SIU starts its probe into street lights tender in Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality
Some streets in the metro have been dark for years
infrastructure
We asked Cape Town’s transport boss about the future of passenger rail in the city
“Our objective is simple: to get passenger rail back up and running in the quickest possible way” says Roberto Quintas
DPWI Minister commits to expedite development of EduPark in Mamelodi
DPWI Minister commits to expedite development of EduPark in Mamelodi
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has vowed to expedite the development of the EduPark community project in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria.
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has vowed to expedite the development of the EduPark community project in Mamelodi, east of Pretoria.
“The EduPark and Mamelodi Skate Club, which forms part of it, is an example of how we need to accelerate development in our communities using State assets,” Macpherson said.
“The EduPark development has the financial backing of international donors to develop sports, education and agricultural facilities, but has been waiting for the release of unused State land in Mamelodi for the development to take place.
“For us to use public assets for public good, we will need to increase the number of partnerships the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has with private and non-profit role players, such as EduPark, to utilise unutilised public land for the best interest of communities.
“When the State does not utilise or protect State land, it often becomes a dumping ground for rubbish or illicit activities, where the municipality is then accused of not taking action to clear and protect the property, when it is not their responsibility.
“Going forward, we need to work together with municipalities to identify problematic properties and see how they can be used for public good,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 07/31/2024 - 10:40
27 views
SA Architects Rally to Tackle Housing Shortage Amid rapid Urban Growth
South Africa is currently experiencing rapid urbanisation, with 63% of the population already residing in urban areas, a figure projected to rise (https://apo-opa.co/3Yt1Azg) to 71% by 2030. By 2050, it is estimated that eight out of every 10 people in the country will live in urban areas. As a consequence, the demand for basic infrastructure and essential services will significantly increase.
While urbanisation is a worldwide development, the growth rate is the fastest in Africa. By 2035, half of its population (https://apo-opa.co/4d151l7) will be living in cities and urban areas. But so far, it has largely translated into rising informal establishments, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, increasing poverty and inequality.
One of the most pressing issues is the dire state of the architectural profession in the region with too few skills on hand.
“As the demand for proper urban planning and development escalates, so does the need for skilled and competent architects who can contribute to sustainable and inclusive cities. However, the current state of the profession is cause for concern, with various obstacles hindering its progress. One of the most significant challenges is the housing crisis, which creates complex issues for architects,” says Devi Paulsen-Abbott at Energy Capital & Power.
The ever-growing urban population has put immense pressure on the limited housing options available, resulting in a dire need for affordable and sustainable solutions. Architects have a crucial role to play in developing innovative and sustainable housing options for all citizens.
“These are the professionals who possess the skills, knowledge, and creativity to design and build the spaces we live and work in. They have the potential to transform our cities and shape them into liveable, inclusive, and sustainable environments. However, the current state of the architectural profession in Southern Africa is hindering its ability to fulfil this critical role,” Paulsen-Abbott states.
Another big challenge facing the local architectural profession is the lack of collaboration between the public and private sectors, she says. “The development of our cities requires a joint effort from both these sectors, but there is a significant disconnect between them.”
As a result, many projects are abandoned, delayed, or poorly executed, leading to subpar living conditions for citizens. Paulsen-Abbott explains that this disconnect also stems from the inadequate recognition and support for the architectural profession. “Despite its crucial role in shaping our built environment, architecture is often undervalued and underfunded by the public sector,” she says. “This results in a lack of resources and opportunities for architects to develop their skills and push the boundaries of innovation in design.”
To address these pressing issues, the upcoming Architecture South Africa Conference (AZA24) (https://ArchitectureZA.org.za/) is a much-needed event. Bringing together over 50 experts under the theme "Where Architecture Meets... US/ PLANET/ FUTURE..." the conference promises to be an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of the dynamic relationship between architecture, humanity and sustainability.
This highly anticipated event, hosted by the SA Institute of Architects (SAIA), Gauteng Institute for Architecture (GIFA), and University of Johannesburg (UJ), will take place from 4-7 September 2024 on the UJ campus.
AZA Convener, Daniel van der Merwe, says: “This conference is a vital opportunity for the architectural profession to come together, collaborate, and find solutions to the challenges facing our cities. By bridging the gap between the public and private sectors, architects can work towards creating more liveable and sustainable cities for all.”
AZA will also serve as a platform for architects to showcase their innovative designs and ideas, encouraging further growth and development within the profession.
“As citizens, we must also realize the importance of the architectural profession in creating a better future for us all. We must demand that our governments prioritise urban planning and development, and allocate sufficient resources and support for the architectural profession,” van der Merwe says.
“The Architecture South Africa Conference AZA 2024 is a call for united action. We know the challenges South Africa faces, lack of sufficient housing, spatial inequality and ailing infrastructure. As architects our ultimate goal is to improve the lives of the end users of the spaces we design, inclusive of everyone in our beautiful country. AZA looks to open the discourse on how we can achieve this. Bringing together thought leaders to empower us all for a bright future,” notes Claire McCusker, President 2024/25 of SA Institute of Architecture (SAIA).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
About SAIA:
The South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) (https://SAIA.org.za/) is a voluntary association for Professional Architects. SAIA's mission is to act as the collective voice serving the interests of its members in pursuit of excellence and responsible design. It aims to uphold the dignity of the architectural profession and contribute meaningfully to the enhancement of society and the environment. The fundamental principles of equality and justice are implicit in our Constitution. SAIA incorporates the nine existing regional institutes: Border-Kei [Eastern Cape], CIfA [Western Cape], Eastern Cape, Free State, GIfA [Gauteng], KZNIA [KwaZulu-Natal], Limpopo, Mpumalanga and PIA [Gauteng].
About GIfA:
The Gauteng Institute for Architecture (GIfA) (www.GIfA.org.za/) boasts a rich legacy, tracing its roots back to 1900 as the Transvaal Institute of Architects. Today, we're dedicated to nurturing architectural excellence and raising awareness of the built environment. Our focused committees explore specific topics, addressing both current and historical issues. Moreover, we offer extensive training and development opportunities to members, ensuring continuous professional growth. Through collaborative endeavors and innovative initiatives, GIfA remains at the forefront of architectural advancement, enriching our profession and the communities we serve in the greater Johannesburg area.
About University of Johannesburg:
At the Department of Architecture (https://apo-opa.co/3YlLbg4), our vision is to become the leading school of architecture on the sub-continent via the pursuit of alternative, progressive, and critical spatial practices. We continually strive to be the embodiment of a design-led school of architecture by exploring the making of contextually responsive and appropriately built environments. Our mission is to broaden the scope of architecture through collaborative processes of innovative design, research, and making. We define our identity as a school of architecture that encourages teaching philosophies and a design-studio culture closely related to the changing nature of contemporary cities, specifically Johannesburg, the city which gives our university its name. We achieve this mission by integrating the physical, theoretical, field, and design studio.
About Energy Capital & Power:
Energy Capital & Power (ECP) ECP (https://EnergyCapitalPower.com) is the leading Africa-focused global energy investment platform. Through events, advisory work, news, online content and investment reports, ECP unites the entire energy value chain – from oil and gas exploration to renewable power generation – and facilitates global and intra-Africa investment and collaboration. ECP is committed to bringing together like-minded people with the common objective of facilitating the critical investments that will power Africa's economies, build communities and shape societies. ECP is the place to meet dealmakers and make deals. The company covers the whole value chain of the energy sector: oil and gas, power generation, infrastructure, renewable energy, mining, energy infrastructure, investment and finance and government.
Industry Leaders Forum at CMA 2024 to Drive Sustainable Mineral Production
UN Secretary General António Guterres appointed (https://apo-opa.co/3WNr7Cg) a panel dedicated to developing a framework that ensures equity, transparency, sustainability and human rights among critical mineral extraction activities, in April 2024. Uniting government and industry stakeholders, the panel aims to encourage developing countries, including those in Africa – which holds over half of the world's cobalt and manganese reserves and over one-fifth of aluminum and copper reserves – to leverage its critical minerals for enhanced job creation, economic diversification and export revenues.
Reflecting similar priorities, the Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) summit — scheduled for November 6-7 in Cape Town — will host an Industry Leader Forum to explore strategies for ensuring sustainable mineral production and navigating external factors like geopolitical risk, digital transformation and the energy transition. It will also address recent high-level initiatives – from the African Green Minerals Strategy to the global Minerals Security Partnership – and their role in shaping best practices for building resilient mineral supply chains.
Initiated in 2022 by the African Development Bank, the African Green Minerals Strategy (AGMS) (https://apo-opa.co/3y8dZy4) serves as a comprehensive framework for leveraging the continent's mineral resources for industrialization and the development of green technologies. The AGMS aims to articulate Africa's interests in a rapidly changing world, build and retain local value, create jobs, develop new industries, and foster greener economies, as global demand for transition minerals rises.
Meanwhile, the US-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) (https://apo-opa.co/3YpZf87) represents a collaborative effort among 14 countries and the European Union to bolster investment in responsible critical minerals supply chains. Through partnerships with governments and industries, the MSP provides support for strategic projects, particularly focusing on lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, graphite, rare earth elements and copper. Given Africa's abundant mineral reserves, collaboration with the MSP is particularly relevant for the continent, enabling responsible mineral extraction and supporting local communities and economies, while advancing global clean energy goals.
In February 2023, MSP partners gathered in South Africa to establish guiding principles for global project development, emphasizing local value addition and maintaining sustainability and ESG standards. Representatives from mineral-rich nations, including non-MSP countries like Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia, joined the discussions. The meeting sought to ensure that the growth of critical minerals supply chains benefits all stakeholders equitably, underlining the MSP's commitment to responsible mineral extraction and sustainable development.
Furthering efforts to ensure a steady and sustainable supply of CRMs, the EU launched its Critical Raw Materials (CRM) Act in March 2023, as European demand for rare earth metals is expected to increase six-fold by 2030. As part of this initiative, the EU has engaged with several African countries including the DRC, Zambia, Rwanda and Namibia through various MOUs. These agreements aim to foster collaboration within integrating sustainable raw materials value chains, mobilizing funds for infrastructure development, promoting sustainable and responsible production practices, encouraging research and innovation and enhancing capacity building efforts.
Within this context, the Industry Leaders Forum: Driving Innovative Minerals Production at CMA 2024 will explore key trends within the African and global critical minerals landscape. Leaders will discuss how initiatives like the AGMS, MSP and European CRM Act will shape the future of sustainable mineral production and global supply chains.
CMA is the largest gathering of critical mineral stakeholders in Africa. Taking place from November 6 – 7 in Cape Town, the event positions Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. This year's edition takes place under the theme Innovate, Enact, Invest in African Critical Minerals to Sustain Global Growth, connecting African mining projects and regulators with global investors and stakeholders to untap the full potential of the continent's raw materials. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
Transnet forging ahead with reforms
Transnet forging ahead with reforms
Transnet says it is making “considerable progress” in the implementation of reforms in accordance with the Freight Logistics Roadmap and the Guarantee Framework Conditions issued to Transnet by National Treasury.
The reforms include the reform of Transnet’s rail business, corporatisation of the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and the disposal of the company’s non-core assets.
Transnet Group Chief Executive, Michelle Phillips, said: “These initiatives are a demonstration of Transnet’s commitment to the structural reforms in response to the changes in policy and regulations. In some cases, these changes entail entry of third parties in the rail and port networks, which is a necessary step to stimulate competition and address long-standing challenges such as underinvestment.”
Rail reform
Transnet said the rail reform process is on track.
This includes what the company calls the “vertical separation of Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) into a Rail Operating Company and an Infrastructure Manager”.
“Since the publication of the draft railway Network Statement in March 2024, Transnet actively participated in a consultation process facilitated by the Interim Rail Economic Regulatory Capacity (IRERC). This was in preparation of the finalisation of the final Network Statement to open train slots for third party train operator access.
“Following extensive consultations to align with key stakeholders, the Interim Infrastructure Manager has made the input to the IRERC, and Transnet looks forward to the publication of the final network statement and proposed tariff methodology to open slots for third party access by 30 September 2024,” Transnet said.
According to Transnet, the Rail Operating Company and Infrastructure Manager operating models, and organisational designs are expected to be finalised in the first quarter of 2025.
Non-core assets and TNPA
The corporatisation of the TNPA is expected to culminate in the establishment of the National Ports Authority, which will be wholly owned by Transnet.
Work is underway to complete the Memorandum of Incorporation and the Registration of the National Ports Authority.
“The reform will enhance TNPA’s regulatory oversight on terminal operators across its port network. The corporatisation will establish TNPA as a financially autonomous entity capable of generating its own revenue, attract increased investments to improve the efficiency and positioning of SA ports to enhance competitive maritime trade and create appropriate partnerships.
“It will also, through its independence, enhance terminal licence oversight and align with international standards and regulations governing port authorities and ensure compliance with South African maritime and port regulations,” Transnet explained.
Furthermore, the company said its disposal of non-core assets is also progressing well.
“The disposals will generate cash and reduce holding costs. The Transnet Board of Directors has approved a plan for the disposal of the non-core assets. Transnet will finalise the full list of non-core assets for disposal in the current financial year,” the entity said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 07/30/2024 - 09:47
513 views
Nurses stop work after finding human waste at clinic door
Mabandla Clinic in Kariega still has no fence or wall
Farming co-op appeals against fine imposed for illegal dam
Ja well, no fine … R625,000 is too much to pay says Piekenierskloof Vrugte
Special Tribunal sets aside R1.6bn IDT contracts
Special Tribunal sets aside R1.6bn IDT contracts
The Special Tribunal has reviewed and set aside two Independent Development Trust (IDT) contracts, worth some R1.6 billion, and has ordered the five companies, who received the contracts, to pay back all profits gained from the contracts.
According to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), the five companies were awarded the contracts by the IDT to implement projects at the Department of Correctional Services.
“The decision of the Special Tribunal… follows an investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) into the affairs of the Department of Correctional Services.
“This investigation revealed that the IDT failed to follow the applicable statutory and regulatory procurement provisions governing public procurement as set out in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, in concluding the contracts with the companies,” the SIU said.
According to the SIU, the department had appointed the IDT as an implementing agent to “manage the implementation of security fencing, parameter fencing, intercoms and conditions audits, and other infrastructure projects at various correctional centres in South Africa”.
“Following its appointment as an implementing agent, the IDT contracted Secelec Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd, Bakone Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd, and Bakone Secelec Consulting JV 2011 as transactional advisors to implement the building of fences around various prisons at a cost of R492 960 564.66. The contract was later cancelled.
“In 2012, the IDT appointed Manyeleti Consulting SA (Pty) Ltd and SA Fence and Gate JV as transactional advisors for a similar job. The budget for the initial tender increased with R72 454 350.62 or 15.2%.
“However, the total budget increased to R861 255 544.40. This escalation represents 81% of the approved budget and way above the permitted 20% deviation as per the National Treasury regulations. The Tribunal found that the tender/contract award was predetermined,” the SIU explained.
The corruption busting unit welcomed the Special Tribunal’s ruling on the matter and added that any criminality will be reported to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
“The Special Tribunal had ordered the five companies to render the full accounts of all the payments they received under the contracts awarded by IDT and reasonable expenses incurred, supported by necessary vouchers.
“Following the calculations of expenditure to service the now illegal contracts, the companies shall pay whatever profits that were earned. Furthermore, the companies were ordered to cover the legal costs of the review application brought by the SIU.
“The SIU welcomes the decision of the Special Tribunal, as it forms part of the implementation of investigation outcomes and consequence management to recover financial losses suffered by the State…[and] will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers to the [NPA] for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 07/30/2024 - 12:34
224 views
Rand Water concludes month-long maintenance project
Rand Water concludes month-long maintenance project
Rand Water will this evening wrap up the final phase of its month-long proactive maintenance, which commenced last month.
The final phase of the maintenance project includes work at Zuikerbosch Water Treatment Plant (ZWTP) Engine Room 2, which resumed on Monday and will end on Tuesday, 30 July 2024, around 9pm.
“This work involves maintenance of various valves, pipelines as well as electrical and mechanical assets,” Rand Water explained.
According to Rand Water, the work will impact the water supply to the Palmiet Pumping Station, as pumping will be reduced to 76% during this period.
This means that 24% of Palmiet’s pumping capacity will be out of production.
Municipal customers affected by this maintenance work include residents from Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni.
The Madibeng Local Municipality in Bojanala Platinum District Municipality, in the North West, will also be impacted.
The water utility explained that areas recover differently after the maintenance process due to different hydraulic designs of the systems, which indicate that some areas will recover earlier than others.
Rand Water said it continues to work with affected customers to ensure that municipalities continue to inform their customers of the extent and impact of water supply and measures to provide alternative water supply to residents.
“Maintenance of the water infrastructure is critical to improving the reliability, integrity and long-term preservation of the infrastructure to ensure sustainable and uninterrupted supply of bulk potable water,” said Rand Water. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 07/30/2024 - 10:16
271 views
Wind Energy in South Africa: A Balanced Perspective
Johannesburg, 29 July 2024: South Africa’s energy landscape is rapidly evolving, with renewable energy – specifically solar and wind – emerging as a significant player in the quest for a sustainable and reliable energy supply. Indications are that between a concerted effort by Eskom to recover underperforming coal fired power plants to higher levels of …
No “secret meetings” held to discuss climate change commitments
No "secret meetings" held to discuss climate change commitments
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has asserted that it has not conducted any “secret meetings” with business on the review of the country’s climate change commitments.
This comes after the department received a request for access to information related to closed-door meetings and other interactions between government officials and private industry representatives relating to South Africa’s policy and regulatory approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation.
The application also relates to other interactions on South Africa’s energy mix, the Just Transition to a low-carbon economy and any associated infrastructure and resource exploration activities.
The request was received on 25 August 2023 in terms of the Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2000 (Act No 2 of 2000) for information.
“DFFE will respond to the PAIA application from Just Share and the amaBhungane Centre for Investigative Journalism in due course. South Africa concluded its process to develop its national climate change commitments on climate mitigation and adaptation in 2021.
“The process involved rigorous public consultation and the Presidential Climate Commission, a constituency based advisory body, provided valuable advisory inputs that led to the finalisation of the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC),” the department said on Monday.
Through the updated NDC, South Africa has committed to a target range of 420-350 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
“This is consistent with the Paris Agreement limit of a temperature increase well below two degrees Celsius. Since then, there has not been any subsequent discussion to review these targets,” the department said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 15:06
148 views
Enriching lives: A Guiding Principle
By Fhulu Badugela, CEO of Multichoice Africa (www.MultiChoice.com)
As MultiChoice published its annual ESG report earlier this month, I was struck by the aptness of the term sometimes used in relation to such documents: integrated reporting. Integration is fundamental to any kind of environmental, social and governance (ESG) impact.
MultiChoice Group has had three decades to find that particular sweet spot, refining its formula of enriching lives, while transforming African entertainment and broader society.
The beauty of the approach can be seen in the way key business touchpoints dovetail with ESG principles.
By way of illustration, the MultiChoice commitment to hyperlocal storytelling has meant a need to create homegrown, locally relevant content. This in turn has led MultiChoice to create regional MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) academies in Nairobi, Lagos and Lusaka, training aspiring filmmakers.
Not only has this created a rich pipeline of authentic talent, it has built a vast library of local content. This fuels the ongoing success of MultiChoice as an entertainment platform, where Africa's people can see African creators telling African stories.
Social upliftment
In ESG parlance, this supports the social-development pillar. To date, 467 filmmakers have been trained by the MTF. These young people have gone on to work on hit African shows on regional channels across the continent.
In East Africa, graduates secured story development grants, gained acclaim at international film festivals and showcased their commitment to environmental consciousness by presenting at the Youth and Climate Action meeting.
In West Africa, Azeezah Sama, produced by a student from the class of 2023, was selected for prestigious film festivals such as the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival. Africa Magic commissioned productions from three MTF alumni companies, generating employment opportunities and amplifying the programme's impact in the region.
Meanwhile, in Southern Africa, MTF alumni feature films have premiered on Zambezi Magic, and interns have contributed to more than 30 professional productions, including hit shows like Idols, Adulting, My Brother's Keeper, Champions, and Gen Zee.
Economic impact
Besides skills development, MultiChoice makes direct investments in job creation and economic empowerment for emerging economic sectors. The MultiChoice Enterprise Development Trust oversees two key initiatives aimed at fostering the growth of startups and small enterprises: the Innovation Fund and the Africa Accelerator programme.
To date, the MultiChoice Innovation Fund has supported 77 black-owned small businesses with at least 50% female-black ownership and disbursed R407 million in loans, grants and business development expenses. This has created 1 400 employment opportunities.
Last year, the MultiChoice Accelerator programme helped 11 entrepreneurs from South Africa to secure more than $17 million in investments from investors in the United Arab Emirates.
Also last year, the Enterprise Development Fund funded four new tech-related companies, including two owned by black women, to the tune of R26.74 million, creating 395 jobs.
Developmental governance
Integrated ESG principles mean that the crucial MultiChoice governance function must also have a developmental role, while still enabling the business generate value for all stakeholders.
That means ethical, developmental governance. The Group inculcates these principles in our people through mandatory training – anti-bribery, ethical conduct; and “better place to work” training on the MultiChoice Academy platform.
Another of the company's biggest governance focus areas is the fight against content piracy, which poses a significant threat to the business and the wider industry. With Partners Against Piracy (PAP), MultiChoice has signed Memorandums of Understanding with governments across Africa to combat broadcasting piracy.
The MOUs establish partnerships for capacity building, benchmarking, and experience sharing, as well as intellectual-property rights protection, training, and skills development. In addition, a multi-governmental workshop in mid-2024 will review piracy policies and actions, with an eye to amending cybercrime legislation.
Environmental awareness
Deeply conscious of how our operations impact the environment, MultiChoice takes direct steps to limit our emissions and energy efficiency – but always in ways that can be integrated into our ways of doing business.
We have taken proactive steps to enhance energy efficiency in our electricity consumption, air-conditioning systems, data centres, heating and ventilation. We have invested in green infrastructure, including installing light motion sensors within buildings, LEDs equipped with daylight harvesting capabilities, solar panels and energy-efficient inverter technology.
These initiatives have seen us reduce total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions to 67 675 tonnes of CO2 equivalent from 75 060 tonnes in 2023, a tangible move towards sustainability and responsible resource management through more eco-friendly operations.
We have managed to make these sustainability improvements in ways that continue to generate income for the group. The R10,7 billion we pay in taxes in 2024 underlines our integration into the continent's economy.
Ultimately, the proof of our ESG impact will be in our ability to continue operating sustainably, into the future, in a way that enriches lives for all the people we touch.
We are proud to have met this challenge successfully for the past three decades, and we are confident we will continue doing so for decades to come, by integrating our purpose – enriching lives – into our way of doing business.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.
The Awareness Company: Transforming Sustainability Through Data
The Awareness Company, founded by Priaash Ramadeen, Shazia Vawda, and Estelle Lubbe, brings together nearly six decades of collective experience in fields ranging from border control and defense to municipal processes and conservation. Their situational awareness software has been instrumental in protecting over 10,000 rhinos, utilized by more than 200 organizations worldwide. Ramadeen highlights the …
Pressure mounts for Gwamanda to be removed as Joburg Mayor
Hundreds protest in Braamfontein
Wildfires are set to become commonplace
Here’s how World Cup rugby star and farmer Kwagga Smith prepares for fire season The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) reports that the increasing urbanisation of South Africa’s rapidly growing population is a significant factor impacting the risk of wildfires. They explain: “More and more people, assets and infrastructure are placed on the …
Dust in the air: Lack of transparency over Gauteng farming project funding
A number of organisations that received funding from the Gauteng Department of Social Development through the Daracorp non-profit, say Daracorp never delivered on their promises
DPWI requests bi-weekly reports on reconstruction of the National Assembly
DPWI requests bi-weekly reports on reconstruction of the National Assembly
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has requested the Development Bank Of Southern Africa (DBSA) to supply his office with bi-weekly reports on the progress made in the reconstruction of Parliament’s National Assembly reconstruction site.
This also include monthly cost schedule which will be made available to the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure in the interest of transparency.
This according to the department, has been requested to ensure that the contractors to the project are held to agreed upon time periods and budget.
“As someone who called the National Assembly his office for more than 10 years, it is simply heartbreaking to see what has happened to this keystone of our democracy,” said the Minister, adding that he wants to be actively involved in the reconstruction of the National Assembly building to ensure that the project is completed on time and on budget.
During his site visit on Thursday, Macpherson said the reconstruction of the National Assembly building should be moving much faster to avoid any further delay.
“We simply cannot wait any longer,” he said.
The Minister also met with the National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza to discuss progress on the National Assembly’s reconstruction and efforts to expedite the construction.
He emphasised that the increased oversight would help avoid abuse of scarce public resources and encouraged members of the public to report any corruption allegations should they arise with evidence to his office to escalate and investigate.
“We have to work together to rebuild the National Assembly building in such a manner that it is protected from future disasters such as fires and theft, while at the same time making it more accessible to the public to learn about this important institution.
“The reconstruction of the National Assembly needs to honour our past while it looks to the future to stand as a testament to the strength of democracy,” Macpherson said.
A fire destroyed the historic Parliamentary buildings in January 2022.
READ | Parliamentary rebuilding project to get underway. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 10:05
369 views
Chikunga donates infrastructure to Umlazi school
Chikunga donates infrastructure to Umlazi school
Minister in Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, in partnership with the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA’s), will donate R6 million worth of infrastructure to benefit a school in KwaZulu-Natal.
More than 400 learners of Mason Lincoln Special School will benefit from the Inter-SETA collaboration project, which aims to improve the operations of the special school.
The school is located in Umlazi.
Friday’s donation includes infrastructure support through the provision of mobile classrooms, teacher, and learner tools of the trade through the provision of desktops, assistive devices, digital boards, and wheelchairs.
“Further support will include skills development opportunities for persons and learners with disabilities,” the department said.
Chikunga will be joined by the Health and Welfare SETA, FoodBev Manufacturing SETA, Insurance SETA, Services SETA, and Mining Qualifications Authority. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 10:13
803 views
Infrastructure support for Eastern Cape emerging farmers
Infrastructure support for Eastern Cape emerging farmers
The Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform Department (DRDAR) continues to provide wool improvement infrastructure, equipment and training to communal and emerging farmers in the villages.
DRDAR MEC Nonceba Kontsiwe will on Friday hand over a shearing shed and equipment at an event held at Mgwalana Shearing Shed in Engcobo.
The department said the supplying of the infrastructure forms part of the wool improvement production programme, which has seen the value of wool exported from the province reaching 28 million tons in 2022.
This generated R3.9 billion, with the formerly underdeveloped communal sector exceeding R250 million in annual income.
“To ensure the increased quality and quantity of wool produced by emerging farmers, the department provided 73 new shearing sheds, 81 multipurpose sheds, 72 new dipping tanks, renovation of 248 dipping tanks, and seen shearing sheds,” the department said.
The fenced shearing shed structure with a built-in office and two male and female toilets, includes a 7 425 litre dip plunge, portable small stock handling facilities, wool presser, sorting table, classing bins, and provision of two water harvesting tanks, which will be handed over to the Magwalana Wool Growers’ Association.
The enterprise, which was started in 2010, has 29 members... On top of the R1.1 million investment in the structure, DRDAR also provided training that included understanding of contracts and their sources, managerial expertise and administrative capabilities, business environments and select business opportunities, as well as marketing.
“The farmers have 2 223 sheep that produced 3 778 kg of wool in the previous production season after being sold through BKB in Gqeberha - earning them revenue of R10 95 7500. These returns are expected to rise, since they will be utilising quality equipment and proper structure,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 10:45
478 views
KZN social sector departments get largest chunk of budget
KZN social sector departments get largest chunk of budget
The KwaZulu-Natal Departments of Education, Health and Social Development have been allocated the lion’s share of the provincial budget for the 2024/25 financial year.
Presenting the provincial government budget for the 2024/25 financial year at the KZN Legislature in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday, KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers, announced that the bulk of the provincial budget is allocated to the social sector departments, which received 80% of the provincial budget, while the balance of 20% goes towards funding all the other votes.
“Education receives between R4.1 billion and R4.4 billion per annum over the MTEF [Medium-Term Expenditure Framework], Health receives between R2.6 billion and R2.8 billion per annum over the MTEF, [and] Social Development receives between R134 million and R144 million per annum over the MTEF,” Rodgers said.
Conditional grant allocation increase
Rodgers said the conditional grant allocation has increased by R501.3 million in 2024/25 and reduced by R989.3 million in 2025/26 and R593.5 million in 2026/27.
The budget allocated towards Ilima/Letsema Projects, under the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has been cut by R24.7 million in 2024/25.
The MEC said the cut is due to National Treasury reprioritising the funds towards the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
In aggregate, Rodgers said the province receives R141.4 million through two Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) conditional grants aimed at increasing job creation in the province.
Rodgers said the EPWP Integrated Grant for Provinces and the Social Sector EPWP Incentive Grant for Provinces have been reduced in 2024/25 due to National Treasury reprioritising these funds towards the Presidential Employment Stimulus.
He said these grants were cut by R42 million and R29 million, respectively, against various Votes.
The MEC said the Education Infrastructure Grant has increased by R58.1 million in 2024/25.
Rodgers noted that the grant is incentive based, and the increase is partly due to the incentive allocation where the department scored well, achieving 98% in terms of submitting planning documentation and showing capacity to spend, and thus received an incentive allocation of R89 million.
“The National School Nutrition Programme grant receives an increase of R19 million in 2024/25 to continue with the provision of nutritious meals. The budget for 2024/25 after the increase is R2.2 billion,” the MEC said.
The budget for the Health Facility Revitalisation Grant has also increased by R31.1 million in 2024/25.
Rodgers said the addition to the grant is due to incentive based and the department’s score at 99%, in terms of submitting planning documentation and showing capacity to pend and was allocated R72.9 million. The budget for Health Facility Revitalisation Grant is R1.5 billion in 2024/25.
Significant increase for Provincial Roads Maintenance Grant
The Provincial Roads Maintenance Grant has also seen a significant increase of R691.8 million in 2024/25 for the maintenance and rehabilitation of the provincial road network, as well as repairs to infrastructure damaged by floods.
“The budget for this grant is R3.2 billion after this increase and shows our commitment to improving the provincial road network,” Rodgers said.
The Human Settlements Development Grant has decreased significantly by R268.7 million in 2024/25 to be able to provide funds to the social sector for the 2023 wage agreement carry-through costs.
“The budget for this grant in 2024/25 is R2.5 billion after the budget cut. The Informal Settlements Upgrading Partnership grant also had a large budget cut of R228.6 million in 2024/25, in line with National Treasury’s decision to source funds through reprioritisation to provide funds to the social sector for the 2023 wage agreement carry-through costs.
“This budget cut is carried through over the MTEF and the budget for 2024/25, after the budget cut, is R597.1 million,” Rodgers said.
The Provincial Treasury receives R7.7 million over the MTEF (R2.6 million per annum) towards the costs of upgrading the Biometrics Access Control System to strengthen its security and ransomware features, while Sport, Arts and Culture was allocated R4.1 million for the construction of a monument in honour of the 1860 arrival of the Indian indentured labourers.
“Transport requested that R3 million be suspended from their Vote in 2024/25 for allocation to Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs with respect to sourcing an airport emergency fire and rescue vehicle for the Margate Airport.
“This relates to the ongoing collaboration between these two departments to ensure the successful operation of the provincial regional airports,” Rodgers said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 14:34
213 views
Rubbish piles up in Durban streets as cleaners picket outside city hall
Expanded Public Works Programme workers lose jobs as budget is cut
Call to reform Expanded Public Works Programme
Call to reform Expanded Public Works Programme
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, believes that urgent reform is needed for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to provide a sustainable pathway to permanent employment.
This follows the ongoing protest action by former EPWP employees in Ethekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.
The Minister has condemned any violence or damage to public property during the protests, particularly as it has halted key municipal service delivery such as the removal of waste which creates a health hazard.
“The EPWP program was always designed to be a short-term program to give recipients work experience and training in order for them to find permanent employment,” Macpherson said, adding that due to the stubbornly high unemployment rate in South Africa, many have grown dependent on the program, having been employed as an EPWP worker for many years.
“As mentioned during the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure budget speech last week, it is therefore imperative that the EPWP program be re-imagined to become skills outcomes-based which leads to South Africans climbing up the opportunity ladder, rather than being stuck in EPWP for years on end,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.
Macpherson looks forward to working with all stakeholders in the coming months to look at a better outcome for recipients nationwide.
The Expanded Public Works Programme is one of the government’s strategies to alleviate poverty through the creation of work opportunities using labour-intensive methods. The programme is implemented in four sectors namely: infrastructure, social, environment and culture, and non-state.
All spheres of government and state-owned entities are expected to implement the programme.
The EPWP participants (beneficiaries) work on different projects such as the Community Work Programme (CWP), Early Childhood Development Programmes, Home Community Based Care Programmes, Extra School Support Programmes, Working on Fire, Working for Water and roads maintenance projects.
Since its inception on 01 April 2004 to 31 March 2022, more than 13 million work opportunities have been created in the EPWP space across all spheres of government. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 10:01
513 views
How South Africa’s vehicle retail landscape is adapting to change
South Africa’s choice of motor vehicle segment and body shape is changing – perhaps permanently – and, as a struggling market adapts to new realities, brand favourites face challenges too. South Africa’s motor retail industry landscape over the past 15 years has been affected by slow economic growth, poor infrastructure, political uncertainty and a series …