“Battered Woman Syndrome”: Law to Be Challenged
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Johannesburg
Bara’s burn unit gets a much-needed upgrade
Bara's burn unit gets a much-needed upgrade
The upgrading of the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) will go a long way in positioning the facility as one of the leading centres in Africa, focusing on the treatment of burns.
This is according to Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, who opened the new extended wing together with Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, and the Roy McAlpine Foundation.
The additional wing is expected to enhance critical care and specialist training.
Since its establishment 33 years ago, the burns unit at the hospital has admitted over 30 000 patients and performed more than 40 000 burn-related surgical procedures.
“The opening of this new wing is more than just an expansion of physical space; it represents a crucial step forward in our ability to provide lifesaving world-class care to the hundreds of patients who depend on the public health system.
“This centre of excellence will go a long way in ensuring that more patients, both adults and children, can be counted among those whose dignity was restored post severe burns,” explained Nkomo-Ralehoko.
According to the CHBAH Head of Burns Unit, Professor Adelin Muganza, the facility’s expansion includes 12 newly- equipped intensive care unit (ICU) beds and a new operating theatre to reduce delays in surgical procedures - a critical factor in treating severe burns.
The unit also boasts office space, a large outpatient service area ensuring that more patients receive timely follow-up care, and rehabilitation spaces for occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and recreational activities.
According to Muganza, all these are essential for the holistic recovery of burn victims, including a skin substitute laboratory to improve the training of specialists and patient outcomes through cutting-edge research.
The impact of this expansion is already being felt by patients such as 29-year-old Nontleko Sithole from George Goch in Johannesburg who suffered burns to her body and face.
She was admitted to the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit earlier this month after a devastating fire at her home, which sadly claimed her grandmother.
“I am impressed and happy with how the hospital treated my wounds and amazed about the progress I am making so far. I never thought I was going to recover so quickly, but now I am positive because of the work done on me by the healthcare workers,” she said.
Another patient, Bafana Alex Ntombela from Pimville, Soweto, was severely burned after collapsing onto a hotplate stove, causing significant injuries to the lower part of his body.
“I thought my life was over after seeing how badly I was burned. I underestimated Bara and its staff, but they surprised me with the treatment they gave me. They counselled me, and I have hope that I will recover. The progress of my healing is amazing.”
The facility is set to recruit additional specialists, medical officers, and nurses, further strengthening its capacity to meet the growing healthcare needs of the community.
This milestone underlines the GDoH’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and preparing for the National Health Insurance (NHI) by expanding and upgrading facilities to meet the increasing demand for healthcare services.
The facility will also significantly improve burns services not only in Gauteng but also across South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community region. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 10:23
363 views
Hollywoodbets Partners With CSA as Title Sponsor for the Professional Women’s League
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) is delighted to announce Hollywoodbets as the official title sponsor for the CSA Professional Women’s...
Proteas Women Set For T20I Showdown With Pakistan Ahead Of World Cup
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RTMC investigates cause of Limpopo bus crash
RTMC investigates cause of Limpopo bus crash
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is investigating the cause of a bus crash that claimed the lives of 10 people and left three others seriously injured in Limpopo.
The crash took place along the N1 in Makhado on Tuesday night at around 11:50 pm.
The bus driver, who was allegedly speeding, failed to safely navigate a traffic circle resulting in the bus overturning while traveling south bound from Zimbabwe to Johannesburg.
The deceased passengers are reportedly all foreign nationals.
“The RTMC expresses deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives in this incident and wishes a speedy recovery to those who are currently hospitalised with injuries,” the Road Traffic Management Corporation said in a statement.
The RTMC crash investigation team is on the scene gathering information to understand the circumstances leading to the crash. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 08/28/2024 - 11:43
126 views
Critical Minerals Africa Summit to Showcase Battery, Electric Vehicle (EV) Manufacturing Prospects
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Zambia – among the world's top mineral producers – are currently spearheading the implementation of a Transboundary Battery and Electric Vehicle (EV) Special Economic Zone (SEZ) (https://apo-opa.co/4g2yhK7). The development of SEZs dedicated exclusively to battery and EV production aims to unlock new foreign investment, as well as position both countries within the global automotive manufacturing space.
The upcoming Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) Summit will feature a Automotive and Batteries Focus panel, examining measures to establish Africa as a global hub for battery precursors, batteries and EVs, as well as exploring opportunities for Africa's critical minerals to support clean energy development. To date, most African automotive manufacturing takes place in South Africa, yet massive mineral wealth in Zambia and the DRC indicates the potential of these markets to become industrial hubs.
The Critical Minerals Africa 2024 summit on November 6 - 7 serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2024 conference (https://apo-opa.co/4fUGT5A) on November 4 - 8, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Increased cooperation among governments and international partners has been critical to positioning Africa's mineral producers as potential manufacturing partners. The DRC, which holds the world's largest cobalt reserves at 6 million metric tons out of the global 11 million metric tons, established the Congolese Battery Council in 2023 to facilitate investment across its mineral value chain. The country – also representing Africa's largest copper producer – signed an MOU with Zambia in March 2023 to fast-track the implementation of the Transboundary Battery and Electric Vehicle SEZ, seeking to add value to its raw cobalt and copper resources.
Zambia – Africa's second-largest copper producer – formed a task committee in 2023 to expedite the implementation of the SEZ and identified land to host the zone. The country has strengthened partnerships with global mining firms, including Ivanhoe Mines, Galileo Resources, Tertiary Minerals, First Quantum, Vedanta Resources, Jubilee Metals and Xtract Resources, to achieve its goal of producing three million tons of copper annually by 2030. The Zambian and DRC governments are also partnering with the World Bank to launch local platforms between May 2024 and 2026, aimed at identifying and assessing investment prospects across their respective EV and critical minerals value chain.
South Africa, which holds 80% of the world's platinum group metals (PGMs) reserves – crucial for EV and hydrogen vehicle production – currently leads Africa's EV market. Mining firm Isondo Precious Metals (https://apo-opa.co/3XlPHdy) plans to launch an advanced manufacturing facility for processing PGMs for EV applications in Johannesburg. Meanwhile, global automaker BMW, mining firm Anglo Platinum and energy company Sasol are piloting a fleet of hydrogen-fueled vehicles to advance smart mobility adoption in South Africa. CMA 2024 will host delegations from the DRC, Zambia, South Africa and other key industry stakeholders to discuss the latest developments shaping Africa's smart mobility and mining sectors.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.
What Is a Managed Service Provider?
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SIU Intervention Urged in City of Johannesburg
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Municipalities must be at “driving seat” of clean energy
Municipalities must be at "driving seat" of clean energy
Municipalities are at the centre of government’s efforts to move towards clean energy and fulfil the country’s commitment to global climate change.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was addressing the opening ceremony of the Municipal Just Energy Transition (JET) Conference held in Johannesburg on Monday.
The President highlighted that South Africa’s 257 metropolitan, district and local municipalities “own and operate approximately half of South Africa’s electricity distribution grid and facilitate universal access to electricity”.
“One hundred and sixty five municipalities are electricity service providers. Through the Integrated National Electrification Programme grant, municipalities are responsible for addressing the electrification backlog.
“Municipalities therefore need to be in the driving seat when it comes to providing clean, affordable energy to communities, businesses and industry,” the President highlighted.
WATCH |
In this regard, South Africa’s Cabinet approved the JET Investment Plan, which has a dedicated municipal portfolio roadmap with three areas of focus.
These are:
- Providing access to affordable clean electricity;
- Sustainable financing for electricity infrastructure, and
- Strengthening the capacity of municipalities to manage the transition.
On the first area of focus, the President said the recent promulgation of the Electricity Regulation Amendment “paves the way for a new, competitive electricity market.
“The reforms contained in the law must help to speed up decarbonisation. But more than that, they must result in a better deal for households and businesses.
“The national climate change effort must not come at a higher cost for electricity users. South African households, like many around the world, are battling with the rising cost of living, including the cost of energy.
“We must therefore ensure that the energy transition does not contribute to energy poverty. It must not deepen inequality,” President Ramaphosa insisted.
In terms of sustainable financing for electricity infrastructure, he said municipal grid system needs to be upgraded, modernised and extended.
“The energy generation of the future requires systems that are fundamentally different in terms of design, capability and operation.
“Smart metering will have to accommodate the increased penetration of renewable energy at different scales. It will need to facilitate wheeling and feed-in by small-scale embedded generation.
“Massive investment is needed to ensure optimal grid control, safety and energy storage. This investment will need to draw on both public and private sources of capital,” he said.
Turning to how the capacity of municipalities can be strengthened, President Ramaphosa said extensive training and upskilling of officials will be the order of the day.
“New systems will be required to identify human resource, technical capacity and other needs within municipalities, and plan and budget accordingly.
“Municipalities will need to adopt best practice when it comes to the design and implementation of programmes and projects,” he said.
The President told conference delegates that the country’s drive towards a lower carbon intensive economy does not only reside with government.
“A just energy transition is about promoting economic diversification, transformation and industrialisation in the renewable energy sector that empowers workers, marginalised communities and black businesses.
“The achievement of defined just energy transition outcomes at a municipal level requires supportive policies and leadership, good governance and a coordinated effort among all relevant institutions.
“As government, business, labour and civil society, let us deepen our collaboration to achieve an energy future that is secure and sustainable for all,” President Ramaphosa said.
READ | SA committed to meeting climate change undertakings
– SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 11:13
220 views
Johannesburg’s Shame
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No Justice for Babita as Official Is Allowed to Resign
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Gauteng’s Murray Park Library to get a new lease on life
Gauteng’s Murray Park Library to get a new lease on life
The Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA) has commenced with the construction of the long-awaited upgrades to the Murray Park Library, located in Malvern, Johannesburg.
The JDA has commenced with the construction on behalf of the City of Johannesburg's Community Development Department.
First opened in 1957, Murray Park Library has been a cornerstone of knowledge and community engagement for over six decades.
Recognising its importance as a hub for education and enrichment, the JDA spearheads a comprehensive redevelopment project to modernise and revitalise the beloved institution.
“The upgrade of Murray Park Library is part of the Inner City Eastern Gateway Urban Development Framework, reflecting the City's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and services for its residents.
Upon completion, the renovated library will serve as a beacon of learning and culture for Malvern and surrounding communities,” said the agency in a statement.
JDA Executive Manager for Project Implementation Siyabonga Genu said the agency is excited about the upgrades.
“This project underscores our commitment to creating inclusive spaces that foster lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, and community cohesion.
“Through thoughtful design and meticulous planning, we aim to deliver a modern, accessible library facility that will be a source of pride for generations to come," he said.
Key features of the upgrade
The upgrade project will be done in two phases, with phase one focusing on foundational elements and phase two concentrating on constructing the two-story library structure.
Phase 1, scheduled for implementation in the 2024/2025 financial year, encompasses critical groundwork such as site clearance, construction of retaining walls, and foundational preparations.
Phase 2 will see the construction of the state-of-the-art library facility, spanning approximately 2000m². The ground floor will feature a general library space, a study area for children, meeting rooms, study centres, and essential amenities.
The first floor will accommodate a teenage section, activity centre, e-learning area, and additional facilities. The exterior enhancements will include landscaping, paving, lighting, and parking facilities.
Moreover, the upgrade project emphasises sustainability and accessibility, with provisions for solar panels, upgraded power supply capacity, and facilities for persons with disabilities.
Community impact
According to the JDA, the upgraded Murray Park Library will serve as a dynamic community resource, offering world-class library and information services to residents of all ages.
From providing access to literature and educational resources to fostering a vibrant space for cultural exchange and lifelong learning, the new library will enrich the lives of a diverse population. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 09:57
143 views
Breetzke to Captain SA ‘A’ One-Day Squad Against Sri Lanka A
JOHANNESBURG: Dafabet Warriors batter Matthew Breetzke will lead South Africa A (SA ‘A) in the three-match one-day series against Sri...
Gautrain, PRASA collaborate to transport rugby fans
Gautrain, PRASA collaborate to transport rugby fans
In an effort to showcase Gauteng’s integrated urban transport, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and the Gautrain Management Agency (Gautrain) have teamed up to transport fans to this weekend’s Springboks and All Blacks test match.
“We are showcasing the fact that here in Gauteng, commuters can walk or take a bus or taxi to a PRASA or Gautrain Station, and board a train to get to the Emirates Park Stadium, via Ellis Park Train Station,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said on Sunday.
Rugby fans will be able to board the Gautrain and ride to Park Station, cross over to the revamped PRASA Park Station Mall, grab something to eat at any one of the food outlets, and then board the train to the game on Saturday, 31 August 2024.
“The train ride from Park Station in the Johannesburg CBD [central business district] to Ellis Park Station is three minutes. What we are doing for the game is to illustrate how different elements of public transport can and should work together,” Creecy said.
PRASA and the Gautrain Management Agency, working together with the City of Johannesburg and the Rugby Union at Emirates Park Stadium, decided to throw their weight behind this international event to ensure a hassle-free, safe transport solution for the fans who want to use the train.
The event is also supported by the Gauteng Provincial Government, as the host province.
Rugby fans will be able to board the Gautrain at any of the seven stations between Hatfield and Park Stations (Hatfield, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand, Marlboro, Sandton and Rosebank) or any of the five stations between OR Tambo International Airport and Park Stations (OR Tambo, Rhodesfield, Marlboro, Sandton, Rosebank) – of course changing trains at Sandton Station.
Emphasising the critical role that rail plays in the daily lives of South Africans, the Minister said the Department of Transport will forge closer links between provinces and municipalities to ensure that people can go to work or school, or a rugby or football match, using public transport.
“Our government, across the national, provincial and local spheres, must work together to design and build sustainable cities with integrated transport systems which will assist in growing our country’s economy and which is ultimately for the benefit of our citizens.
“The proposed expansion of the Gautrain network, further north and south, is a clear example of our intention to further integrate our public transport system to achieve sustainable cities that work for our people,” the Minister said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 08/26/2024 - 09:36
84 views
Understanding Ultra-Processed Foods
Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, delves into what ultra-processed foods are, their potential dangers, and the benefits of reducing their intake. “Ultra-processed foods are popular because they’re convenient, affordable, and often have a longer shelf life. This makes them especially appealing to people with busy lives or tight budgets,” says Murray …
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Four perish in Joburg building fire
Four perish in Joburg building fire
At least four people have died and three others have been injured in a building fire in the Johannesburg inner city.
The incident occurred in an abandoned building during the early hours of Sunday morning.
Speaking to the SABC at the site of the fire, City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi, said the abandoned building was found “well alight” when emergency services arrived in the early hours of Sunday morning.
“We started evacuating the residents who were inside the building. While we were conducting our fire fighting operations, there were three people who came out of the building injured… One was critically injured. We can also confirm that… we managed to recover four bodies. Unfortunately, paramedics confirmed them dead on the scene.
“We have activated our disaster management officials who are on site, we have got our colleagues from City Power, who are here to also try and disconnect some of the illegal connections in the building, and also officials from the city to facilitate some relief for the residents,” Mulaudzi said.
By 10am on Sunday morning, fire fighters were damping down the hotspots and conducting a proper sweep of the building.
“So starting from the ground floor up until the last floor… we’re sweeping through the building just to remove any uncertainty of any person who might still be missing. After we have done that, we are going to be handing over the building to the South African Police Service to continue with their own investigations,” Mulaudzi said.
The cause of the fire is not yet known. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 12:40
279 views
Strike at Premier Sweet Factory Enters Fifth Day
Mister Sweet factory workers in Germiston initially wanted salaries raised to R19,500 per month, but have lowered their demands