MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for health

health

The Maternity Support Grant is a government initiative

Location: News

The Maternity Support Grant is a government initiative

By Lumka Oliphant

Government remains committed to building a better South Africa for all, as envisaged by former President Nelson Mandela.

The more we get things right and strengthen legislation and policies, the more the target seems to outpace the five years of any single administration.  One such example is anything related to social assistance or social grants.

Last week, two things caught my eye around social assistance that I think we need to talk openly and honestly about: 
1. The maternity benefits or pregnancy grant as it was framed, and 
2. The supposed underspending by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) of R4 billion on the grant – the second one being the most contentious one.

Let us deal with the first one quickly. I would  have loved to delve deeper on the R4 billion supposed underspending but it is a subject of a court challenge and these facts will be part of the court case.

So, it would be premature to discuss these in the public domain.

The Maternal Support Grant (MSG) Draft Policy has been in the making by the Department of Social Development since 2012, when the department commissioned a study on the feasibility of introducing maternity benefits in South Africa.

At the time, the study sought to investigate state support options for vulnerable pregnant women.

The study was necessitated, amongst others, by the acknowledgement and recognition of the constitutional provision that everyone has the right to have access to social security and that those who are unable to support themselves and their dependents should access appropriate social assistance (Section 27, (1) (C) of the Constitution).

Following the conclusion of the study, an interdepartmental task team (IDTT) was formed.  It was led by the departments of Health and Social Development, and included the SASSA, and the departments of Basic Education, Higher Education, Home Affairs, Justice and Labour, among others.

The team was also supported by national and international organisations with a particular focus on addressing stunting in South Africa – they provided technical support.

A workshop held in 2015 acknowledged all the pregnancy-related services offered across government, coming to the conclusion that there was a need to link them, hence the institution of the task team.

The central objective of the MSG Draft Policy is to provide comprehensive support to vulnerable pregnant women who are unable to support or take care of themselves.

It intends to introduce a state social assistance provision for vulnerable pregnant women in order to improve the health and wellbeing of vulnerable mothers and their unborn children.

The draft policy also aims to provide an MSG linked to related services from the first trimester up to the first 1000 days of a child’s life.

It is also expected to assist the Department of Home Affairs in its effort to register all births in South Africa within 30 days of birth.

Policy-making is a very rigorous process, which begins with research to gather evidence, developing a discussion document and subsequently a policy document.

This policy is no exception, and to this end, the discussion and draft policy document were extensively consulted across government, civil society, organised labour as well as potential beneficiaries.

Subsequent to having extensively consulted the discussion paper prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the department conducted extensive consultations around the country – between May 2022 and March 2023, wherein a total of 27 consultations were completed.

The draft policy has already been taken to the Social Protection, Community and Human Development Cluster – a normal government policy process – and has been given the green light for tabling at Cabinet for consideration for public comments.

It should be noted that this is a policy of government and should be contextualised as such.

Should Cabinet support the draft policy for public comments, we will encourage all interested parties at the right time to raise their voices so that we can strengthen our child protection services within the first 1000 days of a child.

Lumka Oliphant is the Acting Deputy Director-General for Corporate Support Services at the Department of Social Development.

 

Neo
Thu, 09/19/2024 - 08:38

370 views
Read moreThe Maternity Support Grant is a government initiative

Cooler weekend expected, says weather service

Location: News

Cooler weekend expected, says weather service

While many South Africans are experiencing a hot to very hot start to spring with the first heat wave of the season occurring over parts of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, cooler weather is expected from Thursday.

Weather conditions are expected to change significantly as a cold front and cut-off low-pressure system will introduce wintery conditions to the Western Cape, southern parts of the Northern Cape and the Eastern Cape from Thursday, 19 September 2024. 

Significantly colder conditions will then spread to KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State and Mpumalanga on Friday, 20 September, and reach Gauteng, North West and Limpopo on Saturday, 21 September.

“Disruptive snowfall and bitterly cold conditions are expected to affect the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape (especially the north-eastern high-ground) from Thursday, spreading to the eastern and southern high-ground of the Free State, the western and southern high-ground of KwaZulu-Natal and extending as far as the southern Highveld of Mpumalanga on Friday into Saturday morning,” the SA Weather Service (SAWS) said in a statement. 

The public and small stock farmers are advised to take the necessary precautions ahead of the expected adverse weather conditions to ensure the safety and health of their animals.

A cold front arrives in the Western Cape today resulting in showers and rain over the south-western parts, spreading to the Garden Route and Little Karoo by this evening and to the Eastern Cape tomorrow. 

“It will be cold to very cold over parts of the Western Cape interior and the Eastern Cape on Thursday. Strong to near-gale force winds with rough seas of 4 to 6 metres are likely along the Western Cape coast today, spreading to parts of the Eastern Cape coast overnight and to the coast of KwaZulu-Natal tomorrow.  

“Light snowfalls are likely to occur over the eastern mountains of the Western Cape and the northern high-ground and mountains of the Eastern Cape, mainly from Thursday afternoon into the evening, while becoming disruptive over the north-eastern high ground of the Eastern Cape later in the evening,” the Weather Service said.

In contrast, very hot to extremely hot temperatures - exceeding 38 to 40°C - are expected to occur over parts of the Limpopo Valley and Lowveld of Limpopo ahead of this system.

On Friday, an intense cut-off low pressure system will develop along the border of the Northern and Eastern Cape provinces and will move into the southern parts of the Free State in the evening.

This system will result in widespread showers and thundershowers over parts of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal (with possible heavy rainfall along the coastal regions), while scattered thunderstorms are possible over parts of Gauteng, western Limpopo, the eastern parts of the North West and the Free State as well as parts of Mpumalanga. 

Bitterly cold daytime temperatures of 4 to 8°C can be expected over the high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape, the eastern Free State, and the interior of KwaZulu-Natal, where widespread snowfall is likely. 

SAWS said current numerical weather prediction models indicate the possibility of light snowfall over the southern parts of Gauteng and the remainder of the Highveld of Mpumalanga on Saturday morning. 

“However, there is significant uncertainty regarding this outlook, as the forecast may still change.”

Disruptive snowfall of 15 to 30 cm can be expected over the north-eastern high-lying areas of the Eastern Cape, the western and southern areas of KwaZulu-Natal, the eastern Free State and the southern Highveld and escarpment of Mpumalanga, mainly on Friday continuing into Saturday morning. 

“This may result in the closure of mountain passes, loss of livestock and crops, and affect major traffic routes (parts of the N3, N5 and N11). Cold to very cold daytime temperatures (8 to 12°C) can also be expected over Gauteng and the eastern parts of North West on Saturday, 21 September. 

The cut-off low is expected to weaken and exit the country from Saturday afternoon. Daytime temperatures are expected to recover quickly from Sunday into Monday across eastern South Africa. 

The weather service will therefore continue to monitor any further developments relating to this weather system and will issue subsequent updates as required. 

The public is urged and encouraged to regularly follow weather forecasts on television and radio. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 14:58

651 views
Read moreCooler weekend expected, says weather service

ANGOSTURA® Turns 200 as the Negroni Celebrates a Century of Flavor

Location: MyPR

As ANGOSTURA® marks 200 years and the Negroni celebrates a century, it’s the perfect moment to rediscover the allure of this iconic cocktail. With ANGOSTURA® bitters at its heart, the Negroni’s rich history and enduring appeal offer a timeless tribute to craftsmanship and flavor. Dive into the story of two legends that continue to shape …

Read moreANGOSTURA® Turns 200 as the Negroni Celebrates a Century of Flavor

NEW CoreLife Medical Launches Website Serves Customers’ Oxygen Therapy Needs

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg, South Africa – July 10, 2024 – CoreLife Medical, a leading provider of medical oxygen solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its newly designed website. The revamped online platform offers an enhanced user experience and streamlined access to a comprehensive range of oxygen concentrators, cylinders, and accessories. The new website reflects CoreLife …

Read moreNEW CoreLife Medical Launches Website Serves Customers’ Oxygen Therapy Needs

President Ramaphosa, Business Unity SA meet on NHI

Location: News

President Ramaphosa, Business Unity SA meet on NHI

President Cyril Ramaphosa has met with the leadership of Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) to discuss matters related to the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act.

According to the Presidency, the meeting on Tuesday included the Minister and Deputy Minister of Health and senior officials and was “constructive and forward looking”.

“Business and government expressed a shared commitment to the underlying objectives of the NHI, namely to achieve universal health coverage for all South Africans and address inequality in the health system,” the Presidency said.

Furthermore, the office said government will continue to engage on the matter “in good faith”.

“The President has requested BUSA to put forward specific proposals on the remaining issues of concern as a basis for further engagement. Government remains committed to engaging with all stakeholders in good faith on the process of healthcare reform, and to finding workable solutions that will advance quality and affordable healthcare for all,” the Presidency said.

In May this year, President 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”.

“This transformational health care initiative gives further effect to our constitutional commitment to progressively realise access to health care services for all its citizens. 

“At its essence, the NHI is a commitment to eradicate the stark inequalities that have long determined who receives adequate healthcare and who suffers from neglect.

“By putting in place a system that ensures equal access to health care regardless of a person’s social and economic circumstances, the NHI takes a bold stride towards a society where no individual must bear an untenable financial burden while seeking medical attention,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 09/18/2024 - 09:01

457 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa, Business Unity SA meet on NHI

How Effective Healthcare Network Management Is Improving Lives

Location: MyPR

Ameer Adonis Advanced Specialist: Health Facility Strategy Unit from Medscheme, an AfroCentric Group company, writes about the power of healthcare network management in improving healthcare and renal care outcomes for patients: At the beginning of this month we observed Kidney Awareness Week with the intent to shine a light on a critical yet often overlooked …

Read moreHow Effective Healthcare Network Management Is Improving Lives

Early Signs of Alzheimer’s: What to Look For

Location: MyPR

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, explores the early signs of Alzheimer’s in light of World Alzheimer’s Day on 21 September. “Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition, meaning it gradually gets worse over time. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it starts with mild memory issues and can develop into serious challenges that …

Read moreEarly Signs of Alzheimer’s: What to Look For

Former NHLS CEO ordered to pay R22 million for loss incurred

Location: News

Former NHLS CEO ordered to pay R22 million for loss incurred

The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) says it welcomes the judgment against its former CEO, Joyce Mogale, and her co-applicant, the estate of the late former Chief Financial Officer, Sikhumbuzo Zulu, who died before the court proceedings started.

This is after the Labour Court dismissed an unfair dismissal claim against the former officials and ordered Mogale to pay R22 million to the NHLS for losses it incurred because of her conduct. 

“The judgment is a victory for governance and recoups losses which the NHLS has suffered as a result of the conduct of its most senior employees,” the NHLS said in a statement. 

According to the entity, Judge Connie Prinsloo of the Labour Court found the pair’s dismissal to be fair.

“She used these words to describe their conduct, ‘displayed severe negligence and incompetence … dismally failed to carry out explicit Board resolutions and … blatantly disregarded the limitations contained in the delegation of authority’.” 

In her ruling delivered on Friday, 13 September 2024, the Judge stated that the pair had breached the lawful, reasonable, and fair instructions of their employer. 

She also mentioned that they failed to exercise due diligence and care, and referred to Mogale’s conduct as “astonishing”.

“Judge Prinsloo further stated that Mogale was unable to acknowledge her role in creating her misery – she was constantly shifting the blame, even onto the media.”

According to the NHLS, the Board became aware of irregularities in 2017, and Mogale and Zulu were subsequently suspended and dismissed in 2019 after a disciplinary hearing.

The dismissal of Mogale and Zulu, affirmed by Judge Prinsloo, were based on three separate irregular commercial contracts at the NHLS.

These include the Afrirent vehicle leasing irregularity, in which the former CEO approved a contract for R72 million without a Board and way above the limit of her authority.

She increased the contract even further to R79 million without any due process. 

“She signed a Service Level Agreement with an unwarranted penalty clause which ballooned the cost even further. The Afrirent irregularities led to a judgement that Mogale must pay back R22 million to the NHLS,” the entity explained. 

In the Blue Future contract information technology (IT) equipment irregularity, the NHLS Board authorised a procurement of R25 million. 

However, Mogale, without a competitive tender, summarily procured R83 million and mostly for goods that had nothing to do with the tender.

In the DV8 wide area network irregularity, the NHLS stated that a R63.5 million addendum was signed to the contract without going through the tendering process and without specifying the goods to be purchased, leaving room for potential malfeasance.

“In sum, Judge Prinsloo found that Mogale’s conduct violated the Public Finance Management Act, the NHLS Supply Chain Management Policy and her contract of employment,” the entity explained. 

The Chairperson of the Board, Prof Eric Buch, said that at the time of their suspension, the NHLS debt to its suppliers exceeded R800 million, which surpassed its cash balance.

Since then, Buch said, a diligent effort has steadily turned the NHLS around.

The organisation stated that it now has significant reserves, and its staff have received reasonable annual increases, while annual tariff increases have remained below 5%.

“This judgement is salient as it provides further evidence of the probity and diligence of the Board and its efforts to hold those responsible to account, however long it takes,” Buch added. 

Meanwhile, Mogale, former Head of Supply Chain Management Graham Motsepe, Manager of Contracts and Tender Compliance Mthunzi Mthimkulu, Legal Manager Sibusiso Mthenjane and the owner of Blue Future Kapai Pierre Petersen are all on trial in the specialised commercial crimes court in Palm Ridge. 

Petersen has already been found guilty of fraud in his tender submission to the NHLS and is awaiting sentencing.

Buch said he was still optimistic that those responsible will also be charged on the Afrirent and DV8 matters. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Tue, 09/17/2024 - 12:27

389 views
Read moreFormer NHLS CEO ordered to pay R22 million for loss incurred

Rising deaths due to non-communicable diseases a concern

Location: News

Rising deaths due to non-communicable diseases a concern

The rapid increase in diabetes, particularly affecting women, is a cause for concern, says Deputy Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla.

“When looking at gender-specific causes of death, diabetes mellitus is the leading underlying cause of female deaths at 8.2% which increased from 7.7% in 2018. The rate at which diabetes is growing in our country is concerning,” he said on Monday. 

Phaahla was speaking during a roundtable discussion on the Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative (HeLTI), a collaboration between national research funding agencies in Canada, China, India, South Africa and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

He took the time to outline government’s plans to address the burden of the emerging non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pandemic, otherwise known as lifestyle diseases. 

Diabetes was the second leading underlying cause of death in 2020, accounting for 6.6% of all deaths. COVID-19, first detected that year, became the leading cause of death.

“Non-communicable diseases not only reduce life expectancy but also have a profound economic impact, straining both individuals and our healthcare system. 

“We must recognise the gravity of this burden which is deeply interconnected with factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, alcohol abuse, smoking and social and commercial determinants of health,” he told delegates. 

The Deputy Minister told the attendees that the department’s primary focus is prevention and it has implemented campaigns aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles. 

In addition, he said early detection of NCDs is key to effective management. 

The department has rolled out community-based screening campaigns through community health workers (CHWs) and traditional health practitioners (THPs) targeting the early detection of hypertension and diabetes. 

“Our focus is not limited to the detection of diseases but also includes education on risk factors and lifestyle modifications that can prevent the progression of these conditions.” 

According to the Deputy Minister, the department recently entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with parkrun South Africa to encourage communities to walk, jog or run on weekends. 

However, at the heart of the NCDs response is strengthening the country’s primary healthcare (PHC) services. 
“PHC facilities across the country are being equipped to manage and monitor patients with chronic conditions effectively. The department is working to ensure that treatment for NCDs is both accessible and affordable.”

He mentioned regulatory interventions such as the tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, implemented to reduce premature death from NCDs.

There are also regulations relating to trans-fats in foodstuffs which prohibit the sale, manufacture and importation of oils and fats, including continuous phase emulsions, either alone or as part of processed foods. 

There are regulations concerning food for infants and young children, as well as the reduction of sodium in certain food items to help lower salt intake to less than 5g per day.

“Excessive salt intake is associated with hypertension which is the second leading cause of death in South Africa and hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.”

Phaahla believes the battle against lifestyle diseases is far from over. However, with the right interventions and a collective effort from all sectors of society, he is of the view that it can reduce the burden in the country. 

“The findings of Statistics South Africa survey that deaths due to major non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic lower respiratory diseases in South Africa increased over 20 years, should be a concern for all of us.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 09/17/2024 - 09:52

325 views
Read moreRising deaths due to non-communicable diseases a concern

South Africa Makes Strides in Bid to Contain Mpox

Location: News
World Health Organization (WHO) - South Africa

As the wider African region experiences an upsurge in mpox cases, South Africa's multi-pronged efforts to bring the outbreak under control are bearing fruit. On 14 August 2024, World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern and subsequently issued a set of temporary recommendations to scale up the emergency response.

South Africa had previously reported five unlinked mpox cases in 2022. Having confirmed zero cases in 2023, the country has experienced a resurgence of the infectious disease in recent months, reporting 25 laboratory-confirmed cases and three deaths between 8 May and 6 September 2024. These cases have been reported in Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, with local transmission suggested for 24 cases and one imported case. 

However, there has been a significant change in the epidemiological data in recent weeks, with just one new case and no deaths reported since 2 August 2024, compared to 12 cases and three deaths in June, so far, the peak of the current outbreak. 

“With the support of partners including WHO, we have made significant progress in our efforts to contain mpox in the country,” says Foster Mohale, spokesperson for South Africa's National Department of Health. “But we must not become complacent because viruses mutate from time to time. The recent detection of a new mpox case in Western Cape should be a strong reminder that we must all remain extremely vigilant.”

To coordinate its response to the outbreak, the National Department of Health formed an mpox Incident Management Team comprised of experts from national and provincial levels and partners including WHO. In June, with WHO support, health authorities conducted two remote webinars on clinical management of mpox cases, training over 500 health workers and public health professionals. 
The department has also activated provincial response teams to implement priority interventions in hotspots, deployed rapid response teams to support community surveillance and case management, and intensified targeted public awareness campaigns. 

In addition to providing technical support and guidelines on mpox treatment to help ensure standardized patient care, WHO has donated 35 treatment courses of tecovirimat, an antiviral that is used to treat severe mpox cases in conjunction with symptomatic and supportive care. The Organization is supporting efforts to stockpile an additional 30 treatment courses of the medication for rapid deployment should further cases arise. 

South Africa is one of 14 countries in the African region that will be financially supported by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and WHO from September 2024 until February 2025 to draw up and roll out plans, including vaccination strategies, to continue its fight against mpox. The Mpox Continental Preparedness and Response Plan for Africa will see an estimated US$ 45.5 of a US$ 600-million total budget allocated to South Africa, most of which will be spent on the logistics of rolling out vaccines.  

“WHO remains committed to supporting health authorities in containing the mpox outbreak through coordinated efforts in treatment, surveillance, and public awareness,” says Dr Fabian Ndenzako, acting WHO Representative in South Africa. “I am pleased to see mpox control efforts targeting health workers, community members and key risk populations to prevent further transmission and manage this public health issue effectively.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) - South Africa.

Media files
World Health Organization (WHO) - South Africa
Download logo
Read moreSouth Africa Makes Strides in Bid to Contain Mpox

Ending the Silence: Understanding and Preventing Suicide in South Africa

Location: MyPR

Cape Town, September, 17, 2024: September is World Suicide Prevention Month, a time to talk about a challenging topic that many avoid. In South Africa, it’s estimated that one person dies by suicide every hour. This heartbreaking statistic affects families, friends, and entire communities nationwide. The Seriousness of Suicide in South Africa South Africa has one …

Read moreEnding the Silence: Understanding and Preventing Suicide in South Africa

The Importance of Accurate Valuations: Property, Art, Cars, and Business Assets

Location: MyPR

Introduction Valuations are integral to various aspects of our lives, from determining the value of a property to assessing the worth of a vintage car. Whether you’re dealing with property valuations or art valuations, understanding the factors that influence these figures is crucial. In this article, we will explore the various types of valuations, highlighting …

Read moreThe Importance of Accurate Valuations: Property, Art, Cars, and Business Assets

How to Keep Your Heart Healthy & Happy this World Heart Day

Location: MyPR

We often hear about our guts as our second brains, so where do our hearts fit in? What’s beautiful about medicine today is that we are beginning to acknowledge and understand ourselves as small, interconnected universes, rather than seeing ourselves through the patriarchal lens that compartmentalised each organ system from the next one. Your heart …

Read moreHow to Keep Your Heart Healthy & Happy this World Heart Day

Infrastructure maintenance placed under the spotlight

Location: News

Infrastructure maintenance placed under the spotlight

Thorough infrastructure maintenance to ensure sustainable water supply to residents of the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality came under the spotlight at a meeting between Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seithlolo and municipal councillors.

Seithlolo made the call during a meeting with municipal councillors, held in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, on Friday.
The engagement comes after Seitlholo accepted an invitation from municipal councillors to discuss some of the ongoing issues that have been affecting the wards. 

These include ongoing water challenges affecting some parts of the municipality, which are exacerbated by ageing infrastructure, rapid urbanisation, floods, theft, and vandalism of water infrastructure.

During the meeting, councillors raised concerns of sewer spillages in the communities, which cause health hazards and water pollution that end up affecting recreational facilities including the beaches in the city.

Seitlholo called on the municipality to address issues that affect water delivery services to communities and the travel sector. 

In addition to infrastructure maintenance, he also encouraged the municipality to conduct a full investigation into illegal connections.

“I therefore call on the municipality to be committed on issues of water and sanitation. Municipalities should improve on their investigations related to the issues so that they can be resolved,” Seitlholo said.

He assured the municipality of further provincial visits and engagements, to ensure tangible changes pertaining to water and sanitation challenges.

The Deputy Minister also held a meeting with Umhlanga Tourism Association (UTA) to discuss issues relating to water and sanitation affecting the tourism hub in the Umhlanga area. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Mon, 09/16/2024 - 09:55

2 views
Read moreInfrastructure maintenance placed under the spotlight

BeiGene South Africa Shines a Light on Blood Cancer Awareness Month

Location: MyPR

BeiGene, Ltd. (NASDAQ: BGNE; HKEX: 06160; SSE: 688235), a global oncology company with a growing presence in South Africa, is proud to support both global and local initiatives for Blood Cancer Awareness Month. The company is focused on raising awareness about B cell malignancies, a group of cancers that affect B lymphocytes. These include mantle …

Read moreBeiGene South Africa Shines a Light on Blood Cancer Awareness Month

Deputy President in good health

Location: News

Deputy President in good health

The Presidency says Deputy President Paul Mashatile is in good health after he felt unwell during an event in Limpopo on Saturday.

The Deputy President attended the N’wamitwa Day celebrations at the Valoyi Cultural Village in Tzaneen, Limpopo.

While delivering his keynote address, the Deputy President felt lightheaded from the heat and was attended to by his medical team. 

Following the incident, the Presidency issued a statement on Saturday confirming that he had received the necessary medical attention and was well.

On Sunday his office issued a further update, saying the Deputy President was in good health.

“Following the unfortunate incident yesterday, the Office of the Deputy President confirms that Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile is in good health.

“This is consistent with the doctor’s report yesterday. He is in high spirits and is resting at home following his travel back to his home yesterday,” said his office.

The Presidency thanked the team that supports the Deputy President from the Presidential Protection Service and the Presidential Medical Unit for their speedy response in attending to the Deputy President and ensuring that he is in good health.

“The Deputy President also thanks all South Africans for their support and prayers.” 

N’waMitwa Day unites vital aspects of democratic society

Meanwhile, in his prepared speech, Deputy President Mashatile said the 16th anniversary of N’waMitwa Day united vital aspects of the democratic society and demonstrated the country's progress in advancing the constitutional values of gender equality and non-sexism.

He said Her Royal Highness Hosi Dr N'waMitwa II's accession to the throne symbolised resilience and progress in the country's ongoing journey to realise women's full potential in leadership roles.

"Her path inspires all, particularly the millions of South African women whose voices and contributions are essential in shaping our nation’s future. We are proud that you have upended patriarchy by claiming your rightful place on the Valoyi royal throne. 

"You have demonstrated to women that their role extends beyond the norm, and they can assume leadership positions in society, performing equally or better than men. What remains is that we must fight patriarchy and stand together as government and traditional leaders to root out the persistent inequalities and Gender-Based Violence (GBV), which continue to erode social cohesion in South Africa." – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Sun, 09/15/2024 - 14:56

101 views
Read moreDeputy President in good health

The Coca-Cola System in Africa Unveils Water Stewardship Initiative

Location: Business

Coca-Cola
Download logo

The Coca-Cola Company in Africa (www.Coca-ColaCompany.com) and its bottling partners Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA), Equatorial Coca-Cola Bottling Company (ECCBC) and Coca-Cola HBC announced a nearly USD 25 million investment to help address critical water-related challenges in local communities in 20 African countries, starting this year through 2030. The work will be led by Global Water Challenge (GWC) and implemented by a consortium of partners, including The Nature Conservancy (TNC), The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

The effort, called ‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative', was introduced in Cape Town, South Africa, in presence of executives from the Coca-Cola system in Africa and NGO partners. During the event, Karyn Harrington, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability at The Coca-Cola Company's Africa Operating Unit indicated “Water is a priority for The Coca-Cola Company and its local bottling partners because it is essential to life, the communities we serve and our beverages. As we face increasing water insecurity worldwide, with demand outstripping supply in many regions such as Africa, Coca-Cola is taking steps to help accelerate efforts to address water stress, protect local water resources, and build community climate resilience. Our 2030 Water Security Strategy focuses on helping enhance water security where we operate, source ingredients, and touch lives.”

“One in three Africans face water insecurity. The Global Water Challenge and ‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative' partner coalition will seek to improve water security for millions across the African continent, helping advance community health and resilience through abundant, clean water. We applaud Coca-Cola's continued leadership on African water security” said Monica Ellis, CEO of GWC.

‘The Coca-Cola System's Africa Water Stewardship Initiative' aims to help protect and enhance the health of important watersheds and to help improve access to water and sanitation services in local communities. We will have projects in Algeria, Botswana, Cabo Verde, Comoros, Egypt, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mayotte, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.  

“CCBA has a responsibility to help those who face water scarcity and to help protect local water resources where we operate, especially in places with the biggest challenges. We are proud to partner with The Coca-Cola Company on this project,” says Layla Jeevanantham, Chief Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Officer at CCBA.

“We are proud to partner with The Coca-Cola Company and fellow bottlers on this critical initiative to help tackle water challenges across Africa. By working together, we can leverage the expertise of our partners and the knowledge of local communities to help create sustainable solutions that enhance water access and safeguard vital water resources,” said Sonia Ventosa, Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability Manager at ECCBC.

“Coca-Cola HBC has been part of African communities for more than 70 years, and sustainability is an important part of how we operate. We're very happy to see this new water initiative come to life and to support the system's water stewardship efforts,” said Marcel Martin, Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, Coca-Cola HBC.

Recognizing that partnerships are critical to support this work, the company and its bottlers are collaborating with governments, businesses, and civil society organizations to design and implement strategic interventions. In addition to supporting the company's water strategy, this effort also aims to contribute to advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation. 

This water initiative will build upon The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF)'s Replenish Africa Initiative (RAIN), a groundbreaking collaboration with key partners and co-funders which helped improve access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene for 6 million people across African countries between 2009 and 2019. Through 120 projects, the initiative positively impacted homes, schools and healthcare clinics in more than 4,000 communities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola.

Contacts: 
Amel Benchikh El Houcine 
abenchikh@coca-cola.com

About The Coca-Cola Company:
The Coca‑Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company's purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca‑Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We are constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people's lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/3Ttw0hL), Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3ToqwVu) and LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/4db5D6V).

 Forward-Looking Statements:
This update may contain statements, estimates or projections that constitute “forwardlooking statements” as defined under U.S. federal securities laws. Generally, the words “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “project,” “will” and similar expressions identify forwardlooking statements, which generally are not historical in nature. Statements about our sustainability goals, aspirations and anticipated progress also constitute “forwardlooking statements.” Forwardlooking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause The CocaCola Company's actual results to differ materially from its historical experience and our present expectations or projections. These risks include, but are not limited to, evolving sustainability regulatory requirements and expectations, including evolving processes, controls and methodologies for identifying, measuring, assuring and reporting sustainability metrics and data, which could result in significant revisions to our previously reported data; increasing concerns about the environmental impact of plastic bottles and other packaging materials; water scarcity and poor quality; increased demand for food products, decreased agricultural productivity and increased regulation of ingredient sourcing due diligence; climate change and legal or regulatory responses thereto; adverse weather conditions; unfavorable economic and geopolitical conditions; disruption of our supply chain, including increased commodity, raw material, packaging, energy, transportation and other input costs; an inability to successfully integrate and manage our acquired businesses, brands or bottling operations or an inability to realize a significant portion of the anticipated benefits of our joint ventures or strategic relationships; and other risks discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC), including our Annual Report on Form 10K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and our subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10Q, which filings are available through the SEC's website. You should not place undue reliance on forwardlooking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward looking statements. 

Read moreThe Coca-Cola System in Africa Unveils Water Stewardship Initiative

Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan 

Location: News

Tributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan 

The South African Revenue Services (SARS) has expressed sadness on the passing of former Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan who was also affectionately known as “PG”.

The revenue service described Gordhan as a “true patriot, social activist and a steward leader.” 

Gordhan passed away in hospital in the early hours of Friday morning after a battle with cancer, his family announced. He was 75 years old. 

SARS, which joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in expressing sadness in mourning his passing, described Gordhan as a remarkable steward leader whose contributions to the country and the revenue will be remembered for generations to come.

The former Minister served as the Commissioner of SARS from 1999 – 2009 after which he was appointed as the Finance Minister.

“As the Commissioner of SARS from 1999 – 2009, it was PG who ushered in and evangelised the notion that SARS exists to serve a Higher Purpose of enabling government to build a capable democratic state that fosters sustainable economic growth and social development in the interest and wellbeing of all South Africans.

“It was he who set the organisation on a path that still directs and inspires us today and will continue for decades to come. PG was, without doubt, the one who conceptualised and laid the foundation for a Modern Tax and Customs Administration,” said the revenue service.

It added that Gordhan’s leadership and unwavering commitment to the public service has left an indelible mark on South Africa’s economic landscape. 

It said that as a key figure in SARS, he championed policies and reforms that strengthened the institution, transforming it into a globally respected revenue service. 

His tenure was marked by an unyielding dedication to integrity, good governance, and accountability, ensuring that SARS became the pillar of strength for the nation’s fiscal health.

Beyond his significant work at SARS, he served South Africa with distinction in various leadership roles, including as Minister of Finance, Minister of Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs and Minister of Public Enterprises, where his courage and vision guided the country through challenging times, it noted.

A social activist

It added that the former Minister’s-- who held the portfolio of Public Enterprises prior to retiring---lifelong commitment to building a fair and just society for all will continue to inspire future generations of public servants and leaders.

“I will remember him as a committed social activist who dedicated his life to the struggle and the improvement of the material conditions of South Africans at a time when we were in the steely grips of state capture, it was PG who stood fearlessly for justice and equality. He spoke with courage of his deep conviction and did not count the tremendous cost to him and his family,” said the revenue service's Commissioner Edward Kieswetter.

SARS said the former Minister  was a life-long revolutionary and a struggle hero, who confronted apartheid unwaveringly, in the public arena and in the underground terrain. 

“His legacy will continue to guide SARS and South Africa in its pursuit of ethical governance and economic justice. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Vanitha and daughters Anisha and Priyesha, his extended family and friends who experienced his love and friendship, and to all those whose lives were touched by his visionary leadership and dedicated public service,” it said.

READ | President mourns the passing of former Minister Pravin Gordhan

-SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 09/13/2024 - 10:09

517 views
Read moreTributes continue for “patriot” former Minister Pravin Gordhan