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Youth challenges to remain key under government of national unity – Mashatile
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has thrown his weight behind President-elect Cyril Ramaphosa, saying he is confident that under his leadership in the government of national unity, South Africa will continue to address the challenges facing the youth.
“In this regard, we will in the next five years, focus on creating jobs and building an inclusive and growing economy. We will equally focus on implementing a programme focused on skilling youth with the skills of the future,” he said on Sunday.
Mashatile was speaking at the 48th anniversary of Youth Day at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Limpopo.
The annual event recollects the sacrifices of South Africa’s youth in the fight for democracy, an event immortalised by the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976.
“Our young people must have work opportunities,” Mashatile told the gathering.
The Deputy President believes that the recent General Elections have once again demonstrated the country’s dedication to the values and principles of democracy through fair, free fair elections.
He told the people who had filled the marquee that through their vote, they had spoken and given political parties a clear message after no party won an outright majority.
“You want us as political leaders to put our differences aside and work together to build our country and address the challenges affecting our people. We are determined to put our differences aside and use our collective strength, skills and experience to create the South Africa that the fallen heroes of the 1976 uprising fought for.”
He stated that young people make up more than two-thirds of the population, making them the biggest community in South Africa. “Therefore, we cannot move forward without them, without the youth of our country.”
He cited the National Development Plan (NDP), which places youth at the heart of the country’s development. He said their participation was critical to meeting growth targets.
The Deputy President also highlighted the importance of involving young people in South Africa’s developmental initiatives to address challenges such as poverty, social inequality, poor mental health and high levels of unemployment.
Youth programmes
He acknowledged the challenges facing the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and assured youngsters that they will ensure the scheme is administered efficiently.
He believes that NSFAS remains a critical vehicle that supports students from poor and working-class families, with over 70% of university and more than 90% of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students benefiting from the scheme.
“We must work together, the private sector, government and civil society must work together to address these challenges.”
The Deputy President also emphasised the need for a whole-of-society approach to provide young people with better access to quality education, basic skills, and employment opportunities, especially those who live in rural areas.
Despite the country’s challenging financial circumstances, he said the State continues to invest in youth human capital development, with more than R31. 8 billion pumped into basic education in 2023 and R130.1 billion for post-secondary education training in 2022.
He touched on government’s efforts to create opportunities for youth through programmes such as the National Youth Development Agency and Enterprise Development Programme.
“As the government, we want to see more young people actively involved in the economy and participating in decisions that affect their lives.
“This time around, young people have a government that cares for, prioritises their needs, and wants to see them succeed, unlike the government of 1976.”
Government’s comprehensive approach to reducing youth unemployment, he said, includes formal education, internships, and assistance for youth entrepreneurship through the Presidential Youth Employment Intervention.
“Without the employment of young people, growth cannot occur. I am confident that the seventh administration will continue with efforts to position young people as essential drivers and beneficiaries of economic transformation.”
The Deputy also took the time to pay tribute to the fallen heroes and saluted the brave youth who fought for liberation.
“As we traverse the economic challenges, we urge the youth to adopt the same attitude as Hector Peterson, Mbuyisa Makhubo, Tsietsi Mashinini, and all the youth of 1976, whose sacrifices gave birth to our political freedom. Their efforts have set us on the right path towards a South Africa that is non-racial, non-sexist and democratic.”
Newly elected Limpopo Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has urged the youth to tackle the social ills that they are facing and grab every opportunity that comes their way.
She highlighted the need for innovative approaches, such as technology integration and equal access to quality education for all.
Ramathuba stressed the importance of addressing the current education system’s inequalities and limitations to ensure a brighter future for South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 06/16/2024 - 16:41
Mpox cases rise to seven in SA after new infection recorded in W Cape
The Department of Health has advised people on medication for any health condition to adhere to their treatment, as the number of Mpox cases has risen to seven.
The department has noted that all diagnosed patients have chronic illnesses, suggesting a high probability of immunocompromise, unless adherent to prescribed treatment.
“Treatment adherence can prevent new or worsening health problems, and failure to adhere to your prescriptions can negatively impact the quality of your life,” the department said.
The latest confirmed case is a 39-year-old male patient, who was admitted on 28 May 2024 at a local private health facility in Cape Town.
On Thursday, he tested positive for Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, at a private laboratory.
“The patient presented with extensive lesions and he is RVD (retrovirus disease) positive with unknown CD4,” the department said.
The latest patient listed his residential address as Northcliff, Gauteng.
On Thursday, Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla announced a second death linked to Mpox.
Meanwhile, the department said it was scheduled to receive a batch of Mpox treatment, Tecovirimat, which has been described as effective in preventing morbidity and mortality associated with the disease, especially when initiated within a few days of incubation and diagnosis.
In addition, the department said it was working closely with other stakeholders and will continue with surveillance, contract tracing and health education activities across the country and empower citizens with information to make well-informed health choices.
“The effectiveness of contract tracing and case finding depends on the cooperation and accuracy of information provided by both confirmed and suspected cases.”
Some of the common symptoms of Mpox include a rash, which may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands or lymph nodes.
The painful rash looks like blisters or sores and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital and/or anal regions. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sat, 06/15/2024 - 12:28
Youth challenged to find innovative solutions for water problems
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has challenged the youth to help find solutions to the global water woes.
Mahlobo made the call during the Wetskills Challenge Awards Ceremony held at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in eThekwini on Wednesday.
The Deputy Minister officiated the Wetskills Challenge, a two-week programme for students and young professionals with a passion for water from all over the globe to work in transdisciplinary and transcultural teams on challenging water cases.
The participants’ challenge is to find innovative solutions for the water challenges facing the world.
Several teams competed for the number one spot and came up with solutions to various topics, including water security within the green hydrogen industry; developing a business model for non-governmental organisations, and innovative sanitation solutions in schools.
Speaking at the event, Mahlobo reminded the youth that science must be used for humanity, and that they will help to find solutions to the global water woes.
Mahlobo said he trusts that with the calibre of young men and women who participated in the challenge, the future of the water sector is in good hands.
“Your trade is about humanity and humanity is to improve conditions. We all have shared aspirations and dreams.
“We all want to live in peace and harmony, with development. At this point, we are carrying a treasure and inheritance for the next generations, as we inherited from our forebearers,” Mahlobo said.
He called on government to create opportunities for the ideas presented to be realised, and to foster talent and innovation.
“What we need to do is to support you in implementing the strategies you have come up with, and create pace for your development and an opportunity to pilot these ideas. As government, we need to say, ‘now that the seed has been planted, how do we water and nurture it?',” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister congratulated the winners who came up with solutions to the pit latrine problem in rural areas in South Africa.
Emerald Reddy, Rafael Tembe, Shongile Chauke and Tasmiyah Ismail presented a study that investigates integrating the innovative Larvae'd toilet system with the existing WASH solution in South Africa's rural schools.
The proposed solution aims to resolve these facilities with sustainable and hygienic sanitation solutions.
The team said the innovation will leverage community involvement and the use of recycled materials.
The initiative also ensures students health and safety, and explores business for those who will be supplying for the schools. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 08:52
Limpopo Legislature elects first female Premier
History has been made in Limpopo where Health MEC, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, has been elected as the new Premier - the first woman to hold the position in the province.
Ramathuba was elected during a sitting of the seventh Limpopo Legislature in Lebowakgomo on Friday.
She takes over the reins from outgoing Premier, Chupu Stanley Mathabatha, who held the post during the fifth and sixth administration terms.
The Speaker and Deputy Speaker are also women. Makoma Makhurupetje was elected unopposed as the new Speaker of the Limpopo Legislature, and Tebogo Mamorobela was elected as the Deputy Speaker.
In her acceptance speech, Ramathuba said she was humbled and grateful to accept the responsibility entrusted to her as the Premier of “this great province”.
The newly appointed Premier committed the new administration to inclusivity and access to quality basic services.
“I am deeply honoured for the opportunity to lead Limpopo towards a future of progress, prosperity and unity. I am recommitting the new administration to inclusivity, [and] access to qualify basic services,” Ramathuba said.
She also called on the Executives to carry out their duties with diligence.
“I call upon the members of this Legislature to uphold their oversight role with diligence and dedication, ensuring that the administration of Limpopo serves the best interests of all its citizens,” the new Premier said.
She acknowledged the exemplary leadership of the outgoing Premier, saying his stewardship has steered Limpopo through the challenges of the past two administrations.
Ramathuba’s election came as a number of provinces held their first sittings of their respective Legislatures on Friday.
In Mpumalanga, Mandla Ndlovu was elected as the new Premier, taking over from Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane who took office in 2018.
In his acceptance speech, Ndlovu said he was grateful for the opportunity given to him.
“I am committed to upholding and building upon the legacy that the previous premiers have left for us. We are continuing with the journey which was started by Premier Matthews Phosa up until Premier Refilwe. Premier, you have done your part,” Ndlovu said.
Oscar Mabuyane was re-elected as Premier of the Eastern Cape for a second term and MaQueen Joyce Letsoha-Mathae was elected Premier for Free State.
Meanwhile, Alan Winde was re-elected as the Western Cape Premier during a sitting of the Western Cape Parliament on Thursday. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 14:39
SA records second death from Mpox, with six known positive cases
Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has announced a second death linked to Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox.
The announcement comes less than 24 hours after the government provided an update on its efforts to control the spread of the infectious disease.
According to the department, the deceased was a 38-year-old male patient, who was admitted at a local hospital in uMgungundlovu, KwaZulu-Natal.
The patient tested positive for Mpox on Wednesday after presenting with extensive lesions, lymphadenopathy, headache, fatigue, oral ulcers, muscle pain, and a sore throat.
“The patient has unfortunately demised in KwaZulu-Natal the same day his test results came back positive,” the statement read on Thursday.
The deceased is said to have been living with HIV and listed his residential address as Brakpan in Gauteng.
This brings the total number of positive cases in the country from five to six, and two deaths within five weeks.
“The department is working closely with both Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Departments of Health to investigate the case. Further updates and reports will be provided once the investigation has been concluded.”
Data shows that the sequencing results for the first three cases, sequence typed as clade ll b, the same as the sub-lineage responsible for the multi-country outbreak, which began in 2022 and has since spread to over 100 countries.
Phaahla emphasised the importance of personal hygiene, timely presentation at a health facility for early diagnosis, effective treatment in the case of suspected symptoms, and close physical contact with a known case.
“Mpox is a preventable and treatable disease if diagnosed early. People are urged to avoid physical contact with someone who has Mpox, practice hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.”
The department is also warning patients to avoid contact with immunocompromised people, children or pregnant women, who may be at higher risk of severe symptoms if exposed.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, the Minister said there was currently no registered treatment for Mpox in South Africa.
However, he said the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends using Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX, for treating severe cases, such as in individuals with a CD4 count of less than 350.
He announced that the department has obtained TPOXX via Section 21 South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAPHRA) approval on a compassionate use basis for known patients with severe disease.
The Minister said they are still looking at obtaining vaccines and considering various options, including who will be the priority target in terms of immunisation.
Government is also looking at immunising sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), healthcare workers, and laboratory workers.
The department, working together with partner organisations, has intensified both targeted and public awareness to empower citizens with crucial information related to Mpox.
The Minister also emphasised the importance of managing stigma for key populations at risk, while there have been no recommendations for any travel restrictions.
“I think one can safely say that, especially for adults, anybody who develops those kinds of eruptions on their skin, even if you may think it might be chickenpox, even young people, should seek medical attention,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:18
Junior Border Guards drive successes at ports of entry
The employment of Junior Border Guards at the country’s ports of entry is already yielding results and bolstering national security, while providing employment opportunities for young people.
This is according to the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato.
Speaking ahead of Youth Day this weekend, the Commissioner highlighted what he described as the “outstanding benefits of youth employment of Junior Border Guards, who continue to thrive with massive interceptions at ports of entry”.
During a border law enforcement operation on 11 June 2024, Junior Border Guards at the Lebombo Port of Entry intercepted significant units of counterfeit alcohol hidden in a minibus taxi, under bags of coal and packs of lettuce.
On 12 June 2024, they intercepted counterfeit clothing and shoes hidden in a trailer of another minibus taxi and in a bakkie full of vegetables.
“These vehicles were travelling from Mozambique trying to smuggle the goods illegally when they were stopped for a routine search. The matters were handed over to customs for processing,” said Masiapato.
He highlighted the positive impact the Junior Border Guards have brought in the border law enforcement environment.
He further emphasised the value of investing in youth and the significant returns the investment brings to society.
“As we celebrate Youth Month, the Junior Border Guards continue to play a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness of our border security measures. These young recruits, equipped with rigorous training and a commitment to safeguarding our nation, have been instrumental in making massive interceptions that have disrupted illegal activities and protected our borders.
“Young people have been awarded the opportunity to contribute to our nation's safety and they are thriving at the job,” Masiapato said.
The Border Management Authority remains committed to protecting the 71 ports of entry while facilitating the legitimate movement of goods and people.
The work of the BMA covers areas of immigration, port health, environmental and agricultural biosecurity, including access control and general law enforcement at the ports of entry and border law enforcement areas.
The Commissioner said the authority looked forward to the continued success and the ongoing contributions of these dedicated young individuals. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:48
New dispensation needed to improve water and sanitation service provision
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, says a new dispensation is needed in the water and sanitation sector to certify proper water management and propel the country to greater heights that will realise water security for future generations.
Mchunu was speaking at the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) Conference, currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban.
The three-day WISA Conference has brought together over 1 500 academics, professionals, industry experts and law makers in the water and sanitation fields to discuss key issues and challenges in the water sector.
The 2024 conference, held in partnership with uMngeni-uThukela Water, aims to discuss and come up with sustainable solutions to the challenges within the water sector.
Mchunu said the current state of water and sanitation services has challenged government and its partners to turn things around, and set high standards for the water and sanitation sector.
“To a certain extent, water resource management has not received the attention it deserves, and the reality is visible with the deterioration of the water quality of our rivers.
“This is mainly due to pollution emanating from mining activities, industry, agriculture and to a greater extent, from dysfunctional municipal wastewater systems,” Mchunu said.
In an attempt to address this problem, Mchunu said the department has established a national anti-pollution structure that will work with the department to curb pollution of the country’s rivers and dams.
The Minister emphasised that water resource management is more than just a technical challenge, but a societal imperative.
“Water resources are the lifeblood of our nation, underpinning our health, our economy, and our environment,” Mchunu said.
Catchment Management Agencies
During the conference, Mchunu launched four Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs).
They are the Limpopo-Olifants, Vaal-Orange, Pongola-Umzimkulu, Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma Catchment Management Agencies.
They will be working alongside the already existing Breede-Olifants and Inkomati-Usuthu CMAs.
The establishment of the CMAs is in line with the provisions of the National Water Act (NWA) and the National Water Policy for South Africa to enhance decentralised decision-making in managing water resources, in an integrated manner, at a local level.
The agencies will be responsible for the protection, use, development, conservation, management, and control of all the water resources in a water management area (WMA) at the catchment level.
They also ensure participative management, good water governance and integrated planning, and improving co-operative governance of the country’s water resources in order to achieve the objectives of the National Water Act, equity, accessibility and government’s commitments to improving service delivery.
These responsibilities require that all spheres of government, water users and communities in the water management area work with CMAs as partners.
In acknowledging the effects of climate change, Mchunu said the department is an important contributor to building a climate-resilient future through continuous strategising and effective provision of water and sanitation services.
“CMAs, at local level, will bring together stakeholders to build capacity around creating a climate resilient environment. We are confident that the rationalisation will still achieve the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) principle of decentralisation of water resource management to local level and contribute to the transformation of the water sector,” Mchunu said. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 11:31
Tobacco use in SA remains high, with smokers starting at a younger age
The prevalence of smoking in South Africa remains high compared to other countries, with an average of 8.5 cigarettes smoked per day by daily smokers.
This information is based on the 2021 Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) South Africa report, released by the Department of Health on Thursday.
Based on the most recent data from GATS, sampled from 7 245 households, it was found that the prevalence of tobacco use in South Africa is 29.4%.
The data also revealed that a higher percentage of men (41.7%) are currently using tobacco compared to women (17.9%).
Lead investigator, Dr Catherine Egbe from the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), stated that 21.2% of adults in South Africa smoke daily, while 4.6% smoke occasionally.
The highest prevalence of tobacco is found in the Northern Cape, followed by the Western Cape, while the lowest is in Limpopo.
Shifting her focus to the age of initiation of tobacco use, Egbe said the average age of initiation was 17.6 years old among adults aged between 20 and 34.
Meanwhile, 20.9% of urban residents and 13.5% of rural residents initiated smoking before the age of 15.
In addition, Egbe stated that 33.9% of daily tobacco users smoke within five minutes of waking up.
E-cigarettes and hookah pipe
Meanwhile, 2.2% said they were currently using e-cigarettes, of which 3.8% are men and 0.7% are women.
Of those using e-cigarettes, 70.3% cited enjoyment, 67.5% cited flavour, 45.1% perceived it as less harmful than tobacco, while 43.5% said their use was influenced by friends or family members who use e-cigarettes.
The study also found that 3.1% of adults reported smoking hookah pipe or hubbly bubbly.
“The mean age of initiation for those who have ever smoked water pipe was 21.1 years,” Egbe said.
For those aged between 15 and 24, the average age of initiation was 17.3 years old.
Quitting
Among adults currently smoking tobacco, 80.9% attempted to quit without assistance, 4.1% used pharmacotherapy, and 42.9% received advice to stop from their healthcare provider.
Data also shows that 74.4% of adults who visited public places were exposed to second-hand smoke (SHS) at bars, taverns, shebeens or nightclubs.
Meanwhile, 19.9% were exposed to SHS at school, 16.0% at tertiary institutions and 11.3% in cafes.
Data indicates that men spent slightly more on cigarettes, R273.20, while women spent around R207.20 monthly.
Government interventions
The Department of Health’s Deputy Director of General Primary Healthcare, Jeanette Hunter, has noted an increase in the use of hookah, e-cigarettes and vapes, particularly among young people.
“Studies have highlighted health risks associated with the use of e-cigarettes and hookah pipes, hubbly bubbly or shisha, even though they are aggressively marketed as healthier tobacco alternatives,” Hunter said.
She said scientists have provided enough evidence for countries to act and put measures in place to curb the use of these new-generation products.
“It is for this reason that we, as a country, amended the existing Tobacco Product Control Act, Act 83 of 1993 to incorporate the control of the use of electronic delivery systems. This amendment Bill is at the stage of going through Parliamentary processes.”
Hunter also raised concerns about citizens who are now starting to smoke at a younger age.
“Disappointingly, it reveals that a small percentage, only 42.9% of smokers, were advised by a healthcare provider to quit smoking.”
Hunter said the department has since identified the need to establish tobacco cessation programmes in primary healthcare facilities and that the feasibility of such programmes is being explored.
Hunter also highlighted the importance of the proposed ban on smoking in enclosed spaces after it was found that 44.5% of adults in South Africa are exposed to SHS.
Meanwhile, as part of the recommendations, Egbe emphasised the importance of implementing tobacco taxes, smoke-free laws, graphic health warnings, and total bans on tobacco advertising and promotion to reduce smoking initiation, particularly among young people.
“Effective strategies to reduce tobacco use, including putting in place more comprehensive laws that are compliant with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, should be implemented to protect more people from exposure to SHS, and provide cessation services to help more people who smoke to quit,” Egbe said.
In addition, Egbe believes that if Parliament were to pass the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill of 2022, it would help reduce long-term tobacco use and the burden of tobacco-related diseases. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 12:21
One Mpox patient passes away, while four are still in recovery
Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has announced that one of the five Mpox patients in South Africa passed away on Monday at Tembisa Hospital in Gauteng.
This comes after two cases were confirmed in Gauteng and three in KwaZulu-Natal.
“In all cases, patients are males aged between 30 to 39 years without travel history to the countries currently experiencing an outbreak, which suggests there is local transmission of this infectious disease in the country,” the Minister said on Wednesday.
According to the Minister, the deceased was originally from KwaZulu-Natal but has not been at home since December last year.
The Minister made these announcements during a media briefing on Wednesday centred on the management of the monkeypox outbreak in the country.
Phaahla stated that all cases were classified as severe cases, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO) definition requiring hospitalisation.
The patients have comorbidities and have been identified as key populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM).
The Minister told the media that one of the patients has since been discharged, one is isolating at home, while two are still in hospital.
Phaahla explained that the sequencing analysis of three of the cases revealed Mpox clade IIb, a variant dominant in the multi-country and post-outbreak, which began in 2022.
The last time South Africa recorded positive cases of Mpox was in 2022, when five cases were confirmed in the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Gauteng, with no cases reported in 2023.
“So, the one in our country is consistent with the multi-country outbreaks in various parts of the world and different from the strain variant in the DRC,” he explained.
Contact tracing
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the Minister said, continues with epidemiological and surveillance activities to identify cases for investigation to estimate the magnitude of disease through systematic data collection and analysis.
He told the media that 38 contacts were identified in KwaZulu-Natal, while one of the patients indicated to have had sexual contact with multiple partners, including both males and females.
Meanwhile, the Outbreak Response Team have embarked on contact tracing and case finding in the affected provinces.
“Encourage people who may know that in one way or another have been associated with someone with the disease or showing any symptoms of skin lesions or rashes to approach their nearest health facility.”
Vaccine
Currently, there is no registered treatment for Mpox in South Africa.
However, the Minister said the WHO recommends using Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX, for treating severe cases, such as in individuals with a CD4 count of less than 350.
He announced that the department has obtained TPOXX via Section 21 South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAPHRA) approval on a compassionate use basis for known patients with severe disease.
The Minister said they are still looking at obtaining vaccines and considering various options, including who will be the priority target in terms of immunisation.
However, he believes that high-risk groups should be prioritised, including sex workers, MSM, healthcare workers, and laboratory workers.
The department, working together with partner organisations, has intensified both targeted and public awareness to empower the citizens with crucial information related to Mpox.
The Minister also emphasised the importance of managing stigma for key populations at risk, while there have been no recommendations for any travel restrictions.
“I think one can safely say that, especially for adults, anybody who develops those kinds of eruptions on their skin, even if you may think it might be chickenpox, even young people, should seek medical attention.”
He said government endeavours to prevent any further deaths.
“We already have one fatality and he was quite sick, and were informed that even though the antiviral agent because of the severity of the sores, he could not swallow his treatment and died within a few days.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 06/12/2024 - 12:50
Studies of three river catchments have found an association between pesticide exposure and poorer brain function in children
By Andy Moore (Research & Development and Quality Control Manager at NPL) In the arena of fitness supplements, the quest for optimal performance and results often leads individuals down a maze of flashy labels and enticing promises. Among the myriad options, understanding the distinction between proprietary blends and non-proprietary blends is paramount in making informed …
Health Minister to brief media on Mpox outbreak
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, will hold a media briefing on Wednesday to provide an update on the outbreak of Monkeypox disease, also known as Mpox.
According to the statement, the Minister will outline plans by the department in collaboration with various stakeholders in the sector to curb further spread and prevent mortality.
Last week, the department reported that two more cases of Mpox had been detected at Addington and St Augustine Hospitals in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Additionally, the country recorded two infections last month, one in Durban and the other in Gauteng.
The briefing will be joined by experts from the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and senior managers from the department.
Some common symptoms of Mpox include a rash lasting for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen glands.
The department explained that the painful rash looks like blisters or sores and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital, and/or anal regions.
The briefing is scheduled to take place on 12 June 2024 at Tshedimosetso House, 1035 Francis Baard Street, Hatfield, Pretoria, starting at 10am. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 14:59
For the second year running, the globally renowned Sardine Run arrived on the final day of the Ocean Festival on the KZN South Coast’s Scottburgh. This is a fitting gesture for the festival, which commemorates World Oceans Day (8 June) while encouraging ocean conservation through its themes ‘Engagement, Education, and Economics’. The dynamic event programme, …
Mop up operations continue across KZN
Mop up operations continue across KwaZulu-Natal following heavy rains, which wreaked havoc in various parts of the province.
Last Monday’s heavy rains, accompanied by strong winds, wreaked havoc in various parts of the province, affecting the districts of eThekwini Metro, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Umzinyathi, Amajuba and Umkhanyakude District Municipalities.
At least 11 people lost their lives, including seven people from uThongathi in the north of Durban, and four in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa, respectively.
Over 55 people were also reported to have suffered minor to moderate injuries and are receiving medical treatment in hospital.
The storm also left extensive damage to schools and power lines, leaving many parts of eThekwini without electricity.
The eThekwini Metro was hardest hit, with dozens of people treated for injuries in health care facilities.
The eThekwini Municipality said relief intervention in the form of food, blankets, mattresses and building material is underway to assist displaced residents in eMagwaveni, uThongathi.
“eThekwini teams and volunteers are working together to clear debris in preparation for rebuilding. Water standpipes and water tankers have been provided to ensure an interim water supply. The restoration of electricity is also in progress,” the municipality said.
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has also deployed community works participants playing a crucial role in helping affected families.
KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Nonhlanhla Khoza and eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, has also conducted an assessment on the restoration of basic services in eMagwaveni, uThongathi.
Khoza said social workers have been deployed to provide relief and support, including assistance with important documents and school uniforms for affected learners.
“Partnerships with organisations like the Hollywood Foundation and South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) ensured immediate aid, including meals and shelter in community halls.
“The government pledged to construct proper homes for victims and increase disaster relief coordination efforts. Despite ongoing relief efforts, more aid is needed for affected areas like uThongathi, Osizweni, and Eshowe,” Khoza said.
Other interventions include assessment of the families who have lost loved ones and construction of temporary residential units (TRUs) for displaced families. Debris and fallen trees on the roads has been cleared; and electricity supply has been restored to certain areas.
A command centre has also been established on site to assist community members, and Social Relief of Distress grants are being disbursed by SASSA and the Department of Social Development.
Relief, in the form of building material, food, blankets and mattresses is being provided to residents of uMgababa, Ward 98, who were also affected by the heavy rains and strong winds.
eThekwini Deputy Mayor, Zandile Myeni, and Chairperson of the Governance and Human Capital Committee, Nkosenhle Madlala, recently visited the area to assess the extent of the damage.
About 30 families from the area lost their homes to the storm. While injuries were reported, no deaths have been recorded in the area.
Myeni said eThekwini Municipality, including provincial government, non-profit and non-governmental organisations are working together to provide relief to the affected families, and work to restore services is also underway.
Jozini Municipality responds to tornado disaster
Meanwhile, Jozini Local Municipality Mayor, Mfananaye Mathe, visited the KwaJobe area in northern KwaZulu-Natal to address the aftermath of a devastating tornado that struck the area leaving more than 59 families displaced.
The Gumede family, where nine children aged between four and 10, along with their grandmother, saw their RDP house collapse while they were inside.
Two of the children are hospitalised, with one admitted at Obonjeni Hospital and the other at Ngwelezane Hospital in Mpangeni.
Mathe has provided essential supplies, including groceries, blankets, and sleeping sponges to support the affected families.
The Jozini Local Municipality Disaster Management Team has also supplied temporary tents to all those impacted by the tornado.
While acknowledging the challenges in providing immediate assistance to everyone, Mathe emphasised the municipality's commitment to swiftly intervening where possible.
The mayor also expressed his gratitude to the Department of Community Services for its ongoing support during this crisis. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 10:26
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SANDF names soldier killed in the DRC
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) on Thursday revealed the name of the soldier who died in the line of duty in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Sergeant Mbulelo David Ngubane passed away last Thursday, on 30 May 2024, following contact between the M23 and Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces.
Ngubane, who was 39 years old, was the operational medical practitioner in the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS).
“He was shot and killed when the ambulance in which he was tending to injured members was attacked,” the SANDF explained, adding that the ambulance was marked as a medically-equipped vehicle.
“This unfortunate incident occurred even though the Geneva Convention on Law of Armed Conflict clearly stipulates categories of protected persons and objects like medical personnel, medical transport in particular and other establishments of this nature during an armed conflict,” the statement read.
According to the SANDF, the act goes against published international norms in the conduct of armed conflict.
The SANDF soldiers are part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) deployed to support and assist the government of Africa's second-largest country to restore peace, security and stability.
In February this year, Captain Simon Mkhulu Bobe and Lance Corporal Irven Thabang Semono were killed and three of their colleagues were injured in the DRC after a mortar bomb landed inside one of the South African contingency military bases.
The force said Ngubane’s memorial service and funeral will be communicated soon.
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise, Deputy Minister Thabang Makwetla, the Acting Secretary for Defence Dr Thobekile Gamede and the SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya expressed their heartfelt condolences to Ngubane’s family, friends and colleagues. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 06/07/2024 - 09:07
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