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Several Mpumalanga farm owners issued with contravention and prohibition notices for violating laws

Location: News

Several Mpumalanga farm owners issued with contravention and prohibition notices for violating laws

The exploitation and ill treatment of workers, as well as disregard of South Africa’s labour laws, continues unabated in some of the agricultural sectors in Mpumalanga. 

This is according to the Department of Employment and Labour Chief Inspector Milly Ruiters who led a weeklong inspection at the Ehlanzeni District. 

The department said it found many employers in the agricultural sector wanting when it comes to compliance with the suite of labour legislation administered by the department.

The inspections were part of an ongoing initiative to ensure compliance with labour legislation and focused on inspections and conducting advocacy. 

The inspections zoomed into the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), the National Minimum Wage Act, the Unemployment Insurance Act, the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. 

“The department issued a number of contravention and prohibition notices and plans to conduct follow-up inspections.” 

Inspectors found several non-compliance in areas such as electrical faults, a lack of assessments, no record keeping, non-registration of workers with the unemployment insurance fund and compensation for occupational injuries and diseases acts. 

The other transgressions include paying below the national minimum wage rates, non-provision of personal protective equipment, not informing workers about their rights and lack of compliance with health and safety.

According to the department, several farms were subjected to inspections and continue to fail the tests in compliance with various labour laws. 

“The department’s inspections will continue until Friday and will also focus on the wholesale and retail sectors. The inspections form part of build-up activities including taking services to the people in the province.”

Meanwhile, the department will host a Jobs Fair at Thulamahashe Local Stadium in Bushbuckridge on Thursday to interact with work seekers and a Ministerial session with employers on 12 January at Southern Sun Emnotweni Hotel in Mbombela. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 01/10/2024 - 14:08

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Read moreSeveral Mpumalanga farm owners issued with contravention and prohibition notices for violating laws

Brain Drain or Brain Gain: The NHI will either prove to be a blessing or a curse

Location: MyPR

Since 1994, South Africa has emerged as an African economic powerhouse with a healthcare system that was once the envy of the continent. However, the country is facing a significant medical brain drain at a time when there is clear evidence that South African medical professionals possess some of the best skills in the world …

Read moreBrain Drain or Brain Gain: The NHI will either prove to be a blessing or a curse

Borrow money wisely this January, National Credit Regulator advises

Location: News

Borrow money wisely this January, National Credit Regulator advises

January can be a difficult month, especially for those who did not budget and/or spend wisely over the festive season. 

According to the National Credit Regulator (NCR), many people are paid earlier in December and they wait long until the next payday in January. 

“This long wait leads to very empty pockets and many unpaid bills, as these consumers start the year on a tough note. Consequently, many are being forced into taking excessive credit as the only option to pay for necessities like rent or mortgage, food, school fees, stationery and so on,” the regulator said. 

The NCR’s Education and Communications Manager, Poppy Kweyama, said in addition to the high cost of living, consumers might need to borrow excessively at this time of the year because of poor budgeting and last year’s reckless spending.

Citing the NCR’s statistics for the quarter ended September 2023, Kweyama said there has been an increase quarter-on-quarter of impaired accounts. 

To avoid an impaired credit record, consumers are advised to borrow wisely and responsibly and restrict credit to only what is necessary. 

She added that during this time of the year, some consumers are desperate for financial assistance and may take out loans recklessly, even from unscrupulous credit providers. 

The NCR has implored consumers who find themselves in this situation to be credit-smart and avoid resorting to unregistered credit providers. 

She advised consumers to borrow only from registered credit providers and only as much as they need and only when they need to. 

According to the expert, it is also crucial to plan how to repay the loans, and most importantly determine whether they can afford the repayments. 

The NCR also encourages consumers to understand their credit agreements and the terms and conditions (Ts and Cs) before signing. 

“Don’t sign if you don’t understand the Ts and Cs. Always ask for clarity and never pay an upfront fee. 

“Never leave your ID or bank card with a credit provider in exchange for a loan. Not only is this practice illegal, but remember, to register and exercise your vote in the 2024 elections, you need to have your ID,” Kweyama cautioned. 

Credit is expensive, said the NCR, and it advised people to familiarise themselves with the fees associated with the credit. 

According to the National Credit Act (NCA), consumers can only be charged the following fees when taking up credit:

 • Initiation fees – This is a fee that a credit provider charges a consumer for entering into a credit agreement. The credit provider must give the consumer an option of paying this fee separately and once off. In doing so, no interest may be charged on the fee. Initiation fees are regulated by the NCA. Standard initiation fees for credit facilities, short term credit transactions and unsecured credit transactions, per the NCA, is R165 per credit agreement plus 10% of the amount over R1 000 but the maximum initiation fee should not exceed R1 050.

• Interest rate – Interest is the amount that a credit provider charges a consumer on the outstanding balance of a credit agreement and is regulated by the NCA.

• Service fees – The fee that a credit provider charges for servicing and administering or maintaining the credit agreement. The credit provider can charge this fee monthly. Service fees can also be charged per transaction. The maximum monthly service fee under Section 105 of the NCA is R60.

• Credit Life Insurance – This is insurance which can be required by the credit provider when a consumer applies for credit. The insurance covers the debt due to the credit provider in certain cases such as retrenchment, disability or even death of the consumer. The insurance cover taken may not exceed the outstanding obligation to the credit provider.

• Other costs will depend on what you are purchasing as the consumer such as delivery costs. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 01/10/2024 - 09:39

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Read moreBorrow money wisely this January, National Credit Regulator advises

Community insurance 101 for body corporates and homeowners’ associations

Location: MyPR

Data from the 14,000 communities managed by property management software company WEconnectU, shows that 20-30% of property owners in sectional title schemes and homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are currently behind on their levies – and the resulting cashflow shortage is making it difficult for the HOAs and the sectional title body corporates (BCs) to effectively maintain …

Read moreCommunity insurance 101 for body corporates and homeowners’ associations

SAA, SunExpress sign MoU

Location: News

SAA, SunExpress sign MoU

South African Airways (SAA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with SunExpress for four aircrafts to support the national carrier’s operations in the 2024/25 financial year.

According to SAA, the MoU is an add-on to the two airlines’ current six-month damp lease agreement, which includes “the lease of two Boeing 737-800s, as well as maintenance and cockpit crew”.

“In addition to plans to increase the number of damp lease aircraft, SAA and SunExpress are currently exploring options for a multi-year reciprocal capacity support and further cooperation with regards to maintenance, training and commercial support,” a statement from SAA read.

In a damp lease, the lessor provides the aircraft and some of the crew, usually the cockpit crew, and the lessee provides the rest of the crew, maintenance and insurance. This means that the lessor and the lessee share some of the responsibilities and costs of the operation, depending on the terms of the contract.

Acting SAA CEO, Professor John Lamola, said the agreement would assist the State-owned airline to meet demand.

“SunExpress has proven to be an extremely reliable partner for us in the first few months. We are therefore delighted that this valuable partnership will not only be continued but the scope of the partnership expanded to include additional aircraft for our 2024 holiday peak season.

“The additional aircraft will support our operations to meet the growing customer demand during peak seasons and mitigates our management of the global aircraft availability crisis,” Lamola said.

SunExpress CEO Max Kownatzki said: “The memorandum of understanding clearly underlines our commitment to further deepen our successful partnership with SAA. We are proud of the trust that SAA is placing in us with the renewed intention to collaborate. We strive to build on this to develop a strong, long-term partnership and leverage more opportunities together in the future.

“Over the next decade, SunExpress will more than double its fleet, reaching a 150-aircraft fleet by 2033. These kinds of partnerships enable us to efficiently utilise our fleet, mitigating the impact of our seasonality.”

Before its official relaunch earlier this year, the State-owned airline endured challenges for several years.

SAA was racked by allegations of fraud and corruption during the State capture years and was also put under business rescue and grounded.

At the official relaunch, Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan explained the work it took to have the airline back in the skies.

“What we have been able to do is to firstly establish that there’s no more money that’s going to come from taxes that’s going to go into SAA, like the R40 billion that went in over a 10-year period. SAA must survive on its own strength... [and] on the capital that is actually provided by the strategic equity partner and it must grow organically. Through the business rescue process, its balance sheet is not encumbered in any kind of way.

“It took three and a half years of very hard work… to ensure that we steer this process. It’s a signal to investors and the investing community in South Africa that reforms are possible in South Africa. That we can execute, just with South African talent, these very complex deals and complex reform processes in State-owned entities,” Gordhan said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 12/20/2023 - 11:07

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Read moreSAA, SunExpress sign MoU

TERS fraudster sentenced to 15 years behind bars

Location: News

TERS fraudster sentenced to 15 years behind bars

A man has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for defrauding the Unemployment Insurance Fund and unduly benefitting from the COVID-19 Temporary Employer/ Employee Relief Scheme (TERS).

The man, Dennis Patrick Lerato Modika, was sentenced in the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crimes Court, after being found guilty on eight counts.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Modika submitted some 1 358 fictitious employee claims over a period of two years to the Department of Labour to benefit from the fund.

“The accused and his company did not have the declared employees in their employ and were therefore not entitled to apply for the relief fund. The department paid an amount of over R5 million in total to a bank account which belonged to the accused.

“The accused was arrested on 10 July 2023 by the members of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in a sting operation in Daveyton,” the NPA said.

TERS was designed by government to assist qualifying businesses that were affected by the national lockdown during the pandemic.

Employers were expected to submit applications to the scheme on behalf of employees and upon approval, were to pay a limited portion of salaries of those employees.

“In arguing for a harsh sentence, Senior State Advocate Frans Mhlongo argued that the court must impose a sentence that does not only reflect the looting of the UIF coffers but also the hardship and suffering imposed on the rightful recipients. He further argued that the accused was only concerned with gratifying the fleeting pleasures of life than with the welfare of his compatriots.

“The NPA welcomes the sentence and applauds Adv. Mhlongo and the Investigating Officer, Warrant Officer Siralile, for ensuring that the abuse of the much-needed relief fund did not go unpunished,” the NPA said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 12/18/2023 - 11:00

273 views
Read moreTERS fraudster sentenced to 15 years behind bars

Kaizen Business Consultants Launches Comprehensive Company Formation Services in Dubai, UAE

Location: MyPR

Dubai, UAE — Kaizen Business Consultants, a trailblazer in innovative business solutions, proudly unveils its extensive Company Formation Services tailored for entrepreneurs and businesses in the dynamic landscape of Dubai, UAE. Recognizing the significance of a robust foundation, Kaizen’s specialized services aim to facilitate seamless and efficient company formation processes for local and international enterprises. …

Read moreKaizen Business Consultants Launches Comprehensive Company Formation Services in Dubai, UAE

Building Capacity for Africa’s Renewables Sector

Location: News

African Energy Chamber
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By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.org)

Consider this paradox: Nigeria has achieved the largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa, but 45%, or about 85 million, of its residents still live without electricity. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, that figure looms to 600 million.

I believe renewable energy is part of the solution to this dilemma — both in Nigeria and throughout the sub-continent. But there are several hurdles to be cleared before wind, solar, hydrogen, and other clean energy sources can provide the same economic benefits that natural gas — the other part of the solution — already offers. One of those hurdles will be preparing domestic workforces for employment and leadership in the growing renewable energy sector.

We are seeing movement in that direction. In Nigeria, for example, global renewables-promoting nonprofit, RMI, is providing technical training in partnership with four Nigerian energy distribution companies, two developers, and vocational training schools such as RMI's Energy Transition Academy and the Lagos Energy Academy. Aimed at producing leaders and energy entrepreneurs, the Nigerian Cohort of RMI's Global Fellowship Program, started in 2022, uses online learning and in-person experiences to develop leaders who know how to produce and employ solar PV, battery storage, and microgrid technologies.

We will need many, many more efforts like this for Africans to fully reap the economic benefits of our energy transition. For that to happen, more investment capital must be attracted for curriculum development, to support training efforts, and to help fledgling renewable businesses find their footing.

This is a critical topic, one that deserves attention at the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) that is now underway and beyond.

Africa Must be Proactive in Building Capacity

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has predicted that 4 million new renewable energy jobs will be needed in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030 to meet 2050 net-zero goals. But it is not a given that those positions will be filled by Africans, especially if we rush forward with our transition from fossil fuels to renewables, as many wealthy nations and environmental groups are demanding.

Currently, there is a significant shortage of qualified human resources — people educated and prepared to take advantage of the opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship that renewables offer.

What's more, only 76,000 renewable energy jobs have been created in Africa, less than 1% of 10.3 million globally. That means the vast majority of Africans have absolutely no experience, or hands-on opportunities to develop skills, in green energy.

Education is Key

Turning this situation around begins with investing in and emphasizing the importance of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education at all levels in Africa.

African governments will need to do their part by driving improvements in all-around education in science and technology and green energy vocational programs.

Government policies should also provide advantages to attract private-sector visionaries and incentivize public-private collaborations that foster the education and training of Africans for career-level, leadership positions in the renewables sectors.

Africa's renewable energy sector is growing. That reality is a mixed blessing because of the shortage of homegrown, trained professionals able to create, construct, and run renewable projects. We do, however, have an advantage — our large, youthful demographic.

Many of our young people need jobs, and many more soon will. If we can put together partnerships among governments, learning facilities, and private industry, we can train our youth for careers in renewable technologies that offer them brighter futures.

We should be building on the examples of the promising educational opportunities that are available for African students who want to build a career in renewable energy. Here is a sampling:

  • A German-African partnership, the Atlas of Green Hydrogen Generation Potentials in Africa, states, “Green hydrogen offers a real chance to launch a development in Africa which is driven by African countries themselves.” As part of the effort, a master's degree program in green hydrogen technologies was begun in 2021. Students from all 15 countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) may apply. Universities in Cote d'Ivoire, Niger, Senegal, and Togo host the program.
  • Another German government initiative, Green People's Energy for Africa, “supports vocation training institutes and technical universities to offer new and improved practical training modules for professionals” as well as other methods for skills development in renewable energy technology.
  • An EU-US cooperative agreement supports sub-Saharan Africa's just transition to green energy. Working at the regional and national levels, efforts include empowerment of women in the sector, knowledge sharing to provide technical assistance, and the leveraging of investments by the private sector.

Another Opportunity: Green Hydrogen

Surveying the renewables horizon, there is general agreement that decarbonizing all the world's economic sectors won't be possible without the use of green hydrogen — for feedstock, fuel cell technology, and electric vehicles.

The demand for this clean and adaptable fuel, produced with renewable energy sources, compounds the need for a trained renewable energy workforce.

Green hydrogen presents both a large opportunity and a large challenge for African nations. With its massive area and plentiful solar and wind resources, Africa could potentially be producing about 10% of the world's green hydrogen by 2030. But there is an “if” attached to that projection.

If African states strategize and invest now to develop a green hydrogen workforce, they can be ready for the coming wave of green hydrogen development and utilization. Hydrogen learning opportunities should be made available from the high school level upward as part of comprehensive skills plans for developing a prepared workforce.

With forethought and smart implementation, young Africans can be readied to lead the way in bringing the benefits of green hydrogen to their communities. In the process, job shortages can be mitigated as these young employees put their skills to work in the production, storage, and transportation of green hydrogen.

More African countries should be taking measures to ensure their people and businesses capitalize on green energy opportunities. And these must not stop with education and skills training; we also need local content measures to help ensure our residents benefit from renewable power projects and facilities operations.

Ensuring Strong Local Content Policies

Just as local content rules continue to function as vital safeguards in African oil and gas operations, they will be tremendously important in the renewables sector, both for individuals and for businesses. As I've stated in the past, every nation needs to create a framework that empowers indigenous companies to fully capitalize on renewable energy opportunities.

There are times when power needs may justify temporary modifications to these policies. As an example, South Africa's National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM), early this year, relaxed its local content rules for the construction of solar modules. Easing local employment requirements from 100% to 30% for local component production is meant to facilitate quicker deployment of solar projects, and hopefully, help alleviate the country's crippling power outages.

Power supply levels and other factors show the need to perform a balancing act when writing local content rules. Those other factors include the supply of current local skilled workers and infrastructure. We don't want to discourage developers, so we need appropriate, tailored local content regulations.

One reasonable approach is the one taken by Kenya, where guidelines requiring contractors to formulate a local content plan have been drafted. These plans must include training, succession, jobs, technology transfer, R&D, legal, financial, and insurance issues. This approach places the “ball” in the “court” of each project's contractor, allowing for their input in local content formulation.

A similar policy has been enacted in Nigeria. The local content policy is part of the government's Electricity Act 2023. It requires the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to provide for local content participation involving employment, production, and assembly of components for solar PV, deep cycle batteries, and the electro-mechanical parts of SHP technology, wind boilers, and some turbines.

The act goes further, requiring contractors, sub-contractors, and licensees involved in renewable energy to include local content in all their related activities.

If widely enacted across the continent, similar local content rules can work hand-in-hand with training efforts to ensure Africans benefit from renewable energy development — through employment and the growth of their economies.

We are seeing promising movement in the effort to address Africa's skills gap, but we need many more programs, and we need them now. African countries and energy industry stakeholders should be doing everything possible to support these efforts, so Africans don't miss out on renewable energy industry opportunities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Read moreBuilding Capacity for Africa’s Renewables Sector

Allianz Assistance Responds to Surging Demand for Travel Insurance Amidst Global Uncertainty

Location: MyPR

In light of the significant increase in consumer interest in travel insurance, which has surpassed pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels, Allianz Assistance is proud to announce enhanced measures to meet the evolving needs of travelers. This surge in demand is largely attributed to the unpredictable nature of current global travel, marked by frequent cancellations, medical emergencies, and …

Read moreAllianz Assistance Responds to Surging Demand for Travel Insurance Amidst Global Uncertainty

Evictions: What You Need To Know If You’re A Landlord

Location: MyPR

In South Africa, the process of evicting a tenant has become highly regulated. On top of the legal ramifications, there’s also the human element to consider in the current economic climate. The best option for avoiding eviction hassles for landlords is to find the right tenant from the start. Property professionals weigh in. Stringent Vetting: …

Read moreEvictions: What You Need To Know If You’re A Landlord

African Development Bank approves $300 million for energy governance and climate resilience

Location: News

African Development Bank Group (AfDB)
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The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $300 million loan to South Africa to implement its Energy Governance and Climate Resilience Programme.

The Programme prepared in collaboration with other development partners including the World Bank and KfW Development Bank (KfW), will help advance South Africa's energy transition.

It will spur economic growth by furthering structural reforms to restore energy security, promote private sector participation in the electricity market and enhance the operational efficiency of the national power utility Eskom in line with South Africa's Energy Action Plan and the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET IP) 2023–2027.

The Programme will accelerate mitigation and adaptation efforts by promoting renewable energy generation and shifting businesses to low-carbon activities, resulting in lowering the carbon footprint of the South African economy and improving financing for green projects. These expected outcomes align with South Africa's updated Nationally Determined Contribution and the country's Long-term Low-Emissions Development Strategy.

It will ensure the security and affordability of energy for families and small businesses. It will enable the government to increase budget allocations to connect electricity to poor households and establish a mechanism to encourage families and micro- and medium-sized businesses to invest in renewable energy.

The reform priorities discussed with the Government are designed to complement and create synergies with existing support from the African Development Bank and other development finance institutions for the Just Energy Transition.

Through a $629 800 (470 000 UA) grant with co-financing from the Climate Insurance Fund, the Bank will provide support to ensure affected communities are not left behind, crowd in more women as decision-makers and support young entrepreneurs, especially women, to build skills and create jobs for the green economy.

South Africa's country's Energy Governance and Climate Resilience Programme aligns with the African Development Bank's ‘High 5' strategic priorities, especially "Light up and Power Africa", "Industrialise Africa", and "Improve the quality of life for the people of Africa".

Welcoming the operation, Mrs Leila Mokaddem, Director General for Southern Africa, noted the Bank's long-term support to South Africa's energy sector. Energy has the largest share of the Bank's portfolio at 43.4%. The programme complements this support and aligns with the recently approved Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for South Africa, which recognizes the centrality of Energy reforms to achieve economic growth and improve business confidence.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Editor's note: A previous version of this press release issued 31 October 2023, included references to potential contribution from the Government of Canada. This has been removed.

Media Contact:
Mansour Diouf
Communication and External Relations Department
Email: media@afdb.org

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org.

Read moreAfrican Development Bank approves $300 million for energy governance and climate resilience

Seeds for a better 2024 believe been sown – President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Seeds for a better 2024 have been sown – President Ramaphosa

Although South Africa continues to face challenges from various quarters, the ground work for a better 2024 has been laid.

This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa who addressed the nation through his weekly newsletter.

The President acknowledged that 2023 has been a testing year for the country – with intense load shedding, Transnet’s challenges and a sluggish economy being just some of the worst challenges faced.

“Our economy has been weighed down by international events, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and instability in the global economy. Like many across the world, South Africans have faced a substantial rise in the cost of our living. Our post-COVID recovery has been held back by continuing load shedding and inefficiency at our ports and railways.

“Yet, even in these circumstances, companies have continued to invest in our economy. At the fifth South Africa Investment Conference earlier this year, we surpassed our target for new investment commitments over five years. Our economy has grown, albeit too slowly and far below its potential. The number of people in employment has returned to pre-COVID levels, but jobs are still not being created fast enough to reduce levels of our unemployment,” he said.

President Ramaphosa conceded that the electricity crisis is “currently the main threat to our country’s progress”.

However, the work of the Energy Action Plan – launched in July 2022 – is beginning to show results, “giving us greater confidence that we will bring load shedding to an end”.

“While we experienced some of the worst load shedding ever in the first few months of the year, there has been a measurable and steady decline in the severity of load shedding over the last few months.

“Although electricity supply is still not stable, as we experienced in the last few weeks, the overall trend is towards less severe load shedding. Damaged units at the Kusile power station have been returned to service ahead of schedule and plant maintenance has received close attention.

“What gives us hope for even further improvements is the progress that has been made in bringing new electricity generation online. Regulatory reforms we have initiated have enabled a massive increase in private investment in electricity generation, with over 12 000 MW of confirmed projects in development. Following the introduction of tax incentives and financing mechanisms, the amount of installed rooftop solar has more than doubled to over 4 500 MW in the last year,” he said.

Tackling challenges

President Ramaphosa listed several interventions and measures that have been taken to address the country’s challenges including:

  • Government working closely with Transnet, industry and other social partners to relieve congestion at ports and increase the volumes of freight being carried on key rail corridors
  • Significant infrastructure projects in areas including social housing, road construction, rural bridges and dams which contribute to greater economic activity and provide much-needed infrastructure for economic growth and the needs of citizens
  • Undertaking reforms in other areas to improve the competitiveness of the economy in areas such as proceeding with the digital migration of broadcasting service to free up broadband spectrum and reduce the cost of data
  • The continuation of the special Social Relief of Distress grant introduced during COVID-19 which has kept millions of people out of poverty

On employment, President Ramaphosa said the Presidential Employment Stimulus has created work and livelihood opportunities for some 1.2 million people.

He added that breakthroughs have been made in combatting crime with governance improvements also recorded.

“The SAPS’ economic infrastructure task teams have made important breakthroughs and arrests for illegal mining, cash-in-transit hikes, cable theft, drug smuggling and similar crimes. We have recruited and trained thousands of new police personnel to further strengthen the fight against crime.

“We are implementing legislation to build a more professional, ethical and capable public service. There has been important progress in other areas, including towards the introduction of a National Health Insurance to ensure greater equity in the provision of health care,” he said.

The President said that while “times are still tough” much progress has been made but there is “still some way to go”.

“What is most important is that we have done much of the ground work needed to put our economy on a path of faster growth and job creation. By working together, by staying the course, we have used the last year to lay the basis for a better 2024.

“On Friday this week, we will mark a special public holiday to celebrate the historic victory of the Springboks in the Rugby World Cup. Their victory, alongside many other achievements by South Africans on the global stage, is a reminder of our country’s tremendous strengths and the promise that it holds.

“Let us come together on Friday to remind ourselves of everything that we love about South Africa. Let it be a day of hope, celebration and unity. I wish all South Africans a safe, peaceful and restful festive season as we all prepare for a successful new year,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 12/12/2023 - 11:14

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Read moreSeeds for a better 2024 believe been sown – President Ramaphosa

Navigating the World of Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide

Location: MyPR

In today’s ever-evolving world, understanding and selecting the right insurance coverage is crucial for both individuals and businesses. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify various insurance options, helping you make informed decisions for your financial security and peace of mind.   Business Protection Businesses face unique risks that require specialized coverage. Short-Term Commercial Protection offers …

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Understanding Storage Facilities

Location: MyPR

Storage facilities offer space, typically in the form of storage units, where individuals or businesses can store their belongings. These facilities vary in size, type, and the amenities they offer, catering to a wide range of storage needs. Types of Storage Units: Self-Storage Units: These are the most common type, offering a range of unit …

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The Landscape of Storage Units in Johannesburg

Location: MyPR

Johannesburg’s diverse and dynamic nature is reflected in its storage unit offerings. From basic self-storage units in the suburbs to more sophisticated, climate-controlled facilities in the business districts, there’s a solution for every need. These facilities cater to a wide range of clients, including individuals, families, students, and businesses. Key Features to Look For: Security: …

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Understanding Investment Property

Location: MyPR

What is Investment Property? Investment property, often referred to as investment properties in the real estate market, is real estate purchased with the intention of earning a return on the investment either through rental income, future resale, or both. Unlike a primary residence, it’s acquired primarily for income-generating purposes. The Benefits of Investment Property 1. …

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SA to celebrate Universal Health Coverage Day

Location: News

SA to celebrate Universal Health Coverage Day

South Africa will on Tuesday, 12 December, join the global community in celecrating the progress made towards health for all. 

According to the Department of Health, government will also observe the day by raising awareness of the necessity for resilient, equitable, and robust healthcare systems to achieve the Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

The Department of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) South Africa and other health sector stakeholders, will host a seminar to reinvigorate pledges to accelerate UHC efforts in South Africa.

The 2023 UHC Day theme is ‘Health for All: Time to Act’. 

“The theme emphasises the need for immediate and tangible steps to accelerate progress towards UHC, ahead of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 deadline.”

The seminar will be attended by 300 delegates from different stakeholders in the health sector and the Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, is expected to deliver a keynote address. 

The event comes after the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) adopted the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill on 6 December 2023, a turning point for the country’s journey to achieve equal access to quality and affordable health care for all.

Phaahla will later in the day join the Health Ombud, Professor Taole Mokoena, during a media briefing to release findings of the investigation reports emanating from complaints lodged against the Eastern Cape Department of Health, Motherwell NU 11 Clinic. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Mon, 12/11/2023 - 13:30

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Read moreSA to celebrate Universal Health Coverage Day

SAMATU commends adoption of NHI Bill

Location: News

SAMATU commends adoption of NHI Bill

The South African Medical Association Trade Union (SAMATU) says the adoption of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill represents a monumental achievement in South Africa's journey towards accomplishing universal health coverage.

“This milestone signifies that the nation realises the importance of universal health coverage as a means of addressing the inequalities that exist in the current healthcare system,” said SAMATU General Secretary, Dr Cedric Sihlangu.

The union commended the Ministry of Health for the significant strides made in the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill, which was passed by the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, in Cape Town, on Wednesday.

The SAMATU noted with great satisfaction the Ministry's inclusive and comprehensive approach, particularly through robust stakeholder engagements, transparent communication, and a well-considered phased implementation strategy. 

Sihlangu said SAMATU views these efforts as “key components for the successful execution of this critical healthcare reform.”

“SAMATU recognises and supports the Ministry's emphasis on a rational, structured, and phased approach to the implementation of the NHI. The acknowledgement of the role of transitional arrangements and the impeding proclamation of specific sections of the Act as law are crucial elements in realising the transformative impact of the NHI. 

“We understand the intricacies involved in implementing such a fundamental reform and appreciate the Ministry's foresight in ascertaining that the effectiveness of the Act's provisions is undeniably linked to the subsequent introduction of accompanying regulations, directives, and operational procedures,” Sihlangu said.

Sihlangu’s comments come as Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, has described the adoption of the bill as a historic and important milestone. 

According to Phaahla, the Ministry has since developed and adopted a comprehensive approach to stakeholder engagement to ensure diverse perspectives are considered as the country forges ahead with implementing NHI. 

“Regarding the next key steps, we look forward to the Bill being forwarded to the President for consideration and promulgation. Once it receives Presidential assent, the Bill will become an Act of Parliament, creating a statutory mandate for the Minister and the National Department of Health,” Phaahla said on Wednesday.

Sihlangu added that the Constitutional provision empowering the President to set dates for the effectiveness of various provisions within the Act is recognised, and SAMATU is confident in the Ministry's commitment to navigate through these processes with due diligence and steadfast focus on the public interest. 

“SAMATU stands ready to offer unwavering support and collaborate with all stakeholders involved in the NHI implementation processes. As a union that represents doctors, we are committed to provide valuable insights and engage constructively to ensure the realisation of a healthcare system that guarantees equitable access to quality healthcare for all South Africans.

“As we move forward, SAMATU reaffirms its commitment to advocating for the best interests of healthcare professionals and the public. We eagerly anticipate the successful realisation of the NHI objectives for the benefit of all citizens,” Sihlangu said. 

About the NHI

On 12 June 2023, the National Assembly (NA) passed the National Health Insurance Bill.

The NHI Bill seeks to provide universal access to health care services in the country in accordance with the National Health Insurance White Paper and the Constitution of South Africa.

The Bill envisages the establishment of a National Health Insurance Fund and sets out its powers, functions and governance structures. The fund will purchase health care services for all users who are registered with it.

The Bill will also create mechanisms for the equitable, effective and efficient utilisation of the resources of the fund to meet the health needs of users and preclude or limit undesirable, unethical and unlawful practices in relation to the fund. It further seeks to address barriers to access.

The NHI Bill was initially tabled in Parliament and introduced to the Portfolio Committee on Health on 8 August 2019 for processing.

Click here for "All you need to know" on the NHI. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 07:54

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Caution is key for pedestrian safety during power outages

Location: MyPR

Pedestrian safety is a major cause for concern in South Africa, with between 35-40% of road fatalities being pedestrian deaths. Motorists need to be hyper-vigilant while driving during loadshedding to avoid adding to this statistic. “Power outages could affect important road safety features such as street and traffic lights. This makes it extremely difficult for …

Read moreCaution is key for pedestrian safety during power outages

Adoption of NHI Bill by NCOP “historic” – says Health Minister

Location: News

Adoption of NHI Bill by NCOP "historic" - says Health Minister

Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, has described the adoption of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill by the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) as a historic and important milestone. 

The NCOP passed the NHI Bill in Parliament in Cape Town on Wednesday with backing from all provinces, except the Western Cape. 

“Today marks another important milestone on the journey by the country to realise Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to ensure universal access to quality and affordable healthcare for all South Africans, as enshrined in the Constitution,” Phaahla said on Wednesday. 

Click here for "All you need to know" on the NHI.

Although there are still other processes to be followed before the Bill is signed into law, the Ministry of Health said it was pleased with the progress made so far.   

“This is a landmark moment for our country and specifically for our health system as we move towards realising Universal Health Coverage through the phased-approached implementation of NHI as a mechanism to ensure equitable access to quality healthcare for all citizens,” the Minister said.

He said he is confident that with the support of all stakeholders, government will create a healthcare system that is fair, efficient and accessible to all.

Phaahla believes the provisions outlined in the NHI Bill represent a comprehensive and transformative approach to healthcare delivery in South Africa. 

“It is founded on the principle that every South African, regardless of their socio-economic status, should have access to a comprehensive set of health services without facing any financial barriers.” 

Reflecting on the positive outcome of the NCOP vote, Phaahla said it was crucial to remember the significant strides made in advancing the necessary policy and legislative frameworks to support the implementation of NHI. 

“There have been positive and negative experiences in our taxing journey for us to reach this point. The journey in the process of the NHI Bill has not been without challenges,” he admitted. 

These, he said, include financial considerations, workforce capacity, and the integration of existing, in some instances parallel, healthcare systems. 

“These are issues that we must continue to collectively work together, to find the most practical solutions, to effectively and efficiently meet the health needs of our people.”

Meanwhile, he said the State remains committed to addressing these challenges through strategic planning, collaboration with stakeholders, and ongoing evaluation of the implementation processes.

“We recognise and appreciate the role that proactive stakeholder engagement plays in implementing such an important policy and legislative reform.”

According to Phaahla, the Ministry has since developed and adopted a comprehensive approach to stakeholder engagement to ensure diverse perspectives are considered as the country forges ahead with implementing NHI. 

“Regarding the next key steps, we look forward to the Bill being forwarded to the President for consideration and promulgation. Once it receives Presidential assent, the Bill will become an Act of Parliament, creating a statutory mandate for the Minister and the National Department of Health.”

This will, the Minister said, enable key institutional and organisational structures, such as the NHI Fund, to be formally established in line with the provisions of the NHI Act. 

“However, it is important for all stakeholders and the general public to note that this does not mean the provisions of the NHI Act, once promulgated, will all be implemented once-off without due consideration of the key requirements for transitional arrangements. 

“Our intention has always been to have a rational, structured and phased approach to implementation. Without the accompanying regulations, directives, and operational procedures, the transformative impact of the Act cannot be realised,” he explained. 

The Constitution empowers the President to set different dates for the effectiveness of various provisions within the Act. 

According to the Minister, the department will prepare detailed regulations, covering all aspects of the process. 

“Accordingly, the Minister will publish these regulations for public comment, encouraging transparency and inclusivity in shaping the governance of the NHI Fund and its enabling structures. 

“Once regulations are finalised, the Minister and the department will proceed with the establishment of the NHI Fund, a process expected to take between six and 12 months post-proclamation of the Act, with subsequent phases involving additional regulations and implementation steps.”

Ideal Clinic programme

As part of preparations for the rollout of the NHI, government has, over the past years, undertaken the Ideal Clinic programme, amongst other initiatives.  An Ideal Clinic is defined as a clinic with good infrastructure, adequate staff, adequate medicine and supplies, good administrative processes, and sufficient adequate bulk supplies.

It uses applicable clinical policies, protocols and guidelines, and it harnesses partner and stakeholder support. An Ideal Clinic also collaborates with other government departments, the private sector and non-governmental organisations to address the social determinants of health.

Integrated Clinical Services Management are a key focus within an Ideal Clinic. The purpose of Integrated Clinical Services Management is to respond to the growing burden of chronic diseases in South Africa in an efficient and cost effective manner.

The Ideal Clinic programme was started by South Africa in July 2013 as a way of systematically improving the quality of care provided in Primary Health Care facilities. 

According to the Health Department's 2021/2022 Annual Report, there are 1 928 (55%) primary health care facilities that have attained ideal status. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 12/07/2023 - 11:08

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FORBES AFRICA’s 2023 Person of the Year

Location: News
Afreximbank

The President of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), Prof. Benedict Oramah, today in Cairo received the FORBES AFRICA magazine 2023 Person of The Year award.

At a well-attended award ceremony, which also included the unveiling of the cover for FORBES AFRICA's December 2023/January 2024 edition featuring Prof. Oramah as Cover personality, Dr. Rakesh Wahi, FORBES AFRICA Founder and Publisher, and Roberta Naicker, the Managing Director, said that the award recognised the stellar accomplishments of leading Africans contributing to the development of the continent.

“With a career spanning three decades at Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Oramah is a true pan-Africanist,” said Renuka Methil, Managing Editor of FORBES AFRICA. “In our almost hour-long interview Prof. Oramah's stellar track record, coupled with his unbridled enthusiasm, passion, and contribution to the economic development of Africa shone through.”

“Amongst many initiatives under his visionary leadership, Afreximbank launched the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) which will be a historic project for cross-border payments in local African currencies. He is a resilient risk-taker and articulated so well what a new united Africa should, and would, look like,” added Ms Renuka Methil.

Nominations for FORBES AFRICA Person of The Year are submitted by members of the magazine's editorial and research teams, including journalists from its bureaus across Africa, and a winner is selected after an Africa-wide review of the prominent contributors to the continent. Prof. Oramah's name was shortlisted and unanimously adjudged the winner for 2023.

With the award, Prof. Oramah joins a prestigious list of high achievers who had previously received the award, including Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria; Dr. James Mwangi, CEO, Equity Group; Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President, African Development Bank; Aliko Dangote, CEO, Dangote Group; Mohammed Dewji, President, MeTL Group; and Thuli Madonsela, former Public Protector of South Africa.

On 18 November, President Oramah also received the Zik Prize in Professional Leadership at an event in Lagos, Nigeria. He is also the recipient of numerous other awards for his contributions to the development and promotion of trade in Africa, and for the many initiatives he has championed to drive intra-African trade.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

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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, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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