Medical experts to assess health of judge facing tribunal
Judge Nomonde Mngqibisa-Thusi is facing possible impeachment for failing to hand down judgments timeously
health
Load shedding expected to ease into the weekend – Ramokogopa
Load shedding expected to ease into the weekend - Ramokogopa
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says he expects the intensity of load shedding to decrease going into the weekend.
The Minister was speaking to the media on the sidelines of the handover of the first consignment of energy equipment donated by the People’s Republic of China.
“We have been able to return the units much earlier; Kusile [power station] Unit 2 – in the midst of Stage 6 [load shedding] has come back to give us an additional 800MW. So once we stabilise the emergency reserves, I’m more than confident that going into the weekend, you’ll start seeing that the intensity of load shedding is going to go down,” he said.
Turning to the equipment donated by the Chinese government, the Minister said the equipment will help to “preserve life” as they will serve health facilities and schools, among others.
The consignment includes at least 450 gasoline generators which are expected to be distributed to public facilities such as clinics, schools and courts to use as backup energy sources.
“The Chinese were very enthusiastic and demonstrated levels of solidarity and comradery…that we have enjoyed over a period of time to say that as you resolve the bigger question of ending load shedding, you need some alternative supply or some solution to ensure that there is uninterrupted supply,” he said.
Meanwhile, Eskom has announced that it will lower the intensity of load shedding.
“Due to improved generation recovery and emergency reserves, Stage 3 load shedding was implemented at 10am today [Thursday] until 4pm.
“Thereafter, Stage 4 load shedding will be implemented from 4pm until 8pm, followed by Stage 5 load shedding from 8pm until 5am on Friday,” the power utility said on X. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 11/30/2023 - 14:53
343 views
12 Reasons Why the KZN South Coast is a Top Beach Destination in South Africa
Summer is on the doorstep and the holidays are beckoning! Now is the time to start planning that year-end, family holiday and where better to relax and cool off than the KZN South Coast? “Our tourism establishments are geared up and ready to welcome our many holiday visitors to the KZN South Coast this festive …
The Big Issue might shut down after R600,000 cyber scam
It was a targeted attack, says cyber security firm probing the theft from the magazine’s account
AG reports overall improved audit outcomes
AG reports overall improved audit outcomes
The Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA), Tsakani Maluleke, has reported an overall improvement in the national and provincial government audit outcomes.
Tabling the 2022-23 general report for national and provincial departments, entities and legislatures in Parliament on Wednesday, the AG said the outcomes reflect an overall improvement over the term of the current administration, now in its fourth year.
However, she pointed out that there are still weaknesses in planning, monitoring and reporting on service delivery; challenges in infrastructure management, and increasing pressure on the fiscus due to a lack of prudence in spending.
“Over the administration’s term, we have seen some encouraging signs of improvement in the ability of national and provincial government to transparently report on their finances and performance, and to comply with key legislation.
“However, those auditees with the greatest impact on the lives of South Africans and on government finances, which we refer to as ‘high-impact auditees’, are lagging behind on financial and performance management disciplines. This is placing further pressure on government finances,” Maluleke said.
She said these high-impact auditees comprise departments, public entities and State-owned entities that are collectively responsible for 85% (R2.64 trillion) of the expenditure budget.
They contribute to delivering health services, skills development and employment, infrastructure development, safety and security, water and sanitation, energy, and environmental and financial sustainability.
“Overall, the audit outcomes of both departments and public entities improved and more auditees improved their audit outcomes each year of the administrative term than regressed. In 2022-23, the net improvement was 37 auditees (9%) – the biggest movement over the four-year period. Provincial government showed a net improvement of 44 (27%) and national government a net improvement of 34 (15%),” the AG said.
Clean audits
The AG noted that the number of clean audits continues to increase every year due to significant effort and commitment by the leadership, officials and governance structures of these institutions.
“A clean audit is not always an indicator of good service delivery. However, a clean audit positions an auditee to transparently communicate to citizens on whether and when their needs will be met through accurate records, which also enables informed decisions by the different role-players in the accountability ecosystem.
“We have seen that auditees with institutionalised controls and systems to plan, measure, monitor and account for their finances and performance, and to stay within the rules, often also have a solid foundation for service delivery to the people of South Africa,” Maluleke said.
She re-emphasised the importance of a clean audit, which shows that an auditee’s financial statements and performance report give a transparent and credible account of its finances and its performance against the targets that had been set.
It also means that the auditee had complied with the important legislation that applies to financial and performance management.
The 147 auditees (35%) that achieved clean audits in 2022-23 managed 16% of the R3.10 trillion expenditure budget in national and provincial government.
In addition, the 162 auditees (39%) that received unqualified audit opinions with findings managed 48% of the budget.
“It is commendable that these auditees that make up 74% of the auditee population are able to publish credible financial statements, which is a positive development that must be encouraged. This augurs well for accountability,” the AG said.
She also commended the 53 auditees (36%) that have managed to retain their clean audit status over the administrative term through practices such as institutionalising and monitoring key controls (including preventative controls), and by having all role players in the accountability ecosystem committed to fulfilling their monitoring, governance and oversight roles.
She further acknowledged the 37 auditees that are very close to obtaining a clean audit, and only need to address one finding on either the quality of their financial statements or on their performance reporting.
“Some of these auditees have been working towards this goal for many years and we encourage them to persevere in overcoming the last hurdle. If they manage to do so, we expect to see an increase in the number of clean audits for 2023-24. This will set a strong foundation from which the next administration can build when its term starts in 2024-25,” Maluleke said.
Disclaimed and adverse outcomes
Overall, the number of auditees with disclaimed audit opinions decreased.
Maluleke cautioned that if any of the 31 auditees with outstanding audits also receive disclaimed opinions, the improvement in this area will be less significant, but should still be acknowledged.
Nine of these audits were subsequently finalised, with an additional two auditees receiving disclaimed audit opinions.
Maluleke reported an increase in adverse audit opinions due to three public entities moving from a disclaimed opinion last year to an adverse opinion in 2022-23. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 12:16
406 views
Delay in delivery of infrastructure projects affects service delivery
Delay in delivery of infrastructure projects affects service delivery
The Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) Tsakani Maluleke says all too often infrastructure delivery projects which have been delayed, are costing more than what was initially planned or are of poor quality.
In the 2022-23 financial year, the AGSA audited 137 infrastructure projects, focusing on critical infrastructure, including health facilities, schools, housing, roads and railways, water infrastructure, and government buildings such as police stations.
“Our audit work incorporated numerous site visits by our multi-disciplinary audit teams, who applied their expertise to inspect project progress and quality. We reported findings on 112 (82%) of the projects that we visited. There are also delays in newly built infrastructure,” Maluleke said.
She said when auditees, especially high-impact auditees, do not properly manage their performance, finances and infrastructure; it directly affects the delivery of key government programmes that are intended to improve the lives of South Africans and to alleviate hardships stemming from tough economic conditions and poverty.
“Wasted money and resources means reduced funding for service delivery programmes and, eventually, a greater burden on taxpayers,” the AG said.
She made these remarks in Parliament on Wednesday, while tabling the 2022-23 general report for national and provincial departments, their entities and legislatures.
Maintenance of government properties
Maluleke noted that many government properties are in a poor condition because of the sector’s reactive approach to maintenance.
“Most maintenance work is only done in response to emergency requests and little time or budget is spent on preventative maintenance,” the AG said.
The public works sector is responsible for maintaining government properties, including health facilities, police stations and buildings that accommodate departments.
She said government officials and the public continue to use properties that are in poor condition, which lowers the effectiveness of the working environment and puts the safety of officials and the public at risk.
“There are currently 2 394 unoccupied government properties, most of which have not been maintained and are in a bad state. Even though these properties are not used, costs such as property rates and taxes still need to be paid.
“When there are not enough fit-for-use properties available to departments, the Property Management Trading Entity needs to enter into lease agreements – which could have been avoided if properties had been properly maintained,” Maluleke said.
The AG further cautioned that such lease agreements are often costly to government because of high annual increases and higher-than-average market rates being paid.
She attributed the failures in delivering, maintaining and safeguarding infrastructure to four matters that need urgent attention:
- Inadequate coordination and collaboration, and deliverables not being synchronised in the ecosystem (e.g. between implementing agents and other departments).
- Failure to conduct proper needs assessments and feasibility studies; or conducting them but not using them as a base to implement the infrastructure projects.
- Lack of accountability – the terms of construction contracts are not used to hold contractors and professional service providers (consultants and implementing agents) accountable when they do not perform.
- Inadequate monitoring and enforcement by infrastructure-related regulatory bodies such as the Construction Industry Development Board and the National Home Builders Registration Council, particularly relating to repeat offenders that cause delayed projects across sectors.
Audit outcomes of service delivery auditees and key public entities
The AG said the 193 high-impact auditees generally have poorer audit outcomes than other auditees and struggle with performance, financial and infrastructure management.
These high-impact auditees comprise departments, public entities and state-owned entities that are collectively responsible for 85% (R2.64 trillion) of the expenditure budget.
They contribute to delivering health services, skills development and employment, infrastructure development, safety and security, water and sanitation, energy, and environmental and financial sustainability.
“Auditees from this group also account for 48% of all outstanding audits and 65% of all modified audit opinions; in other words, qualified, adverse and disclaimed opinions. In total, 139 of the 193 high-impact auditees were required to report on their performance in 2022-23,” she said.
Those excluded were the 50 technical and vocational education and training colleges, the Property Management Trading Entity, Water Trading Entity and Commission on Restitution of Land Rights, whose performance is reported in the performance reports of their parent departments.
“We raised material findings on the reported performance information of 127 (42%) of these auditees, as well as material findings on compliance with key legislation at 76% of the 178 auditees with completed audits.”
Call for improvement in service delivery
The AG has called for improved service delivery enabled by capable, cooperative, accountable and responsive institutions delivering on their mandates.
“At a time of economic hardship in which the public’s demands for service delivery and accountability are increasing, there is an expectation that national and provincial government will do everything in their power to get the most value from every rand spent and to manage every aspect of their finances with diligence and care.
“This is, however, not what we have seen at some departments and public entities during our audits. Improved service delivery and the responsible use of the limited funds available will only be possible when we have capable, cooperative, accountable and responsive institutions that deliver on their mandates.”
She urged all roleplayers in the accountability ecosystem, particularly those with direct control over service delivery, to work deliberately and with urgency towards achieving a culture of accountability, transparency, integrity and improved service delivery for all South Africans. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 12:26
359 views
AG: Unauthorised expenditure remains high
AG: Unauthorised expenditure remains high
The Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) Tsakani Maluleke says unauthorised expenditure at departments remained high throughout the administrative term, totaling R28.22 billion over four years.
Tabling the 2022-23 general report for national and provincial departments, their entities and legislatures in Parliament on Wednesday, Maluleke said in the 2022-23 financial year, such spending amounted to R4.59 billion.
Collectively, accounting officers and authorities managed an estimated expenditure budget of R3.10 trillion in 2022-23.
“The irregular expenditure disclosed in 2022-23 totaled R63.37 billion, with high-impact auditees being responsible for R53.77 billion (85%) of this amount. These amounts might be incomplete, as auditees no longer have to include irregular expenditure incurred in prior years or the closing balance of irregular expenditure in their financial statements,” the AG said.
She said when departments overspend their budgets, they disclose this as unauthorised expenditure.
“If this type of expenditure is condoned, it means that the department needs to either find more money or absorb the overspent amount, which reduces the available budget for the following years,” Maluleke said.
Unlike departments, which must submit their budget vote to parliamentary committee hearings to be approved, public entities do not have a separate vote and thus disclose their overspending as irregular expenditure.
In 2022-23, the irregular expenditure incurred due to overspending was R0.90 billion.
High-impact auditees were responsible for R4.35 billion (79%) of the R5.49 billion total overspending across departments and public entities in 2022-23.
Material irregularity process sees recovery in financial losses
Maluleke has reported that through the material irregularity (MI) process, accounting officers and authorities have taken action to prevent or recover financial losses of R2.55 billion since 2019, with some of this amount still in the process of being recovered.
“We are pleased that the MI process is proving to be effective in enforcing accountability and protecting state resources. Departments and public entities can direct the recovered funds towards service delivery, enabling government to achieve its strategic priorities,” Maluleke said.
From 1 April 2019 - when the amendments to the Public Audit Act became effective and the AGSA began implementing the MI process - until 30 September 2023 - the cutoff date for MIs to be included in the latest general report- the audit office identified 266 MIs.
“We estimate the total financial loss of the 240 MIs that involved a material financial loss to be R14.34 billion. The 26 MIs with an impact other than financial loss involved material public resources not being used (most often health facilities), harm to the general public due to infrastructure neglect and poor-quality service delivery, and harm to public sector institutions mainly because of the non-submission of financial statements.
“We used this enforcement tool to spur accounting officers and authorities into action to strengthen internal controls, institute disciplinary measures, stem resource leakage arising from non-compliant procurement processes, recover funds lost through duplicate payments and overpayments to suppliers, safeguard assets, and improve the use of public resources such that they benefit citizens,” Maluleke said.
She said that where the MIs were not dealt with swiftly or with the required seriousness, her office included recommendations in audit reports, took remedial action or referred matters to relevant public bodies for investigation, where appropriate.
Financial management
The AG cautioned that when government is not careful with its spending practices, this reduces the already limited funds available.
“The main reasons for the continuing financial losses and waste that we observed, especially at high-impact auditees, were poor payment practices, uncompetitive and uneconomical procurement practices, limited value and benefit for money spent, poorly managed government properties and accommodation leases, and weaknesses in project management.
“Government’s budget for service delivery activities is reduced by claims made against departments, and by auditees overspending their budgets and being in poor financial health. Ailing institutions, such as the state-owned enterprises, place further pressure on government by needing bailouts and by creating potential future obligations as a result of guarantees,” Maluleke said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 12:53
312 views
SAICC warns about the impact of South African foreign policy on local exporters
November 2023, Johannesburg: The South Africa Israel Chamber of Commerce (SAICC) notes with alarm, the current moves within the US Senate to review South Africa’s (SA’s) eligibility for the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The Democratic Senator, Chris Coons is currently lobbying support for a proposed law to renew AGOA for 16 years that …
Employment and Labour conveys condolences to the families of the 11 departed miners in Implats
Employment and Labour conveys condolences to the families of the 11 departed miners in Implats
The Department of Employment and Labour has sent its deep condolences to the families of the 11 miners who tragically lost their lives at the Impala Platinum Mine in Rustenburg in the North West.
On Monday, Implats reported that a serious safety incident involving a winder rope occurred at its 11 Shaft operation at Impala Platinum.
According to the mine, workers were being brought to the surface at the end of their shift when the conveyance system that carries workers up and down an underground shaft 1 000 metres deep began a rapid descent.
Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi said the department views the occurrence as the most painful.
“Our hearts are heavy for the lives lost and those touched by this tragic incident. The department will ensure relevant support is provided where necessary and needed.
“The Department extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the 11 miners, their families, colleagues, and the mining industry as a whole,” the Minister said.
The department also wished the 75 employees who were hurt a speedy recuperation.
Nxesi also urged those responsible for Health and Safety in the mines to conduct quick investigations, to establish whether there was negligence or not. If there was, the Minister emphasised that the law should take its course, within the relevant prescripts. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 10:02
279 views
South Africa ‘s productivity measures note mixed outcomes amid the stabilisation of economic activity
Multifactor productivity has increased in South Africa. This emerged during the release of the 2023 National Productivity Statistics by the government agency tasking with productivity improvement and job creation, Productivity SA. Productivity SA is an entity of the Department of Employment and Labour, established in terms of section 31 of the Employment Services Act, No. …
President mourns loss of life in Impala Platinum Mine tragedy
President mourns loss of life in Impala Platinum Mine tragedy
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the death of 11 mineworkers at Impala Platinum Mine Shaft 11, in Rustenburg in the North West.
Several other miners were injured on Monday afternoon when they were being hoisted up to surface level when the conveyance they were in, suddenly started descending rapidly.
“The President offers his deep condolences to the families of the deceased mineworkers.
“The President extends his thoughts to the management and staff of Implats and wishes the injured workers, especially those who are in critical care, a full recovery,” the Presidency said in a statement on Wednesday.
President Ramaphosa has called on all stakeholders to assist the Chief Inspector of Mines in the investigation that will be undertaken in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act.
According to the Presidency, this process is vital to protecting mineworkers in line with the industry’s Zero Harm objectives and enabling operational continuity in mines.
Meanwhile, Mineral Resources and Energy Minister, Gwede Mantashe, has assured that his department will investigate the accident. Mantashe visited the mine on Tuesday following the accident. -SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 09:22
142 views
Call for better funding for women’s shelters
Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu says the private sector should fund and support shelters
Health welcomes latest HIV survey findings
Health welcomes latest HIV survey findings
The Department of Health has welcomed the results of the sixth South African National HIV Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour (SABSSM VI) survey released by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) on Monday.
The department believes the results will assist the country in strengthening the interventions in response to the epidemic.
“These show that the country is on track to achieve a new set of ambitious targets to ensure 95% of all people living with HIV know their HIV status, 95% of all people with diagnosed HIV infection receive sustained treatment, and 95% of all those on treatment have viral suppression by 2025.”
The department also welcomed the reduction in the percentage of all people living with HIV in South Africa from 14.0% in 2017 to 12.7% in 2022, which translates to almost 7.8 million people in 2022 compared to 7.9 million in 2017.
This, according to the department’s statement, can be attributed to collaborative efforts by various stakeholders involved and interventions introduced to curb the rate of transmission and treatment adherence.
“The results will also assist the department and stakeholders in resource mobilisation and allocation, especially in gaps identified to be in a better position to rearrange our landscape so that we plug the holes where the gaps are greatest.”
While the results show clearly that the prevalence of HIV is declining, the department said there were some worrying patterns regarding the age group from 25 and 49.
According to the latest data, the most pronounced differences in HIV prevalence by sex were seen among younger populations.
Among females, HIV prevalence was highest in ages 35 to 39 years at 34.2%, whereas among males, HIV prevalence was highest in ages 45 to 49 years at 27.1%.
“This requires us to change our tactics because this age band can be complicated to manage given the social and economic dynamics.”
The results, the statement said, support the case for the implementation of the differentiated model of care or Differentiated Service Delivery (DSD), which is a person-centred approach to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment.
The department explained that through the DSD approach, the services are tailored to meet the needs of the users.
“Lastly, we have also embarked on various prevention methods, which are also tailored for each population group. Since prevention is and will always be better than cure, we also offer prevention interventions within our public health services which include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) male and female condoms and compatible water-based lubricant.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 11:04
515 views
Mashatile to guide World AIDS Day in KZN
Mashatile to lead World AIDS Day in KZN
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Friday, 1 December 2023, lead the official commemoration of World AIDS Day and launch of the South African Chapter of the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children.
According to the Deputy President’s office, the country’s second-in-charge will address the World AIDS Day event in his capacity as the Chairperson of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC).
The event is scheduled to take place at Ngcedomhlophe Sports Field in the Mandeni Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
World AIDS Day is commemorated annually across the globe in solidarity with the millions of people living with HIV and to raise awareness about the status of the epidemic, to encourage HIV prevention, treatment and care.
The 2023 commemorations will focus on investing in and strengthening community-led interventions and community-centred approaches in the management of HIV.
“It further highlights the importance of greater involvement of civil society in strengthening accountability and empowering communities to be at the forefront of strategic interventions against stigma, discrimination and human rights violations of people affected and infected with HIV.”
South Africa, the Presidency said, joins the rest of the world in shining the light on the experiences of people living with HIV today, while celebrating the strength, resilience and diversity of the communities most affected.
Deputy President Mashatile will lead the commemoration event alongside the SANAC Civil Society Chairperson Steve Letsike, Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane and various sector leaders.
The event will be attended by members of the surrounding communities as well as representatives from development partners such as the United Nations agencies, the United States government, research entities, civil society movements and the private sector. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 11:32
369 views
Investigation into fatal Implats accident launched
Investigation into fatal Implats accident launched
Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe has assured that his department will investigate the fatal accident at Impala Platinum Holdings (Implats) mine which claimed the lives of at least 11 people and left 75 others injured.
Mantashe visited the mine on Tuesday.
The accident occurred on Monday afternoon when miners were being hoisted up to surface level when the conveyance they were in, suddenly started descending rapidly.
“We have 11 people dead. We are mourning them [and] we are sympathising with their families. Impala has committed to work with the families and work with the department. I am sitting with the chief inspector of mines. His responsibility will be to lead an investigation into the disaster.
“It is quite a sad incident. It dented our efforts to move towards Zero Harm in the industry. In 2022, we reduced the number of fatalities to 49 [and] that was the lowest number. We will continue investing and improving health and safety in the mines. People must go to work and come back alive,” he said.
Answering questions from the media on what caused the circumstances leading up to and surrounding the incident, Mantashe strongly warned against speculation.
“There’s going to be an investigation It will be followed by an inquiry. This is a serious matter. Eleven people are dead so you don’t just throw around information loosely. Allow the formal processes to take their course. Follow them through; put your evidence, cross examine the evidence and get to the depth of the issues,” he said.
In a statement released by the mine of Tuesday, Implats CEO Nico Muller described the incident as devastating.
“This is the darkest day in the history of Implats and our hearts are heavy for the lives lost and the individuals affected by this devastating accident.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of our colleagues and are in the process of ensuring all next of kin have been contacted. Implats is offering ongoing support to the families and colleagues of those lost in service. We also hold our injured colleagues in our thoughts at this incredibly difficult time.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to the local medical services from the Bojanala District and the Impala Medical Services team who worked tirelessly during this crisis to provide the necessary emergency paramedic services, secure additional ICU beds and ambulances, mobilise additional general surgeons and secure the support of three private hospitals to assist our Impala Hospital in caring for the critically injured.
“We are also extremely grateful to all the proto and rescue teams for their tireless and courageous efforts, working under very difficult circumstances, to rescue our 11 Shaft team members.
“We value the efforts of all stakeholders coming together in this extremely difficult time, particularly the emergency responders,” Muller said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 14:26
355 views
Property Development and Management in South Africa
In South Africa, the property development and management sectors are integral to the real estate market, each playing a critical and interconnected role. The Role of Property Developers Property developers in South Africa are pivotal in creating new real estate opportunities. They are involved in scouting, purchasing, developing, and managing a range of projects …
Bureau Veritas AgriFood goes Solar in Cape Town
Bureau Veritas (https://group.BureauVeritas.com), a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification, announces that Bureau Veritas's AgriFood Laboratory in Cape Town has successfully completed a solar power and back up energy project that enables it to operate independently of the national electricity grid of South Africa.
Bureau Veritas has taken a bold step toward undertaking a solar and back up project that allows it to sustain its business continuity for its Cape Town AgriFood Laboratory. This development not only allows the laboratory to operate at full capacity, 24 hours a day and without interruptions, but it also represents a significant stride toward the Group's objectives and ongoing commitment to environmental sustainablity through reduced Carbon Emmisions.
Joanne Barton, Managing Director, Bureau Veritas AgriFood Labaratories, said: “Our transition to solar power has energised our team in Cape Town due to the reliability of our new system. We are delighted that we are able to serve our clients with 100% uptime, ensuring uninterrupted service and a brighter, more sustainable future for our community.
Gavin Hefer, District Chief Executive for Southern Africa, Bureau Veritas, commented: “We are extremely pleased with the team at our AgriFood Lab that has contributed to a project that allows us to better serve our clients in the Western Cape region. As a company that is committed to reducing our carbon footprint, it is imperative that we continue to relieve the national grid of pressure and operate in a way that is sustainable and environmentally responsible while delivering services to our clients without interruptions.”
Operating out of Brackenfell, in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, Bureau Veritas' AgriFood Laboratories, an ISO 17025:2017 SANAS accredited laboratory, is ideally situated to service role-players in the region's industrial hubs, as well as those operating the winelands, farming region, fruit orchards, wheatlands and rooibos fields, together with their associated value chains from coast to coast.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Bureau Veritas.
Media contacts:
Prince Cekeshe
+260 542 9824
Prince.Cekeshe@bureauveritas.com
Peter Moopela
+27 81 399 9737
jhbmandlsales@bureauveritas.com
About Bureau Veritas:
Bureau Veritas is a world leader in laboratory testing, inspection and certification services. Created in 1828, the Group has circa 84,000 employees located in nearly 1,600 offices and laboratories around the globe. Bureau Veritas helps its 400,000 clients improve their performance by offering services and innovative solutions in order to ensure that their assets, products, infrastructure and processes meet standards and regulations in terms of quality, health and safety, environmental protection and social responsibility.
Bureau Veritas is listed on Euronext Paris and belongs to the CAC 40 ESG, CAC Next 20 and SBF 120 indices.
Compartment A, ISIN code FR 0006174348, stock symbol: BVI.
For more information, visit www.BureauVeritas.com, and follow us on Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/47vbZMJ) (@bureauveritas) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/46yBcEv).
Collaboration is key to moving SA towards a water secure future
Collaboration is key to moving SA towards a water secure future
Collaboration is critical in moving South Africa towards a more water secure future that in all essence, is the pursuit towards the fundamental preservation of life.
This was the sentiments echoed by leading scientists who attended the Climate Change and Water Sector Consultation workshop, held in Pretoria, on Friday.
The Department of Water and Sanitation, in collaboration with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) assembled captains of industry, leading minds and various stakeholders in a hybrid Climate Change and Water Sector Consultation workshop.
The session was aimed at fostering meaningful discussions and collaborative efforts towards sustainable development and climate security in the water sector.
Inputs solicited from the consultation will be incorporated into the revised draft Climate Change Strategy, which will be followed by intense consultation with various stakeholders across the country to solicit more inputs to pave the way for a development of a strategy that will ensure a climate resilient South Africa.
Spearheaded by Specialist Scientist – Directorate Climate Change Analysis at the Department of Water and Sanitation, Dr Gabriel Lekalakala, the consultation delved into two key areas, including water in National Determined Contributions (NDC) to place water at the heart of development pathways, and drafting the Climate Change Status Quo and National Response Strategy.
At the workshop, speakers echoed each other’s sentiments that the drive for water security calls for a collaborative response from government, civil society organisations, experts, and the private sector.
The speakers agreed that a shared global challenge and combined efforts are essential to ensure sustainable water management, improve access, and innovate resilient solutions.
According to the scientists, this tripartite alliance can drive impactful policies, fund crucial initiatives, and implement effective strategies to secure the world's water future.
Draft National Climate Change Response Strategy
Lekalakala said the water and sanitation sector is faced with a wide range of challenges that are further exacerbated by climate change and has severe impact on water security.
He said the development of response plans such as the draft National Climate Change Response Strategy for water and sanitation sector, together with collaborative and coordinated responses from the sector, can contribute towards reducing the potential impacts.
“The strategy is a blueprint for the sector to use in response to climate change related impacts and requires all hands on deck. Hence, the consultation is to afford the sector players to contribute towards its robustness and all take ownership of it.
“There will be more consultation processes making use of all available platforms in the coming weeks. Its implementation process will involve awareness drives of the strategy to wider uptake. We encourage all stakeholder to take part in all these processes,” Lekalakala said.
Inclusion
Director of Water, Growth and Inclusion at IWMI, Dr Inga Jacobs-Mata, who led the discussions on Climate Change Response Strategy for water and sanitation sector, as well as developing the NDC Capacity Scorecard, emphasised that achieving water inclusion is not just a necessity, but an “imperative that requires all of us.”
“This collaboration is vital to address water scarcity, improve water quality, and ensure equitable access. The United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation, underscore the urgency of this mission not just in South Africa, but globally.
“By prioritising water inclusion, we not only contribute to SDG 6 but also lay the foundation for achieving interconnected goals such as eradicating poverty, ensuring good health and well-being, and fostering sustainable communities. The journey to water security is inseparable from the broader pursuit of a sustainable and equitable future for all,” Dr Jacobs-Mata said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/27/2023 - 09:38
584 views
Survey shows decrease in those living with HIV in SA
Survey shows decrease in those living with HIV in SA
A new survey has found that the percentage of people living with the HIV virus in South Africa has decreased from 14% in 2017 to 12.7% in 2022.
This translates, according to the latest data, to about 7.8 million people living with HIV in South Africa in 2022 compared to 7.9 million in 2017.
This key finding is contained in the sixth South African National HIV Prevalence, Incidence, and Behaviour (SABSSM VI) survey released on Monday by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC).
The survey highlights the progress toward ending HIV in South Africa, which remains the epicentre of the HIV endemic in the world.
The HSRC’s Divisional Executive of the Public Health, Societies, and Belonging Division, Professor Khangelani Zuma, said several factors contribute to HIV prevalence.
“These factors include fewer people getting infected with HIV, more children born HIV-negative, AIDS-related mortality, and people aging and dying from natural causes,” Zuma, who is also the survey’s principal investigator explained.
In addition, he said the increase in the population of the birth of HIV-negative babies would also increase the denominator of HIV-negative people in the country.
“The epidemic curve also shows an aging population of people living with HIV who are living longer as the epidemic stabilises,” he added.
In addition, the 2022 survey shows significant progress toward the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) 95-95-95 targets.
UNAIDS envisions that by 2025, 95% of all people living with HIV have to be aware of their HIV status, 95% of those aware of their status to be on antiretroviral treatment (ART), and 95% of those on treatment to achieve viral load suppression.
Meanwhile, the survey indicated that among those aged 15 and older living with HIV in South Africa in 2022, 90% were aware of their status, 91% of those aware of their status were on ART and 94% of those on ART were virally suppressed.
“This is an improvement compared to 2017 when the UNAIDS target was 90-90-90 but South Africa achieved 85%-71%-87%.”
This is attributed to the change in treatment guidelines in 2016, which made provision for treatment to be given to everyone requiring HIV treatment immediately regardless of their clinical status, which previously needed to include a CD4 count below 500 cells/mm3.
The data also revealed that 81% of people aged 15 and older living with HIV were virally suppressed in 2022 compared to 62% in 2017.
Viral suppression, the HSRC noted, was higher (83%) among women when compared to men (79%) and lower (70%) among younger adults aged 15 to 24.
The lowest percentage of viral load suppression (66%) was among men aged between 25 and 34.
According to the survey, half of all young men aged between 15 and 24 were medically circumcised compared to 43% in 2017.
“This is an important achievement as studies have shown that male circumcision can reduce the risk of heterosexual HIV transmission by approximately 60%.”
Gaps
While the research indicates that progress has been made, the survey also shows gaps that remain in addressing the HIV epidemic in South Africa.
The impact of the HIV epidemic in South Africa is unequal across geographic regions and populations, particularly affecting black Africans, women, and young people.
HIV prevalence varied geographically, ranging from 8% in the Western Cape to 22% in KwaZulu-Natal among the 15-year-olds and older.
Furthermore, HIV prevalence was nearly twice as high among women (20%) compared to men (12%).
By race, HIV prevalence was the highest among black Africans (20%), followed by Coloureds (5%), and lowest among Whites and Indians/Asians (1% each).
“The most pronounced differences in HIV prevalence by sex were seen among younger populations, which calls for focused interventions,” Zuma explained.
Among females, HIV prevalence was highest in ages 35 to 39 to years at 34.2%, whereas among males, HIV prevalence was highest in ages 45 to 49 years at 27.1%.
Compared to males, HIV prevalence was approximately two-fold higher in females aged 15 to 19 (5.7% versus 3.1%), and 20 to 24 years (8% versus 4%), and three-fold higher in females aged 25 to 29 (19.5% versus 6.3%).
SABSSM VI is a large cross-sectional, population-based household survey conducted from January 2022 to April 2023.
The survey marks 20 years, with the first survey commissioned and funded by former President Nelson Mandela through his Foundation in 2001. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 11/27/2023 - 13:33
256 views
Government activities for the week 27 November – 01 December 2023
Government activities for the week 27 November – 01 December 2023
On Monday, 27 November, the Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko will officially open the Alexandra township’s first x-ray centre at 89 Watt Ave, Wynberg, Johannesburg, from 10:00.
From Monday, 27 November, to Tuesday, 28 November, South Africa hosts the 3rd African Union Men’s Conference on positive masculinity in leadership to end violence against women and girls in Pretoria.
On Tuesday, 28 November, the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Makhotso Sotyu will launch the Cleaning and Greening In-House District Model Programme in Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality in Harrismith, in the Free State.
On Friday, 01 December, South Africans will commemorate World AIDS Day globally.
Janine
Mon, 11/27/2023 - 11:19
143 views
Fight against GBVF must continue throughout the year
Fight against GBVF must continue throughout the year
City of Ekurhuleni Mayor, Sivuyile Ngodwana, has called on all of society to fight back against Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) every day of the year.
The mayor was speaking during the local launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign held on Saturday.
Ngodwana said GBVF is a “major societal problem that needs the attention of all of us”.
“We have a problem of GBV, and we cannot just pay attention to this problem only during this time of the year. Every day a woman is abused and therefore this calls for a daily programme of activism against GBV, especially in a country where the justice department deals with no less than 50 000 cases related to GBV and almost 1 000 murder cases a year,” he said.
Ngodwana reflected on the toll that such statistics places on not only victims and survivors but also on the state.
“The high rate of GBV continues to place a heavy burden on the health and criminal justice system, as well as rendering many survivors unable to work or move freely in society, and this cannot be allowed to continue.
“This is not right, because men have a critical role to play in the campaign, both as a victim and also as perpetrator,” he said.
The city works with non-governmental and government departments in the fight against GBVF and also offers social services, including:
- Couples counselling
- Family preservation and counselling service
- Individual counselling
- Shelter placements
- Victim empowerment counselling
Meanwhile, the City of Ekurhuleni is calling on men who work at the municipality to take an active role in rooting out the scourge.
In a statement, the city said its Men’s Forum is “playing a critical role in encouraging male employees to get involved” in the 16 Days campaign.
“The forum’s main objective is to encourage men to understand the different forms of abuse, expose them and speak out against such.
“[It] focuses on diverse programmes like psychosocial support to all affected while motivating men to engage, and inspire each other to be examples of change in their communities. This also includes creating an environment for men to speak up when they too experience abuse,” the statement read.
The 16 Days of Activism Campaign is an international United Nations-endorsed initiative that takes place annually from 25 November (International Day of No Violence against Women) to 10 December (International Human Rights Day).
The campaign focuses on raising awareness to the devastating impact that gender-based violence and femicide has on women and children, and the social fabric of society. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 11/27/2023 - 09:45
229 views
The rapid lane to progress: public-private partnerships steer service delivery and social development goals in townships
November, Johannesburg: A community development organisation is calling for more public-private initiatives to improve basic service delivery that can lift communities out of poverty and restore dignity to the lives of the disenfranchised masses in South Africa (SA). The obligation to restore dignity and ensure equal access to basic services has been one of the …
President Ramaphosa opens Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital
President Ramaphosa opens Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital
The opening of the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital is a reflection of government’s commitment to advancing the call of the Freedom Charter.
The Charter calls for free medical care and hospitalisation to be provided for all and for the health of women and children to be prioritised.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said this at the official opening of the Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital in Kwa-Mashu, KwaZulu-Natal, on Friday.
“This facility has been built in response to the growing pressing healthcare needs of the approximately 1.5 million residents of Kwa-Mashu, Inanda, Ntuzuma and the surrounding communities in northern Durban.
“It will relieve pressure on the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital and Addington Hospital, and will cater for inpatients at a regional level, with referrals from surrounding district level facilities,” he said.
The President highlighted that data from the Census 2022 points not just to a growing population, but confirms that the vast majority of South Africans rely on the public sector to meet their healthcare needs.
Another report published this month by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) furthermore points to the growing healthcare burden of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic lower respiratory diseases, cancers and others.
“With more people living with non-communicable diseases, it is essential that healthcare systems respond accordingly at a primary healthcare level, particularly with regards to regular screening to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment. This facility will play a critical role in this regard,” he said.
He added that it is pleasing to note that the hospital has an active primary healthcare outreach programme that is bringing much-needed healthcare services closer to the people.
Services
The commissioning of the hospital was implemented in a phased approach from August 2021. First radiology was commissioned, followed by optometry and dermatology, and the migration of Internal Medicine from Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital.
In January this year, the Emergency Department commenced with providing services. Currently all emergency cases in the north of eThekwini are taken directly from the scene, from primary healthcare centers, community healthcare centers and district hospitals.
The facility offers an impressive range of services including critical care, dental, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychological services, dietetics, audiology, social work and many more.
The hospital also has a strong academic and research component and is one of the centers for postgraduate medical training, as well as providing rotation for final year medical students from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
This hospital is also the first government hospital in the province to adopt an insourced model in components such as security, cleaning, laundry and food services.
With respect to human resources, out of the approved hospital establishment of 1 513, a total of 1 383 posts have already been filled as of end September 2023. The construction of the facility itself supported job creation and small business development.
The President said he had no doubt that the hospital will improve the health outcomes of all the communities it serves.
“We have no doubt that the people of this community and of this province know that we are [a] government that prioritises the needs of all, but especially of society’s most vulnerable.”
President Ramaphosa further said he was honoured to be present at the official opening of the hospital and that there can be no more befitting a name for this facility than that of the great Dr. Pixley Ka Isaka Seme.
He lauded him as a man who was the moving spirit behind the formation of the African National Congress, the oldest liberation movement in the African continent.
“He was a committed Pan-Africanist and a humanist, who famously spoke of a brighter day rising upon Africa; and of an Africa whose sons and daughters who would one day walk in the light of progress, freedom and equality.
Healthcare for all
President Ramaphosa added that the hospital stands as a testament to government’s commitment to ensure that the right to life, the right to quality healthcare, and the right to equality will never be qualified, or determined on the basis of where you live, or how much or little you have.
As the country will mark 30 years of democracy next year, the President said it will be a time to reflect on how far we have come in realising the aspirations of the Freedom Charter, the Constitution with its Bill of Rights, and the National Development Plan.
“That we are a country that is able to provide quality healthcare services, free, to the population can certainly be counted as amongst our greatest achievements.
“That we are moving ahead with the introduction of National Health Insurance that will further democratise access to healthcare services, is something of which we can be proud,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 11/24/2023 - 14:21
342 views
Consumers urged to exercise caution when buying food products on Black Friday
Consumers urged to exercise caution when buying food products on Black Friday
The Department of Health has urged consumers to exercise extra caution when buying goods, especially food products, during the Black Friday frenzy by prioritising quality and safety over quantity and savings to mitigate buying counterfeit and expired foodstuffs.
“It is indisputable that Black Friday deals provide consumers with discounts and savings on a variety of goods. Therefore, it is important for consumers to guard against purchasing counterfeit and expired foodstuffs by thoroughly checking food labelling and expiry dates on food items to prevent ongoing sporadic cases of life-threatening food poisoning.”
The department has reminded consumers to be on the lookout and report any suspicious goods sold by outlets and retailers to environmental health practitioners or food inspectors at their nearest municipal offices or Consumer Goods Council of South Africa.
“Consumption of expired and counterfeit foods can pose serious health risks, including food poisoning, allergic reactions and long-term health complications.”
The department said through its food control and environmental health sections, it has been working closely with other stakeholders to raise public awareness about the dangers of consuming counterfeit and expired food products to keep the public safe.
The country, according to the statement, has 1 712 environmental health practitioners, known as health inspectors, spread across 44 districts and eight metropolitan municipalities, serving 62 million South Africans. This translates to one health inspector for every 36 000 people.
“This means the efforts to prevent production and selling of counterfeit and expired foodstuffs detrimental to human health cannot be left solely in the hands of food inspectors, but it should be everyone’s business,” the department said.
People are advised to not buy or consume highly perishable products with damaged packaging or lapsed expiry dates, even if they smell and look good.
Meanwhile, the department said the South African Police Service (SAPS) is empowered to investigate and is also authorised, under the Foodstuffs Act, as inspectors and has powers to collect food samples for analysis as part of their investigation, especially where there is a case of unnatural death.
“Members of the public are not allowed, in terms of this legislation, to take the law into their own hands to conduct any food inspection blitz in food outlets, but they should report any outlet to the relevant authorities,” the department explained.
Tips to identify possible illicit food products:
- Colour would normally differ from the original because incorrect additives were used to manufacture the fake products.
- Inconsistency in the texture, smell and colour of the product.
- Check if manufacturing and expiry date are not adulterated with or damaged, or not clearly visible.
- Check the nutrition label on supplements and food items because in most cases, fake goods contain some discrepancy in listing the ingredients.
- Carefully look at the packaging if it is not suspicious because counterfeiters produce close replicas, but mostly cannot perfect it. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 11/24/2023 - 10:11
71 views