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High police visibility ahead of Prince Buthelezi funeral
Police visibility has been heightened ahead of the funeral of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal.
“Under the auspices of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure [NATJOINTS], the South African Police Service has mobilised its resources to ensure the safety and security of all attendees,” said the NATJOINTS in a statement ahead of Saturday’s funeral.
“The NATJOINTS, the PROVJOINTS and all law enforcement agencies as well as various other government departments, are working together to guarantee that the funeral takes place in a safe and secure environment.”
Buthelezi passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a Special Official funeral category 1. The President is also expected to deliver the eulogy at the funeral.
“The NATJOINTS has thus far assessed the state of readiness and preparedness of all law enforcement agencies and is satisfied with its security plan which includes, route, venue and other elements.”
Mourners who will be attending the funeral service have been urged to conduct themselves in an orderly and responsible manner.
Attendees have also been encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement officers and exercise patience.
“Amabutho and those who will be dressed in traditional regalia are advised that traditional spears and shields will be allowed at the venue in line with the Zulu tradition and culture and for the sole purpose of honouring the late Prince.
“However, members of the public are warned that no firearms will be permitted at the stadium and no illegal discharge of firearms will be tolerated.”
The NATJOINTS also reminded the community of Ulundi is reminded that during the Special Official Category 1 funeral, there will be a 21 Gun Salute.
“This means that extremely loud bangs will be heard in the vicinity that may have an effect on some people. Special care should be given to people suffering ill-health, the elderly and children.
“Owners of pets or domestic animals are also advised that these loud bangs are likely to severely agitate animals and therefore special provision should be made for them for the duration of the funeral ceremony.”
It added that the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium is a no drone zone area. –SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sat, 09/16/2023 - 08:37
South Africa, Germany sign agreement for vaccines production
The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and Germany's KfW Development Bank have concluded a financing agreement for the production of vaccines.
Under the agreement the German government, through KfW, will provide South Africa with €20 million for vaccine production over a period of five years.
The grant is exclusively for financing equipment for the development, production and certification of active pharmaceutical ingredients for vaccine production in South Africa.
Announcing the signing of the agreement, Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Dr Blade Nzimande said the grant will be used, among other things, to support the mRNA technology transfer hub that South Africa is hosting for the World Health Organisation (WHO), to build vaccine manufacturing capacity in low and middle-income countries, “although it will go beyond this in providing support”.
“The objective of the technology transfer hub is to establish or enhance sustainable mRNA vaccine manufacturing capacity in regions with no or limited capacity, introduce new technologies in low and middle-income countries, promote regional research and development, strengthen regional bio manufacturing know-how and workforce development, and develop regulatory capabilities to support and accelerate regional approval and distribution of mRNA vaccines,” Nzimande said.
In response to the WHO decision made during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nzimande said the German government indicated its commitment to supporting vaccine production in South Africa.
The agreement, signed on 25 July 2023, makes the DSI the recipient of the KfW financial support on behalf of the South African government, and recognises the DSI and its Director-General, Dr Phil Mjwara, as the custodian and leader of the South African vaccine manufacturing strategy.
The Minister said the German decision to work with the department could be seen as a vote of confidence in its leadership's management of international funds.
"The German investment will build on the strategic investments by DSI and other partners, and KfW has agreed to work in alignment with the South African vaccine manufacturing strategy," Nzimande said, adding that the funding could support catalytic initiatives under this strategy.
The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) will be the project executing agency and will report to the DSI through a steering committee.
SAMRC President and CEO, Professor Glenda Gray said, the Council is delighted to be part of the program, which will provide critical support to establishing a vaccine manufacturing industry in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“In addition to complementing the activities of the mRNA hub program, this partnership will seek to provide critical support in filing gaps in the pre-clinical research domain,” Professor Gray said.
KfW will appoint an implementation consultant to support the KfW and to assist the SAMRC.
The consultant will be responsible for providing sector-specific support for project planning, management, monitoring and evaluation, among others.
Ambassador Andreas Peschke, from the German Embassy in Pretoria, reiterated the important role played by South Africa in strengthening continental vaccine manufacturing capacities, indicating that “the country is at the very forefront of continental efforts for local pharmaceutical and vaccine research and production.”
“[South Africa’s] world-class research institutions and a solid industry meet the prerequisites for independent vaccine research, development, and production,” Peschke said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 09/15/2023 - 10:49
12 September 2023, Johannesburg – The Federated Employers Mutual Assurance Company (RF) (Pty) Ltd (FEM) will be hosting its annual Safetember Conference this month. FEM is a mutual insurer that provides workmen’s compensation cover to the construction industry. The conference is part of a broader “Safetember” campaign that uses the month of September to shine …
Family receives R340,000 payout after death of miner who suffered from silicosis
Law enforcement honing in on illegal mining kingpins
Law enforcement agencies have set their sights on arresting the kingpins which perpetuate illegal mining in South Africa.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who was addressing the media on Thursday the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
“In the first quarter of 2023 the Hawks arrested 611 suspects and seized various items including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R6 112 768 985.
“In addition, law enforcement arrested nine zama zama [illegal mining] kingpins and were granted preservation orders against their assets that include luxury vehicles such as a Lamborghini and precious metals and cash to the value of R34 million.
“This goes against the narrative that says in our fight against zama zamas we are only targeting runners. We are targeting the kingpins,” she said.
Ntshavheni said Cabinet had commended law enforcement agencies on “their fight to dismantle crime syndicates”.
“The successful actions in dealing with a heavily armed gang linked to a series of cash in transit heists in Limpopo is commendable. Cabinet reiterates that law enforcement should leave no stone unturned in dealing with those who seek to undermine South Africa’s national security and the laws of the Republic,” she said.
Turning to issues related to personal protective equipment (PPE) corruption, the Minister explained that although it is taking some time, progress is being made to bring wrongdoers to book.
“Cabinet welcomed the arrest of nine Northern Cape Department of Health officials for PPE corruption. The suspects are accused of fraud, corruption, money laundering and contravening the Public Finance Management Act.
“We know the impatience of our people in terms of the arrests of PPE corrupt officials and their business partners, but we are gradually making progress,” she said.
Regarding Operation Bring Back – which seeks to identify and recover illegally occupied buildings owned by the state – Minister Ntshavheni said Cabinet commended efforts to wrestle back control of hijacked buildings.
“As part of this initiative, the national government is providing support to municipalities to ensure the enforcement of by-laws to eradicate hijacking of buildings, their effective management and utilisation, and ability to account for the utilisation of government’s immovable assets,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 11:06
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President Ramaphosa to deliver eulogy at Prince Buthelezi's funeral
President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the eulogy at the special official funeral of the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed this during a press briefing with media houses to update them about the President’s diary at the Union Buildings on Thursday.
Buthelezi passed away on 9 September 2023, at the age of 95.
President Ramaphosa has honoured Buthelezi by declaring his funeral a special official funeral category 1.
“In accordance with the state, official, and provincial official funeral policy of the government, a special official funeral category 1 is a recognition reserved for individuals of extraordinary distinction as designated by the President of the Republic of South Africa,” Magwenya explained.
The funeral, according to the President’s spokesperson, will include elements of military honours.
“The President has directed that flags be flown half-mast at flag stations around the country until the evening of Saturday, which is the day of the funeral,” he added.
G77+China Summit
The First Citizen has delegated International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, to lead South Africa’s delegation to the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Group of 77 and China.
The gathering, which will be held on 15 and 16 September, will focus on the role of science, technology and innovation.
“President Ramaphosa values the importance of the Group of 77 and China as the largest intergovernmental organisation of developing countries in the United Nations (UN).”
The platform, according to Magwenya, is where Global South countries can articulate, promote collective economic interests and enhance their collective negotiating capacity.
“This capacity is brought to bear on global issues that are deliberated within the UN system and on the advancement of South-South cooperation for development.
“The President welcomes the opportunity for South Africa to contribute to the Group’s debates, analysis and consensus on the main challenges facing the South,” he added.
UNGA78
Meanwhile, it was announced that President Ramaphosa will lead South Africa’s delegation to the General Debate of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA78) which takes place from 18 to 26 September 2023 in New York, in the United States.
The President will deliver the South Africa statement to the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, 19 September 2023.
A number of high-level engagements will precede the address to the UN General Assembly.
These include summits on Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health; Sustainable Development Goals; a High-Level Dialogue on Financing for Development; Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response; and Climate Ambition to be hosted by the UN Secretary-General.
President Ramaphosa will also lead discussions during the Presidential Roundtable that will hosted by the United States Chamber of Commerce and the US-Africa Business Centre.
His programme will also include several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of UNGA.
South Africa’s participation at the UN, Magwenya said, is directed by its international relations policy objectives, among others. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 15:22
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The allure of coastal living, combined with the comforts of urban sophistication, makes Umhlanga a unique and sought-after location in South Africa. But what truly defines this coastal town? Is Umhlanga genuinely a great place to reside? Let’s explore. Coastal Charm with Modern Amenities Umhlanga seamlessly merges the best of both worlds. On one …
Cabinet firmly committed to NHI implementation - Minister Ntshavheni
Cabinet is forging ahead with “its firm commitment for the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI)”.
This according to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who held a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday.
Ntshavheni explained that the NHI represents a way to ensure that all South Africans have access to quality healthcare.
“The commitment to NHI is premised on the fact that both public and private health sectors are not sustainable. The current parallel and fragmented systems must be integrated into a national system so that all resources are accessible to all people.
“The implementation of the NHI is premised on the implementation of a comprehensive approach to accelerating infrastructure improvement in the public sector. This is not something that should be contemplated separately from the reforms in the NHI Bill,” she said.
Ntshavheni explained that through the NHI, the pressure on “congested public facilities” will be lifted.
“Focusing narrowly on the intended reforms of private financing of healthcare has detracted from the Bill’s intended reforms of public and private provision of services. It is in reforming the service platform that space will be created for decongesting public facilities.
“When the NHI Fund is able to purchase services from both public and private providers, we will begin to see the pressure lifted from highly pressured public facilities,” she said.
The Minister emphasised that during every phase of implementation of the NHI, progress is monitored.
“The intentional distortion that the passage of the Bill will reform everything overnight is mischievous at best. The transitional provisions are clear that the implementation will take time and that the reforms will be implemented in phases.
“At each and every phase there will be evaluation of the impact and the necessary gaps and corrective measures will be taken,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 11:30
Global Unity Initiative In early September 2023, business leaders from Guernsey’s financial sector assembled in Cape Town to rekindle ties with South African businesses and with sport for development programme CoolPlay. A team from WE ARE GUERNSEY, along with 20 delegates from the island, were back in Cape Town to promote Guernsey’s financial services sector, …
By Yonela Sicam, Senior Associate, Bowmans South Africa On 17 August 2023, in the matter of Sanlam Life Insurance Ltd v Mogomatsi and Others the Labour Appeal Court (LAC) found that an employee who alleges constructive dismissal based on mental ill health must prove that the employer knew or ought to have known of the …
Q(h)ubeka Trust winds up after paying out R420-million in compensation following court settlement with employers
South African Medical Research Council says death notification form must be changed
SAMRC Scientific Merit Awards nominations now open
The nominations for the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) 2023 Scientific Merit Awards are now open.
These awards are aimed at acknowledging outstanding contributions to health research.
The awards recognise individuals who have demonstrated exceptional scientific acumen and have made innovative strides in addressing public health challenges, potentially influencing policy and thereby enhancing the well-being of the South African population.
Eligible candidates are pioneering researchers who have significantly advanced the realm of science and health research through their published work, with a focus on benefiting the lives of South Africans.
The accolades, widely regarded as some of the most prestigious in the country, encompass several tiers. These include Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze and the esteemed President’s Awards.
Platinum medals, symbolising the Lifetime Achievement Award, are bestowed upon scientists who have exhibited a lifelong dedication to the field of health, leaving an indelible mark.
Respected academics, such as the late Professor Bongani Mayosi, along with Professors Valerie Mizrahi, Salim Abdool Karim and others, have previously been honoured with the Platinum Award accolade.
Gold medals are reserved for accomplished senior scientists, who have made seminal contributions that have had a profound impact on the health of people, particularly those residing in developing nations.
Last year, this award went to Professors Bavesh Kana, Elmi Muller, Sharon Prince and Ameena Goga.
Silver medals are dedicated to scientists who have played pivotal roles in scientific progress within the country, with an emphasis on fostering capacity development. Notable awardees in 2022 were Professors Theresa Rossouw and Samantha Sampson and Drs Tarylee Reddy and Muki Shey.
The Bronze medals are awarded to scientists who have recently entered the health research field, with not less than five years post PhD experience.
While this award is not tied to chronological age, researchers should preferably be under the age of 50 years.
Last year’s recipients were Professors Lebo Gafane-Matemane, Tivani Mashamba-Thompson, Lusilda Schutte and Drs Terusha Chetty, Wynand Goosen and Wanga Zembe-Mkabile.
President's Awards are conferred upon scientists who have exhibited an exceptional, lifelong commitment to health research and are granted at the discretion of the presiding SAMRC President and CEO.
In 2022, the sought-after President’s Award was bestowed on Professors Valerie Corfield and Johan Louw.
Corfield is a retiree who continues to serve in advancing research outputs and the research careers of academics in molecular and cell biology, health sciences and other disciplines.
Meanwhile, Louw is a biomedical scientist who serves as the Senior Platform Director at the Centre and Platforms Office at the SAMRC. His expertise and focal research areas are in the area of pathophysiology of metabolic disease, diabetes prevention, early diagnosis and treatment.
SAMRC President and CEO, Professor Glenda Gray, underscores that these awards honour research characterised by innovative methodologies and novel approaches in addressing public health issues, with the potential to influence policy and ultimately enhance the quality of life for South Africans.
“As we celebrate a decade of the SAMRC Scientific Merit Awards, these awards stand as a testament to the power of dedication, innovation and collaboration in advancing scientific discovery.
“Our honourees have illuminated the path towards healthier futures for all, embodying the spirit of excellence that drives us forward. With each passing year, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture of scientific excellence and shaping a world where knowledge knows no bounds,” said Gray.
More information about nominations can be found on https://www.samrc.ac.za/about-us/samrc-scientific-merit-awards. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 09/13/2023 - 13:53
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Concerns have reached a critical point as the KZN North Coast beaches, including Sheffield and Ballito, face a sudden and disturbing surge in the presence of nurdles—tiny plastic pellets used in the manufacturing of plastic products. This alarming escalation poses an imminent threat to the health of marine ecosystems, human well-being, and the delicate balance …
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Dhlomo applauded for saving passenger’s life aboard flight
The Department of Health says it has received thankful messages from several flight passengers after a “heroic” act by Health Deputy Minister, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, who saved the life of a fellow passenger who experienced health complications aboard a flight.
The Deputy Minister was on a flight from Durban to Cape Town on Monday morning when a passenger alerted him to a female traveller who was in need of emergency medical assistance from anyone with a medical background.
“I was alerted by a passenger seated behind me in the plane that the cabin crew were asking for medical assistance to assist a passenger who was not well, and I had to quickly move from my seat to the seat next to the passenger and attended her,” Dhlomo said.
As a trained medical doctor, he said he first had to check the vital signs in order to detect any medical problems.
“Thanks to fellow passengers and the flight attendants who provided the medical kit and oxygen to enable me to stabilise the patient throughout the journey,” Dhlomo said.
When the pilots were talking about the possibility of diverting the flight, Dhlomo assured the crew that he could manage the situation until the scheduled destination.
He then handed over the patient to the paramedic team who had been waiting for the flight to land at Cape Town International Airport.
“This is in the nature of the Deputy Minister to contribute towards accelerating healthcare service delivery by regularly visiting health facilities and forensic pathology services around the country to lend his hand through performing post-mortems to enable the families to bury their loved ones on time,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 09/12/2023 - 09:56
Minister rejects report he covered up alleged corruption at NW Health Department
The Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, says he strongly rejects claims that he covered up alleged corruption in the North West Provincial Department of Health.
This is after News24 reported last week that Phaahla suspended Advocate Maile Ngake, who compiled an investigative report which found that the North West Health Department broke several laws when awarding 22 companies with security contracts in September 2019 to guard the province's health facilities and offices.
The publication said Ngake’s report uncovered R1.2 billion in tender fraud, supporting arguments that the Minister was part of a “concerted corruption cover-up”.
The department said it considers the publication’s allegations “scurrilous, defamatory and devoid of any truth”, since the investigation was compiled before the Minister of Health was appointed on 5 August 2021.
“As such, the Minister has no knowledge of such a report and the happenings with regard to how the referred security tender was processed towards the appointment of the preferred bidder.
“It is wholly disingenuous for any person, including the said official, to attempt to link the Minister to these allegations, as they have no basis whatsoever.”
According to the department, the report was never presented to the Minister when he took over the leadership of the department and could have not acted over something that he was unaware of.
“The Minister did not respond to the allegations as requested by the journalist, as he was still inquiring internally about the existence of such referred report, which couldn’t be traced until recently.
“The report was finally traced and was for the attention of the Director-General, as all the administrative matters like this one fall within the scope of the Accounting Officer.
“For the record, the matter referred to in the article has since been dealt with by the North West Provincial Department in accordance with the court order, which reviewed and declared the awarding of the referred contract to be unlawful.”
The provincial department, according to the statement, has since assumed full responsibility for its programmes and activities after the termination of the Section 100 Administration.
“On the matter of suspension of the official, Advocate TM Ngake, in the department, it should be borne in mind that in terms of the Senior Management Handbook, the responsibility to discipline employees in a government department lies with the Director-General, who is the Accounting Officer.
“The Minister of Health, therefore, cannot suspend or take disciplinary action against an employee.
“Thus, the department categorically dismisses the allegation that Advocate Ngake has been suspended by the Minister of Health or even that his precautionary suspension has anything to do with a report that he may have authored.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 09/12/2023 - 11:51
Pioneers in the medical industry will gather alongside high-level representatives from government and business in October, for the inaugural Africa Health Indaba in Gauteng.
The Indaba takes place during the annual Africa Health Congress and is an evolution of the Leaders Forum event that was previously hosted during this annual gathering.
Set to be inaugurated by Mr Panyaza Lusufi, Premier of Gauteng province, the Indaba seeks to position Africa as a leader in medical innovation, spearheading global change.
By focusing on the local production of drugs and machines, fostering resilient supply chains, and promoting local industry, the event signifies Africa's commitment to leading medical innovation in areas where it is most needed and where resources are often most stretched.
A core component of the Indaba's discussions is the imperative of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). UHC is a critical goal for health systems worldwide and holds particular significance for Africa.
The Indaba will create a platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing about achieving UHC in the African context. It addresses the unique challenges and opportunities that Africa presents and delves into the practicalities of resource sharing and balancing costs to stakeholders across the continent.
“A key focus of the discussions will be the alignment with the vision and trajectory of the South African NHI, currently a contested issue. The Indaba will provide an important forum for understanding how Africa's healthcare future can reconcile with the NHI's objectives, fostering an integrated and equitable health system,” says Dr Bandile Hadebe, spokesperson for the organisers of the event.
The Africa Health Indaba is more than a platform for dialogue and innovation. It serves as a roadmap for sustainable healthcare systems, universal health coverage, and fostering regional cohesion.
The event aligns with the principles of medical science and evidence-driven decision making, maintaining a non-partisan stance, and focusing on global best practices.
“The inaugural Africa Health Indaba is an elevated conversation at the heart of Africa's premier health industry summit. It offers an opportunity to network at the highest levels in a space of robust engagement featuring a balanced diversity of both technical and social perspectives, as well as inclusive stakeholder representation, including government, public, private and industry engagement,” says Dr Hadebe.
Each discussion is formatted and structured to ensure efficient knowledge sharing at the highest level and will culminate in a set of guidelines that will be published and distributed among stakeholders, ensuring the ideas and strategies discussed at the Indaba translate into concrete, actionable plans.
Drawing on the latest trends and innovations from both international and transcontinental perspectives, the Indaba will serve as a hub for learning and exchange. This approach will help to position Africa is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, leveraging global knowledge while tailoring solutions to local conditions and contexts.
The inaugural Africa Health Indaba is set to become an essential platform driving tangible change in Africa's healthcare landscape.
It signifies a commitment to leading the way in medical innovation, thereby fostering a prosperous and resilient future for the continent.
It takes place on Wednesday 18 October 2023 at Gallagher Estate in Gauteng, as part of the annual Africa Health Congress.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Health .
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