MyZA
News, Directory, Events and Other Stuff
Revitalisation is on the horizon for 4th Avenue Parkhurst as the Parkhurst Residents and Business Owners Association (PRABOA) teams up with Tito’s Handmade Vodka and CLM, the brand’s local distributor, to upgrade infrastructure in the area for pets and their people. The programme will kickstart an essential fencing replacement project at Verity Park and along …
Energy Law involves the regulation of, and transactions within, the energy sector from its procurement to its generation and distribution, and includes the ancillary commercial and financing-related agreements required for the smooth operation of the process. Who is the regulator of the energy industry in South Africa In South Africa, the regulation of the electricity …
In today’s fast-paced world, efficient and reliable services have emerged to address the growing challenges of waste management, debris removal, and waste recycling. These services have become essential in maintaining clean and organised spaces for residential and commercial clients. Learn more. Let’s delve into the two key categories that are transforming the landscape of waste …
Two villages in the Malamulele region don’t have access to clean running water, despite the municipality installing boreholes there.
Two in hot water for possession of state infrastructure
Two people have been arrested and charged with the possession of stolen goods, including 52 street lights estimated at R1.9 million belonging to the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) said the pair was arrested by border guards at the Kosi Bay port of entry when they intercepted state property which was en route to Mozambique on Saturday, 11 November 2023.
According to the authority’s statement released on Monday, the duo was in a grey Isuzu bakkie which was driven by a Mozambican national when they were searched at the port of entry bordering South Africa and Mozambique.
“The team immediately activated the Hawks and Durban metro police.
“Two Mozambicans were arrested and charged with the possession of stolen goods, including damaging of essential infrastructure.”
In addition, the BMA said the vehicle they were travelling in as well as the property were seized and handed over to the Manguzi South African Police Service (SAPS).
“A case was opened and handed over to the Hawks for further investigation.”
BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, commended the remarkable work of the border guards in preventing illegal activities and securing the state assets.
“The BMA border guards serve as the first line of defence working around the clock to enforce immigration laws thereby maintaining the integrity of our nation. Their vigilance in this incident and dedication contribute significantly to maintaining law and order. Their operation in intercepting municipal assets is truly commendable,” said Masiapato. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 14:33
Herbert Mensah, the newly elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, recently engaged in a 45-minute face-to-face meeting with Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB). The meeting, held during the African Investment Forum in Marrakesh, Morocco, focused on the crucial topic of sports infrastructures in Africa.
During the meeting, President Mensah and Dr Adesina discussed the significant potential of sports as a thriving business in Africa, with a particular emphasis on advancing development of sports infrastructure across the continent. Recognizing the pivotal role of sport in economic growth and community well-being, both leaders explored strategic conversations to harness the continent's potential.
President Adesina took a moment to extend his heartfelt congratulations to the South Africa Springboks for their triumph at the Rugby World Cup. He emphasized the victory's significance in maintaining Africa's status as the reigning champion of the world for another four years.
The newly elected President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah, continues to emphasize the business potential of sport across Africa. Since his election, Mensah has called for a change of mind-set among African governments and international organizations and to fully embrace, support and increase investment in rugby across Africa, as a wealth and development creating activity.
“With abundant talent and the world's attention, Africa stands at the forefront of the global marketplace,” said Mensah. “It's time to turn this potential into power, investing in ourselves, forging structures that allow our resources to fuel our own growth, breaking free from the cycle of export and import that hinders the realization of our true economic potential.”
The sports industry in Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with significant potential to generate jobs, improve public health, foster social inclusion, and drive economic growth.
According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the industry was valued at $7 billion in 2018, with an expected growth of $12 billion in 2027. Despite the potential, investment across Africa remains limited, with only 1% of start-up financing directed towards the sports sector.
More information: https://apo-opa.co/3FV6pXA
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
The theme was Revival of Ubuntu
Spheres of government called to enhance service delivery
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has called on all spheres of government to fast-track service delivery to communities to realise a better life for all.
Mahlobo made the call during the District Development Model (DDM) Social Compact Imbizo, held at the Phuthadithjaba Multi-Purpose Centre in the Free State on Friday.
He cited the recently released South African National Census statistics as a clear indicator that the population of the country is increasing, therefore efforts need to be doubled to meet the increasing needs of communities.
“Statistics South Africa says we have provided more than 90% of the population with water. While we can say we have made strides in this regard, we know that we have not reached everyone as we should and we need to reach out to them as well, because it is our mandate and it is their constitutional right to be supplied with water,” Mahlobo said.
As a solution, the department is assisting municipalities to build new infrastructure, refurbish and upgrade the existing ones, to meet the demand for water, while reducing water loses because of aging infrastructure.
Through its Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) and Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) programme, the department funds municipalities for water infrastructure.
“In Maluti-A-Phofung, we have intervened when there were water challenges through our RBIG programme and allocated R176 million in the 2022/2023 financial and R154 million this financial year for water projects.
“Further to this, through our WSIG programme, we have allocated R127 million from 2022/2023 until 2024/2025 for drilling of boreholes in Intabazwe, Mokgolokweng sewer pumpstations and Mokgolokweng bulk and sewer networks,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister noted that for the first time the communities of Maluti-A-Phofung have finally received water from Sterkfontein Dam which, he said, was “something that seemed like a pipe dream”.
He added that the communities in the area will benefit from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project once it is completed.
Among the work in progress for intervention in Maluti-A-Phofung area, includes the following projects:
• Upgrading of Sterkfontein Water Treatment Works
• Refurbishment and Upgrading of the Fika Patso Water Purification Plant
• Upgrading of the Intabazwe Rising Main
• Bulk water supply to Tshiamo and Makgolokweng
• Upgrading of the supply to Phuthaditjhaba and CBD area
• Refurbishment of the Elands Waste Water Treatment Work
• Upgrading of the Kestell Waste Water Treatment Works
• Refurbishment of the Makwane Waste Water Treatment Works
• Refurbishment of the Moeding Waste Water Treatment Works
• Upgrading of the Phuthaditjhaba Waste Water Treatment Works
• Upgrading of the Tshiame Waste Water Treatment Works
• Upgrading of the Wilge Waste Water Treatment Works
• Drilling of boreholes in Intabazwe
• Improving water revenue and reducing non-revenue water
An allocation for infrastructure development has also been made for this financial year to municipalities under Thabo Mofutsanyana District, including R100 million for Setsoto, R83 million for Nketoana and R60 million for Dihlabeng.
The imbizo, which was attended by Deputy Ministers in the Presidency, DDM Champion in the district Nomasonto Motaung and Pinky Kekana, Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana, and Thabo Mofutsanyaba District Executive Mayor Connie Msibi, among others, also discussed the development of a social compact through the DDM approach and how to make a social compact towards improving service delivery in communities.
The imbizo also reviewed the progress of the Thabo Mofutsanyane District Social Compact, reviewed partnerships and devised means to strengthen them.
It further looked at water and sanitation services in the area, as drivers of socio-economic development. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 11/13/2023 - 09:56
Mahlobo calls for fast-tracked service delivery for communities
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo says the recently released South African National Census statistics must be used as a guide to speed up the provision of services to meet the increasing needs of communities.
Mahlobo was speaking during the District Development Model (DDM) Social Compact Imbizo held at the Multi-Purpose Centre in Phuthaditjhaba in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality on Friday.
The Deputy Minister joined his counterparts from the Presidency, Pinky Kekana and Nomasonto Motaung (a DDM champion in the district); Free State Premier Mxolisi Dukwana, and Thabo Mofutsanyaba District Executive Mayor Connie Msibi amongst other dignitaries from the provincial and local government in the Free State.
“Statistics South Africa says we have provided more than 90% of the population with water. While we can say we have made strides in this regard, we know that we have not reached everyone as we should and we need to reach out to them as well, because it is our mandate and it is their constitutional right to be supplied with water,” Mahlobo said, adding that this was “envisioned by the founders of the country’s democracy”.
To help to make this happen, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is assisting municipalities to build new infrastructure, refurbish and upgrade the existing ones to meet the demand for water, while reducing water loses because of ageing infrastructure.
The department, through its Regional Bulk Infrastructure Grant (RBIG) and Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG) programme, provides funds to municipalities for water infrastructure.
“In Maluti-A-Phofung, we have intervened when there were water challenges through our RBIG programme and allocated R176 million in the 2022/23 financial year and R154 million this financial year for water projects.
“Further to this, through our WSIG programme, we have allocated R127 million from 2022/23 until 2024/25 for drilling of boreholes in Intabazwe, Mokgolokweng sewer pump stations and Mokgolokweng bulk and sewer networks,” Mahlobo said.
He announced that for the first time, the communities of Maluti-A-Phofung finally receive water from Sterkfontein Dam, something that seemed like a “pipe dream”.
The communities in the area will benefit from the Lesotho Highlands Water Project once it is completed.
Outlining the ongoing work in intervening in Maluti-A-Phofung, Mahlobo highlighted the following projects:
• Upgrading of Sterkfontein Water Treatment Works.
• Refurbishment and Upgrading of the Fika Patso Water Purification Plant.
• Upgrading of the Intabazwe Rising Main.
• Bulk water supply to Tshiamo & Makgolokweng.
• Upgrading of the supply to Phuthaditjhaba & CBD area.
• Refurbishment of the Elands Waste Water Treatment Work.
• Upgrading of the Kestell Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Refurbishment of the Makwane Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Refurbishment of the Moeding Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Upgrading of the Phuthaditjhaba Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Upgrading of the Tshiame Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Upgrading of the Wilge Waste Water Treatment Works.
• Drilling of boreholes in Intabazwe.
• Improving water revenue and reducing non-revenue water.
In addition, Mahlobo said allocations for infrastructure development have been made this financial year to municipalities under Thabo Mofutsanyana, such as Setsoto (R100 million), Nketoana (R83 million) and Dihlabeng (R60 million).
The imbizo discussed the “Development of a Social Compact through the DDM Approach”, and how to make a social compact to improve service delivery in communities.
The imbizo also zoomed into the Thabo Mofutsanyane District’s Social Compact progress, reviewed partnerships and devised means to strengthen them.
Furthermore, the imbizo looked at water and sanitation services in the area, as drivers of socio-economic development. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 11/12/2023 - 10:42
In an era where sustainable energy solutions are gaining increasing importance, the Shoto 5.12kWh Lithium-ion Battery emerges as a beacon of innovation and eco-friendliness. This powerful energy storage solution, designed by the reputable brand Shoto, is set to transform the way we harness and store electricity. Let’s delve into the details that make this battery …
Progress made in the fight against criminality
Government is making inroads into destroying criminal activities as well as syndicates and has vowed to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that criminals are dealt with, says Defence and Military Veterans Minister Thandi Modise.
âWe will make sure that as the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster, we create a safe and secure environment for our people to live [in],â Modise said on Friday.
The Minister was addressing a JCPS cluster media briefing to provide progress made in combating organised crime which she said, is a growing concern as it negatively impacts on the livelihood of citizens, the economy and compromises the safety and security of people.
âSouth Africans have borne the wrath of criminals masquerading in our communities causing disruption in their daily lives. In some parts of our communities, extortion and protection fees demanded by criminal syndicates have become the order of the day.â
She added that infrastructure mafias continue to destabilise the construction industry through intimidation and the threatening of peopleâs lives.
 âThese and other criminal activities have put fear in our people and undermine the authority of the state.â
Operation Shanela
Through the South African Police Servicesâ Operation Shanela, South Africa has adopted a decisive approach in reducing the high levels of crime.
Operation Shanela is the SAPS crime combating high density operations incepted in May 2023.
 âIt is through Operation Shanela, that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully arrested 213 059 suspects for various crimes such as cash-in transit robberies, extortion at construction sites and kidnappings in the past six months.
âDuring the same period, 2 657 illegal and unwanted firearms were confiscated,â Modise said.
The operation has led to the arrest of 19 299 suspects who were arrested for drug possession while 7 580 were arrested for drug trafficking and dealing in the last six months.
On cash-in-transit (CIT) heists and crimes associated with it, law enforcement agencies continue to make inroads with the police having arrested 75 wanted suspects in the past six months.
âThe arrests were made during foiled CIT attempts, during the commission of these crimes and during targeted tracing operations,â she said.
On the drugs front, the latest drug busts are a clear indication that government remains committed to the fight against drug trafficking. Law enforcement is hard at work in identifying emerging trends in the transportation and packaging of these drugs and closing down of clandestine laboratories.
 âIt is therefore encouraging that nine drug laboratories worth more than R3 million were dismantled in Gauteng, North West and the Western Cape. In a space of three weeks, police have intercepted large quantities of cocaine in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.
âThe latest cocaine consignment was seized last week at the sea port in Gqeberha where R65 million worth of cocaine was seized from a vessel that was coming in from Brazil,â Modise said.
Two other drugs busts were made in KwaZulu-Natal where R150 million worth of cocaine was seized in the space of two days.
With regard to extortion at economic and construction sites, Modise said various threats were identified that impact negatively on the economy of the country.
âFrom April 2023 to date, 61 suspects linked to these extortions were arrested. Since 2019, 27 accused have already been convicted for a collective 43 years direct imprisonment.â
On kidnapping for ransom, Modise said from April 2023 to date, 98 suspects have been arrested for these crimes and more than 30 victims have been rescued.
The cluster said government continues to deploy Anti-Gang-Unit members in provinces prone to gang violence such as the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Gauteng.
â190 arrests have thus far been effected in 145 cases,â she said.
Also speaking at the media briefing held in Pretoria was Police Minister, Bheki Cele, who said police operations are continuing to ensure that criminals are flushed out.
âThey are interfering with the lives of communities. They are armed, they need to be pursued,â he said, adding that law enforcement has identified some of the people involved in illegal mining and is on their trail.
âSome of these people are from our neighbouring countries and relevant Ministers are dealing with the matter. We are hoping to find a lasting solution to this matter,â he said.
Illegal mining
Responding to a question on illegal mining, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said there is a plan to seal all the illegal mines.
âThe Department of Mineral Resources is working on the policy matter to close all the illegal mines in the country,â Ntshavheni said.
Ntshavheni said some of the mine owners canât be traced.
Modise said in the past twelve months, government has witnessed an increase in incidents where illegal miners held communities at ransom, committing various violent crimes, including murder and rape.
âIllegal mining has also been linked to other organised crimes such as gangsterism, human trafficking, money laundering, dealing in illegal weapons and explosives, tax evasion, illegal immigration and transnational organised crimes,â she said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has roped in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to assist in dealing with illegal mining in the country. Â â SAnews.gov.za
Â
Â
Â
Edwin
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 10:24
The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) is working on the establishment of a $1-billion African Film Fund to be launched in 2024 to support the continent's film industry, Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade Bank, at Afreximbank, announced in Cairo today.
Addressing the opening of the 2023 CANEX Summit held as part of the third Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2023), Mrs. Awani said that the fund would oversee film financing, co-finance with large studios, finance African filmmakers and finance producers and directors of film projects across the continent.
She noted that during CANEX WKND 2022, the Bank had increased the financing it was making available to the creative sector from US$500 million to US$1 billion and that the Bank currently had a pipeline of over US$600 million in film, music, visual arts, fashion, and sports deal.
“The very first film we financed recently premiered at the Toronto Film Festival,” Mrs. Awani said, adding, “The Bank has several in the pipeline from Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya, which should be on streaming platforms in 2024.”
Acknowledging that the film and audiovisual industries in Africa accounted for US$5 billion of the continent's GDP and employed an estimated five million people, with the potential to create over 20 million jobs and generate US$20 billion in revenues annually, Mrs. Awani noted that the sector faced several challenges, including limited access to financing and copyright infringement due to weak copyright laws, enforcement mechanisms and a lack of awareness.
The sector was also confronted with infrastructure and technology gaps, lack of capacity and shortage of skilled professionals and limited market access and international exposure, as a result of which African creative and cultural products often struggle to gain exposure and access to international markets.
Earlier, Boris Kodjoe, a celebrity actor of Ghanaian descent, highlighted how the creativity of Africans had influenced various aspects of modern life, including music, fashion, art, design, social consciousness, business, sports, film and TV. He said that the exploitation of black creativity by the West had had lasting effects and that, despite admiration of black excellence, Africa still faced branding challenges due to external perception fuelled by the traditional media's depiction of poverty, famine, civil wars and migration on the continent.
Mr. Kodjoe said that the world craved culturally specific global content and that Africa was a key player in meeting that demand. With the continent's young population and high connectivity, studios, networks, promoters and brands were investing in solutions to reach diverse audiences. Films and TV shows with diversity performed better than others by 30 per cent and Afrobeats was taking over global airwaves. By 2030, Africa was projected to produce up to 10 per cent of global creative goods export worth roughly $200 billion or four per cent of Africa's GDP.
Also speaking, H.E. Albert M. Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade and Industry of the African Union Commission, said that the creative sector in Africa was rapidly growing and making a significant contribution to the inclusive growth and sustainable development of African economies.
“I reaffirm my belief that the African creative industry has huge potential to be a source of employment and revenue to create the Africa we want - revenue from intra-African trade as well as revenue from the rest of the world.”
Ambassador Muchanga urged African nations to convert their vast potential into plans and projects that yield tangible results, stressing the need to also invest in protecting international property rights.
CANEX is an Afreximbank initiative to support Africa and the African Diaspora's creative and cultural industries by providing financing and non-financing instruments to boost growth. The seven-day CANEX Summit is intended to further develop conversations and provide additional business-to-business and business-to-government opportunities. It includes a fashion show featuring a range of bold and exciting designs from across Africa and the Diaspora and a CANEX Music Factory, hosted by renowned South African producer Oskido, which will provide songwriters and beat makers with the opportunity to record their work.
Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme set up by Afreximbank seeks to facilitate the development and growth of the creative and cultural industries in Africa and the diaspora. The programme provides a range of financing and non-financing instruments and interventions aimed at supporting trade and investment in Africa's creative sector.
IATF2023, Africa's largest trade and investment fair opened on 9th November and will run till 15th November 2023.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.
Media contact:
Deborah Ross
Senior PR Account Director
BrandComms
+44 (0) 759 3602 128
âdeborah.ross@brandcommsgroup.com
Follow us on:
X (Twitter): https://apo-opa.info/41qI9VY
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3MGRNQi
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.info/3KBxMYQ
Instagram: https://apo-opa.info/3UA1jH1
About the Intra-African Trade Fair:
Organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is intended to provide a unique platform for facilitating trade and investment information exchange in support of increased intra-African trade and investment, especially in the context of implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). IATF brings together continental and global players to showcase and exhibit their goods and services and to explore business and investment opportunities in the continent. It also provides a platform to share trade, investment and market information with stakeholders and allows participants to discuss and identify solutions to the challenges confronting intra-African trade and investment. In addition to African participants, the Trade Fair is also open to businesses and investors from non-African countries interested in doing business in Africa and in supporting the continent's transformation through industrialisation and export development.
For more information, please visit www.IntrAfricanTradeFair.com
About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra-and extra-African trade. For 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa's trade, accelerating industrialization and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank is setting up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries to effectively participate in the AfCFTA. At the end of 2022, Afreximbank's total assets and guarantees stood at over US$31 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$5.2 billion. The Bank disbursed more than US$86 billion between 2016 and 2022. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody's (Baa1), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure, (together, “the Group”).
For more information, please visit: www.Afreximbank.com
KZN positions to become a technological hub
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is accelerating efforts to roll out broadband across the province in order to ensure universal connectivity, and position the province as a technological hub.
Â
Speaking at the opening of the KwaZulu-Natal Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Summit, currently underway at the Durban Exhibition Centre, Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube said as part of KwaZulu-Natal Digital Transformation Strategy, the province aims to deliver a citizen-centric plan which guides the leap to a digitally transformed society.Â
âOur strategy is awake to the reality that the province is currently only 27% connected and we have identified the need to accelerate the connectivity of the entire province. Among others, our Digital Transformation Strategy will aid government-to-government interaction across spheres, government-to-citizen interaction, and government-to-business interaction,â Dube-Ncube said.
Held from 09-10 November 2023, the summit brings together digital experts, including stakeholders and representatives from the public and private sectors to discuss and demonstrate the role of technology in improving operations, processes and service delivery for the benefit of the communities in KwaZulu-Natal.
The summit, which is hosted jointly with Vodacom Business and provincial government, is a unique platform for ICT experts, private sector and government leaders to engage and explore cutting-edge technology solutions designed to transform the business landscape.
Themed âMoving KZN Towards a Smart Provinceâ, the summit focuses on turning KwaZulu-Natal into a smart and technology connected province, which leaves no one behind.
Dube-Ncube highlighted that the province is hard at work, and currently rolling out Wi-Fi hotspots and Digi-centres in townships and rural centres, including libraries, schools, health youth zones, and community service centres.Â
Work done by the Office of the Premier includes the roll-out of a series of 4IR activations to install Wi-Fi hotspots that will enable schools and citizens to access internet as well as the training of 3 875 youth in four activated districts covering 16 areas.Â
âDigital hubs were installed at the schools to enable the learners to have access to equipment [and] teachers were also trained in data science to include in their schoolâs curriculum, to ensure the learners will be trained on areas of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.
âAll 164 provincial libraries have Wi-Fi connectivity and all hospitals and clinics are connected,â Dube-Ncube said.Â
The Premier emphasised the importance of building broadband infrastructure together with the private sector to improve the status of connectivity in the province.
âPartnerships between private and public sector are central and mutually beneficial. We welcome and appreciate the role that the private sector is playing in supporting our vision of positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a Smart Province,â Dube-Ncube said.
Vodacom Business has been working with the government on several connectivity solutions to help the province achieve its universal connectivity targets.
Meanwhile, the Department of Transport is in discussions with the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to investigate the implementation of an online registration system, which will be piloted in the uMgungundlovu and eThekwini Districts.
The provincial Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) has to date, spent almost R8.6 million in rolling out digital centres across the province. â SAnews.gov.za
Â
GabiK
Fri, 11/10/2023 - 10:54
More officers to bolster police force to fight crime
Deputy President Paul Mashatile announced on Thursday that government is working around the clock to capacitate the police force which will see the country having 30 000 officers in the coming years as South Africa wages war against crime.Â
The Deputy President was responding to oral questions in the National Assembly on Thursday.
âThe [Police] Minister also announced that recruits are being enlisted to increase the capacity of the police in this regard. Ten thousand new trainees have already graduated and over the next financial years, additional trainees will graduate bringing the total number to 30 000 new police officers.âÂ
In addition, 1000 of the newly recruited personnel have been ring-fenced to include the capacity of public order policing (POP) which deals with crowd management issues and threats resulting from that.Â
The POP, he said, had by the end of October 2023 received an additional 4 000 members resulting from the recruitment drive.Â
In addition, as part of efforts to assess the progress government is making in implementing its programmes, the Deputy President said he and President Cyril Ramaphosa have been meeting Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Director-Generals and Heads of Departments.
âIn this regard, the President and I have had the opportunity to meet with the Minister, Deputy Minister and Commissioner of Police to brief us on the departmental plans to fight crime in the Republic of South Africa.â
He told Parliament that the Ministry was implementing Operation Shanela, a comprehensive plan to combat crime throughout the country. âThe plan includes clamping down on illegal mining areas.â
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has established specialised units to work with businesses, private security and state-owned entities (SOEs) to tackle illegal mining, the construction mafia, cable theft and the vandalism of economic infrastructure.
âI have confidence not only in Minister [Bheki] Cele, Deputy Minister [Cassel] Mathale and Commissioner [Fannie] Masemola but in all men and women in blue right to the lowest-ranking police officers who are committed to fighting and defeating crime in our communities.â
In addition, the countryâs second-in-command touched on the recently launched âCombating Crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community Involvementâ and the operationalisation of the increased Crime Prevention and Combating Action Plans through Operation Shanela.Â
These programmes, he said, are yielding results in the fight against crime in the country.
âWe will continue to work jointly with the private sector to invest in efforts to combat crime.âÂ
The Deputy President urged communities to continue to be involved in efforts to fight crime.Â
âThey must work with the police and expose the rotten apples within our police stations. Together we will win this fight. Letâs continue to build safer communities.â
Bills
Deputy President Mashatile also spoke about his role as Leader of Government Business.Â
He is responsible for tracking the procession of priority Bills and introducing measures to effectively monitor and improve the quality of legislation submitted by the Executive for approval.
In line with these responsibilities, a dedicated official from his office has been introduced to focus on tracking legislation as introduced by Cabinet.
It also means all Bills are tabled before the Cabinet Committee before being submitted to Cabinet for final approval.Â
âBills that do not meet the required standards are not submitted to Cabinet but sent back to the relevant departments for further work.â
He said he was pleased that that Cabinet approved 42 Bills on the 2023 legislative programme on 29 March 2023.Â
âAs of 26 October, 22 Bills on the 2023 legislative programme have already been introduced to Parliament.â â SAnews.gov.za
Â
Gabisile
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 15:43
In the ever-evolving landscape of electrical solutions, one company stands out for its unwavering commitment to delivering excellence. With a wide range of services and products tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients, this company has become a trusted name in the industry. Learn more, letâs delve into the world of their services …
The South African Society of Psychiatrists (SASOP) appeals to global leaders to put an end to the violence and facilitate humanitarian aid for the people of the Middle East. The situation in the Middle East has evolved into a severe humanitarian crisis. The ceaseless cycle of violence, destruction, and loss of life is taking a …
SA a good place for investment, says Zikalala
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Sihle Zikalala, has assured investors that South Africa has put in place systems, structures and policies that are investor-friendly and is easing ways of doing business.
“As South Africa, we are a story of economic growth, hope and resilience to investors and social partners,” he told investors.
The Minister is on an official working visit in the United Kingdom, where he and a delegation are on a mission to promote South Africa as a preferred infrastructure investment destination.
“We are open for business and we guarantee your return on investments in a country that is continuously eliminating red tape, has economic stability, improving the ease of doing business and where the rule of law is jealously guarded by our democratic institutions and our courts,” Zikalala said in his address to over 500 global investors in London.
The Minister presented to investors a plethora of infrastructure investment opportunities in areas such as energy, water, transport and digital infrastructure.
He assured investors that President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading the charge for a corruption-free government which honours agreements and contracts with investors.
“The investor environment is one characterised by a commitment to ethics and running a corruption-free administration. An ethical state is essential to assuring investors that their investment is safe from abuse. In addition, we are very clear about the rules of engagement with no other hidden agendas.
“Despite our recent challenges which we are working hard to overcome, such as load-shedding, our economy remains resilient and has enhanced reforms, especially on financing large infrastructure projects where we have opened up space for public –private partnerships. We are mobilising private sector financing and skills to work with the government of South Africa to fast track delivery and improve contract and project management,” he said.
Policies
At Wednesday’s session, the Minister faced gruelling questions around some of the country’s transformation policies such as Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE), localisation and the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), which some perceive to be too bureaucratic and impacts on investor confidence.
The Minister responded by saying that the policies are critical in redressing South Africa’s economic disparities induced by the pain of its history which left many languishing on the fringes of the economy.
“The South African government is creating a new economic landscape and architecture which is premised on economic inclusion of most of the population.
“Our quest to address the socio-economic imbalances of the past should be no threat to investors but should be part of building a united and democratic South Africa that benefits all its citizens.
“This is a consensus that we have built as a country what we want to be non-racial, non-sexist and democratic with a prosperous population,” said the Minister.
Meanwhile, investors expressed excitement about the vast opportunities available in infrastructure investments.
The Minister invited the investors to visit South Africa and share the country’s major investment platforms such as the Presidential Infrastructure Investment Summit 2024 and the South Africa Construction Week and conference to be announced soon.
He believes the Global Africa Trade Conference is a lucrative opportunity to rebuild South Africa’s economy in the wake of a disruptive pandemic of COVID-19.
Zikalala is confident that the new frontiers of economic partnerships have been cemented. The Minister will be in the UK until Friday. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 08:57
Commission on Gender Equality report has harsh words for police
Simple, convenient, and secure self-custodial wallet offers everyday users a seamless connection between Web3 and the Binance ecosystem South Africa , November 8, 2023 – Binance, the global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is excited to announce the launch of its Web3 Wallet. The product, which was officially unveiled …
Mchunu congratulates Rand Water on its Fitch rating
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has lauded Fitch Ratings affirmation of Rand Water's National Long-Term rating at 'AA+ (zaf), with a Stable Outlook.
Rand Water is an entity of the Department of Water and Sanitation that provides bulk water supply services to more than 16 million people in Gauteng and parts of Mpumalanga, the Free State and North West provinces of South Africa.
The Fitch Ratings released a statement on 6 November 2023, detailing the key rating drivers, further stating the elements that would result in a Negative Outlook rating, which include "...if significant water losses (within municipalities water distribution network) contributes to lower profitability and increasing municipality arrears".
In his congratulatory message, Mchunu said the department is proud of Rand Water’s rating by Fitch, which reaffirms that the entity has a long-term positive and stable outlook.
Mchunu said Rand Water is one of the best performing entities, and its 120 years of existence is a testament to its excellence.
He said there is a lot that goes into the sustainability of any organisation, amongst others, the dedication of its leaders and members, good governance, transparency, liquidity and an overall focus on the organisation’s mandate.
While acknowledging there is still a lot of work to be done, the Minister said this "cannot take away the fact that the organisation has continued to perform in a stellar manner”.
“I would like to urge Rand Water to keep it up! One of the many things that we can commend Rand Water on is its ability to be forward-thinking, whether be it in terms of actual water supply or the maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure – Rand Water has continued to ensure that it keeps its eye on the mandate which it is tasked to carry out,” Mchunu said.
He said the ministry and the department continue to pledge their support to Rand Water as they continue to be in service of the citizens of the country. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 15:44
In an era marked by a global “trust deficit disorder” as commented by the Secretary General of the United Nations, a collaboration between VUKA Group and The Global Trust Project stands out as a necessary and timely endeavour. Together, they will work with leaders, organisations, governments and societies to foster a shared understanding of, and …
Climate Loss and Damage Fund to be established for developing countries
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Barbara Creecy has welcomed the agreement by the Transition Committee of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) on the operationalisation of the Climate Loss and Damage Fund.
The purpose of the Fund is to assist developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change in response to economic and non-economic loss and damage associated with those harmful effects, including extreme weather events and slow-onset events.
Creecy noted that developing countries, Africa in particular, have borne the brunt of the adverse effects of climate change and have not received the required multilateral support to face the climate challenge, including for addressing loss and damage.
The agreement on the recommendation comes only weeks ahead of the 28th Conference of Parties to the UNFCCC in Dubai.
Creecy said the governing instrument of the Loss and Damage Fund presents a clear pathway to operationalising this historic milestone in the multilateral climate negotiations.
The delivery on the Sharm El-Sheik COP27 decision to operationalise a new fund for loss and damage in the context of the scale and increasing severity of loss and damage impacts in the near-term scenario of temperature increase to 1.5 degrees or above.
Loss and damage is generally defined as the impacts of climate change, which are not avoided, by mitigation, adaptation and other measures, such as disaster risk management.
The scope, eligibility and operational elements have been defined in order for the Fund to provide direct support in the form of largely grant-based and non-debt finance to reconstruction and rehabilitation.
This includes addressing relocation, lost livelihoods and non-economic losses after extreme weather and significant slow-onset events.
“The projected economic cost for loss and damage by 2030 alone has been estimated to be between $290 and $580 billion in developing countries alone. By 2050, the economic cost for loss and damage in developing countries is estimated to be between $1 trillion to $1.8 trillion.
“The new Loss and Damage Fund will have a Board, balanced between developed and developing countries and will take its guidance from the parties to the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.
“The Committee also proposed that the Fund be designated as an operating entity of the Financial Mechanism of the Convention and will allocate resources based on triggers that includes inter alia severity of the impacts on people, communities, infrastructure ecosystem of the climate-related event,” the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said on Wednesday.
It includes flexibility to address the variation in these impacts across developing countries and time, from cyclones and flooding, to slow onset droughts and land degradation, as well as sea-level rise and glacier retreat.
“The final approval of this agreement at COP28 presents the international community with a critical global solidarity moment to ensure the Fund is capitalised at a scale necessary to respond to the costs and impacts already borne by developing countries,” said Creecy.
The demonstration of solidarity to the vulnerable countries and communities will be assessed by both the scale of resources committed to the Fund.
“South Africa urges the COP28 presidency to launch a process for the initial core capitalisation from developed countries supplemented by financial inputs from a variety of other sources in line with the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. It must also engage with all other relevant actors to support aligning their efforts to leverage the impact of the Fund in addressing loss and damage,” Creecy said.
The Transitional Committee was established at COP27 in Egypt last year with a mandate to present governance documentation to operationalise the Fund in 2023.
The Committee of 24 experts was co-chaired by Outi Honkatukia of Finland and Richard Sherman of South Africa.
The Minister has extended her appreciation to the co-chairs and the Developing Country Committee members for developing a robust and transparent instrument for the Fund. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 12:44
September floods declared a national disaster
The Western Cape Provincial Government has welcomed the decision to declare the floods that took place in September as a national disaster.
In a notice published in the Government Gazette on Tuesday, the National Disaster Management Centre declared the floods as a National Disaster for the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces.
“We are pleased with this declaration, as it now enables all three spheres of government to work together to fund and repair the damage left in the wake of the unprecedented rains experienced over the Heritage Day long weekend in September,” Western Cape Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said.
Bredell said the disaster classification makes it possible for the provincial government to approach the National Disaster Management Centre for relief funds to support the work needed to recover and repair damages suffered to public infrastructure, including buildings, roads, bridges, and water networks.
The MEC said the damage assessments for the September floods are estimated at R441 million for provincial infrastructure, and a further R154 million for municipal damages.
“We will now request the National Disaster Management Centre to approach National Treasury with these numbers [but] there is no certainty on how much or when we will receive any support from the national government. The provincial government will reprioritise existing budgets and continue with our own recovery efforts as best we can,” Bredell said.
According to the latest figures from provincial Infrastructure Department, 22 roads remain closed as repairs are prioritised for roads that connect communities and vital for economic activity.
In the aftermath of the floods, both the N1 and N2 highway, including more than 150 other roads, were closed.
The Environmental Affairs and Development Planning Department has so far received 238 applications to do emergency repairs in rivers and streams that under normal conditions would require lengthy environmental approvals.
“The department has already finalised 196 of these applications making use of Section 30A of the National Environmental Management Act, which allows for verbal approval in an emergency to carry out listed or specified activities to prevent or contain further damages to affected areas,” Bredell said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 11/08/2023 - 10:07
Cyber risks could derail the adoption of the Production Possibility Frontier Plenty of literature has been written about the challenges facing the South African economy and the fact that there are no immediate solutions to fast-track economic growth. The biggest challenges facing the South African economy are the Energy Crisis and the Logistics Crisis, a …