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Ramaphosa Wishes Jewish Community Well Over the High Holy Days

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa wishes South Africa's Jewish community a festive and mindful celebration of the high holy days, also known as Yamim Noraim or the Days of Awe, which began this week with Rosh Hashanah and will end next week with Yom Kippur.

President Ramaphosa said: “The South African Jewish community forms an essential part of the spiritual and cultural diversity of our nation. 

“We wish the Jewish community at home and abroad a year of good health, strong family bonds, fellowship and success in all domains of life.

“This ten day period leading up to Yom Kippur is a time for reconciliation and coming together, an occasion for us to engage in teshuvah, tefilah and tzedakah, and an opportunity to pray and work for peace in all corners of the world.”

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

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Heatwave warning for Northern Cape, Western Cape

Location: News

Heatwave warning for Northern Cape, Western Cape

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of heatwave conditions, with persistently high temperatures in parts of the Northern Cape and the Western Cape.

The heatwave conditions will affect the Richtersveld, Nama Khoi and Kamiesberg municipalities in the Northern Cape, as well as Matzikama in the Western Cape. 

The heatwave is expected to persist from Thursday until Saturday.

“When temperatures are extremely high, humans' ability to cool their bodies through sweating is reduced. This can be a real threat that leads to hyperthermia.

“In an extremely hot environment, the most serious health and safety concern is heat stroke. Heat stroke can be fatal if medical attention is not available immediately,” SAWS warned.

Infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly are especially vulnerable to heat stress.

Too much heat can be more dangerous for babies and children than for adults, and dehydration in children can be dangerous or even deadly. Children’s bodies have more trouble regulating temperature than those of adults, and they rely on adults to help protect them from heat.

Safety tips 

  • South Africans are advised to avoid unnecessary exposure and stay indoors until late afternoon when the heat has subsided. Those who are forced by special circumstances such as work and school should drink as much as three litres of water to cope.

  • Take cold showers to lower your body temperature.

  • Cover windows with reflectors and drapes.

  • Drink plenty of water, as much as four cups an hour if it's really hot.

  • People, especially children, who cannot swim must avoid going to swimming pools and rivers, as this may result in fatalities.

- SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 09:47

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Motsoaledi to engage various stakeholders in KZN on NHI

Location: News

Motsoaledi to engage various stakeholders in KZN on NHI

The Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will this evening engage stakeholders in KwaZulu-Natal on the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act and its benefits.

According to the Department of Health, the visit is part of ongoing roadshows on this health reform to understand concerns and recommendations from various sectors of society on how the NHI can be effectively implemented to meet the healthcare needs of the entire population.

“The NHI reforms’ primary objective is to unify the current fragmented health system to ensure Section 27 of the Constitution is realised.

“This piece of legislation is not just a policy, but a commitment of a better, healthier future for every South African,” the department said.

The countrywide stakeholder engagement programme also targets communities, ordinary people, and healthcare providers who will benefit the most from the phased implementation of NHI.

Motsoaledi will be joined by KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane and other leaders at the University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Health Sciences at 6pm. 

In May this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the then NHI Bill into law. During the signing ceremony, he said the signing was a “milestone in South Africa's ongoing quest for a more just society”. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 10:05

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SA to host Conference of Ombuds Institutions for Armed Forces

Location: News

SA to host Conference of Ombuds Institutions for Armed Forces

South Africa is set to host the Seventieth International Conference of Ombuds Institutions for the Armed Forces (17ICOAF) conference next year.

South African Military Ombud Lieutenant General (Retired) Vusumuzi Masondo said the ICOAF gathers representatives of ombuds institutions for the armed forces from around the world, which exist in various names and models. 

To date, representatives of ombuds institutions of over 50 states have participated in the ICOAF initiative.

This as Masondo and a delegation attended the 16ICOAF which took place in Berlin, Germany, from 30 September to 02 October. 

The Military Ombud addressed the conference on how ombuds institutions can uphold and enhance the various systems of care and support for veterans, especially focusing on supporting veterans with physical and mental health concerns.

Masondo shared with his peers that veterans who served in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) since 1994 have access to the necessary physical and mental health care they may require.

However, the Office has identified that a great number of military veterans who fought for South Africa’s liberation are excluded from the mandate in law and have little if not limited physical and mental health care support. 

“A lesson for us involved in furthering the democratic order would be to remember to include all soldiers involved in such a struggle in future veterans’ dispensations. I found it serving the purpose of the Office to forge strong and reliable relations with stakeholders impacting veterans' health,” said Masondo. 

In sharing best practices and experiences, Masondo presented several case studies the Office dealt with regarding military veterans’ benefits. 

In one case, the fund administrator decided to terminate the membership of a veteran because he failed to pay subscription fees. The member only learned about the membership termination after a claim he submitted was rejected by the fund administrators. 

The member approached the Office to complain, and the Office assumed jurisdiction on the matter. 

Upon investigation, the Office ascertained that prior communication by the fund did not reach the complainant, as he had changed cell phone numbers and no trace of informing the complainant was found. 
The fund ultimately reinstated his membership and reimbursed him.

Masondo mentioned that the Office reaches out to veterans through the Outreach Programme that helps the Office to note the increase in complaints trends from veterans relating to health services post their careers as soldiers.

The objectives of the 16ICOAF were to raise awareness, facilitate and foster peer-to-peer exchange of knowledge and best practices. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 09:33

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Employment and Labour to host Employment Standards Conference 

Location: News

Employment and Labour to host Employment Standards Conference 

The role of labour inspectors with the aim of protecting vulnerable workers in different sectors of the South African labour market, will come to the fore at the Department of Employment and Labour’s Employment Standards Conference.

The department’s Inspection and Enforcement Services (IES) branch is set to host the conference from 8 to 10 October at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

“The conference promises to be an enlightening platform for the more than 350 inspectors expected to attend, offering an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogues, exchange ideas, and explore strategies to enhance compliance and maintain equality of inspections within the labour market.

It is an occasion to not only hear from leadership but also to contribute to the transformation of the inspections and South African labour market,” the department said.

The gathering will bring together inspectors specialising in the fields of basic conditions of employment, unemployment insurance, compensation for occupational injuries and diseases, employment equity, and the national minimum wage enforcement.

In recognition of work performed by the overstretched inspectors, the IES branch also plans to host an awards ceremony to reward the good work performed by the inspectors.

The department regularly conducts advocacy campaigns to ensure compliance with the labour legislation it administers. 

These include the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), Unemployment Insurance Act (UIA), Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (COID) Act, National Minimum Wage Act (NMWA), Employment Equity Act (EEA), Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), and the Employment Services Act (ESA).

The department said the theme of next week’s session “Advancing Social Justice through Effective Labour Inspections,” is a way of encouraging maximum compliance to employment and labour laws. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 10/02/2024 - 12:23

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Call for no alcohol consumption this Social Development Month

Location: News

Call for no alcohol consumption this Social Development Month

With the country observing Social Development month, Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe is appealing all South Africans not to consume alcohol or sell alcohol to children during the month of October. 

The call comes as Tolashe and MEC for Social Development in KwaZulu-Natal, Cynthia Mbali Shinga, will be commemorating World No Alcohol Day on Wednesday, 3 October.

The commemoration will take place at Sweetwaters, uMgungundlovu District, Umsunduzi Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.

The two leaders will use the day to highlight the harms caused by alcohol abuse which affects individuals, families and communities.

The event will be held in partnership with Kwa Zulu Natal Provincial Department of Social Development, SAAPA (Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance) and the Central Drug Authority (CDA).

The day aims to highlight the effects of alcohol abuse, binge drinking amongst South African youth and the negative effect of selling alcohol to children.

World No Alcohol Day was proposed by India during the World Health Assembly in Geneva in 2008, where 193 World Health Organization (WHO) members signed a resolution to reduce alcohol-related harms. 

This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme: “Say No to alcohol and selling alcohol to minors is a crime”. 

The theme seeks to raise awareness about the risks associated with alcohol misuse and abuse, and the dangers of selling alcohol to minors which can lead to underage and binge drinking.
Sweetwaters was identified as the place to host the event given its high rate of alcohol abuse, crime and teenage pregnancy. 

This community also experienced a tragedy last year when 12 young people abusing alcohol and drugs were burned to death. 

The Minister will use this day as one of the targeted outreach programmes during DSD Month, which is held under the theme: “30 years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth: Towards Reigniting the role of the family”. 

South Africa’s alcohol consumption

The department highlighted that alcohol is the most misused legal drug in South Africa, and this has a negative impact on the fabric of many communities, especially children and young people.

South Africa has one of the highest rates of alcohol consumption globally with alcohol consumption per capita in the country having risen over the last 10 years. 

The department further highlighted that alcohol use plays a role in about half of all non-natural deaths. It is involved in 75% of homicide cases; 60% of automobile accidents; and 24% of vehicle deaths and injuries.

Minister Tolashe said alcohol is the third-largest contributor to death and disability after unsafe sex/sexually transmitted infections and interpersonal violence, both of which are themselves influenced by alcohol consumption as alcohol affects sexual and violent behaviour.

“Alcohol use has been recognised as a major contributor to the global burden of disease, with an even greater detrimental effect in low- and middle-income countries and people living in poverty. In total, more than 13 million disability-adjusted life years, or 7% of the total disease burden in South Africa, is attributed to alcohol.”

She said young people aged 15 to 29 have the greatest burden of disease attributable to alcohol use. 
Although, men generally use and abuse alcohol more frequently and experience a greater burden of disease than women, a significant proportion of young women in South Africa are also using alcohol.

Women in disadvantaged communities with comparable alcohol use to men are significantly less likely to obtain treatment. Alcohol use in young women is associated with high rates of multiple comorbidities including risky sexual practices, poor adherence to HIV medications, depression, and intimate partner violence (IPV).

Tolashe cautioned that alcohol use among parents /care givers can have long-standing negative effects on their children and their ability to thrive given their homes are often less organised, routines are more chaotic and maternal adherence to health regimens suffer.

“Alcohol use in young women, results in many children in South Africa born with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) which could lead to damage to the fetus among pregnant women. It is for this reason that during September, which is known as FASD (Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) month, the Department of Social Development conducted awareness campaigns in provinces highlighting the dangers of drinking while pregnant,” the Minister said.

Alcohol widely used among young people

Data from the 2016 South African National Demographic and Health Survey has found that at least one in every four young people had consumed alcohol by the ages of 15–19. 

“This is the reason the department, towards the commemoration of World No Alcohol Day is having Youth Dialogues to highlight the dangers of binge drinking and that alcohol should not be sold to minors,” the Minister said. 

South Africa witnessed a tragic incident in Scenery Park, in East London, where 21 young lives were lost at the Enyobeni Tavern.

The loss of lives in Scenery Park demonstrated the risks children are exposed to, exacerbated by the triple challenges of poverty, and unemployment as well as broken family structures, poor parenting, poor morale in communities and a lack of community forums/structures to actively implore preventative measures to protect children from such occurrences.

Coupled with this is the limited implementation and monitoring of government policies that govern access to alcohol to children under 18, and licensing of establishments, said the Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Wed, 10/02/2024 - 13:12

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Business urged to adopt sustainable practices

Location: News

Business urged to adopt sustainable practices

Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Bernice Swarts has encouraged business leaders to play a role in ensuring their organisations take measures to lower pollution and carbon dioxide (CO2) output as well as reduce waste.

“We encourage business leaders to play a significant role in ensuring their organisations better integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into their value system and overall organisational strategy to fully benefit and harness the investment opportunities that lie ahead for the country,” Swarts said on Tuesday in Johannesburg. 

Addressing the Annual ESG Africa Conference, the Deputy Minister said the discipline of ESG investing has become increasingly popular worldwide due to investors' growing emphasis on sustainable and responsible investment methods.

“Whilst it is essential that businesses understand the impact of their activities on the environment and society, it is no longer sufficient to focus solely on financial performance; investors and stakeholders now demand that companies adopt sustainable practices that consider the long-term impact of their operations.

“With its varied economy and abundance of natural resources, South Africa has become a major force in the ESG investment market. Good corporate governance requires an acknowledgement that an organisation doesn’t operate in a vacuum but is an integral part of society and therefore has accountability towards current and future generations,” Swarts said.

She acknowledged that long-term orientated investors need better information, including on environmental, social, and governance factors of businesses.

“South Africa needs to accelerate its pathway towards a more equitable, environmentally sustainable and low-carbon developmental trajectory; with an inclusive social protection system that can withstand the impacts of climate change and support a just transition to a sustainable future,” the Deputy Minister said.

She said South Africa is setting itself up to be a leader in green hydrogen, renewable energy, and sustainable industrialisation, due to its substantial stocks of critical minerals, plentiful solar and wind energy, and other resources.

“A just transition to a low-carbon economy will make South Africa’s economy more resilient and strengthen the country’s global competitiveness, which will create opportunities to reduce poverty, inequality, and unemployment.

“We must therefore address, how do we then effectively shift towards realising South African’s vision for long-term, just transition to a climate-resilient and lower-carbon economy and society. South Africa remains firmly committed to contributing its fair share to addressing the global climate crisis,” the Deputy Minister said.

She said South Africa is setting itself up to be a leader in green hydrogen, renewable energy, and sustainable industrialisation due to its substantial stocks of critical minerals, plentiful solar and wind energy, and other resources.  

“In South Africa, where climate change, resource scarcity, and socio-economic disparities are pressing concerns, adopting sustainable practices becomes crucial. These practices can help reduce carbon footprints, conserve natural resources, and create healthier, more resilient communities,” Swarts said. 

Numerous studies have highlighted the tremendous demands developing nations have in relation to climate change and the inadequacies and poor quality of current public climate finance flows. 

Despite their extremely limited fiscal space and constricted economies, poor countries have continued to bear the costs associated with it, while they have contributed the least to the climate problem.

“Like the rest of the African continent, South Africa is vulnerable to water and food security, health, livelihood and infrastructural challenges due to climate change. 

“In South Africa, where climate change, resource scarcity, and socio-economic disparities are pressing concerns, adopting sustainable practices becomes crucial. These practices can help reduce carbon footprints, conserve natural resources, and create healthier, more resilient communities,” the Deputy Minister said.

She said the pathways towards achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development have been considerably altered by multiple crises. 

The critical objective of "leaving no one behind" remains at risk due to the mounting inequalities, worldwide economic challenges, and financial shocks associated with COVID-19, which have made financing for sustainability even more challenging.

“Africa, which hosts most of the world’s poor, is on track to meet just 6% of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has gone backwards on 17% of the SDG targets.

“If SDG investment needs are to be met by 2030, 24 trillion US Dollars of additional investment must be found for developing countries, including 8 trillion US Dollars only for Africa. Instead, developing countries today face the worst economic outlook and the most unfavourable financing conditions in decades,” the Deputy Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 10/01/2024 - 14:50

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Employment and Labour blitz inspections and raids yield results

Location: News

Employment and Labour blitz inspections and raids yield results

The Department of Employment and Labour’s joint blitz inspections and raids have yielded significant results, with the department enforcing monetary corrections totalling over R10 million and arresting 81 non-documented workers. 

The Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, held a media briefing today to update on the department’s joint blitz inspections and compliance raids. 

WATCH | 

 

In a decisive move to uphold employment standards, Meth announced that since assuming office in July 2024, her department has ramped up nationwide inspections targeting non-compliant employers.

Collaborating with the Department of Home Affairs, the Bargaining Council of the Hospitality Sector and law enforcement, the high impact blitz inspections focus on ensuring that workplaces adhere to key labour laws and safeguard workers’ rights.

“Our inspections have revealed instances of non-compliance, including underpayment of wages, unlawful deductions, and inadequate health and safety measures. To date, we have enforced monetary corrections totalling over R10 million, compelling employers to rectify these violations and honour their obligations to their employees,” the Minister said. 

Meth emphasised that the department approaches enforcement with a balance of firmness and fairness. 

“Employers found in violation are issued compliance orders with clear deadlines for corrective action. In situations where immediate risks to health and safety are identified, Prohibition Notices are issued to halt hazardous activities until compliance is achieved,” she said. 

The Minister said the scale and scope of these inspections demonstrate the department’s commitment to upholding labour standards nationwide. 

The Western Cape led with the highest number of inspections, totalling 809. Gauteng followed with 764 inspections, and KwaZulu-Natal with 535. Inspections were also carried out in the North West (217), Eastern Cape (82), Free State (69) and Mpumalanga (59).

These joint inspections targeted key sectors and regions, with significant activity in the Western Cape, Gauteng, and KwaZulu-Natal.

These joint operations scrutinised compliance with laws, including the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, National Minimum Wage Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA), Unemployment Insurance Act (UIA), Employment Services Act, and promoting fairness and protecting workers. 

Infractions such as underpayment of wages, illegal deductions, and unsafe working conditions were identified.

Tackling unemployment and undocumented workers

Meth expressed concern over South Africa’s unemployment rate of 33.5%, particularly among the youth. 

"Concurrently, the widespread employment of undocumented foreign nationals raises concerns over exploitation and the circumvention of legal hiring practices.

“Our administration is committed to addressing these challenges comprehensively and humanely. We are collaborating closely with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure that employment practices comply with immigration laws, and that all workers, regardless of their origin, are treated with dignity and fairness,” Meth said. 

Strengthening oversight and enforcement

Looking ahead, Meth revealed plans to expand the Department of Labour’s inspectorate capacity from 2 000 to 20 000 inspectors over the next three years. 

This will enhance the department’s ability to conduct more frequent and thorough inspections across the country. 

The introduction of risk-based profiling will allow for targeted audits, prioritising industries and regions where violations are most prevalent.

“To maximise the effectiveness of our inspections, we will implement a risk profiling system. This approach will allow us to prioritise audits and inspections based on identified risks, thereby improving our capacity to address high-priority non-compliance areas more efficiently,” the Minister said. 

The department will also introduce a specialised segment-focused compliance framework. 

“Our enforcement strategy will be integrated and risk-based, enabling us to address all compliance issues at the workplace in a holistic and comprehensive manner, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are met.

“Our commitment extends beyond enforcement; it is about fostering social justice and ensuring that every worker's rights are protected. 

“Fair labour practices lead to increased morale, productivity and ultimately, a more robust economy. Together, we can build a society where economic prosperity and social equity reinforce each other,” Minister Meth said. 

Supporting businesses: TERS, Productivity SA and the CCMA

In addition to enforcement, the Department of Employment and Labour is extending support to businesses by offering a range of services, fostering resilience, and ensuring harmonious labour relations.

Initiatives like the Temporary Employer/Employee Relief Scheme (TERS) and free productivity services from Productivity SA aim to help businesses in financial distress and improve their operational efficiency. 

The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) also offers mediation services to resolve workplace disputes.

Operation Yazini: Raising Public Awareness

As part of Meth’s 100-day programme, Operation Yazini will be launched to raise awareness about the department’s services, including employment rights and compliance assistance. 

This initiative aims to bring the department closer to communities, ensuring that employers and employees alike understand their legal obligations and rights.

“Through targeted advocacy and outreach, Operation Yazini seeks to inform the public about the wide range of support available, including labour rights, employment services, and compliance assistance,” the Minister said. 

A call for collective action

Meth called for nationwide collaboration between employers, unions and civil society to create a fair and safe labour market. 

“I urge all stakeholders, businesses, labour unions, civil society organisations, and fellow citizens to join us in this vital endeavour. Let us work collaboratively to create a labour market characterised by fairness, safety, and mutual respect,” the Minister said.

As inspections continue, the department remains committed to transparency, social justice, and the protection of workers’ rights across South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 10/01/2024 - 13:07

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PROTEC and GE Vernova Celebrate Inaugural Next Engineers: Engineering Academy Class

Location: News
GE

Next Engineers, a global college-and career-readiness programme working to increase the diversity of young people in engineering, celebrated the graduation of its first-ever Engineering Academy learners in Johannesburg, South Africa on Friday, September 27. The graduation ceremony marked the programme's contribution towards bridging the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills gap in the country through exposing learners to hands-on engineering experiences and career pathways.  

The 37 learners from 15 high schools across Johannesburg who completed the programme, many of whom plan to study towards an engineering-related qualification at university or technical higher learning institutions, were joined by their families at University of Witwatersrand, Sturrock Park Sports Hall, to celebrate their achievements. Launched in 2022, PROTEC, University of Witwatersrand, and Kutitiva Foundation are the educational partners for the local Next Engineers programme, and local GE Vernova engineers and employees actively engage with Academy participants through hands-on, skill-based volunteering.  

“We are proud to see our first cohort of learners graduating and wish them all a successful learning trajectory in the next stage of their education journey,” said Matsi Eseu, South Africa HR Director for GE Vernova. “At GE Vernova, we believe education is a significant driver of economic inclusion and it's inspiring to see the positive impact the Next Engineers programme is having, not just in empowering tomorrow's engineers who will solve society's most pressing challenges but also in increasing the diversity of young people, particularly females, in the engineering sector. We extend our gratitude to all those involved in the Engineering Academy.” 

Learners who complete the Engineering Academy program and enroll in a qualified engineering or engineering-related degree programme receive financial aid to support them as they continue on their paths to becoming engineers.

Balan Moodley, CEO of PROTEC, said, "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every graduate in this programme.  Their commitment and hard work inspire us all, and I have every confidence they will continue to make a positive impact in the field of engineering and beyond. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to GE Vernova in Johannesburg for their unwavering support and partnership throughout this journey. Together, we have laid the groundwork for a brighter future in engineering, and I am excited to see the continued success of Next Engineers in empowering young minds."

The Next Engineers: Engineering Academy is a transformative learning experience designed for learners aged 15 to 18. Through a rigorous curriculum, immersive design challenges, and career coaching, participants learn to think and act like engineers.

Key programme highlights:

  • Dedication: The Engineering Academy spans three years, with learners dedicating 220 hours outside of regular school hours to participate.
  • Design challenges: In small teams, learners tackle increasingly complex design challenges, mastering the engineering design process.
  • Foundational skills: Beyond technical knowledge, learners develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, persistence, time management, and presentation abilities.
  • Education and career exploration: Workshops and activities prepare learners for their next steps, including university campus tours and interactions with company volunteers.
  • Scholarships: Learners who complete the program and enroll in post-secondary engineering degree programs receive partial scholarships. Next Engineers anticipates granting at least $2 million in scholarships to the inaugural classes of Engineering Academy learners worldwide.

Johannesburg, South Africa, was among the first four locations to launch Next Engineers, with a $2.5 million (R44.6 million) investment from the GE Foundation in 2021. To date, Next Engineers, which also includes programming for learners in grades 8-12, has reached more than 3,500 learners across Johannesburg.

STEM training and education, such as Next Engineers, is helping to solve global challenges while also lifting up communities through economic opportunities. Next Engineers is not the only way GE Vernova in South Africa has committed to supporting the next generation of STEM talent. GE Vernova's South Africa External Bursary Programme has offered comprehensive bursaries to the tune of $5.4 million (R95.6 million) to support over 648 beneficiaries pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Commerce or Arts qualification from 2020 to date. The bursaries are aimed at alleviating the financial strain of tertiary students and covers the tuition, accommodation, textbook costs, and a monthly stipend over the period of study.

For more information about Next Engineers and the Engineering Academy, visit http://apo-opa.co/3BmFfKp.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GE.

Media contacts:
GE Vernova
Kashumba Macombe
Communications Specialist
GE Vernova
Kashumba.Macombe@ge.com

PROTEC
Annette Reed
Fundraising and Business Development
Programme for Technological Careers (PROTEC)
+27 82 334 2939
annette@protec.org.za

About Next Engineers:
Next Engineers, a program originally funded by the GE Foundation in 2021, now known as the GE Aerospace Foundation, is a college- and career-readiness program dedicated to inspiring and preparing the next generation of engineers. Through innovative programs, mentorship, and community partnerships, we empower young minds to shape a better future through engineering.

About GE Vernova​:
GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE: GEV) is a purpose-built global energy company that includes Power, Wind, and Electrification segments and is supported by its accelerator businesses. Building on over 130 years of experience tackling the world's challenges, GE Vernova is uniquely positioned to help lead the energy transition by continuing to electrify the world while simultaneously working to decarbonize it. GE Vernova helps customers power economies and deliver electricity that is vital to health, safety, security, and improved quality of life. GE Vernova is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S., with approximately 75,000 employees across 100+ countries around the world. Supported by the Company's purpose, The Energy to Change the World, GE Vernova technology helps deliver a more affordable, reliable, sustainable, and secure energy future. Learn more: www.GEVernova.com and LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/3zwmm7b).

About PROTEC:
PROTEC was established in 1982 by a group of engineers from the South African  Institute of Civil Engineers to respond to the challenges facing the education system and to address representation across all socio-economic and racial groups in STEM careers.  To date, PROTEC has seen more than 40,000 learners complete the Learner Excellence Programme. Based in Randburg, PROTEC has 17 branches and projects in 6 out of the 9 provinces.  Our aim is to extend the programme to all 9 provinces.  The programme targets learners from Grade 4 to Grade 12 in specifically Science, Mathematics, and English. Teachers who teach these subjects as well as coding and robotics, benefit from development and support that uses a centre-based and classroom support model. Find us on www.PROTEC.org.za, Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/47HJTyw), LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/3Y019Mg) and Instagram.

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Motsoaledi warns leaders against antimicrobial resistance

Location: News

Motsoaledi warns leaders against antimicrobial resistance

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has described antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a ticking time bomb that could return the world to an era where common infections are untreatable, and routine surgeries become life-threatening.

“I stand before you with a sense of urgency and hope that as we join hands to tackle the problem of AMR, we have a full appreciation of the significant threat it poses to global health, food security and development,” he said on Thursday.

The Minister was speaking at the United Nations on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa at the high-level meeting on AMR.

Motsoaledi believes that ARM is currently a pressing challenge, and he told world leaders that South Africa was one of the high-burden countries of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), where this makes up 2% of the TB burden. 

The World Health Organisation (WHO), he stated, has identified DR-TB as one of the top AMR threats. 

“However, in responding to this threat, we continue to lag behind, especially on TB research, and global collaboration. This situation has the potential to reverse many decades of medical advancements,” he stressed. 

According to the WHO, AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to medicines, leading to infections becoming difficult or impossible to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death. 

Motsoaledi said the risks of these illnesses have profound economic implications, affecting healthcare costs, productivity, and overall economic growth. 

“Addressing AMR is not just a health imperative but also an economic necessity that requires coordinated global action.”

He is of the view that specific actions need to be taken to preserve efforts and to ensure collective action, which must turn the tide against AMR. 

“We must embrace the power of education about the prudent use of antibiotics so that we can curb the misuse and overuse that drive resistance in humans, plants and animals.” 

In addition, he spoke against the practice of polypharmacy, especially as it relates to unnecessary utilisation of antibiotics. 

“We also need an integrated national patient information system, so that the patients cannot be hopping between health facilities, thus collecting multiple prescriptions for the same condition.”

The Minister also called for investment in research and innovation, which he said requires some urgent intervention, through academic and research institutions.

He took the time to call for a strengthened healthcare system – equipping hospitals and clinics with the necessary tools and training will ensure that infections are identified and treated promptly and accurately.

Also, the Minister stressed the importance of champion policy and advocacy and effective policies that promote antibiotic stewardship and infection prevention can safeguard our communities.

“Lastly, we need to jointly tackle the challenges of human behaviour through the social and behaviour community communication, so that we can educate our people about the dangers of AMR.”

Motsoaledi said AMR has greater potential to also impact patient satisfaction, prolonged patient recovery and poor treatment success rate.

“Together, we can turn this crisis into an opportunity – a chance to unite, innovate, and lead the world in the fight against antimicrobial resistance,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 11:20

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Police rescue kidnap victims

Location: News

Police rescue kidnap victims

Police have rescued two victims, believed to be victims of alleged kidnapping. 

The victims were reportedly released by their kidnappers due to the pressure exerted upon the suspects by the police. This was as a result of an intelligence-driven operation consisting of the Cash-In-Transit Interim Team of the Hawks, Tactical Response Team (TRT),  Crime Intelligence (CI), Provincial Tracing Team and Hostage Negotiators. The victims were held hostage and released after eight days.

It alleged that a 39-year-old victim was accosted by unidentified suspects whilst she was driving a Toyota Fortuner, travelling to Umngazi Resort, Port St John's, on 20 September 2024. 

In another incident, a 34-year-old victim was also accosted by unidentified suspects on 17 September 2024 between Barkley East and Elliot.

The investigations by the joint team ensued, where the police were working around the clock. 

As a result, the victims were allegedly dropped off by a white Toyota single cab bakkie nearby Sulenkama Police Station. Both victims were released unharmed but were traumatised and were taken to a health care facility for medical assistance. The investigations are still underway.

The Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, applauded the joint team for making sure that the victims were released unharmed and reunited with their families. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 09:51

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NPA scores Steinhoff victory

Location: News

NPA scores Steinhoff victory

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured its first conviction, sentence and confiscation order related to the Steinhoff case.

This after the Specialised Commercial Crimes Court in Pretoria sentenced former Steinhoff physician, Dr Gerhardus Burger, to some five years imprisonment – wholly suspended for five years, if he is not found guilty of contravention of section 78(2) of the Financial Markets Act within that period.

According to the NPA spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana, Burger also has to “testify in the criminal proceedings against his accomplices”.

“The court also issued a confiscation order for €90,000 which is about R1.8 million seized by Swiss authorities after the collapse of Steinhoff. This is after Dr Burger pleaded guilty to three counts of insider trading and was convicted as such when he appeared in court.

“The Steinhoff case, one of the biggest cases of corporate fraud in the history of South Africa, has been one of the most complex commercial crime cases that the [Hawks] and the NPA have had to deal with. 

“At a point when a significant breakthrough was made to enrol the case earlier this year, the main accused, ex-CEO of Steinhoff, Markus Jooste, took his life on the eve of his arrest, thus escaping the hands of justice when it mattered the most,” she said.

The spokesperson explained that just before the Steinhoff collapse, the late CEO sent Dr Burger who accompanied Steinhoff directors on overseas trips to look after their health, a text advising him to sell his Steinhoff shares.

“Burger thereafter sold all the Steinhoff shares held under the Dieter Burger and Lane Burger Trusts where his children are beneficiaries. He also sold 39,722 Steinhoff shares held at Stefana Overseas Ltd, where Dr Burger was also the beneficiary, on the Swiss stock exchange.

“Shortly after the sale of the shares, Steinhoff shares plummeted and became almost worthless. At that point the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) instituted investigations where Dr Burger was convicted and found guilty of insider trading for the same transactions and paid a penalty of R3 million to FSCA. FSCA then referred the matter to the NPA for criminal prosecution.

“The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the conviction and sentence. It is important for the public to understand that criminal prosecutions require patience, preparation, and a certain measure of certainty,” Mahanjana said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 09/27/2024 - 09:54

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Your Trusted Partner in the Mining Industry

Location: Business
RS South Africa

By Erick Wessels, Sales Director, RS South Africa (www.Africa.RSdelivers.com).

The mining industry is facing significant challenges, from financial pressures leading to reduced margins and demanding stakeholders adding to procurement costs. Success in such an environment requires partnering with a supplier that is collaborative, flexible, and forward-thinking. RS stands as the ideal partner to help businesses in the mining sector achieve their goals while saving time and money.

Optimising supply management

At RS, we are committed to enhancing your supply management performance to drive commercial success. Our suite of next-generation inventory, procurement, and maintenance solutions is designed to reduce costs and optimise productivity. Leveraging advanced data insights, we help you streamline your supply chain, refine your processes, and identify cost-saving strategies that reduce the total cost of ownership and boost operational efficiency.

Ensuring safety in hazardous environments

Whether open cut or underground, all mining operations present extreme dangers. With stringent Health and Safety regulations in place, the risks associated with dust and other hazards must be meticulously managed. Compliance with IECEx legislation is crucial, necessitating the use of intrinsically safe products. Given the hazardous and arduous nature of the mining industry, safety is of paramount concern. Therefore, reliable PPE and safety equipment specification are critical.

RS offers a rapidly expanding range of PPE and workwear from trusted local and global suppliers, designed specifically for the harsh environments of the mining industry. Our products ensure site safety and security with advanced locks, security alarms and sensors, CCTV, and surveillance systems. In addition, we provide innovative automation and control technology to safely manage and automate processes, including signalling, sensors, and industrial robots.

Advanced energy management

Economic and environmental challenges drive the need for maximum energy efficiency in the mining industry. With carbon net zero on the horizon, energy efficiency has become a crucial topic. Our products, services, and solutions are tailored to help mining clients reduce CO2 emissions and energy consumption, thereby lowering overall costs.

We collaborate with you to understand your specific needs and apply a suite of energy-efficient products and services expertly designed to simplify energy management. Our solutions, backed by digital expertise, leverage the latest in energy efficiency technology to minimise energy waste, reduce carbon footprints, and assist you to meet your energy efficiency targets. From LED lighting to energy meters, we provide the right products to achieve your energy efficiency, health and safety, and productivity goals.

Committed to environmental management

Mining, by its very nature, has a significant impact on the environment. The industry is making great strides to mitigate these effects and ensure healthy air, land, and water in the areas where they operate. RS offers a range of products and solutions to help you manage and minimise the environmental impact of your mining operations.

Partnering with RS gives you access to our comprehensive range of solutions designed to support your mission, enhance safety, optimise energy use, and reduce environmental impact. Together, we can navigate the challenges of the mining industry and achieve sustained success.

For more information about RS South Africa's initiatives and product range, visit their website (http://apo-opa.co/3ZE7ZYV) and follow them on LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/3Brll0x) for regular updates on their impactful work.

Mining brochure: https://apo-opa.co/3ZFt6ds
Mining Campaign: https://apo-opa.co/3ZE7ZYV

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of RS South Africa.

PR Contact Person - RS South Africa:
Princess Tlou
Communications & Content Specialist
RS South Africa
Princess.Tlou@rsgroup.com
+27 11 691 9366

Media Contact Person – NGAGE:
Thobile Ndlovu
PR Account Executive
thobile@ngage.co.za
+27 11 867 7763

Further information is available via these links:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3XVkzSl
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3zvhhvU
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4dne5QT
RS Africa Exports: http://apo-opa.co/3XUE7q5
RS South Africa: http://apo-opa.co/3XVZ8k3
DesignSpark: http://apo-opa.co/4dsAjkA
RS Group plc: http://apo-opa.co/3ZDW6SX 

RS Group:
RS Group plc is a leading global omni-channel industrial product and service solutions provider to customers who are involved in designing, building and maintaining industrial equipment and operations, safely and sustainably. We stock more than 700,000 industrial and electronic products, sourced from over 2,500 leading suppliers, and provide a wide range of product and service solutions to over 1.2 million customers. With operations in 31 countries, we trade through multiple channels and ship over 60,000 parcels a day.

We support customers across the product life cycle, whether via innovation and technical support at the design phase, improving time to market and productivity at the build phase, or reducing purchasing costs and optimising inventory in the maintenance phase. We offer our customers tailored product and service propositions that are essential for the successful operation of their businesses and help them save time and money.

RS Group plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange with stock ticker RS1 and in the year ended 31 March 2022 reported revenue of £2,554 million.

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Esports and Nutrition: How to Maintain a Healthy Diet for Optimal Performance

Location: MyPR

Think all athletes run or swim? Think again! In esports, athletes battle it out from the comfort of a chair! But don’t be fooled—esports demands serious stamina, razor-sharp reflexes, and unmatched focus. Hyprop MTN Shift Gaming Experience offers essential tips to help gamers optimise their nutrition for better performance and overall health. Whether you’re a …

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5 Tips for Choosing the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Location: MyPR

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, explores five essential tips to help you choose the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your specific needs, ensuring you’re giving your smile the best care possible. “As we celebrate National Oral Health Month, it’s the perfect time to focus on the foundation of good dental hygiene: …

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Department of Health commemorates World Environmental Health Day

Location: News

Department of Health commemorates World Environmental Health Day

The Department of Health is joining the global community in commemorating World Environmental Health Day (WEHD). 

The 26th of September 2024 marks the 13th WEHD to raise awareness about environmental health issues and promote actions to improve and protect the environment for the wellbeing of all living creatures, including humans. 

South Africa’s WEHD kicked off today, 25 September, and will continue until tomorrow at the Wild Coast Sun International, in Port Edward, Eastern Cape. 

According to the department, environmental health is critical in addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation, and disaster risk reduction to create resilient and sustainable communities. 

“Climate change and disaster risks are fundamental threats to sustainable development, the living and health conditions for all humans on the globe and the reduction of poverty,” the department said. 

The department believes the negative impacts of environmental health issues threaten to roll back decades of development gains. 

“Building resilient and sustainable communities means addressing both climate change and disaster risks, and integrating these risks and potential opportunities into development planning and budgeting.”

This year’s WEHD commemoration will focus on creating resilient communities through disaster risk reduction and climate change mitigation and adaptation, which has been adopted in alignment with all the environmental health functions.

The event will be attended by political principals and environmental health experts. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Wed, 09/25/2024 - 10:22

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