world breached for the first time the critical threshold of 1.5 °C of global warming, signalling the urgency of immediate and strong climate action to avoid increasingly dangerous climate change impacts,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 14:13

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Macpherson welcomes PwC probe into R800m oxygen plant tender

Location: News

Macpherson welcomes PwC probe into R800m oxygen plant tender

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has welcomed the department’s appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding a controversial R800 million Oxygen Plant tender awarded by the Independent Development Trust (IDT).

The investigation follows the IDT’s admission last year that three companies were awarded the tender despite two lacking the necessary registration with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).

According to the department, the independent probe is expected to be completed within eight weeks. Its primary objectives include determining whether irregularities occurred during the tender process and whether officials should be held accountable.

The concerns stem from allegations made last year about potential irregularities in awarding the Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Oxygen Plant bids. These include claims that two of the companies lacked SAHPRA registration and that one company may have submitted fraudulent documentation.

“This follows an admission by the IDT itself last year that concerns exist regarding the R800-million tender and that these concerns warrant investigation,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.

The PwC investigation will focus on several key areas, including:

  • Examining the tender process: Determining whether proper procedures were followed in appointing external service providers.
  • Identifying financial misconduct: Establishing whether officials caused the IDT to incur irregular, fruitless, or wasteful expenditure during the tender’s administration.
  • Evaluating legal compliance: Assessing whether IDT officials or external individuals violated laws or duties during the tendering process or subsequent contract management.
  • Quantifying financial losses: Determining the extent and value of financial losses incurred by the IDT in relation to the tender.
  • Uncovering irregularities: Identifying illegal activity or irregular conduct involving IDT officials or external service providers.
  • Recommending action: Proposing appropriate steps to hold responsible parties accountable where irregularities are confirmed.

“The independent investigation will determine whether irregularities occurred during the Oxygen Plant tendering process and whether further action is required against those implicated,” Minister Macpherson said.

He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, adding that the investigation is a crucial step in improving governance and ensuring that public funds are used responsibly.

“As Minister, I cannot turn a blind eye when serious allegations arise involving close to R1 billion of public money,” Macpherson stated. “This is why the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will remain focused on uncovering the truth, holding officials accountable where necessary, and ensuring the integrity of public procurement processes.”

Macpherson also expressed confidence that the investigation would clear innocent individuals while holding guilty parties to account.

The minister concluded, “The independent investigation should be welcomed as a vital tool in restoring public trust and addressing any misconduct in the Oxygen Plant tendering process.”

– SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 01/23/2025 - 09:09

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President Ramaphosa outlines SA’s G20 Presidency priorities at WEF

Location: News

President Ramaphosa outlines SA's G20 Presidency priorities at WEF

President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the significance of South Africa's G20 Presidency and the economic priorities of the South African Government of National Unity during a special address to the 55th World Economic Forum in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.  

The President told world leaders that South Africa will focus its G20 Presidency on three themes - namely solidarity, equality and sustainable development. 

He emphasised the country’s commitment to advancing a just energy transition, fostering inclusive growth and addressing global inequalities.  

“As a leading forum for international economic cooperation, the G20 plays an important role in shaping and strengthening global architecture and governance on major international economic issues,” the President said. 

He pointed out that the G20 is being hosted on the African continent for the first time in history. 

“This is a moment of great significance for South Africa, the African continent and the world in that it was in Africa where humans developed the capacity and the impulse for cooperation. 

“Cooperation has been one of the key markers of human development touching on many aspects of life, from survival and social organisation to technological and cultural progress, which is what the G20 was established for - to foster cooperation to deal with the challenges the world faces. Cooperation is the bedrock of human civilisation,” President Ramaphosa said. 

He referred to former President Nelson Mandela’s speech at the WEF annual meeting 33 years ago, when Tata Madiba said: “Our interdependence, bringing us together into a common global home, across the oceans and the continents, demands that we all combine to launch a global offensive for development, prosperity and human survival.”

President Ramaphosa said South Africa's G20 Presidency is aimed at pursuing the objective of fostering solidarity, equality and sustainable development. 

“It is South Africa’s firm view that these themes can best be taken forward through the collective actions of institutions like the G20 and various multilateral institutions of the world, especially the United Nations, the WTO [World Trade Organisation] and global financial institutions, which should be reformed and be more representative and responsive to the needs of the citizens of the world.  

“We will seek to get the G20 to focus more on how we can enhance solidarity through collective efforts to ensure that in the pursuit of progress for all, no person and no country is left behind,” the President said. 

He emphasised that the rights and freedoms of one people cannot be separated from the rights and freedoms of all peoples. The President said that this is the foundation on which solidarity is built. 

He said one of the greatest impediments to growth, development and stability is the persistence of inequality within and between countries.

The pursuit of the UN Sustainable Development Goal on reducing inequality is as much of an economic imperative as it is a social imperative, President Ramaphosa said.

“As the G20, we need deliberate and coordinated efforts to focus on inclusive growth based on responsive trade and investment to grow the incomes of poor nations and the poorest in society and to ensure equal access to opportunities especially for women and young people.

“For nations to flourish, equality and prosperity must be available to everyone – regardless of gender, race, religious beliefs or economic status,” he said. 

Mobilising Finance for a Just Energy Transition

Another of South Africa’s priorities for its G20 Presidency is to mobilise finance for a just energy transition. 

President Ramaphosa underscored the need for enhanced climate financing, urging global financial institutions to redirect unused Special Drawing Rights to support developing economies, particularly in Africa and the Global South.

“It is simply not fair that over 60% of Special Drawing Rights are concentrated in a handful of wealthy countries. These resources should empower countries in Africa to invest in infrastructure, education, health care, and industrial development,” the President said. 

He called for innovative financing mechanisms and private capital to scale sustainable development, urging global institutions to derisk and support financing for emerging markets.

Highlighting South Africa’s Just Energy Transition Partnership, the President said: “We must accelerate the transition to low-carbon economies in a manner that is just and inclusive, while recognising the damage that climate change has already caused.”

Strengthening disaster resilience

With the increasing frequency of climate-induced natural disasters, President Ramaphosa said South Africa has therefore made the strengthening of disaster resilience as one of the priorities of its G20 Presidency.

He called for special financing and insurance mechanisms to support post-disaster reconstruction, particularly in vulnerable regions.

Harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth

President Ramaphosa said another priority is to harness critical minerals for inclusive growth and development. 

“We need a G20 framework on green industrialisation and investments to ensure progress towards a grand bargain that promotes value addition to critical minerals close to the source of extraction.

“We also need the development of low-carbon manufacturing value chains which can support decarbonisation and industrial development. As mineral extraction accelerates to match the needs of the energy transition, the countries and local communities endowed with these resources must be the ones to benefit the most,” the President said. 

Showcasing Africa’s promise

President Ramaphosa highlighted Africa as the next frontier of global growth, with its abundant natural resources, young population and expanding markets.

He called for G20 support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Adjustment Fund, investments in infrastructure, youth skills development, and women’s economic empowerment.

“The digitisation of the continent to enhance trade and development is a key enabler. Through its G20 Presidency, South Africa is well-positioned to advance global cooperation and build partnerships for growth and development,” he said. 

Advancing global cooperation

President Ramaphosa praised South Africa’s inclusive governance under the Government of National Unity, which he credited with fostering stability and investor confidence.

“This cooperative culture and approach was taken to a higher level with the establishment of the Government of National Unity following the elections we held in May last year.

“The Government of National Unity, made up of 10 political parties, has been vital to stability and inclusive governance, and has contributed to greater interest among investors in South Africa’s economic prospects,” he said. 

The President said over the last few years, the South African government has been working closely with social partners in business and in labour to address key national challenges and drive inclusive growth.

Concluding his address, President Ramaphosa extended an invitation to world leaders to attend the G20 Summit in Johannesburg later this year.

He said the seeds of human progress were sown in Africa, where the earliest forms of cooperation were forged and developed.

“As the leaders of the G20 return to Africa, we make a call that we all harness these essential capabilities that will make us take action to build a better and fairer world. We intend that the G20 in Johannesburg this year should be a forum where cooperation and collaboration amongst the leading economies in the world will be taken to a higher level.

“Acting together, we should build an inclusive, just and equal world in which all may prosper, leaving no one and no country behind. I look forward to welcoming you to the G20 in Johannesburg later this year. 

“Even if you do not participate in any of the 130 G20-related meetings, I invite you to come and see South Africa for yourself, the most beautiful country in the world,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 12:30

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Nzimande forms part of ministerial delegation to World Economic Forum

Location: News

Nzimande forms part of ministerial delegation to World Economic Forum

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, is part of the South African delegation, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, attending the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. 

The annual meeting is taking place from 20 - 24 January 2025, under the theme: ‘Collaboration for the Intelligent Age’. 

“The meeting will convene global leaders to address key global and regional challenges, which include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth to improve living standards, and stewarding a just and inclusive energy transition,” the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) said. 

During its Group of 20 (G20) Presidency in 2025, South Africa will endeavour to create equitable opportunities for all by addressing systemic disparities and promoting unity and mutual support to address shared global challenges collaboratively. 

As part of the contribution of the DSTI, Nzimande participated in WEF panel discussions on Tuesday. 

The discussions focused on scaling solutions for Africa’s economic future and getting the electric vehicles supply chain right. 

Today, the Minister will take part in another session focused on the theme: ‘Space: Leaving No Country Behind’.

President Cyril Ramaphosa touched down in Davos on Tuesday and has already delivered a special address to the WEF, where he presented the economic priorities of South Africa’s Government of National Unity and the country’s G20 Presidency.

During the week, the President will undertake numerous bilateral meetings with Heads of State and Government and leaders of international organisations. 

He will also participate in diverse activities in different sectors of the WEF annual meeting.

The President is accompanied by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau; Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa; Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi; Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment, Dr Dion George; Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Wed, 01/22/2025 - 09:37

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Read moreNzimande forms part of ministerial delegation to World Economic Forum

President Ramaphosa arrives in Davos for the World Economic Forum

Location: News

President Ramaphosa arrives in Davos for the World Economic Forum

President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, where he is leading the South African delegation at the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF). 

The annual meeting is taking place from 20-24 January 2025 under the theme; “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age”.

The meeting brings together global leaders to address key global and regional challenges, which include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth to improve living standards, and stewarding a just and inclusive energy transition.

Supported by his delegation, President Ramaphosa’s programme will begin this afternoon with a bilateral meeting with Founder and Chairman of the World Economic Forum Board of Trustees, Klaus Schwab. 

“During the G20 Presidency, South Africa will endeavour to create equitable opportunities for all by addressing systemic disparities and promoting unity and mutual support to address shared global challenges collaboratively,” the Presidency said in a statement. 

President Ramaphosa is also set to deliver a Special Address to the forum at 15:50 (CEST), where he will outline South Africa’s economic priorities and advance the country’s G20 Presidency.

South Africa’s G20 agenda, themed “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” aims to promote equitable opportunities, address systemic disparities, and foster global collaboration to tackle shared challenges.

The President’s Special Address will be live streamed on wef.ch/wef25 and PresidencyZA Social media platforms.

Throughout the week, the President will hold numerous bilateral meetings with Heads of State, and Government leaders, and Heads of International Organisations. He will also participate in a variety of sessions and activities in different sectors of the WEF annual meeting.

President Ramaphosa is joined by key Cabinet members, including Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola; Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau; Minister of Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa; Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande; Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi; Minister of Fisheries, Forestry and Environment Dion George; Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 13:09

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NPA Deputy Head, Adv Rodney De Kock, passes away

Location: News

NPA Deputy Head, Adv Rodney De Kock, passes away

Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Advocate Rodney De Kock, has died after he was diagnosed with brain cancer in December last year.

This according to a statement released by the De Kock family on Tuesday morning.

“Advocate De Kock was diagnosed with a particularly aggressive form of brain cancer in early December last year, resulting in a rapid decline in his health condition. 

“He succumbed to the cancer at Morningside Mediclinic in Johannesburg, Gauteng, yesterday evening, 20 January 2025, surrounded by family and friends,” the statement read.

De Kock had been serving as the Deputy NDPP since his appointment by President Cyril Ramaphosa in June 2020 following a distinguished career in private practice and public prosecutions.

Some of his career highlights include:

  • Serving as a Presiding Officer in the Electoral Court in 1994.
  • Serving as Head of the Legal Aid Board Clinic at the University of Cape Town from 1994 to 1999.
  • He was a founding member and served on the executive of the National Association of Democratic Lawyers.
  • He was the first black person to be appointed as an Attorney General in the country when he took up the post of Attorney General of the Western Cape from 1999, after which he joined the National Prosecuting Authority as Director of Public Prosecutions for the Western Cape in November 2003. 
  • He was also asked to act as the National Director of Public Prosecutions in 2019 by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“After a luminary career, marked by an uncompromising dedication to justice, the democratic order, and to his fellow citizens, his family and friends take great solace in knowing that Rodney served his country with unblemished integrity, dedication, honesty and humility. 

“He was a devoted father to his children, Ryan and Samantha, whom he loved and cherished dearly.

“The De Kock family takes much comfort from the fact that their beloved father, brother and elder, passed peacefully after a short but courageous battle. They are grateful for the time they have shared with him. The family wishes to express its appreciation for the support from government, colleagues and friends at this difficult time,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 01/21/2025 - 10:39

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Tanzania Confirms Outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease

Location: News

World Health Organization - United Republic of Tanzania
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Tanzania today confirmed an outbreak of Marburg virus disease in the northwestern Kagera region after one case tested positive for the virus following investigations and laboratory analysis of suspected cases of the disease. 

President of the Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, made the announcement during a press briefing alongside World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, in the country's administrative capital Dodoma. 

“Laboratory tests conducted at Kabaile Mobile Laboratory in Kagera and later confirmed in Dar es Salaam identified one patient as being infected with the Marburg virus. Fortunately, the remaining suspected patients tested negative,” the president said. “We have demonstrated in the past our ability to contain a similar outbreak and are determined to do the same this time around.” 

A total of 25 suspected cases have been reported as of 20 January 2025, all of whom have tested negative and are currently under close follow-up, the president said. The cases have been reported in Biharamulo and Muleba districts in Kagera. 

“We have resolved to reassure the general public in Tanzania and the international community as a whole of our collective determination to address the global health challenges, including the Marburg virus disease,” said H.E President Hassan.  

WHO is supporting Tanzanian health authorities to enhance key outbreak control measures including disease surveillance, testing, treatment, infection prevention and control, case management, as well as increasing public awareness among communities to prevent further spread of the virus. 

“WHO, working with its partners, is committed to supporting the government of Tanzania to bring the outbreak under control as soon as possible, and to build a healthier, safer, fairer future for all the people of Tanzania,” said Dr Tedros. “Now is a time for collaboration, and commitment, to protecting the health of all people in Tanzania, and the region, from the risks posed by this disease.” 

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.  

“The declaration by the president and the measures being taken by the government are crucial in addressing the threat of this disease at the local and national levels as well as preventing potential cross-border spread,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “Our priority is to support the government to rapidly scale up measures to effectively respond to this outbreak and safeguard the health of the population,”  

Tanzania previously reported an outbreak of Marburg in March 2023 – the country's first – in Kagera region, in which a total of nine cases (eight confirmed and one probable) and six deaths were reported, with a case fatality ratio of 67%. 

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. 

Marburg virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats and spreads among humans through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected people, surfaces and materials. Although several promising candidate medical countermeasures are currently undergoing clinical trials, there is no licensed treatment or vaccine for effective management or prevention of Marburg virus disease. However, early access to treatment and supportive care – rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids – and treatment of specific symptoms, improve survival. 

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

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Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

Location: News

Road crashes and fatalities increase during festive season

While law enforcement maintained a constant presence throughout the festive season, conducting operations around the clock - the preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics reveal a concerning increase in crashes and fatalities, primarily attributed to human behavior. 

“Tragically, South Africa witnessed 1,502 deaths resulting from 1,234 fatal crashes during the 2024/25 festive season. The number of fatalities represents a year-on-year increase of 5.3% (70) compared to the 2023/24 festive season, with a 4.2% (50) increase in the number of crashes,” Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said during a media briefing, held in Pretoria, on Monday.

The preliminary 2024/2025 Festive Season Statistics indicate that 87% of crashes happened because of human behaviour, including hit-and-runs, jay-walking (pedestrians crossing or walking in the street or road unlawfully), fatigue, loss of control over vehicles, speed, drunken driving, and reckless overtaking.

“The number of people who died on our roads this festive season has increased because people continued to behave badly. In spite of our pleas and warnings, and notwithstanding our efforts to clamp down on irresponsible and reckless behaviour, it is clear that many road users – both drivers and pedestrians – continue to act without regard for the lives of others.

“Six provinces recorded increases in the number of fatalities in the 2024/25 festive season compared to 2023/24, namely KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, Northern Cape and North West,” the Minister said.

The Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State recorded increases of 70, 54 and 21 fatalities as compared to 2023/24, while Gauteng, Western Cape and Mpumalanga recorded decreases of 76, 23 and 15 fatalities, respectively.

Concern over pedestrian fatalities

Creecy said pedestrian fatalities remain a huge concern, with 41% of all road fatalities being pedestrians. 

The highest percentage of pedestrian fatalities were recorded in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, which are the most populous provinces in the country in terms of vehicles and people.

Gauteng had the highest pedestrian fatalities at 63.84% followed by Western Cape with 53.9% and KwaZulu-Natal with 44.33%.

During this period, law enforcement conducted joint operations in line with the focus areas, including vehicle road worthiness, public passenger transport, drunken driving, execution of warrants of arrest, and speed law enforcement.

Law enforcement officers issued 711,184 fines for various traffic offences across the country. 

“Some 23,607 fines were issued to drivers who failed to wear seatbelts, while another 16,925 motorists were fined for using cell phones while driving. Then, 16,527 vehicles were found to be unroadworthy and issued with traffic fines, as well as their motor vehicle licence discs removed, particularly in areas where vehicles could not be impounded due to lack of impoundment facilities,” the Minister said.

In total, 8,917 motor vehicles were impounded in areas where facilities were available.

“To clamp down on drunken driving, speeding and other moving violations, our officers arrested more than 9,550 motorists, with 3,840 individuals arrested for drunken driving.

“A total of 414 drivers were arrested for driving at high speed and five amongst them were driving at excessive speeds of between 200km/h to well above 240km/h,” Creecy said.

The highest speedster was arrested in Gauteng, driving at 245km/h (kilometre per hour) in a BMW Sedan on N1 near Honeydew, on 18 December 2024.

“We, South Africans, must change our behaviour on the roads. As we said at the beginning of the festive season, government and our law enforcement agencies cannot do it on our own.

“The statistics clearly send all of us, as South Africans, one message: Drivers and pedestrians must change their behaviour. We must obey the law, we must obey the basic rules of the road,” Creecy said.

Interventions 

The Minister has asked the provinces to conduct a detailed analysis of their respective statistics, and come up with a clear plan for the way forward, by the end of January. 

This will include a look at severe consequences for those who continue to show a disregard for road safety.

“We will continue to direct our efforts at changing the behaviour of road users, invest in designing and engineering safer roads, enforcing safe speeds in high congestion areas, and enhancing emergency response systems and access to quality trauma care, which is essential to saving lives.

“By reducing response times and improving the availability of critical care, we can increase survival rates and reduce the long-term impacts of road traffic injuries. This initiative will require collaboration with the Department of Health, and other industry role-players,” she said.

Creecy said indications are that the implementation of 24/7 traffic policing shifts is more critical than ever. 

“During the festive season, we agreed to release National Traffic Police resources to provinces, to intensify road safety communication and education campaigns and strengthen monitoring of our law enforcement operations especially at night.

"This approach will serve as a blueprint for our road safety activities but will only succeed if it is consistent all year round, especially on weekends and in every province across the country,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

nosihle
Mon, 01/20/2025 - 13:47

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Read moreRoad crashes and fatalities increase during festive season