Thousands of people abandoned as the Gauteng Social Development Department implodes
Vulnerable people are being failed by an inefficient and corrupt department
Johannesburg
Workers march against looming retrenchments at Sibanye-Stillwater
Unions call for resignation of top management and the CEO Neal Froneman
Redefining Healthcare
First Care Solutions launches a first-of-its-kind healthcare platform built for patients, doctors, and businesses. Johannesburg, South Africa: First Care Solutions today announced CareFirst, an innovative digital healthcare platform, a bouquet of technology solutions that is revolutionising the way medical care is delivered. CareFirst Virtual Healthcare aims to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers …
City of Johannesburg must overhaul discriminatory refuse and sanitation tariffs
“These Joburg tariffs do not follow the requirements of the National Treasury’s tariff setting methodology,” according to Julia Fish, manager of JoburgCAN. JoburgCAN, an initiative of OUTA, believes the City of Johannesburg’s sanitation and refuse tariffs are discriminatory. “The City flouts National Treasury standards, charging tariffs using indefensible methodologies based on the size of properties …
United Nation Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety to launch global road safety campaign in South Africa
The United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will visit South Africa from 13 to 15 May 2024 to support national and local authorities' road safety initiatives. In particular, the Special Envoy will launch the UN Global Campaign for Road Safety, in partnership with the No.1 outdoor advertising company worldwide, JCDecaux, under the hashtag #MakeASafetyStatement.
One of the main goals of this campaign is to raise awareness of life-saving actions among young generations, who as statistics show, are the major victims of road crashes especially for young people aged from 5 to 29 years old worldwide. Supporting the efforts of South Africa in addressing this issue is key in a country where more than 60% of the population is under 35 years old.
The launch events are to be held in Johannesburg and Pretoria with the participation of the Minister of Transport of South Africa and the Executive Mayors of Tshwane and Johannesburg.
Mr. Todt will meet members of the Government as well as representatives of the private and public sectors and NGOs to advocate for the effective implementation of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims to halve the number of road fatalities by 2030.
"Africa is the continent most affected by road crashes. Knowing that these affect the youngest first, it is beyond the human tragedy, an economic devastation sacrificing or invalidating for life the active force of a country. While the vaccine to avoid this carnage on the road exists, I urgently call on everyone to use it," said the Special Envoy.
#MakeASafetyStatement
Ten South African celebrities including Yvonne Chaka-Chaka, Bryoni Govender, Dr. Khumalo, Sello Maake Ka Ncube, Maduvha Madima, Leanne Manas, Dr. Moratwe Masima, Thokozani Ndaba, Gaisang Noge, and Caster Semenya, will join the campaign's worldwide ambassadors to encourage users to adopt simple but effective rules to keep their roads safe.
“Human Factors contribute 88% to South African road fatalities and therefore the involvement of celebrities as role models for the Youth in the #MakeASafetyStatement campaign will contribute towards the reduction of accidents on our roads,” stressed Ms. Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga, Minister of Transport of the Republic of South Africa.
New alarming figures
The Special Envoy's visit coincides with the recent release of the Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023 from the World Health Organization (WHO) on road safety, highlighting that Africa remains the region the most affected by this tragedy.
According to the WHO report, the number of victims on African roads continues to grow with a mortality rate of 19/100,000 people, while in Europe, we observe a rate of 7 deaths/100,000 people. In South Africa, there are 25 deaths per 100,000 people.
According to the World Bank (2026), the cost of road crashes represented 8.6% of South Africa's GDP in 2016. The RTMC 2023 State of Road safety Report highlights for 2023 the rate of 2.74% of South Africa 's GDP.
Reliable data for swift revitalization
Recent bus accidents have highlighted the run-down state of Africa's vehicle fleet. Failure to comply with the Highway Code and to enforce penalties are also significant causes of accidents.
Solutions to be implemented include adhering to the African Road Safety Charter and the United Nations Conventions on Road Safety, strengthening the health services that treat the injured and stepping up public awareness campaigns. Systematically collecting reliable data on road accidents and monitoring casualties is also a key element in reducing the number of victims.
There is also a need to protect the most vulnerable road users, pedestrians, and cyclists, who are often the most disadvantaged and the youngest. Africa has the highest proportion of cyclist and pedestrian deaths, accounting for 44% of all road deaths.
In South Africa, the efforts of the authorities are to be commended, with new initiatives such as the implementation of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences, the adoption of new technologies to enhance access to traffic licensing services (National Traffic Information System Online Services), the professionalization of the Traffic and Road Safety Officers Training through the National Framework Level 6 Qualification), Standardization and Harmonization of Traffic Law Enforcement and the development of a National Traffic Law Enforcement Code.
Risk factors that are too often neglected
Drink-driving, speeding, drowsiness, carelessness, non-use of seatbelts and helmets, negligence and non-compliance with the Highway Code are responsible for most road accidents in Africa. However, according to the WHO, more progress must be made regarding legislation and safety standards.
Only six countries in the world have laws that comply with WHO best practices for all the risk factors - speeding, driving under the influence or distracted driving, use of UN-standard motorbike helmets, and use of seatbelts and child restraints.
In South Africa, speeding in urban areas is high (60KM/h), and child restraint systems are not always available. At a time when the use of motorbikes is on the increase, particularly among young people, the wearing of seatbelts and quality helmets remains a real challenge, even though it could prevent many deaths and reduce the risk of serious injury by 69%.
Recent data reveal that the majority of road crashes occur at night from Friday till Sunday with youth and pedestrians being the lead victims.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
Exploring Cultural Richness and Historical Significance Through Soweto Tours
Introduction to Soweto Soweto Tours , an emblematic township of Johannesburg, South Africa, offers a profound cultural and historical experience for visitors from all over the world. Known for its pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement, Soweto is not just about past struggles; it’s a vibrant hub of activity, art, and community life. Historical …
Part of Gauteng’s Winnie Mandela drive reopened
Part of Gauteng’s Winnie Mandela drive reopened
Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has officially reopened the southbound section of the road connecting the N1 and N14 highways as the comprehensive upgrade of the entire seven kilometre Winnie Mandela Drive nears completion.
The reopening of the ongoing reconstruction project of Winnie Mandela Drive (K46) in Diepsloot, located in the Fourways area, north of Johannesburg is expected to alleviate congestion in the area.
On Thursday, the MEC highlighted the road's crucial role in linking Gauteng, underscoring its social significance, economic impact, and facilitation of traffic flow from Pretoria to Sandton via Diepsloot.
"Upon completion, this artery will enable commuters to travel directly from Fourways to Pretoria via the Winnie Mandela Drive route,” she said.
The road that is nearing completion has already catalysed several planned developments, including mixed-use activities within Steyn City, expected to spur job creation and bolster Gauteng's economy.
Key contributor Steyn City Properties (Pty) Ltd is investing 30%, as per the Implementing Agency Agreement, ensuring active participation of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) contractors, empowering emerging contractors, and promoting job creation.
"This initiative aligns with our vision of bringing essential services closer to residents and demonstrating improved service delivery. The K46 Phase 2 project stands as a testament to our commitment to enhancing the quality of life of the people of Gauteng," the MEC said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 09:12
956 views
CSA Bids Farewell To Long-Serving Proteas Women Head Coach Hilton Moreeng
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has today announced the departure of Hilton Moreeng as the Proteas Women head coach upon...
Warning against Employment Equity misrepresentation
Warning against Employment Equity misrepresentation
The Department of Employment and Labour has warned employers against misrepresenting their Employment Equity (EE) status.
The department’s Statutory and Advocacy Services Chief Director, Advocate Fikiswa Bede, said a number of employers risk being taken to courts over misrepresentation on their employment equity status.
Bede said, in addition to imposing fines, the department will also be taking a number of employers to court and lay criminal charges.
“The Employment Equity Act allows us to go to court. I hope no one wants to have a criminal record. We are now seriously looking at pursuing the criminal route,” Bede said.
Bede noted that Chief Executives of companies are responsible for signing-off the EE plans.
She said the department has been doing its own monitoring and will no longer accept EE reports as the gospel truth.
Just like the Chief Executives, Bede said EE managers and EE Forum members have a duty to ensure compliance and as such they will also need to be held accountable.
Bede was speaking during the Employment Equity Dinner and Awards ceremony, held in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on Thursday night.
The department hosted the EE awards to reward employers complying with the legislation and also aimed to promote compliance with EE legislation.
Employers bestowed with recognition were selected from a sample of 91 employers from various sectors who were judged against their own approved EE plans, and the number was reduced to nine.
She emphasised the department is not interested in getting money from employers but ensuring compliance.
She said the inspectorate would be invoking Section 61, where some of the elements of the section states that “no person may – obstruct or attempt to improperly influence any person who is exercising power or performing a function in terms of this Act; or knowingly give false information in any document or information provided to the Director-General or a labour inspector in terms of this Act.”
Employment and Labour Inspector General, Aggy Moiloa urged employers to comply and not allow themselves to be pushed or force be exerted on them to comply.
“Judging by the annual reports of the Commission for Employment Equity (CEE), the work of the inspectorate is cut out. We have some mileage to cover,” Moiloa said.
Moiloa commended the award recipients, emphasising that workplaces should be centres to harvest talent.
“These are ground breakers, trend setters who give us hope that there are institutions that are willing to comply,” Moiloa said.
Award categories
Ministerial award (performing inspectors): Albert Mabokela; Lesego Maema; Edward Manana;
Ministerial Award Gold: Clientele Legal; Sherwood Spar; Shoprite Cherkers Pty Ltd;
Ministerial Award Silver: Le Roux; Medicus Shoes; Pine Lake Marina Pty Ltd; and
Ministerial Award Bronze: Braitex Tensilon Pty Ltd; Toscana Herbs and Fresh Produce Pty Ltd.
The category on affirmed employers, who showed progress was awarded to Footgear (Pty) Ltd; Ackermans A Division of Pepkor Trading (Proprietary) Ltd; Sasol Limited and Samsung Electronics South Africa Production (Pty) Ltd.
Other affirmed employers included Gautrain Management Agency; Mediclinic South Africa; Blunden Coach Tours; Rockwell Automation; Machinery Plant Hire cc and Sishen Iron Ore Company PTY LTD. -SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 10:14
176 views
SABC ban’s advertisement criticising the ruling party
The following speech was delivered today by the Leader of the Democratic Alliance, John Steenhuisen, during the end of the party’s Rescue South Africa Tour in Soweto: Fellow Democrats, I cannot tell you how wonderful it is to be here with all of you tonight in the City of Gold. In Johannesburg, the beating heart …
Protesters demand Wits take public stand on Gaza
Calls for “academic boycott of apartheid Israel”
Pandor condemns killing and silencing of journalists in Palestine
Pandor condemns killing and silencing of journalists in Palestine
The capacity of journalists to report on events in real-time is crucial, and intimidating or killing members of the media must not be permitted to persist without consequences.
This is according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, who spoke at the second Shireen Abu Akleh Memorial Lecture at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) on Wednesday.
Abu Akleh was a prominent Palestinian-American journalist, who worked as a reporter for Al Jazeera. She was killed by an Israeli soldier while wearing a blue press vest and covering a raid on the Jenin refugee camp in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
The lecture, organised by the Faculty of Humanities at UJ, centred on the role of academic institutions during periods of genocide.
WATCH |
Pandor said the lecture occurs against a “troubling” backdrop of an evident decline in media freedom.
She is of the view that academics and institutions must allocate more time to address the decline and the escalating threat to free expression.
“In the past, journalists knew they would enjoy robust and active protection from fearless colleagues, who would risk their lives to protect them. The decline we are witnessing cannot simply be explained away by citing wireless, social media or other technologies.”
This week marks two years since the assassination of Abu Akleh, who Pandor described as a beloved veteran journalist, who dedicated her life to the pursuit of justice and truth.
“To date, no one has been held accountable for her death despite the global outrage, and there has been no reported progress in the investigation at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and silence with regards to any other investigation,” the Minister said.
She cited the United Nations (UN) Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which “concluded on reasonable grounds that Israeli forces used lethal force without justification under international human rights law” when they shot and killed the journalist, violating her right to life.
Pandor bemoaned the situation for journalists in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, which she said has become increasingly grave over the past seven months.
She cited Committee to Protect Journalists data which revealed that as of 23 April this year, at least 97 journalists and media workers are among the 35 000 that have been killed in Gaza since 7 October 2023.
Pandor is of the view that the targeting of journalists in the Occupied Territories is part of a pattern of silencing the free press and is an outright contravention of international law.
“International human rights law obligates an occupying power to allow for freedom of expression and protests. The ability of journalists to cover events as they take place is essential, and efforts to intimidate and assassinate members of the media should not be allowed to continue with impunity.”
International human rights law, Pandor said, obligates an occupying power to allow for freedom of expression and protests.
“If Shireen were alive today, she would have been in the trenches in Gaza, reporting day and night on the atrocities taking place in the hopes that the world would take notice and show their solidarity with the Palestinian people.”
Pandor believes that Abu Akleh would have been devastated by the destruction of civilian life in Gaza and the global tolerance of the unending suffering of the Palestinian people, many of whom have died agonising deaths trapped under rubble.
“She would have been reporting on the immense suffering of survivors in Gaza, who are now battling unprecedented hunger and starvation, as well as continuous military assaults by the Occupying Forces.”
Despite the International Court of Justice ruling, the Minister said the Israeli state has continued its murderous assault on the people of Gaza with impunity, killing more civilians, injuring thousands, the continued bombing of homes and other buildings and infrastructure, affecting every possible avenue of life of the residents of Gaza.
“The lack of accountability by Israel is increasingly clear.”
Crimes against humanity
The Minister said the evidence of the mass killings of civilians points to the perpetration of war crimes, crimes against humanity.
International humanitarian law prohibits attacks on civilians and non-combatants, underlining the need to protect human life during times of war, Pandor said.
She stressed that South Africa continues to call on the ICC to prosecute these war crimes and to issue arrest warrants for those leaders in Israel who have ordered and presided over these crimes.
“The slowness to investigate and prosecute those responsible for these war crimes necessitates greater mobilisation among the youth and civil society around the globe to ensure that justice for the Palestinians is realised.
“It is time for collective action and for us to champion the call for the implementation of UN resolutions and rulings of the world’s highest court. We owe this to the people of Palestine and the memory of Shireen Abu Akleh,” Pandor said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 11:09
731 views
Inner Drive: An epic journey, told through individual narratives
How does a startup, founded far from the advantages and resources of the world's tech hubs, go on to reach unicorn status? And more deeply, just how far can the drive for meaning and purpose ultimately take you? The inDrive documentary (www.inDrive.com) sets out to answer these questions.
In an exclusive premier in Johannesburg, South Africa, the inDrive documentary offered audiences a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of the company, with never-before-seen footage and candid stories from the individuals at inDrive's roots, including founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky.
Far from being a run-of-the-mill corporate film, this narrative delves deep into the butterfly effect of positive impact, illustrating how inDrive's initiatives have rippled through communities, creating waves of change that extend far beyond their initial touchpoints.
In the frozen Yakutsk winter, a group of people band together against the unfair price collusion of taxi companies that leaves people stranded in the cold. One of them starts a social media group where people can request and offer rides, negotiating prices on their own terms.
It's a simple enough idea, but it carries the potential to be revolutionary. From this frozen seed, a collective stance against injustice, inDrive takes root. Today, the company has grown to become the world's second largest ride-hailing app, operating in over 700 cities in 46 countries, fuelled by deep-seated ideals and ambitions that extend far beyond profit.
inDrive wants to reimagine capitalism, no less: to put people back in control, restore their freedom to choose, and so make their lives better.
Among the heartwarming tales shared, the film follows the journey of Obadiah, a young Nigerian boy once enveloped in the despair of his surroundings. inDrive's Beginit initiative is now paving the way for a brighter future for him and many others.
Reflecting on the film and its message, inDrive Founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky said: “We should focus on the path, on the journey. And if you do something important for you, that is very meaningful for you, and you develop an external environment during that journey, you are getting more and more with each step. And that is something which nobody can take from you. Even if you don't reach a peak, you will have something available to you.”
The production is directed by Lagos/Nairobi-based, Emmy Award winner Dan McCain, and Greek producer and editor Theo Papadoulakis, each renowned for their talents in portraying everyday individuals facing remarkable situations. Dan is a prolific filmmaker who specializes in locally relevant and impactful storytelling, while Papadoulakis, recognized with over 70 international accolades, particularly excels in showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.
"In making this film with inDrive, we hope to honor the resilience and determination of individuals whose dreams lead to something profound. It's a privilege to be part of a multi-country international production, collaborating with other talented directors, where we weave together inspiring narratives that add to the epic tale of human potential," said Dan McCain.
Person by person, the documentary tells inDrive's story. From the remarkable individuals in Nigeria, Indonesia, Mexico and beyond, who use the ride-hailing app to take control of their futures, to the communities who take their chance to move forward.
From Arsen Tomsky, the company's visionary CEO, who overcomes challenges both personal and social to take an idea to the world, to the employees who come on board to help inDrive evolve and grow, fuelled by shared values and a common goal. It's an epic journey, told by connecting people around the world. And it's far from over.
Watch the inDrive movie here: movie.inDrive.com
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of inDrive.
Press Contact:
Public Relations Manager - inDrive Africa
Lineo Thakhisi
Phone: +2781 3636 872
Email: lineo.thakhisi@indriver.com
About inDrive:
inDrive is a global mobility and urban services platform. The inDrive app has been downloaded over 200 million times, and was the second most downloaded mobility app in 2022 and 2023. In addition to ride-hailing, inDrive provides an expanding list of urban services, including intercity transportation, freight delivery, task assistance and courier delivery. In 2023, inDrive launched New Ventures, a venture and M&A arm.
inDrive operates in 749 cities in 46 countries. Driven by its mission of challenging social injustice, the company is committed to having a positive impact on the lives of one billion people by 2030. It pursues this goal both through its core business, which supports local communities via a fair pricing model; and through the work of inVision, its non-profit arm. inVision's community empowerment programs help to advance education, sports, arts and sciences, gender equality and other vital initiatives.
For more information visit www.inDrive.com
Fund to invest in SA’s creative, cultural industries announced
Fund to invest in SA's creative, cultural industries announced
The Marketing, Advertising, and Communications (MAC) Sector Council, in collaboration with eQvest Limited, has announced the Media, Advertising, and Communications Charter (MACC) Fund.
The MACC Fund is positioned as a transformative instrument within South Africa’s creative and cultural industries, particularly the film and television sector.
The council and eQvest made the announcement during a media briefing at The Syrene Hotel in Sandton, Johannesburg, on Wednesday.
Council members, together with eQvest executives, highlighted the fund’s role in fostering social impact and its compliance with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) standards in the MAC sector.
According to the team, the MACC Fund represents a significant step forward in catalysing growth and transformation within the media, advertising and communications industry.
By fostering diversity and inclusivity, the fund seeks to create a more equitable playing field, empowering underrepresented voices and promoting innovation.
Chairperson of the MAC Sector Council, Angelo Tandy, hailed the collaboration with eQvest as a significant milestone in their endeavour to foster meaningful progress in the industry.
“The MACC Fund represents a powerful tool for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we are excited to see the impact it will have on the sector,” Tandy explained.
Hosted on the eQvest funding platform, the fund represents a pioneering initiative to bridge the gap between promising private companies and potential investors, driving economic empowerment and fostering diversity within the media landscape.
eQvest CEO, Nathaniel Bricknell, said his company was thrilled to collaborate with the MAC Sector Council in launching the fund.
“This initiative underscores our shared commitment to driving positive change and fostering innovation within the media, advertising, and communications industry. Together, we will work towards a more inclusive and equitable future,” Bricknell added.
By leveraging a unique private-public partnership model, the initiative aims to boost investment into areas critical for national development.
It also includes social cohesion, nation-building and poverty alleviation, above-the-line media, outdoor media buying, equipment purchasing, as well as infrastructure development.
The partnership recognised that the local industry falls short of global counterparts such as Hollywood, Bollywood and Nollywood in terms of production volume and market share.
This shortfall is often due to insufficient private sector investment and the underuse of available incentives, including tax allowances for film investors.
The MACC Fund was created as a critical response to these challenges, providing focused investment and support to promote equitable growth, bolster sectoral capabilities, and guarantee a unified strategy for transforming the landscape of these industries.
The MAC Sector Council is a leading authority in the media, advertising, and communications industry, dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and innovation.
Comprised of industry leaders and experts, the council works collaboratively to address key challenges and opportunities facing the sector. The council is responsible for, among other things, overseeing the implementation and monitoring compliance with the council’s code.
It also guides on matters relating to BEE in the MAC sector and develops baseline indicators for all different elements of the B-BBEE.
The eQvest is a pioneering investment platform committed to driving positive change and fostering innovation in the private equity space.
With a focus on sustainability and social impact, eQvest connects investors with high-potential investment opportunities, driving growth and transformation across various sectors.
For more information on the fund visit https://maccfund.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 12:59
81 views
A decade of underspending on repairs and maintenance has left Johannesburg’s infrastructure in a mess
In 2014, National Treasury told municipalities to spend 8% of the value of property, plant and equipment on repairs and maintenance, but Joburg has not managed that once since then and for five years spent only 2% or 3%. JoburgCAN, an initiative of OUTA, is gravely concerned over the budget allocations for the maintenance of …
Fabulous Woman Awards 2024 Entries Now Open Celebrating Change Agents Across South Africa
Fabulous Woman Awards is thrilled to announce that nominations across all categories are now open, ready to honour agents of change making a difference in communities throughout South Africa. Celebrating its twelfth year, and themed Ethical Leadership, the annual Fabulous Woman Awards are back and will again shine the spotlight on outstanding women in the …
Unpaid school uniform makers occupy Gauteng social development offices
Sewing co-operatives delivered thousands of school uniforms to learners in need, but the department is disowning them
Coal mine accused of making “manifestly scurrilous” allegations against opponents
A coalition against mining in the Mabola Protected Environment want “scandalous” and “irrelevant” claims struck from court record
A ‘paper trail’ of successful energy optimisation in South Africa’s pulp and paper sector
Thermal energy plays a pivotal role in both the preparation of raw materials – and the pressing and drying of the fibre layers – which ultimately forms the 3.8-million tonnes of paper products produced in South Africa each year. According to Dennis Williams, Commercial Director at Associated Energy Services (AES), one of South Africa’s leading …
SAPS is collapsing under the weight of Bheki Cele’s incompetence and ego
Dear Editor Today, the Democratic Alliance was at the Randburg Magistrates Court for the the trial of the South African Police Service (SAPS) blue light mafia officers from Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s VIP protection detail who were caught on video assaulting motorists last year. This trial is not just about the violent assault and excessive …
Government payment delay forces Joburg’s biggest food bank to close
But the Department of Social Development claims the delay is caused by investigations into the food banks
At last, Ma Rosey can feed the 30 children in her care
Just R2,500 a month has made all the difference to this Mthatha crèche
Indulge Mom: Luxurious Mother’s Day Brunch Extravaganza at Sandton’s Finest!
Indulge Mom: Luxurious Mother’s Day Brunch Extravaganza at Sandton’s Finest! Treat your mom to an indulgent Mother’s Day brunch at @Sandton Hotel on Sunday, 12 May from 11am to 2pm, priced at R345 per person. Our lavish spread features a delightful combination of Full English and Continental Breakfast options, including Eggs Benedict and an Omelette …
Tie the knot at one of the KZN South Coast’s stunning wedding venues
Selecting a wedding venue is often the first and biggest decision a newly engaged couple has to make. Exquisite scenery, an inviting climate, great service, and affordability are all major deciding factors, making the KZN South Coast a top wedding destination. “From our Blue Flag beaches and coastal forests to the sprawling farmlands and majestic …