MyZA

News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff

You are here: Home / Archives for infrastructure

infrastructure

Probe into tributary blockages to Middle Letaba Dam

Location: News

Probe into tributary blockages to Middle Letaba Dam

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu is set to establish an independent investigation into the alleged blockage of tributaries that lead to the Middle Letaba Dam in Limpopo, which has resulted in low water levels in the dam.

This follows Mchunu’s visit to the Oliphant Catchment Area, where Middle Letaba Dam is located.

The Minister and his Deputies, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, conducted a site inspection at the streams and tributaries along some of the biggest farms at Mooketsi on Wednesday before interacting with the concerned farmers and community members, who have been negatively affected by the alleged blockages.

READ | Twenty-four Giyani villages expected to have running water by June

Middle Letaba Dam is fed from the Middle Letaba, Koedoes and Brandboontjies rivers in the Middle Letaba sub-catchment within the Olifant Catchment Area. Its primary objective is to supply raw water to domestic users and for irrigation purposes. 

The dam is a source for Middle Letaba, Mapuve and Giyani Water Treatment Works, through a 60km canal. It supplies 82% of water to agriculture, with industry and mining using 3% and 6% respectively, while 8% of water is for domestic use. 

However, due to the low levels of the dam (currently at about 2.8%), the department said the water treatment works cannot yield raw water according to their designed capacities, resulting in restricted water supply to communities.

Mchunu said the department has received complaints from the concerned local farmers and community members, and it has conducted investigations into the claims. 

He said the department has also implemented interventions that include developing groundwater to maximise the available source from the dam, and the transfer of water from Nandoni Dam to Nsami Dam to augment water in the Nsami system in Giyani.

Mchunu said the investigation will pave the way to solving the allegations of blockages of streams and illegal dams, and finally bring closure to the matter, ensuring fair distribution of water in the area. 

“There have been complaints on these illegal blockages which cause water supply challenges in the area, and we have therefore resolved to set up an independent investigation into the matter, and its recommendations will give way to the resolution of the matter. 

“We understand that this is an urgent matter, and we will give our full attention to ensure that there is justice and fairness for everyone in the area,” Mchunu said. 

The Minister also visited Tzaneen Dam, where the R550 million wall raising project is currently underway. 

He commended progress made on the project, which commenced last year and is currently at 25% completion. 

The raising of the Tzaneen Dam wall by three metres will result in increased storage capacity, providing much-needed additional water for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use in the north-east of Limpopo. 

Mchunu and his deputies will on Thursday and Friday conduct an oversight inspection of bulk water infrastructure projects that are currently underway in Lebowakgomo and Burgersfort in Limpopo. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:39

532 views
Read moreProbe into tributary blockages to Middle Letaba Dam

Deputy Minister pays visit to Pretoria Magistrates’ Court

Location: News

Deputy Minister pays visit to Pretoria Magistrates’ Court

Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development John Jeffery has paid an unannounced visit to the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court following reports of alleged service delivery issues at the court.

According to the department, challenges at the court include “infrastructural concerns, such as certain non-functioning air conditioners, improved lighting and water supply on the upper floors”.

These are to be followed up with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.

“As is the case, with all Magistrates Courts, our department will continue to monitor the delivery of justice services being offered at the courts, as well as continuing to attend to issues such as the maintenance of infrastructure and the provision of staff.

“With regards to the number of active court hours, these are continuously being monitored and our department continues to work with all other role-players in the justice system, such as the Magistracy, the National Prosecuting Authority, Legal Aid SA and private legal practitioners, to ensure that our courts run smoothly and efficiently,” Jeffery said.

The Deputy Minister visited the court on Tuesday.

The department explained that a large part of the court is under construction since it was ravaged by fire in 2010 which made the building uninhabitable.

“With regards to the construction, a restoration project was registered to bring the building back to its original state and construction commenced in 2015.

However, hazardous black mould and asbestos was detected in certain areas of the building and the Department of Labour issued a Prohibition Notice to vacate the site. Construction work recommenced in 2017, but the contractor’s appointment was later terminated due to poor performance.

“A replacement tender was advertised in 2020 and a new contractor was appointed in 2023. The anticipated completion date is May 2025 and the anticipated handover is August 2025,” the department explained.

The Deputy Minister expressed confidence that the restoration will be at an advanced stage in the next year.

“We are confident that by this time next year the restoration and refurbishment of the court will be far advanced and, once completed, the new court will greatly enhance the further delivery of services to the public,” said Deputy Minister Jeffery. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 11:11

829 views
Read moreDeputy Minister pays visit to Pretoria Magistrates’ Court

Launch of cutting-edge recycling facility in Namibia

Location: News
Coca Cola Beverages Africa

A N$24 million (over US$1.2million) investment through a partnership between Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) (www.CCBAgroup.com) in Namibia and Plastic Packaging has culminated in the opening of a new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) flaking plant in Okahandja which will double the capacity of the only mechanical recycler of plastic waste in the country.

The plant was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta.

“The Coca-Cola system aims to drive systemic change through a circular economy for packaging. We are leading the industry to help collect and recycle a bottle or can for every one we sell by 2030. We have a responsibility to help solve complex plastic waste challenges facing our planet and society, and we're leveraging our scale and reach to achieve our sustainability goals and reduce packaging waste,” said CCBA Chief Public Affairs, Communication and Sustainability Officer, Tshidi Ramogase.

“This facility is an example of how we work with partners across business, government and civil society to support or create closed loop systems to ensure our packaging is collected and recycled or reused.

“Supporting the establishment of a circular economy for packaging has both environmental and economic benefits since recycling has the potential to create jobs and to empower the informal waste collection sector in a circular economy.

“Unlike a traditional linear economy in which packaging is made, used and disposed of; a circular economy preserves the economic value of packaging through robust collection and recycling systems,” said Ramogase.

The completion of this cutting-edge recycling facility will enable Namibia Polymer Recyclers (NPR), a subsidiary of Plastic Packaging, to recycle up to 500 tons per month.

The recycling plant transforms discarded beverage bottles made from PET material into PET flakes with an international market value. The flaking process of post-consumer PET bottles involves sorting, shredding it into PET flakes, hot-washing and drying of flakes, which are then sent for further processing into recycled PET pellets and other end-uses.

This reduces the need to use virgin PET, while diverting waste from landfills and the environment.

“We are investing in infrastructure and exploring ways to support additional recycled PET capacity in each of the regions where we operate. These investments not only provide a source of recycled content for our packaging but also create additional demand for empty packages, driving increased collection.

“At CCBA, we are a proud industry leader in developing increasingly sustainable ways to produce, distribute and sell our products. We use our industry leadership to be part of the solution to achieve positive change and to build a more sustainable future for our planet,” said Ramogase.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca Cola Beverages Africa.

Issued By:
Enid Johr
PACS Director
CCBA in Namibia
Tel: +264 81 778 5381
Email: ejohr@ccbagroup.com

Wendy Thole-Muir
Head: Reputation and Communication
Coca-Cola Beverages Africa
Tel: +27 83 795 8524
Email: WThole-Muir@ccbagroup.com

Follow us on:
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/4dfq8AC

About CCBA: 
CCBA is the 8th largest Coca-Cola bottling partner in the world by revenue, and the largest on the continent. It accounts for over 40% of all Coca-Cola products sold in Africa by volume. With over 18,000 employees in Africa, CCBA services more than 720,000 customers with a host of international and local brands. The group was formed in July 2016 after the successful combination of the southern and east Africa bottling operations of the non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages businesses of The Coca-Cola Company, SABMiller plc and Gutsche Family Investments. CCBA shareholders are currently: The Coca-Cola Company 66.5% and Gutsche Family Investments 33.5%. CCBA operates in 15 countries, including its six key markets of South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique and Namibia, as well as Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, the islands of Comoros and Mayotte, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Malawi.
Learn more at https://www.CCBAgroup.com

Media files
Coca Cola Beverages Africa
Download logo
Read moreLaunch of cutting-edge recycling facility in Namibia

Work underway to ensure transport is accessible for persons with disabilities

Location: News

Work underway to ensure transport is accessible for persons with disabilities

Government has embarked on a process to ensure that transport is sufficiently accessible to all categories of passengers, including persons with disabilities.

“The goal of a universally accessible national transport system is not only within reach. It is also a vital part of our efforts to build a South Africa that truly belongs to all who live in it,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Thursday in Johannesburg.

Delivering the keynote address at the Transport Summit on Universal Accessibility, the President said as part of a reformed approach to urban planning, integrated public transport programmes are being implemented in a number of municipalities.

“The Public Transport Network Grant is one of the mechanisms being used to promote the implementation of universal design and universal access. There are now ten integrated public transport network municipalities receiving the grant, with specific conditions on universal accessibility. Work is underway to roll out a standard for the universal accessibility of all road-based vehicles,” Ramaphosa said.

The President acknowledged that despite enabling legislation, there are still many areas where a lot more work is needed to make the national transport system fully accessible.

As part of ongoing efforts to ensure universal access in the transport system, the President outlined measures that have been put in place to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities.

“The Department of Transport has gazetted a national policy for parking discs that will enable drivers with disabilities to use a disc obtained in one part of the country everywhere in South Africa. The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has developed a universal access policy with norms and standards. It has committed to speed up its work to ensure that trains are accessible and station platforms are level. The Gautrain has had level boarding on its trains since its inception.”

Usability considerations

He emphasised that in all future infrastructure development, the transport system should be designed with usability considerations rather than being retrofitted later.

“Airports Company South Africa, working with airlines, is working to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities across its facilities. These efforts include the introduction of designated parking spaces for persons with disabilities, assisted passenger lounges, and designated private search facilities at security gates.

“There is already a growing awareness within the aviation industry that passenger issues have not been dealt with from a universal access perspective and that more needs to be done,” the President said.

In the maritime sector, industry partners and state-owned entities are looking at improvements to the universal accessibility of inland waterways, river crossings, ports, sailing and yachting clubs.

“No discussion on universal access would be complete without considering the impact of emerging technologies and new business models on transportation, including e-hailing, car sharing and the like. These new systems are rapidly transforming the sector and must be factored into planning, in collaboration with the service provider companies. While we must prepare for new technologies and business models, we also have to fix our established systems, where serious shortcomings persist,” the President said.

“We have to address similar issues in the taxi industry, which transports around 70 percent of the South African population and is the dominant mode of public transport. It is pleasing that the minibus taxi services have, where tasked, been able to demonstrate reasonable accommodation of passengers with disabilities.”

He called for the improvement of road standards and signs so that pedestrian crossing infrastructure is accessible and integrated.

“Walking and cycling should not cost anyone their life. The last 27 years have seen little improvement in the accident rate among cyclists and pedestrians. This must change. It requires a change in the behaviour of drivers and in the culture of enforcement.

“There is much that we can achieve in the short term. Organisations in the transport space can train staff on the needs of persons with disabilities.

“Information materials on routes and timetables can be made more accessible for persons with disabilities. Municipalities can improve road signage and pedestrian access. We are confident that the incoming Transport Economic Regulator and the Public Transport Regulator will play important roles in supporting universal access,” the President said.

Over the past 30 years, South Africa has made considerable progress in both protecting and advancing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.

“In 2007, South Africa adopted the UN [United Nations] Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which makes provision for the rights of South Africans with disabilities to equality, dignity, safety and freedom of movement.

“Through the Presidential Working Group on Disability, we have sought to ensure that our policies, programmes and practices are inclusive and that persons with disabilities are able to participate fully and freely in all aspects of our national life,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 12:19

17 views
Read moreWork underway to ensure transport is accessible for persons with disabilities

CoGTA Minister to hand over Ikageng Light Industrial Park in N West 

Location: News

CoGTA Minister to hand over Ikageng Light Industrial Park in N West 

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Thembi Nkadimeng, will hand over the new Ikageng Light Industrial Park in the JB Marks Local Municipality in Potchefstroom, North West, on Friday. 

North West Acting Premier Nono Maloyi and JB Marks Local Municipality Executive Mayor Gaba Thithiba Ka Qhele will join the Minister. 

According to the department, the project handover symbolises the District Development Model (DDM) in action, where all spheres of government work together for the delivery of services and uplifting communities.

 
“The handover will also form part of the North West government-led Thuntsha Lerole accelerated service delivery programme, which is being rolled out to mobilise communities to be part of the solution in addressing service delivery challenges confronting the province,” the department said in a statement. 

The department said the scope of work undertaken by the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA), an entity of the Department of Cooperative Governance, displays a comprehensive approach to community development. 

This includes the refurbishment of existing facilities to establish six separate automobile workshops, the demolition of dilapidated structures, and the construction of modern workshops for artisans.

The project, totalling R53 696 250, also included the creation of office spaces to accommodate various occupants, including government and non-profit organisations, and establishing retail workshops catering to local artisans such as hair salons.

With the installation of essential amenities like ablution facilities and external infrastructure such as water, sewer, roads, landscaping, and security systems, the industrial park promises to ensure local economic development, stimulate township-based light industrialisation and create employment streams.

READ | Industrial parks to transform economy

The project, the department said, has created 19 jobs offering opportunities for women, men, and youth alike. 

In addition, a small and medium-sized enterprise (SMME) has benefitted from the initiative, contributing to the growth and sustainability of local businesses.

The industrial park will also provide working space for business owners renting the space and provide various services from automotive mechanics, panel beaters, carpenters, upholsterers, welders to hair salons for community members.

Following the project handover, Nkadimeng will join the Acting Premier at the Thuntsha Lerole community engagement session. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 11:15

164 views
Read moreCoGTA Minister to hand over Ikageng Light Industrial Park in N West 

President Ramaphosa sets sights on five million EPWP jobs in next five years

Location: News

President Ramaphosa sets sights on five million EPWP jobs in next five years

President Cyril Ramaphosa believes that the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) remains a critical policy instrument to tackle unemployment and reduce poverty as government grapples with high levels of joblessness. 

The President has since pledged on behalf of government to improve the EPWP and to deliver five million work opportunities in the next five years.

President Ramaphosa was speaking on Tuesday at the 20-Year celebration of the EPWP and launch of Phase 5 of the programme in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape. 

The President painted the EPWP as a success story that has empowered communities to address local needs and build resilience. 

The country’s commander-in-chief said since 2004, the programme has created more than 14 million work opportunities across the EPWP sectors, with more than 300 public bodies across all spheres of government and non-profit organisations (NGOs) as implementing agents. 

WATCH | 

“The EPWP is changing lives and transforming communities, and the evidence is there for all to see,” President Ramaphosa told the crowd.  

Through the EPWP infrastructure projects, President Ramaphosa said Welisizwe Rural Bridges are constructed and maintained to create better access to markets, schools and clinics.

READ | Zikalala announces construction of over 100 Welisizwe bridges

Beneficiaries include those cleaning streets and beaches, and those involved in Early Childhood Development (ECD), community home-based care, school feeding and community crime prevention. 

According to the President, some of the beneficiaries have gone on to be trained as emergency response personnel in the South African Police (SAPS) and even qualified as pilots.

While there are many achievements, President Ramaphosa urged government to use the 20-year milestone as a springboard for even greater achievements in the years to come.

“We must build not only on lessons from the EPWP but also from the Presidential Employment Stimulus, which has, over the last few years, demonstrated that public employment can go to significantly greater levels of scale.” 

However, he acknowledged that the quality of work experience and service delivered to the communities needed to be improved. 

According to the President, government also needs to mobilise the nation behind a revitalised portfolio of public employment programmes.

This, he said, will include urgent service delivery priorities such as road upgrading through pothole patching and block paving, and infrastructure maintenance. 

VIEW | Celebration of 20 years of the EPWP

20-Year celebration of the EPWP. 20-Year celebration of the EPWP.  

The President is of the view that public employment can also assist in tackling social challenges, such as gender-based violence (GBV) and substance abuse. 

The programme will also support tackling clean energy installation and catchment management to improve water quality and limit the risks of floods. 

President Ramaphosa said it could also help in the digitisation of public records and give young people a first step into this growing sector of the economy. 

Deepening youth participation

The President believes that the EPWP Phase 5 will rise to the challenge by increasing youth participation and strengthening skills development. 

“As we enter this new phase, we must reiterate that there can be no space for corruption, nepotism or favouritism. Effective and fair recruitment practices must be applied.”

He called on social partners and the private sector to work with the State during Phase 5 to lend a hand in creating jobs and work opportunities for South Africa’s youth, women and people with disabilities. 

“Working together through public and social employment programmes and by providing support for small enterprises and cooperatives, we can create more jobs at a much faster pace while improving the delivery of basic services.” 

The President has vowed to continue to expand public employment through the EPWP, the Presidential Employment Stimulus, the National Youth Service, and others. 

In addition, he stated that government will assist civil society organisations that are creating work opportunities. 

The Head of State also promised to back entrepreneurship and job creation by increasing support for small enterprises and cooperatives in townships and villages. 

“We will continue to prioritise young people in public employment programmes, in work-based learning programmes, in artisan training and entrepreneurship programmes.”

He assured the young South African men and women that government will not leave them behind. 

“We are determined to reach you, one and all, to help you and to support you. This is the promise of democracy and freedom,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za 

Gabisile
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 14:17

493 views
Read morePresident Ramaphosa sets sights on five million EPWP jobs in next five years

Greening the Supply Chain: How AI and Innovation Drive Sustainability

Location: MyPR

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the impacts of climate change, businesses are finding new ways to mitigating them. This includes many supply chain operators that are looking to optimise their operations and make environmentally conscious choices. AI and innovation play a significant role in driving sustainability initiatives for any organisation courageous enough to …

Read moreGreening the Supply Chain: How AI and Innovation Drive Sustainability

Nzimande commends SETAs role in facilitating skills development

Location: News

Nzimande commends SETAs role in facilitating skills development

Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has commended the crucial role played by the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) in the country’s skills development.

“As the Department of Higher Education and Training, we are proud to state that while we provide the overall strategic and policy direction, our SETAs continue to play a crucial role in implementing and facilitating skills development within their respective sectors,” Nzimande said.

Speaking at the SETA Skills Summit currently underway in Boksburg, Gauteng, Nzimande said through their sector-specific focus and experts, SETAs contribute significantly to addressing skills gaps, skills mismatches, promoting employment and enhancing productivity within their respective industries. 

“Our SETAs also play a crucial role in aligning training and development efforts with the needs of employers and the labour market, thus ensuring the development of a skilled and capable workforce that can become a catalyst for economic growth and development. 

“The policy context for the work that is done by our various SETAs derives from such critical policy instruments as our country’s Master Skills Plan, the White Paper for Post School Education and Training, the National Skills Development Plan, and the National Development Plan 2030,” Nzimande said.

The Minister reiterated that the policy instruments are not only critical for enabling the country to articulate and implement a coherent human resource development plan, but it also ensures that "we embrace a skills development approach that is collaborative and sustainable, as opposed to a piecemeal and competition-driven approach”.

Held under the theme, “Together, Skilling the Nation", the two-day summit aims to provide an opportunity for the sector to reflect on its execution of the mandate of skills development.

Nzimande said the collaborative approach is important, considering the unacceptably high number of unemployed young people in the country, and the urgent challenge of people who are 'Not in any formal Education, Employment, or Training (NEET)'.

“It is estimated that more than 3.3 million young people in our country between the ages of 15-24 are not in employment, education, and training and unemployed. This is something that must concern all of us.

“It is therefore understood that a collaborative approach will ensure a coordinated and targeted approach to skills planning, funding, quality assurance, and monitoring, resulting in a skilled and competitive workforce that contributes to economic growth and social development,” Nzimande said.

The Minister also encouraged SETAs to focus on high impact areas, including infrastructure development for the provision of service delivery; significant reduction in unemployment including graduates; sustainable entrepreneurship and cooperatives which promote elf employment; and fundamental rural development.

He also urged them to focus on digitisation and the advancement of technological infrastructure and development to benefit the country, and effective and efficient shared services on information and communications technology. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 10:08

111 views
Read moreNzimande commends SETAs role in facilitating skills development

M&A Activity in South Africa expected to remain muted in 2024 amidst global economic headwinds and regulatory uncertainty

Location: MyPR

Chris Green, Managing Partner, Hogan Lovells SA M&A activity in South Africa declined sharply in 2023 relative to the two preceding years, in line with global trends. The factors driving this included, amongst others, global economic headwinds particularly high inflation and high interest rates, the well-documented geopolitical uncertainty in Europe and the Middle East, ongoing …

Read moreM&A Activity in South Africa expected to remain muted in 2024 amidst global economic headwinds and regulatory uncertainty

Pandor reiterates stance on Israel

Location: News

Pandor reiterates stance on Israel

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, says South Africa cannot have "normal relations" with Israel, as long as it is committing war crimes and genocide against Palestinians, removing them from their land, and is unwilling to negotiate a viable peace plan without preconditions. 

“South Africa cannot be a party to Israel’s actions that would see the promise of Palestinian Statehood reduced to balkanised entities, devoid of true sovereignty, without territorial contiguity and with no economic viability,” Pandor said on Monday while delivering a lecture at the Rio Branco Institute in Brasilia, Brazil.

The South African government, according to Pandor, has consistently expressed its concern at the plight of Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip, especially in light of the acts meeting the threshold of genocide.  

READ | SA welcomes resolution on human rights situation in occupied Palestinian territory

Pandor said the “question of Palestine”, as it is known in the United Nations (UN), is the longest unresolved human rights challenge on the UN’s agenda. 

“It is primarily a question about the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people. This is a right that, according to international law, gives Palestinians the right to resist the illegal occupation of their land.” 

She said South Africa concurs with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s remarks that opposition to a two-State solution was “unacceptable". 

The Minister believes that the Palestinian people are part of an existing sovereign State and have a claim to their independent sovereignty based on their right to self-determination. 

“The fact of colonisation creates this right – they have been conquered and subjected to the jurisdiction of a foreign State without their consent and are living under occupation by a foreign and oppressive occupier.

"This is the form of self-determination that is most widely accepted and which most clearly provides the right to one’s independent State,” she explained. 

Pandor said it was now more than 74 years since the UN General Assembly approved Resolution 181 (II) recognising the partitioning of Palestine and proposed establishing two independent States, which were supposed to coexist in peace and harmony. 

“Despite the length of time and efforts brought to bear, the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian State is yet to become a reality.

“The most serious violation of human rights has involved the denial of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. This is a right enshrined in the UN Charter,” she stressed. 

Pandor raised concerns about the political solution, which is "not yet in sight". 

“The relentless military operations by Israel and its genocidal acts have aggravated the humanitarian situation in Gaza. 

“The extreme nature of the crisis in Gaza must not eclipse the fact that the West Bank and East Jerusalem are in turmoil. Since the 1993 Oslo Accords, the number of illegal Israeli settlers occupying Palestinian land has increased from 269 200 at that time to 700 000 today.” 

Meanwhile, the number of Palestinians held in Israeli jails has almost doubled to over 7 000, including 200 women and children as young as 12 years old. 

According to the Minister, the conflict has seen the killing of over 33 000 Palestinians since October 2023.

The ongoing bombardment of Gaza by Israel has resulted in more civilian casualties, almost half of which are children, the Minister told her audience. 

She also raised an alarm about the threat of famine, which is imminent with disastrous consequences. 

“Those engaged in active warfare must be reminded that the targeting of civilians, humanitarian workers, journalists and UN personnel, destruction of houses and other civilian infrastructure is illegal under international law.” 

Pandor is of the view that South Africa made a compelling case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). 

In January this year, the ICJ ruled that Israel’s actions in Gaza are plausibly genocidal and indicated provisional measures on that basis. 

READ | SA stands by decision to file lawsuit against Israel

She also took a swipe at the veto power wielded by individual States, which she said she believes cannot be permitted to thwart international justice in light of the ever-worsening situation in Gaza. 

South Africa, Pandor said, is gravely concerned about the unprecedented imminent military offensive against Rafah, which she said would result in further large-scale killing, harm and destruction. 

“South Africa reiterates its call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and remains committed to seeing an end to the occupation of Palestine and calls for concrete action concerning ending the Apartheid system in Israel and Palestine.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 10:38

651 views
Read morePandor reiterates stance on Israel

Deputy Minister Botes hosts Spanish counterpart for Bilateral Consultations

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
Download logo

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, hosted the State Secretary for Foreign and Global Affairs of the Kingdom of Spain, Mr Diego Martínez Belío, on 23 April 2024. Deputy Minister Botes and State Secretary Martínez Belío co-chaired the 15th Session of the South Africa-Spain Bilateral Consultations. South Africa's bilateral relations with Spain are managed through the Bilateral Consultations, which meets annually at the Deputy Minister level.

The Official Visit to South Africa enhanced the already strong relations between South Africa and Spain. This visit highlighted the existing cooperation between the two countries and reviewed the progress and implementation of existing agreements.

The meeting deepened engagement and discussions in the areas of mutual interest to both countries, particularly in trade and investment, education, science and innovation, climate change and renewable energy, as well as human rights, migration and women, peace and security.

Bilateral trade between South Africa and Spain grew by 9.7% from $3.1 billion in 2022 to $3.4 billion in 2023. In 2023, Spain was South Africa's 18th trading partner globally and fifth largest trading partner in the EU. During the same period, South Africa was Spain's second largest export destination and seventh largest source of imports on the African continent. South Africa's exports to Spain grew by 12.8% from $1.41 billion in 2022, to $1.77 billion in 2023.

Over the past ten years, there has been steady investment in South Africa by Spanish companies. The bulk of the investment is in the renewable energy sector. South African companies have also looked to Spain as an investment destination in the Real Estate sector. More than 150 Spanish companies have invested in South Africa creating over 20,000 jobs, largely in the following sectors: Infrastructure Development, Renewable Energy, Financial Services, Tourism, Textiles, IT & Software, Metals, and Mining.

Spain also remains a strategic European tourism market for South Africa. There has been a slight recovery in terms of tourist arrivals from Spain for the periods 2022 and 2023. Tourist arrivals increased by a total of 8 716 between the above-mentioned years, from 23 304 in 2023 to 32 020 in 2024. This is a positive indication of inbound travel slowly returning to pre-pandemic levels as far as this market is concerned.

The recent various high-level engagements between South Africa and Spain symbolise the commitment by both countries to promote a better and more equitable world to benefit the people of both countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Read moreDeputy Minister Botes hosts Spanish counterpart for Bilateral Consultations

Unveiling ALX Ventures: The Catalyst For A 21st Century African Entrepreneurship Revolution!

Location: MyPR

In a bold move to accelerate Africa’s entrepreneurial trajectory and empower a new generation of agile startups with 21st-century digital capabilities, ALX an award winning tech training and career acceleration provider, announces the rollout of ALX Ventures in South Africa (SA). Already launched in two other African markets, Lagos and Rwanda, the first cohort in …

Read moreUnveiling ALX Ventures: The Catalyst For A 21st Century African Entrepreneurship Revolution!

PRASA’s efforts to ensure trains run on time

Location: News

PRASA’s efforts to ensure trains run on time

The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa's ongoing efforts to re-signal its network in phases will go a long way to improving efficiency and making sure that commuter trains are reliable and punctual.

PRASA embarked on a journey to upgrade its near obsolete and outdated signalling system.

“When PRASA suffered massive theft and vandalism of the rail infrastructure, the newly installed state-of-the-art electronic interlocking and signaling equipment was not left unscathed. In rebuilding the rail infrastructure, PRASA is re-installing the stolen and vandalized signaling equipment. Through a project that would take seven years to complete, PRASA is re-signaling the network in phases. Nationally, PRASA has re-signalled six of the lines recovered,” Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said on Tuesday in Cape Town.

The Minister made these remarks during the launch of the train production of 200 modern high-tech Electric Multiple Units (EMUs), which are manufactured locally in Gauteng.

The launch marked significant progress towards PRASA's overarching goal of producing 600 X’Trapolis Mega Trains. 

“PRASA is installing a state-of-the-art signaling system, including PRASA train control systems in line with the European Rail Traffic Management System. This will ensure that PRASA runs trains more efficiently, improving service frequency and enhancing the safe passage of trains on the rail network.

“PRASA has re-signaled 24 of the 39 stations from Cape Town to Simonstown. This means the train speed has been increased from 30km/hr to 75km/hr and commuters getting to their destination much faster. When there was no signaling on the line, trains were running every 90 minutes and the trip to Cape Town station was one hour and ten minutes. PRASA has reduced the journey time to 45 minutes and trains run every 20 minutes,” Chikunga said.

In real terms, this means that PRASA has now increased the number of trains it runs during peak from three to nine trains.

“No more will a commuter who missed a train, have to wait for one-hour and ten minutes to catch the next train, because another train will be available within 20 minutes. We are improving efficiency and making sure that PRASA delivers a reliable and punctual commuter rail service that commuters can depend on, improve on-time performance and minimize disruptions,” the Minister said.

The six re-signalled in the country include, Mabopane – Pretoria; Saulsville – Pretoria; Pretoria – De Wildt; Cape Town – Simonstown; Mutual – Langa and Umlazi – Reunion.

“Work is underway to upgrade signaling in KwaZulu Natal. The installed signaling nationally is the latest state of the art compatible with automatic train protection (ATP) systems, GSM-R/FRMCS Digital Radio Network Communication.

“The organization is also working on installing its own PRASA Train Control System (PTCS) for the KwaZulu-Natal Region. This system will bring the operations of the Region in line with the modern urban railways around the World,” the Minister said.

This morning Chikunga was accompanied by the PRASA Board of Control and Management during a train ride on the Southern Line in the Western Cape from Fish Hoek to Cape Town Station.

“PRASA is making significant strides in restoring passenger rail services. To date, 31 of the 40 lines it operates in have been partially recovered. The region has 14 lines across five municipalities, not just in the City of Cape Town. To date, PRASA has partially recovered 12 of the 14 lines.

“Of the 39 stations on the corridor, only 13 stations were operational. To date, all the 39 stations are operational, with a full train service. To date, PRASA has transported over 13 million commuters, with more than half (57%) transported on the Southern Line.

“Progress is being made to recover the Central Line from Phillippi to Nolungile and trains are expected to run by the May this year, adding to the services already running from Cape Town to Nyanga on the Central Line. At that time, trains will be running from Cape Town to Nyanga and all the way to Nolungile,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 12:51

206 views
Read morePRASA’s efforts to ensure trains run on time

Deputy President in the United Arab Emirates for a working visit 

Location: News

Deputy President in the United Arab Emirates for a working visit 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is undertaking a working visit to Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

The Deputy President arrived in the UAE yesterday and will wrap up his visit on Friday, 25 April 2024.

According to the Presidency, the UAE visit is aimed at building and strengthening bilateral relations, particularly increasing economic and knowledge exchange between the two States. 

The country’s second-in-command and his delegation will engage with experts in the telecommunications and digital economy, in line with South Africa’s goals related to expanding technological and digital infrastructure towards Meaningful Universal Connectivity. 

“Countries are moving towards digital sovereignty and South Africa, as one of the leading nations in the sector within the continent has the opportunity to spearhead initiatives in this regard towards strengthening public service delivery and enhancing participation in the digital economy. This working visit is as such, integral to building capacity towards digital sovereignty,” the Presidency explained. 

During the visit, the Deputy President will interact with the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Applications as well as other relevant national and regional entities within the UAE.

The UAE, according to the Presidency, is a competitive market for the information and communication technology (ICT) sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. 

The UAE public sector investment helps drive demand for Information and Communications technology (ICT) products and services in sectors such as healthcare, aviation, defence, transportation, financial services and others linked to the UAE’s economic diversification plans.

The visit by the Deputy President provides an opportunity for the South African government to increase knowledge and expertise in the ICT sector towards the improvement and expansion of public services and governance systems through digital economy channels.

International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini, Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Mondli Gungubele and Justice Minister Ronald Lamola, will accompany the Deputy President to the UAE. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 10:56

232 views
Read moreDeputy President in the United Arab Emirates for a working visit 

Deputy President Shipokosa Mashatile in the United Arab Emirates on a Working Visit

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
Download logo

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile is undertaking a Working Visit to Dubai and Abu-Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 22 - 25 April 2024. 

The Deputy President's visit to the UAE is aimed at building and strengthening bilateral relations, particularly increasing economic and knowledge exchange between the two states. 

The visit will see the Deputy President and his delegation engage with experts in the telecommunications and digital economy, in line with South Africa's goals related to expanding technological and digital infrastructure towards Meaningful Universal Connectivity. 

Countries are moving towards digital sovereignty and South Africa, as one of the leading nations in the sector within the continent has the opportunity to spearhead initiatives in this regard towards strengthening public service delivery and enhancing participation in the digital economy. This working visit is as such, integral to building capacity towards digital sovereignty. 

During the visit the Deputy President will interact with the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Applications as well as other relevant national and regional entities within the UAE.

The UAE is a competitive market for the information and communication technology (ICT) sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The UAE public sector investment helps drive demand for ICT products and services in sectors such as healthcare, aviation, defense, transportation, financial services and others linked to the UAE's economic diversification plans.

The visit by the Deputy President provides an opportunity for the South African government to increase knowledge and expertise in the ICT sector towards the improvement and expansion of public services and governance systems through digital economy channels.

The Deputy President is accompanied to the UAE by Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini - Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Minister Mondli Gungubele - Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, and Minister Ronald Lamola - Department of Justice.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read moreDeputy President Shipokosa Mashatile in the United Arab Emirates on a Working Visit

Cabinet welcomes R3.4bn terminal project

Location: News

Cabinet welcomes R3.4bn terminal project

Cabinet has welcomed the opening of the R3.4 billion Newlyn Park Bayhead Rail Terminal project at the Port of Durban, which consists of 640 000 square metres of warehousing, rail sidings and open storage.

“The new terminal will facilitate the efficient movement of sea, rail and road cargo through the Port of Durban, and help address the recent challenges experienced in the logistics, infrastructure and network industries,” a Cabinet statement said on Monday.

WATCH | 

The investment resulted in 4 013 direct construction jobs and the full-time employment of more than 1 000 people, with this number expected to grow as the facility handles more cargo.

“In revitalising our country’s rail network, Cabinet also welcomed the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA) successful restoration of five crucial Metrorail services across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

“PRASA effectively brought 31 of its 40 lines back into partial operation and is working on achieving full operational status. The milestone demonstrates government’s commitment to revitalising passenger rail services and providing an efficient public transport option for South Africans,” Cabinet said.

WATCH | Transport Minister briefs on improvements at PRASA |  Transport Minister briefs on reopened PRASA lines. 

Cabinet held a special Cabinet Meeting on Wednesday, 10 April 2024.

In a related development, Cabinet welcomed the announcement by the South African National Roads Agency that it would inject over R50 billion into road infrastructure development in the Eastern Cape.

READ | SANRAL invests R2 billion in Eastern Cape road maintenance

This infrastructure investment is geared towards the construction of new facilities, road improvements and strengthening, and special maintenance of the national road network in the province. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:59

983 views
Read moreCabinet welcomes R3.4bn terminal project

Four new reports released on Open Internet approaches in Africa

Location: News

European Union External Action
Download logo

By looking at case studies in Burundi, Kenya, Senegal and South Africa, the four reports unpack Open Internet connectivity as a promoter of human-centric development. They also shed light on the crucial role of a free, global, reliable, affordable and secure internet in driving social and economic growth in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the objectives of the African Union's Agenda 2063.

According to the new reports prepared by a team of independent experts contracted by the European Commission “Digital technologies and the Open Internet are two distinct concepts that, if blended into a consistent policy approach, create a digitisation process that maximises the opportunities for social and economic growth.”

The realisation of the Open Internet's potential for locally driven growth requires a holistic approach, separate but intrinsic to the investment in technology and connectivity, that is focused on the deployment of Open Internet digital infrastructure, the development of enabling policy and regulatory environments for Open Internet, investment in Open Internet skills and competences, the creation of an Open Internet economy, and participation in Open Internet governance.

Each of the four reports serve as a roadmap for other countries and regions, for how  Open Internet approaches can create an environment that will enable and support  digital development, capitalise on its economic potential, while respecting fundamental rights and values.

As part of the EU's policy of promoting an open, free, global, stable and secure internet based on the multi-stakeholder model of internet governance, the reports build on the ideas covered in a previous report on The Open Internet as cornerstone of digitalisation. As  the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said in her State of the Union 2024 speech: “The internet was born as an instrument for sharing knowledge, opening minds and connecting people. But it has also given rise to serious challenges (…) In response, Europe has become the global pioneer of citizen's rights in the digital world.”

The reports were produced in the framework of “Promotion and Development of the Open Internet in Africa”, a project funded by the EU Global Gateway.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of European Union External Action.

Read moreFour new reports released on Open Internet approaches in Africa

World Nuclear Association to Highlight Southern Africa’s Nuclear Prospects

Location: News
Energy Capital & Power

Director General of the World Nuclear Association (WNA) Dr. Sama Bilbao y León will speak at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) forum in Paris this May, unpacking unprecedented opportunities in southern Africa's energy sector. 

The WNA is an international organization that promotes nuclear power with the goal of tripling nuclear capacity by 2050 to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. On the African continent, South Africa is currently the only country with an operational nuclear power plant – the 1,860 MW Koeberg Nuclear Power Station – which accounts for approximately 5% of power generation. Last December, the country's Department of Mineral Resources and Energy announced plans to procure 2,500 MW of additional nuclear capacity and is in the process of seeking bids to commission new projects.

Organized by Energy Capital & Power, IAE 2024 (https://apo-opa.co/3UMOOtQ) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 14-15, 2024 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Following the discovery of large uranium deposits in eastern Uganda, the East African nation is forming a joint venture with South Korea and Russia to construct two nuclear power facilities totaling 15,000 MW. Burkina Faso is partnering with Russia's Rosatom to construct a nuclear power plant, while Ethiopia and Zimbabwe have also signed agreements with Russia to cooperate on nuclear technology and infrastructure development. Rwanda is developing a nuclear reactor pilot project in-country, expected to be operational by 2026.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Media files
Energy Capital & Power
Download logo
Read moreWorld Nuclear Association to Highlight Southern Africa’s Nuclear Prospects

Upper uMkhomazi Water Project a catalyst for KZN water security

Location: News

Upper uMkhomazi Water Project a catalyst for KZN water security

The signing of offtake agreements this week has signified the start of phase one of the much-awaited R28 billion Upper uMkhomazi Water Project.

The project is expected to be a catalyst to water security and vibrant economic activity in the eThekwini area and surrounding districts.

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, joined by Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, lead the signing of joint offtake agreements with the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), uMngeni-uThukela Water Board and six KwaZulu-Natal municipalities during a ceremony at Deepsdale in Bulwer on Friday.

The project consists of the construction of an 81 metre high dam at Smithfield on the uMkhomazi River with a gross storage capacity of 251 million m3, as well as a 33 kilometre and 3.5 metre diameter tunnel from Smithfield Dam to the uMlaza River Valley, and a 5.1 kilometre and 2.6 metre diameter gravity bulk pipeline connecting the tunnel to the Baynesfield Water Treatment Works.

Upon its completion, the project is set to increase the amount of raw water in the uMgeni Water System yield by 55%, from 394 to 608 million cubic metres (or kilolitres) per annum.

The TCTA will implement the raw water component of project and uMngeni-uThukela will implement the bulk water treatment component for distribution to the identified six water services authorities.

Speaking at the event attended by various Mayors in the area, Mchunu noted the project has seen delays but they are excited at the commencement of the project.

The Minister said the department is hard at work with other projects within the province to address the water challenges.

“We are here to do a number of things, we visited the site where the Upper uMkhomazi Dam will be built [because] we wanted to see the actual site [and] we are delighted that we managed to view the site.

“The next thing is to allow TCTA to provide a road map about the actual construction of the dam and the timeframes regarding commencement and completion dates,” Mchunu said.

Mahlobo highlighted that the projects that are currently being implemented by the department, working together with entities and municipalities, are a response to an instruction from President Cyril Ramaphosa.

He said President Ramaphosa has put the Economic Reconstruction Recovery Plan at the centre of renewing the country.

“Water is one of the infrastructures that has become an impediment around the issue of economic growth, hence we are pushing major bulk water infrastructure projects to ensure that we do not run out of water,” Mahlobo said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 08:39

359 views
Read moreUpper uMkhomazi Water Project a catalyst for KZN water security

Workshop highlights importance of effective water resource management

Location: News

Workshop highlights importance of effective water resource management

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Judith Tshabalala, has reiterated the importance of the effective management of water resources in promoting development in the country. 

"It is not the intention of the department to make the lives of our citizens difficult by going through the tedious journey of having to apply for a water use licence [but] we do it because we have been entrusted with powers to ensure that water is managed in the best interest of all citizens,” Tshabalala said.

Tshabalala was speaking during a community engagement on water use license applications at the Westonaria Banquet Hall in the Rand West District Municipality, Johannesburg on Friday.

The workshop aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of the application process, engage on sustainable water management practices, facilitate networking opportunities and empower disadvantaged communities.

Tshabalala said the workshop allowed users the space to network, including people who applied for water use licenses, those who have been on the waiting list, and those who have been experiencing challenges regarding water licensing.

The Deputy Minister emphasised the importance of water use licenses to ensure effective water resource management.

“Activities that require water use authorisation include the development of facilities or infrastructure for animal concentration such as pigs, rabbits, crocodiles, ostriches, poultry aquaculture, the development of facilities or infrastructure for animal slaughter such as poultry, game, red meat, and more. 

“Additionally, water use authorisation is required for the development and operation of hatcheries or agri-industrial facilities; for an area of 300 square meters or more of indigenous vegetation in specified geographical areas; and of 1 hectare or more of indigenous vegetation,” Tshabalala explained.

During the question-and-answer session, the community members and stakeholders commended the department for the initiative, saying the workshop will make things easier for the disadvantaged when they undergo the application process.

However, they expressed their concerns about water regulations in the country, requesting the government take immediate action against those who claim to sell purified water in their shops. 

The community members asked for government’s intervention in spaces where racism is rife and less-literate individuals are taken for granted and are unwittingly made to sign away their land and water use licenses.

The Deputy Minister noted the concerns and promised that a follow-up meeting would be convened to provide feedback regarding the concerns raised.

"We welcome your input and complaints with an open mind and we are very much resolute in our quest of addressing whatever challenge you have in water use licensing,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 09:17

146 views
Read moreWorkshop highlights importance of effective water resource management