We Are All Responsible for Gauteng’s Water Problems
Government, business and residents can all do their share to ensure a sustainable water supply
Johannesburg
Joburg water supply expected to be fully restored in time for Christmas
Joburg water supply expected to be fully restored in time for Christmas
Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero has moved to assure city residents that water supply will be restored to all areas “by Christmas”.
This after planned and pre-announced water infrastructure maintenance conducted over the weekend left the residents of Johannesburg without water supply for some 86 hours.
However, many households were still without water supply by Wednesday afternoon.
Addressing the media on the sidelines of a walkabout of the Honeydew Reservoir and Tower in Roodepoort on Wednesday morning, Morero said the Council was happy that the area was done.
"We are going to other areas to check them and make sure all of them are done and have water supply. But we can give a commitment to all the residents of Johannesburg that they will have water; all of them by Christmas. Others by tomorrow [with] some areas the water levels will be high.
“So hopefully by Friday, all those areas that were affected by maintenance will have water. We are asking for residents to continue exercising a bit of patience. We are almost at the last mile and the water will be there,” Morero said.
The mayor explained that the maintenance and upgrades to the system could not be postponed.
“[It is] critical maintenance that has to be done. We thought, as Joburg Water, we would ask them to postpone, but it was critical that this intervention happens, and it happens now. You would know that to a large extent, our numbers go down in Johannesburg as people start travelling out of the city, so we think it was the best period to do so.
“We also aimed that by [Christmas Day] all maintenance programmes would have been completed and people would have water. We are also trying to attract people to come and visit Johannesburg and spend their Christmas in Johannesburg and everybody would want to be in a place that has constant water supply,” Morero said.
Johannesburg Water reiterated the mayor’s call for patience, as the system begins to recover.
In a statement posted on X, previously known as Twitter, Johannesburg Water noted that following the maintenance performed by Rand Water…the water systems in Johannesburg are showing a gradual improvement in their overall performance.
“However, it is important to note that the reservoir systems of Rand Water need to recover fully before Johannesburg Water reservoirs and towers can realise the full effects of this recovery.
“The Johannesburg Water network…is exhibiting early signs of recovery, resulting in water being supplied to the network. This development accounts for the varying water pressure experienced in certain areas,” the statement reads.
The entity also explained that it is important to “preserve the current systems in a reasonable status” and reminded residents to use water with care.
“This requires Johannesburg Water to expedite repairs, respond to closure of bursts and leaks to contain physical losses,” Johannesburg Water said.
Johannesburg Water also urged those who are now receiving water, to use it sparingly and observe level 1 water restrictions which are currently in place.
“The combination of these efforts will prevent losing systems and aid in speeding up recovery,” the entity said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 12/18/2024 - 12:28
63 views
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Rand Water completes maintenance work at Eikenhof
Rand Water completes maintenance work at Eikenhof
Rand Water has completed maintenance work at its Eikenhof system and pumping has resumed at the station.
In a statement issued on Monday, Johannesburg Water said the system will start to recover progressively.
The water utility said water supply will not be noticed immediately but will gradually increase as the system builds capacity.
Low lying areas will recover first, with high lying areas recovering later.
“This recovery is also impacted by demand, so we need to observe water consumption. Pumping to Johannesburg Water affected towers will only take place once the respective reservoirs have recovered to sufficient levels and where operational intervention will be required, especially the removal of airlocks that prevent interruption in flow,” it explained.
Meanwhile, alternative water supply will continue to be provided for the next few days, as and when required - informed by how the systems recover.
The systems affected by maintenance at Eikenhof include Soweto, Randburg/Roodepoort, Commando (Brixton, Crosby and Hursthill), Lenasia, parts of Johannesburg central, including Eagles Nest, Crown Gardens, Aeroton and Alan Manor reservoirs.
Last week, the utility announced that it would conduct weekend planned infrastructure maintenance to enhance water systems at the Eikenhof and Zwartkoppies pump stations in Gauteng for the long-term benefit of its customers.
The maintenance project is designed to enhance system availability, reliability and efficiency.– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 12/17/2024 - 09:41
205 views
Rand Water completes maintenance work at Zwartkopjes
Rand Water completes maintenance work at Zwartkopjes
Rand Water has completed maintenance work at the Zwartkopjes pump station.
As of Sunday morning, pumping was at 100%.
In a statement, Johannesburg Water said its systems supplied from Zwartkopjes are also now recovering and building capacity.
These systems include: Parktown, Berea, Forrest Hill, Naturena, Orlando East, as well as the Hector Norris Pump Station, which supplies the Johannesburg CBD.
READ | Rand Water conducts weekend infrastructure maintenance
“The maintenance work at the Eikenhof pump station still continues, with completion projected for Monday, 16 December 2024. The maintenance at Eikenhof is impacting the following systems: Soweto, Randburg/Roodepoort, Commando (Brixton, Crosby and Hursthill), Lenasia, parts of Johannesburg central including Eagles Nest, Crown Gardens, Aeroton and Alan Manor reservoirs,” the water utility said.
Meanwhile, Johannesburg Water was granted emergency approval on Saturday for deploying additional roaming tankers to affected areas. Hospitals, clinics and old age homes continue being prioritised by ensuring that stationary water tankers placed in these critical areas are refilled as and when required.
“Complete recovery of all impacted systems takes between five and 14 days after the supply has been fully restored. Residents in low-lying areas will always recover quicker than those in high-lying areas.
“Johannesburg Water technical teams will also ensure to reconfigure systems to ensure water supply is fully restored. Updates will be provided on the progress of the Rand Water maintenance,” the water utility said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sun, 12/15/2024 - 14:07
68 views
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African Development Bank Celebrates 60 Years of Transformative Impact in Africa Southern Region
The African Development Bank (AfDB) (www.AfDB.org) proudly celebrates its Diamond Jubilee, marking 60 years of driving social and economic transformation across the African continent. The Southern African regional celebration, held in Johannesburg, brought together leaders, stakeholders, and partners to reflect on the institution's remarkable journey and its vision for a prosperous future.
Speaking at the event, Ms Leila Farah Mokaddem, Director General of the African Development Bank Group, highlighted the Bank's legacy of impact and transformation. "Sixty years ago, the African Development Bank was born out of a vision for a better Africa. Today, we celebrate not just numbers but the lives transformed and communities uplifted through our work," she said.
Key Achievements in Southern Africa
With an active portfolio of 226 projects worth USD 11 billion, the Bank's unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable growth and integration in Southern Africa is evident. Notable achievements include:
- SADC Sub-Regional Transport and Facilitation Project: A USD 231.3 million investment connecting Malawi and Mozambique, fostering trade, and mitigating regional fragility.
- Lesotho Highlands Water Project: A USD 2.1 billion initiative enhancing water transfer and hydroelectric power, essential for energy security.
- Kazungula Bridge Project: A USD 81.6 million investment strengthening connectivity between Zambia and Botswana along the North-South Corridor.
- Support for Transnet: A recent USD 1 billion sovereign-guaranteed corporate loan to aid South Africa's freight transport recovery and growth.
The celebration also underscored the deep partnership between the Bank and the Government of South Africa. Honourable Minister Enoch Godongwana shared his reflections on this enduring collaboration:
"The Government of the Republic of South Africa celebrates this significant milestone with the African Development Bank. Our region, and indeed South Africa, continues to enjoy a fruitful partnership with the Bank as we work together toward a shared goal of creating a better Africa for future generations.
As we gather to celebrate the many achievements of our collaborative efforts, we also recognise the need to continue advancing Africa's development agenda. This milestone energises us and strengthens our commitment to a shared vision for the next 60 years!"
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As the Bank embarks on its new Ten-Year Strategy, it prioritises integrated regional projects and climate resilience. Projects like the Lobito Rail Integrated Corridor, connecting Angola, DRC, and Zambia, promise to drive economic growth, agriculture value chains and renewable energy investments.
"Our work is far from over," Ms Mokaddem noted. "We invite all partners—governments, private sector actors, and international institutions—to join us in building a more inclusive and sustainable Africa. Together, we can address climate-related challenges and mobilise resources to ensure no one is left behind."
A Commitment to Africa's Development
Under the leadership of President Dr Akinwumi A. Adesina, the Bank has maintained its AAA rating and authorised capital of USD 318 billion, with nearly 2,000 staff serving all 54 African countries. The institution continues to champion its “High 5s” priorities: lighting up and powering Africa, feeding Africa, industrialising Africa, integrating Africa, and improving the quality of life for the people of Africa.
The 60th-anniversary celebrations are a testament to the Bank's resilience and the enduring support of its partners. The African Development Bank remains steadfast in its mission to transform lives and catalyse growth across the continent.
To view our anniversary video that encapsulates these achievements and our vision for the future, please click here: Anniversary Video (https://apo-opa.co/4g8Y2s3).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Media contact:
Natalie Naudé,
Communication and External Relations Department
n.naude@afdb.org
Join the Conversation:
#AfDB60 #AfricaRising #EconomicTransformation #MakingADifference
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is the premier multilateral financing institution dedicated to Africa's development. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NSF). The AfDB has a field presence in 41 African countries, with an external office in Japan, and contributes to the economic development and social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org
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Financial injustice a hindrance to Africa’s development
Financial injustice a hindrance to Africa’s development
The transformation of global financial institutions remains critical in addressing Africa’s mounting debt challenges, as they perpetuate financial injustice, says United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres.
“The G20 must lead in delivering financial justice. Financing is fundamental -- from inclusive economic growth, to supporting industrialisation and food security or addressing inequalities,” Guterres said during the closing session for the Joint Sherpa-Finance and Central Banks Deputies' Meeting, held in Johannesburg, on Wednesday.
Guterres explained that global financial systems "load" countries with debt service costs, while denying them access to sufficient low-cost financing to fight poverty, inequality and hunger and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to the UN, in 2022, public debt in Africa reached USD 1.8 trillion.
“Developing countries must be represented fairly in their governance. These institutions must also protect economies, particularly from global shocks. It is time to mend the global safety nets that were discovered during the COVID-19 pandemic that they were no longer fit for purpose.
“This continent’s potential is without question. Africa is home to a young and growing population, rich cultural and natural diversity, and a tremendous entrepreneurial spirit. But this enormous potential continues to be held back by injustices that are deeply rooted in the history of colonialism.
“Injustice in worsening climate chaos - which Africans did virtually nothing to cause - that fuels floods, storms, hunger and deadly droughts. I stand side-by-side with President Ramaphosa and the people of Africa in this fight for justice on all fronts. Africa needs financial justice,” Guterres said.
In September, world leaders adopted the Pact for the Future, which includes commitments for ambitious reforms to make the international financial architecture representative of today’s global economy and put the needs of developing countries front and centre.
The pact covers a broad range of issues including peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, digital cooperation, human rights, gender, youth and future generations, and the transformation of global governance.
“It calls for action to move forward with an SDG Stimulus… to substantially increase the lending capacity of Multilateral Development Banks to make them bigger, bolder and better to support developing countries.
“... And to mobilise more international and domestic resources, public and private, for vital investments. Last week I appointed a group of leading experts to galvanize international support for action on debt, and I’m delighted that Trevor Manuel will be part of this important work,” he said.
As part of the work for South Africa’s G20 Presidency, Guterres participated in the first series of the more than 130 meetings that will precede the G20 Summit in 2025.
On 1 December 2024, South Africa assumed the Presidency of the G20, which comprises many of the world's largest developing and developed economies.
The G20 was established to tackle pressing global economic and financial issues. Together, G20 members account for around 85% of global gross domestic product (GDP) and 75% of international trade.
The G20 comprises 19 countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and United States and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.
The grouping therefore plays a critical role in influencing global policy making and fostering global economic stability.
South Africa's G20 Presidency is the fourth consecutive emerging market Presidency, and it is also the first African Presidency, followed by the admission of the African Union (AU) as the second permanent African member. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 08:51
211 views
G20 Africa Expert Panel to support Finance Track
G20 Africa Expert Panel to support Finance Track
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana says a G20 Africa Expert Panel will be established to support the work of the G20 Finance Track.
He was speaking during the first day of the G20 Finance and Central Banks Deputies’ Meeting, held in Johannesburg, on Wednesday.
The Minister explained that the panel will consist of leading African economic, development and finance experts from the public sector, think tanks, academia and international financial institutions.
“We intend to use our Presidency to advance an African agenda. To further this agenda and ensure that we strengthen the manner in which the G20 respond to the social and economic needs of our continent, we intend to establish a G20 Africa Expert Panel to support the G20 Finance Track.
“One of the areas we will request the G20 Africa Expert Panel to advise us on is how we can ensure that the various African initiatives, including the compact with Africa, can be strengthened to the benefit of the continent,” Godongwana said.
On the need to reform the international financial architecture, the Minister said focus will now be on implementation on the agreement reached in the previous G20 Summit held in Brazil, last month.
The agreement – included in the G20 Rio de Janeiro Leaders’ Declaration – states that the group of countries will accelerate the reform of the international financial architecture “so that it can meet the urgent challenges of sustainable development, climate change and efforts to eradicate poverty”.
“The G20 Roadmap towards Better, Bigger and More Efficient [Multilateral Development Banks] was a milestone achievement under Brazil’s Presidency. Now the focus turns to implementation and monitoring.
“The discussions under South Africa's G20 Presidency will take place alongside the 5th Finance in Common Summit that will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre… from 26 to 28 February 2025, as well as the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development in Spain in June 2025.
“Both these events provide a critical opportunity for countries to commit to closing the development financing gap and investing in the [Sustainable Development Goals],” Godongwana said.
Turning to debt sustainability, Godongwana said challenges in this area require a “comprehensive approach”.
“We will also keep our focus on enhancing debt sustainability, through improving the implementation of the Common Framework. We are aware that there are countries whose debt is sustainable, but which are facing acute liquidity challenges, which, if not addressed, could result in solvency challenges.
“These challenges necessitate a comprehensive approach towards debt sustainability, which means there is no one size fits all approach.
“It also forces us to acknowledge that debt sustainability cannot be solved through the Common Framework alone but must be solved through a focus on putting in place the measures for countries to make the right investments and undertake appropriate reforms to support sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” he said.
The Minister said although challenges are “formidable”, he expressed confidence that the G20 has the “will, capacity and determination to address them” if countries work together.
“In 2025 let us execute our work programme with urgency, ambition and confidence. Let us work together to ensure strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth.
“And through the G20 Presidency for 2025, and propelled by your support, let us go even further as the G20, by going together,” Godongwana concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 12/12/2024 - 09:48
252 views
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G20 urged to deliver on climate justice
G20 urged to deliver on climate justice
With developing nations being considered the most vulnerable to climate change, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres says the Group of Twenty (G20) countries must lead in delivering climate justice.
Addressing the closing session for the Joint Sherpa-Finance and Central Banks Deputies' Meeting, Guterres stressed that many vulnerable countries are being forced to respond to a crisis they did not create.
“Meanwhile, they lack the necessary support to seize the benefits of clean energy to spur prosperity and eliminate poverty. We need developed countries supporting developing countries with adequate, affordable and accessible finance and technology, and through meaningful contribution to the loss and damage fund by doubling adaptation finance next year as promised.
“[Climate justice can be delivered] by forging new partnerships like the Just Energy Transition Partnership that South Africa has pioneered to pave the way to a renewable future,” the Secretary-General said on Wednesday in Johannesburg.
On 1 December 2024, South Africa assumed the Presidency of the G20, which comprises many of the world's largest developing and developed economies.
As part of the work for the G20 Presidency, South Africa has commenced with the first series of the more than 130 meetings that will precede the G20 Summit in 2025.
“G20 countries must lead the way in line with the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities but recognise that every G20 country has to do more in the reduction of emissions. Next year, every government must deliver new economic plans in line with limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees.
“These new plans must cover all emissions in the whole economy, accelerate a just fossil fuel phase out and contribute to the energy transition goals agreed to at COP28. We must also ensure that Africa’s critical minerals that can power the renewable future worldwide benefit Africans first and most. We cannot repeat the mistakes of the past,” he said.
Guterres further called on the G20 to lead on technological justice.
“From digital technology to artificial intelligence, the developing world must access and benefit from the technological revolution.
“We need the G20 to support developing countries as they invest in the digital driven systems and solutions that their people need to boost prosperity to create jobs and drive sustainable development,” he said.
South Africa's G20 Presidency is the fourth consecutive emerging market Presidency, and it is also the first African Presidency, followed by the admission of the African Union (AU) as the second permanent African member.
The G20 was established to tackle pressing global economic and financial issues. Together, G20 members account for around 85% of global GDP and 75% of international trade.
The G20 comprises 19 countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and United States and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.
The grouping therefore plays a critical role in influencing global policy making and fostering global economic stability. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 12/11/2024 - 15:14
90 views
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens Strengthens u.s. – SA Ties During Groundbreaking Official Visit
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens concluded a landmark official visit to South Africa, accompanied by a delegation of 35 Atlantan political, business, and community leaders. The December 4-11 visit marked a significant milestone in Atlanta Phambili—a subnational diplomacy initiative centered on deepening U.S.-South Africa partnership through the City of Atlanta– and reaffirmed the shared commitment to advancing economic, cultural, and educational collaboration between the two nations.
“This trip was a celebration of the enduring bonds between Atlanta and South Africa, built on shared histories and common goals,” said Mayor Dickens. “Atlanta Phambili embodies our joint vision for progress and collaboration, creating opportunities for both our citizens and economies.”
The visit followed the launch of Atlanta Phambili in March 2024 with a trade and investment roadshow hosted in Atlanta, featuring senior South African business executives and government officials.
South Africa and Atlanta United in Progress
The South African government, in partnership with Standard Bank, BrandSA, Amazon, and the American Chamber of Commerce in South Africa, hosted a robust program focused on trade and investment, science and innovation, and the creative economy. This was led by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC), the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC), the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the Gauteng and Western Cape provincial governments, and the cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town.
“The South African government's partnership on the Atlanta Phambili initiative is a testament to the strength of our bilateral ties and the shared potential of our cities to drive innovation, inclusion, and prosperity,” said U.S. Ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety, II.
Visit Milestones
Atlanta Phambili Pledge
The visit kicked off with the unveiling of the Atlanta Phambili Pledge on December 5 at the Standard Bank Trade and Investment Seminar in Johannesburg. This open call to action seeks to mobilize stakeholders across both nations to deepen collaboration in trade, investment, and entrepreneurship. The pledge reflects Atlanta's and South Africa's shared commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and creating opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Go Global Trade Expo: Strengthening Black-Owned Business Connections
On December 5, Ambassador Brigety announced a collaboration between the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Atlanta Black Chambers to support the Chambers' Go Global Trade Expo. The program will bring a delegation of Black-owned South African businesses to Atlanta in 2025, connecting them with the Chamber's extensive network and U.S. buyers.
Through this agreement, export-ready businesses will build connections with Atlanta-based platforms to foster trade and investment between South Africa and the United States.
FAME Week Africa 2025: Atlanta Announced as the Feature Destination
On December 9 in Cape Town, Mayor Dickens announced Atlanta will be the Feature Destination for FAME Week Africa 2025, the continent's premier gathering for professionals in film, television, music, fashion, and animation. This recognition highlights Atlanta's emergence as a global creative hub and its strong historic and Diaspora ties to Africa.
“Atlanta being recognized as the Feature Destination for FAME Week 2025 is an excellent fit,” said Mayor Dickens. “Our city is uniquely poised to satisfy the growing demand in the United States for African content and support production innovations.”
This honor also grants Atlanta a dedicated pavilion and events at FAME Week 2025, scheduled to take place in Cape Town from September 1-6, 2025.
Business-to-Business Engagements in Johannesburg and Cape Town
- Standard Bank Trade and Investment Seminar: This December 5 event convened leading South African and Atlanta-based companies, government officials, and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities for investment and trade.
- Wesgro Business Briefing: In Cape Town on December 9, the official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, Wesgro, hosted a vibrant networking event where Atlanta delegates met with South African exporters and investors, fostering connections that will drive future partnerships.
Empowering Entrepreneurs and Celebrating Culture
- A tour of the Mamelodi Business Hub on December 6 showcased collaboration with Georgia State University students supporting township entrepreneurs.
- Discussions with South African leaders and creatives at Freedom Park on December 6 emphasized the shared cultural and historical connections between South Africa and Atlanta.
- Visits to Amazon's African headquarters and The Wine Arc on December 9 and 10, respectively, highlighted e-commerce opportunities and Black-owned wine brands breaking into international markets.
- A tour of Nike's Shapa Center in Soweto on December 4 modeled how private investments in sports support community growth and development.
Strengthening Historic Ties
Atlanta Phambili builds on a historic relationship between South Africa and Atlanta, from collaboration between U.S. civil rights activists and members of the South African anti-Apartheid movement to Nelson Mandela's historic 1990 speech at Georgia Tech. This trip further cements Atlanta as a gateway for South African businesses to access U.S. markets and strengthens South Africa's position as a premier investment destination for Atlanta's private sector.
“Our visit reflects a robust partnership that will continue to grow as we move forward together,” said Mayor Dickens. “The commitment of the South African government and its people has been vital in shaping this initiative. I look forward to building on these foundations for years to come.”
Ambassador Brigety added “From trade and investment to culture, sports, and education, Atlanta and South Africa are charting a future defined by innovation, inclusion, and opportunity. The future economic partnership between Atlanta and South Africa is built to last and poised for growth.”
A Shared Vision for the Future
The U.S. Embassy in South Africa and the City of Atlanta extend their gratitude to the South African government and all participating partners for making this visit a success. Together, Atlanta and South Africa are moving forward—Phambili—toward an even brighter, shared future.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Embassy & Consulates in South Africa.
Over 13 000 spaza shops registration forms issued in Gauteng
Over 13 000 spaza shops registration forms issued in Gauteng
As the spaza shop registration deadline looms, a total of 13 616 registration forms have been issued to local and foreign owners across Gauteng since registration started on 15 November 2024.
This follows a directive issued by President Cyril Ramaphosa that all spaza shops and food-handling facilities must be registered with their respective municipalities within 21 days.
Giving an update on the progress made on spaza shop registrations at a media briefing in Johannesburg on Wednesday, Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC, Lebogang Maile, reported that as of 10 December, 13 616 spaza shops were issued with registration forms and of these, 1 916 have been returned.
Maile said some of the applications returned were incomplete and missing critical supporting documents.
“At present, 2 605 applications have been submitted by non-South African spaza shop owners based on data from the City of Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, West Rand District Municipality (comprising Merafong, Rand West City and Mogale City Local Municipalities), and the Sedibeng District Municipality (comprising Emfuleni, Midvaal and Lesedi Local Municipalities),” Maile said.
The current engagements with township commercial property owners have helped to improve the number of registrations.
“The registration process has been simplified to ensure that business owners are not consumed in red tape, while simultaneously ensuring that compliance is achieved. Additionally, three municipalities, including the City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane and City of Ekurhuleni, have digitised their application process, while other municipalities are in various stages of digitising the process.
“This is happening alongside the process of municipalities establishing by-laws on spaza shop ownership. Presently, municipalities are adopting a draft model standard by-law,” Maile said.
He noted that since the call to register spaza shops within 21 days, the Gauteng Provincial Government has identified and established registration centres across all five regions.
“A total of 85 registration centres were established, with their locations and required documentation for registration communicated using various media platforms including social media, commercial media, community media, as well as government communications platforms.
“Outreach programmes have also been put in place to accelerate registrations and information dissemination. All regions have initiated outreach programmes, with over 15 000 spaza shops reached by the programme,” Maile said.
Over 500 spaza shops closed for non-compliance
On spaza shops compliance, Maile reported that a total of 541 spaza shops have been closed due to non-compliance.
Non-compliant businesses include those without Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CICP) registration, which is a legal requirement for operating a business in South Africa.
“Other issues of non-compliance include a lack of certificates of acceptability or comment from Environmental Health and non-payment of operating licences that are obtained from municipalities. Businesses operating from unsafe premises and within a hazardous environment have also been closed for non-compliance,” Maile explained.
The MEC said due to incomplete documentation being provided by spaza shop owners, as of 8 December 2024, there has not been a reconciled figure on the total number of compliant and non-compliant spaza shops.
“Most of the outstanding documents from applicants include unapproved internal floor layout plans, approved building plans, consent use, as well as certificates of acceptance and fire safety. Business owners have been advised to acquire this documentation for further processing of their applications.
“Additionally, there are businesses operating from informal dwellings in areas that are not proclaimed. These must first await a directive from the Department of Human Settlements,” the MEC said.
Spaza shops owners have been urged to hand in their applications for registration before the deadline on Friday, 13 December 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 12/11/2024 - 14:17
95 views
Gauteng Government’s Buried Corruption Investigation
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Big investment needed to drive sustainable development
Big investment needed to drive sustainable development
National Treasury Director-General (DG), Dr Duncan Pieterse, has called for large scale and sustainable investments to ensure the global community meets its commitments to end poverty, protect the planet and build prosperous societies.
“Financing gaps for sustainable development are large and growing. The estimates by our international organisations indicate that around $4 trillion in additional investments is needed annually for developing countries,” Pieterse said on Wednesday in Johannesburg.
He was speaking during the two-day Group of Twenty (G20) Joint Sherpa and Finance Track meeting.
According to the United Nations (UN), the world may miss many of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets by 2030 due to the delay in development progress, which may even be reversed under the combined weight of climate disasters, conflict, economic downturn and the lingering aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Sustainable Development Goals are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and improve the lives and prospects of everyone, everywhere.
“To achieve the SDGs by the 2030 deadline, an urgent large scale and sustainable investments push is needed,” Pieterse said.
The DG said South Africa’s G20 Presidency will strongly focus on the challenges facing emerging markets and developing countries, especially those on the African continent.
“We will also focus our attention on policies and mechanisms that support sustainable development. Many developing countries, including those in Africa experience growth that is insufficient to reduce poverty, as well as tough financing conditions and high levels of public debt that crowd out resources or development spending
“During our Presidency, there will be a very strong focus on enhancing debt sustainability through a comprehensive approach, which will include... finding ways to improve debt structuring, supporting countries with liquidity challenges and encouraging the development of local currency markets to attract domestic savings and improve debt transparency,” Pieterse said.
South Africa will also continue to obtain borrower country perspectives on debt, including through an African outreach event, with broad participation of the borrower countries.
On 1 December 2024, South Africa assumed the Presidency of the G20 group of countries, which comprises many of the world's largest developing and developed economies.
“The global economy has been put to the test over the last four years, marked by an unprecedented pandemic, escalation in geopolitical conflict and extreme weather events that have disrupted supply chains.
“The latest assessment by the International Monetary Fund that global growth is expected to remain stable, yet underwhelming, remains a concern. Higher growth is essential to improve prosperity and living standards to reduce debt, and create policy space to tackle our spending pressures,” Pieterse said.
In 2025, South Africa’s G20 Presidency will focus on strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals, accelerating climate transition and boosting productivity growth.
This week's discussion under the South Africa G20 Presidency takes place ahead of two very important events -- the 5th Finance in Common Summit (FiCS), taking place in Cape Town in February 2025, and the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD), which will take place in Spain in June 2025.
“We see these events as very important opportunities to strengthen the development finance ecosystem, scale up and redirect financing to meet our global sustainable challenges, and bring impactful changes in relation to climate and biodiversity needs.
“As we prepare to submit our Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in 2025, it is clear that our very ambitious climate action goals cannot be achieved without unlocking a similarly ambitious set of climate instruments.
“The G20 must continue to play a leading role to address the critical issues of our age, so that we can achieve both global sustainable development and development that is inclusive, equitable and leaves no one behind,” Pieterse said.
South Africa's G20 Presidency is the fourth consecutive emerging market Presidency, and it is also the first African Presidency, followed by the admission of the African Union (AU) as the second permanent African member.
The G20 was established to tackle pressing global economic and financial issues. Together, G20 members account for around 85% of global GDP and 75% of international trade.
The G20 comprises 19 countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and United States and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.
The grouping therefore plays a critical role in influencing global policy making and fostering global economic stability. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Wed, 12/11/2024 - 11:19
231 views
Clarifying Boiler Water Treatment
Poor boiler water treatment is the primary cause of poor boiler performance, according to Chris Paterson, Managing Director of specialist operations and maintenance service provider to the steam and boiler sector, Associated Energy Services (AES). Not all water is created equal and there is a lot more to water treatment than ensuring that it appears …
Angry Residents Confront Johannesburg Water Officials
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South Africa Shines in Stellantis Student Awards
Adrielle Naidoo, daughter of Stellantis South Africa Collin Naidoo has won the coveted Sergio Marchione Award and notches up the family’s second consecutive year of recgnition in the Stellantis Student Awards. “It is initiatives such as this that provides incredible depth to Stellantis’ approach to sustainability,” said Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa, Mike Whitfield. …
Contractor appointed to repair equipment and provide clean linen at Bara
Contractor appointed to repair equipment and provide clean linen at Bara
The Gauteng Department of Health has appointed a service provider to repair the laundry equipment at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto, Johannesburg.
This is after nurses raised their concern about infection control and cleanliness, as pictures of dirty linen surfaced on social media recently.
“The Gauteng Department of Health would like to reassure the public that several measures continue to be implemented to ensure the provision of clean linen to patients at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital,” a statement issued by the department said.
The department said the facility’s laundry has ageing infrastructure, which requires an overhaul. Three tunnel washers are currently out of service, with only five driers operational in tunnel washer number two.
One out of the four ironers have been successfully repaired, while the original equipment manufacturer is in the process of repairing two other ironers.
“In the interim, hospital linens are being laundered at Dunswart Provincial Laundry on a daily basis to ensure a consistent supply of clean linen to patients,” the department said.
Meanwhile, 106 staff members have been deployed in the laundry section to boost capacity during the day and night shifts.
“Additionally, external two laundry service providers have also been appointed to further support these efforts. Already, two five-ton trucks have delivered clean linen over the weekend,” the department said.
The in-house laundry at the hospital is not only responsible for providing the linen for its 2 888 beds, but also services facilities including Carletonville and Bheki Mlangeni Hospitals, 33 community health centres in Soweto, emergency medical services, and the forensic pathology service.
“However, the department has put a solid plan in place to ensure that soiled linen can be replaced quickly at a much faster turnaround time by the 13th of December 2024.
“The department assures the public all is being done to restore laundry to better functionality as speedily as possible, and the health and comfort of our patients remain our key priority,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 12/10/2024 - 10:29
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