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KZN commits to economic development, investment growth toward 2030

Location: News

KZN commits to economic development, investment growth toward 2030

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has underscored the commitment to economic development, trade, and investment growth toward 2030, aligned with the province's broader strategic priorities.

Ntuli reiterated the province’s commitment during the KwaZulu-Natal Trade and Investment Conference currently underway at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.

The two-day conference, which started on Monday, aims to promote, brand, and market KwaZulu-Natal as an investment destination, identify and develop investment opportunities, among others.

The conference brings together investors, government leaders, and industry captains to explore and amplify the province’s status as a top investment destination.

Delivering his keynote address on Monday, Ntuli highlighted that over the past decade, KwaZulu-Natal has attracted significant investments in key sectors, especially through developments at the Durban and Richards Bay Ports, two of Africa’s largest and busiest maritime hubs.

“Enhanced container capacity, automation, and infrastructure upgrades have strengthened KZN’s position as a regional logistics powerhouse. Similarly, the Dube Trade Port, adjacent to King Shaka International Airport, has drawn over R2 billion in investments, cementing its role in warehousing, logistics, and agriculture, including the Dube AgriZone, a major hub for export-focused agri-business,” Ntuli said.

Reflecting on the 2019 Provincial Trade and Investment Strategy’s achievements and areas for intensified effort, Ntuli said the strategy targeted R76 billion in new and expansionary investments by 2024. This is alongside the creation of approximately 68 000 jobs and an increase in the province’s national export value to R1.28 trillion.

While projections indicate that the targets may not be fully met by the year’s end, the Premier emphasised the need to redouble efforts in investment initiatives.

“The Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) has fuelled growth in heavy industry and energy, particularly in metals like aluminium and steel, generating jobs and boosting export potential.

“Renewable energy investments, particularly in biomass and solar, have diversified KZN’s energy landscape, with biofuel production from the sugarcane industry enhancing the province’s green economy credentials.”

Growth in the agricultural sector

The Premier also highlighted the province’s strong agricultural sector, which has attracted investments in agro-processing, and supporting industries including sugar refining, dairy processing, and timber.

The Premier said this growth is further supported by a thriving food and beverage industry, pharmaceutical, and packaging sectors, benefiting from proximity to key ports and an expanding consumer base.

Tourism

He said tourism also remains central to KZN’s economy, supported by new hospitality investments, including the reopening of the international Hilton Hotel and the Durban Beach promenade renewal.

READ | Mayor welcomes re-opening of the Hilton Hotel in Durban
 

Noting KZN’s absence from many long-haul tourist packages, Premier Ntuli stressed the importance of positioning the province as a key destination for international tourism.

Ntuli highlighted several strategic assets crucial to the province’s competitive advantage, and these include expanded port capacities, Special Economic Zones (SEZs) like Richards Bay and Dube TradePort, and streamlined regulatory and tax incentives to attract foreign and local investments.

The Premier urged stakeholders to seize the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which offers KZN unprecedented access to a $3.4 trillion market.

Partnerships 

The Premier also addressed issues in freight rail services and port bottlenecks, emphasising that public-private partnerships could unlock efficiencies.

He further called attention to KZN’s role in automotive manufacturing, underscoring opportunities in electric vehicle (EV) component production to tap into Africa’s growing EV market.

“Sustainable growth initiatives, including green hydrogen, biomass, and digital innovation, are essential for positioning KZN as a leader in the renewable and digital economies. Collaboration with local universities and technology firms is building a skilled workforce to support industries like IT, finance, and business outsourcing, further enhancing KZN’s role as a technology and logistics hub,” Ntuli said.

The Premier emphasised the importance of resilient infrastructure, including sustainable energy investments, and inclusive growth that extends to all municipalities, cities, and rural areas.

He issued a call to action for deeper engagement with rural and municipal stakeholders, ensuring these areas are active participants and beneficiaries in KZN’s economic growth. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Tue, 11/12/2024 - 13:35

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Read moreKZN commits to economic development, investment growth toward 2030

Official unemployment rate decreases

Location: News

Official unemployment rate decreases

The official unemployment rate has decreased by 1.4 percentage points from 33.5% in the second quarter of 2024 to 32.1% in the third quarter (Q3) of 2024.

This is according to the Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for the third quarter of 2024.

“There was an increase of 294 000 in the number of employed persons to 16.9 million in Q3: 2024, while there was a decrease of 373 000 in the number of unemployed persons to 8.0 million. This resulted in a decrease of 79 000 (down by 0.3%) in the labour force during the same period.

“Discouraged work-seekers increased by 160 000 (up by 5.0%), and the number of persons who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 54 000 (up by 0.4%) between the second quarter and third quarter of 2024. This led to an increase of 214 000 in the number of the not economically active population to 16.5 million,” Stats SA said on Tuesday.

The above changes in employment and unemployment resulted in the official unemployment rate decreasing by 1.4 percentage points from 33.5% in the second quarter of 2024 to 32.1% in the third quarter of 2024. 

“The expanded unemployment rate in the third quarter of 2024 decreased by 0.7 of a percentage point to 41.9% when compared with the second quarter of 2024.

“The number of persons employed in the formal sector increased by 122 000 in Q3: 2024, and the informal sector employment increased by 165 000 over the same period,” Stats SA said.

The largest increases in employment were recorded  in community and social services (194 000), construction (176 000) and trade (109 000). 

Decreases in employment were recorded in finance (189 000), private households (32 000), manufacturing (20 000) and transport (18 000).

“The results also indicate that the largest increases in employment were observed in the Eastern Cape (83 000), Western Cape (75 000), North West (69 000) and Mpumalanga (49 000), while decreases were only observed in Gauteng (66 000) and KwaZulu-Natal (2 000).

“The youth (15 to 34 years) remain vulnerable in the labour market. The third quarter of 2024 results show that the total number of unemployed youth decreased by 171 000 to 4.8 million, while employed youth recorded an increase of 66 000 to 5.8 million. 

“As a result, youth unemployment rate decreased from 46.6% in the second quarter of 2024 to 45.5% in the third quarter of 2024,” Stats SA said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 11/12/2024 - 12:40

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Macpherson takes EPWP listening tour to KZN

Location: News

Macpherson takes EPWP listening tour to KZN

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson is expected to visit KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) on Monday to launch the next leg of his Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) listening tour.

Macpherson is expected to be joined by KZN Provincial Legislature Deputy Speaker, Mmabatho Tembe; KZN MEC for Public Works Martin Meyer; uMngeni Local Municipality Mayor Chris Pappas, and Deputy Mayor Sandile Mnikathi.

“As the Minister learned in the Eastern Cape at the launch of the EPWP listening tour, the programme has been plagued by allegations of patronage, corruption, and jobs being reserved for political party members due to the manner in which EPWP jobs are allocated.

“Through the listening tour, which will be rolled out nationwide in the coming months, the Minister aims to hear from communities about their experiences with the EPWP to bring attention to issues encountered within the programme. The tour and engagement with communities will also shape the Minister’s vision to reimagine the EPWP,” the department said.

The event will be held from 10.30am at the Howick West Community Hall in the uMngeni Local Municipality. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 11/10/2024 - 12:06

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Imbizo a “demonstration of GNU at work”

Location: News

Imbizo a "demonstration of GNU at work"

President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the KwaZulu-Natal District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo as a powerful example of the Government of National Unity (GNU) in action. 

The President underscored the collaborative efforts of various political leaders to address pressing community issues. 

Addressing community members at the Umnini Sportsfield in Umgababa, the President said the imbizo was a fairly productive session. 

“As I end, I think we have held a fairly productive imbizo session. Today has been a clear demonstration of how our Government of National Unity is also working. I have Ministers from our various political parties that are part of the GNU. 

“I would like to thank them all and I want all the parties in the GNU to see the value of izimbizo. They are important because they enable us to interact with our people and hear their views, and answer their questions and at the same time, follow up on their issues that they have raised,” the President said. 

The Presidential Imbizo is a platform for communities to interact with government leaders from all three spheres of government on service delivery challenges, and for the executive to respond to the community on what they are doing to resolve those issues. 

Community members gathered at the Umnini Sportsfield raised issues such as crime, unemployment, the rising cost of living and matters concerning education. 

The South African Democratic Teachers Union asked President Ramaphosa to intervene on the issue of safety and security at KwaZulu-Natal schools, highlighting previous incidents where teachers were attacked, shot and killed at schools.

Before the Ministers took to the podium to respond to the above issues, President Ramaphosa apologised for the delayed start due to technical issues, stressing the need for better preparedness at such events.

Ministers in the GNU accompanying the President responded to the issues respectively and promised residents that they will follow up and provide solutions. 

Turning to the City of eThekwini municipality, the President also spoke about plans to rejuvenate Durban’s tourism sector, which has historically made the city the "holiday mecca" of South Africa. 

With tourism numbers currently in decline, President Ramaphosa expressed optimism for a revival through the planned reopening of key hotels like the Hilton and lease renewals for iconic establishments such as the Maharani and Elangeni.

“Durban has been the holiday mecca of our country. Many people from all over the country have always considered Durban when they needed to go on a holiday. 

“Tourisms in the province has gone down but the mayor has plans to revive big hotels such as the Hilton Hotel and the renewal of leases by Southern Sun of the Maharani and Elangeni Hotel.

“The business sector has pledged to invest billions of rands to revive tourism, so I am looking forward to the revival of tourism so that Durban can go back to being the jewel of South African tourism. It must once again become the mecca of tourism in SA,” the President said. 

Tourism Minister Patricia De Lille said that her department is working hard to rebuild the tourism sector in the province. 

“Tourism is a very important sector for this province. It is making a significant contribution to the GDP and economic growth of the province. The tourism sector has gone down in KZN, but we are working hard with the Presidential Task Team and the private sector to rebuild it.” 

The Minister said that she has already agreed with the KZN Premier that they will be meeting as a matter of urgency so they can see how they can work together with the plans of the province to do an aggressive marketing campaign to deal with all the negative perceptions around the province. 

“For the summer season, the department partnered with the private sector and already we have 440 private sector tourist attractions that are offering discounted deals for the summer season and I want to encourage all South Africans to look at the Shot left site and check the discounts,” de Lille said.

The President also drew attention to ongoing infrastructure challenges, particularly highlighting the partial collapse of a bridge on the N2 highway, which has disrupted local transportation. 

He expressed confidence in South African engineers, who have devised a plan to restore the bridge, calling it a testament to the country’s engineering expertise. 

“In the morning, I went to the N2 bridge that partially collapsed. The bridge is causing a lot of inconvenience for the people, as it is an important road on the N2," the President said. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 19:08

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Food poisoning incidents managed at highest level, says President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Food poisoning incidents managed at highest level, says President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has addressed the tragic deaths of children due to food poisoning, assuring the public that this issue is being addressed at the highest levels of government.

Speaking at the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo at Umnini Sportfield in Umgababa, KwaZulu-Natal, the President led attendees in a moment of silence for the young lives lost in recent weeks.

In his address on Friday, President Ramaphosa highlighted government's serious approach to the matter. 

This wave of tragic incidents has left communities devastated.

The President expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families, recognising the profound grief of losing a child. He said government would take immediate action to prevent further loss of life.

“We have in the last few weeks lost a number of school children, who have died as a result of some chemical that has been found in the food or snacks that they have been eating and buying from Spaza shops. 

“This matter is being addressed at the highest level. It’s been raised by a number of parents and our people, and I fully understand the concern. We join these families who have lost their children. It is very painful for a parent to lose a child... We pass our condolences to them," the President said. 

He said he will fully address these matters to provide a clear direction and ensure that no further children die needlessly. 

“All these matters are going to be fully addressed this coming week, and I will be able to then make a statement on how we are going to deal with this matter to enable us to ensure that no further children die needlessly in our country. 

“So, this matter is being handled at the highest level, and we’ve got our various departments and agencies working around the clock. I’ve directed that I should get reports as soon as possible so that we can take action to prevent further deaths of the young people of our country,” the President said.

The President urged parents to remain vigilant, encouraging them to ensure their children consume food only from trusted and safe sources. 

“I will say to us as parents, let us take care and ensure that our children only get food from places that we regard as safe places, but we will be coming out with a clear directive and direction on this matter,” the President said.

The President said that police have already made arrests in connection with the storage of hazardous chemicals on premises selling food, and new regulations governing the licensing of spaza shops are being enforced.

“We are also looking at the matter form an agricultural point of view. I have directed [Agriculture] Minister Steenhuisen to do proper research with regards to these chemicals. The Minister of Police is also seized with this matter, and we are working around the clock to enable us to look very closely at the incidents that have been happening. 

The Minister of Health, the President said, is also seized with this matter and has requested a number of agencies to do testing of the various chemicals from a health point of view. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 18:58

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Read moreFood poisoning incidents managed at highest level, says President Ramaphosa

Lower uMkhomazi Water Scheme project achieves over 60% completion

Location: News

Lower uMkhomazi Water Scheme project achieves over 60% completion

Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina, has expressed strong optimism about the substantial progress made on the Lower uMkhomazi Water Scheme project, which is aimed at ensuring water security in KwaZulu-Natal.

The project valued at over R20 billion is expected to improve water supply to approximately 50 000 households across the eThekwini and Ugu Municipal Districts along KwaZulu-Natal's South Coast. The project has to date achieved over 60% completion.

"This progress is a testament to the commitment and expertise of the appointed contractors and our entity, uMngeni-uThukela Water. The project is set to tackle longstanding water challenges for South Coast residents and secure reliable water resources for years to come," the Minister said.

Majodina, together with her Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo, as well as uMngeni-uThukela Water Board members conducted an on-site progress review of the bulk water project on Thursday.

The Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply project is implemented by water utility, uMngeni-uThukela Water, and will augment water supply within eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality (Ward 99) and uMdoni Local Municipality (Ward 18).

This large-scale project, which was previously hindered by delays, has gained renewed momentum as a result of the Ministry of Water and Sanitation’s proactive involvement and determination.

The Minister and Deputy Minister also conducted an oversight inspection of a construction site of the Ngwadini off-channel storage dam which is expected to be completed by December 2027.

The bulk water scheme is crucial to KwaZulu-Natal’s water resilience and includes two phases.

Phase 1 will focus on raw water components, including the Ngwadini and Goodenough Systems, while Phase 2 will deliver potable water infrastructure.

This infrastructure will feature a 100Ml/day water treatment facility, gravity pipelines, expanded reservoir capacity, and a Green Star Administration Building.

The Minister said that the overall implementation of the project signifies transformative progress toward addressing water shortages that have impacted the region since 2016.

Upon completion, the uMngeni Water Supply System will increase its annual freshwater capacity from 394-million to 608-million cubic meters, securing sustainable water resources for more than 5 million people across six districts, including eThekwini, Msunduzi, uMgungundlovu, Ugu, Ilembe, and Harry Gwala.

The project has helped to create temporary employment opportunities for over 380 locals and more than 100 small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) have participated in the project to date.

Meanwhile, Majodina reiterated that the department’s commitment to effectively implement bulk water projects across the country, to ensure equitable water supply for all and water security to communities experiencing water supply challenges. -SAnews.gov.za
 

nosihle
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 09:19

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Plans in place to temporarily repair the N2 Bridge ahead of festive season

Location: News

Plans in place to temporarily repair the N2 Bridge ahead of festive season

President Cyril Ramaphosa has inspected the damaged Ezimbokodweni River Bridge on the N2 in KwaZulu-Natal today, following the bridge’s partial collapse on Monday, forcing the closure of the southbound carriageway and a major traffic diversion.

The President did the inspection ahead of the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo held at Umnini Sportsfield in Umgababa.

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, who accompanied the President, announced that the Department of Transport, with the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), aims to temporarily repair the bridge, targeting a December reopening to accommodate the festive season rush.

“I am here with a team of SANRAL engineers, who have inspected the bridge, and we’ve agreed on a temporary repair that will reopen the bridge at the start of December,” Creecy told SAnews.

She said more extensive work would follow next year, explaining that a permanent stabilisation plan is essential to ensure long-term safety for road users.

“Next year, further work will be done. It is quite complicated engineering work that will be done to stabilise the bridge on a permanent basis so that it can then be safe for road users. 

“I am told by engineers that even when a solution is being put in place, we will not have another closure such as this one we are experiencing now. We will be able to work on this bridge installing a permanent solution with nighttime closures,” Creecy said. 

The Minister noted that the situation at the moment poses incredible discomfort on motorists. 

Highlighting the impact on motorists, Creecy noted that the situation is incredibly uncomfortable, as she was stuck in the traffic herself today, which underscores the urgency to provide a short-term solution, especially with heavy holiday traffic expected.

SANRAL CEO Reginald Demana explained to SAnews that initial inspections revealed structural damage to a support pillar, necessitating innovative temporary repairs on the aging bridge, which was built in 1964 using old technology. 

“We’re planning to use hydraulic jacks to realign the bridge deck temporarily, allowing traffic flow, while we implement a lasting solution by early next year,” Demana said.

Demana said that passenger vehicles are currently being rerouted via the R102, while heavy trucks are directed further south to avoid overloading the provincial road. Long-term repairs involving modern engineering will proceed with nighttime closures scheduled for February and March 2025 to minimise disruption to road users.  - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 15:25

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KZN communities raise concerns at Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

KZN communities raise concerns at Presidential Imbizo

Crime, access to water and jobs have been raised as bugbears for communities in KwaZulu-Natal, the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo heard on Friday.

Umlazi resident, Sizakele Mpanza, raised concern about the high crime rate in the area, appealing to the President to intervene.

“We are concerned about what is happening. We are living in fear… we can’t even send our children to the shops because we are afraid they will be robbed by these criminals,” Mpanza said.

Mpanza appealed for more police visibility in their community, as well as a satellite police station.

Mziwendoda Sikhakhane from Richards Bay told SAnews that if given a chance to speak to the President, he will ask the President to create more job opportunities, especially for young people.

“Our youth are roaming the streets doing nothing and yet they have qualifications. I am appealing to our government to create more job opportunities,” Sikhakhane said.

Sikhakhane also raised the provision of water as an important factor for communities.

“We are struggling in our community; we don’t have water. We struggle to get water, sometimes we go for days without water,” he said.

Sikhakhane and Mpanza are among the many community members attending the imbizo, which is led by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Umnini Sportsfield in Umgababa.

Cabinet adopted the DDM in August 2019. The DDM is an integrated planning model for cooperative governance, which seeks to be an integrated, district-based, service delivery approach aimed at fast-tracking service delivery. It also seeks to ensure that municipalities are adequately supported and resourced to carry out their mandate.

Friday’s imbizo is the second DDM Presidential Imbizo under the Government of National Unity (GNU). The occasion provides the President, Ministers and KwaZulu-Natal provincial government officials an opportunity to listen to the concerns of communities and respond to them.

Lindiwe Dlamini from Umlazi, a nearby location, raised concern about the slow pace of service delivery.

“We have been waiting for too long. We kept on enquiring from the municipality but we are not getting answers. I am glad the President is here. We hope we are going to get answers today,” Dlamini said.

President Ramaphosa kicked-off the imbizo by visiting the N2 bridge, which partially collapsed earlier this week due to heavy rains.

Upon his arrival, the President was briefed about the damage by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and the South African National Roads Agency SOC Ltd (SANRAL) officials, who said the bridge will be fixed and operational by next month.

After being briefed, President Ramaphosa and his entourage proceeded to Umnini Sportsfield, where communities were given a chance to express their concerns.

The DDM Presidential Imbizo is an important public participation platform that ensures the voices and perspectives of communities are heard to advance a participatory democracy.

The imbizo continues . – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 14:41

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Extortion poses serious threat to State and citizens, says Mashatile

Location: News

Extortion poses serious threat to State and citizens, says Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile says an economy grappling with extortion, controlled by "ruthless gangsters", poses a serious threat to both government and law-abiding citizens.

“We have also responded to a related question in the National Assembly, highlighting the urgent need for government to take decisive action to deal with extortion-related criminality,” Mashatile said on Thursday.  

The Deputy President was responding to questions in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) relating to several critical issues impacting South Africa’s township and rural economies. 

The Deputy President quoted Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who in September spoke about township economic sabotage in four provinces. These provinces include mainly Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape and Eastern Cape. 

“According to the Minister of Police, these provinces carry 73% of crime levels in South Africa. The gravity of these crimes alone, including extortion, are of serious concern to government, and must be dealt with immediately,” said Mashatile.

He announced that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has since initiated the signing of cooperative agreements with provincial and local governments, which include operational plans that will provide details on the integration of resources against crime.

In addition, Extortion and Kidnapping Task Force Forums have been established in all affected provinces, which involve all the relevant stakeholders, including private business.

On the implementation of measures to deal with sabotage of basic service delivery, such as water and sanitation, by “unscrupulous” owners of water tankers, the Deputy President said the Departments of Water and Sanitation and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs have intervened. 

According to the Deputy President, the two departments are assisting struggling municipalities with water tankers as a short-term intervention, while bulk water infrastructure challenges are being resolved.

“In addition to the challenge of construction mafia, which is rife all over the country, we have received reports of unscrupulous owners of water tankers, who are interfering with service delivery initiatives in municipalities, thus extorting money to rent their services, and some selling water to vulnerable communities.” 

He stressed that the State was encouraged by the work of Community Policing Forums, whistleblowers and community members, who are actively involved in addressing service delivery-related acts of criminality and extortion across all provinces that have been identified as hotspots. 

“However, much more needs to be done to resolve this challenge,” Mashatile said.

Township economy

Meanwhile, the country’s second-in-command said government is dedicated to transforming apartheid spatial planning by investing in critical industries such as manufacturing to revitalise and create much-needed jobs in the communities where people reside. 

According to the Deputy President, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) has developed the Industrial Parks Revitalisation Programme (IPRP), aimed at renewing and reviving South Africa’s old and abandoned industrial parks and driving employment in the manufacturing sector in townships and rural economies. 

He explained that this programme aims to support State-owned industrial parks and identify enabling opportunities for local manufacturing and value addition in marginalised communities. 

The Deputy President also highlighted the State’s programmes to support Special Economic Zones (SEZs), which are aimed at expanding economic activity in underdeveloped parts of South Africa. 

To date, he said there are 11 designated SEZs, nine of which are being supported by the SEZ Fund, and have generated investments amounting to R19.6 billion. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 11/08/2024 - 09:38

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Read moreExtortion poses serious threat to State and citizens, says Mashatile

Municipalities urged to prioritise damaged infrastructure

Location: News

Municipalities urged to prioritise damaged infrastructure

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo, has called on municipalities with dysfunctional wastewater treatment works (WWTW) to prioritise infrastructure as a matter of urgency.

Seitlholo made the call during his visit to uMhlathuzana, Umhlanga and Phoenix Wastewater Treatment Works in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.

Seitlholo visited the wastewater treatment works on Wednesday to assess progress made to repair infrastructure damaged by floods over two years ago.

EThekwini Municipality entered into a bulk wastewater operation and maintenance contract with uMngeni-uThukela Water and as part of the agreement, the water board is responsible for the operation and maintenance of 10 of the municipality’s wastewater treatment works.

The WWTWs included in the contract account for 90% of the sewage managed by the municipality.

During the visit, Seitlholo said it was good to see that eThekwini Municipality has realised that through working with uMngeni-uThukela Water, they will be able to resuscitate, operate and maintain their infrastructure.

“While the infrastructure itself is not 100% operational, I am happy that uMngeni-uThukela Water, as part of their Service Level Agreement (SLA) with eThekwini Municipality, has been able to begin the work, particularly in Umhlanga, where 50% of the plant is operational after it was completely decommissioned after the floods,” Seitlholo said.

The Deputy Minister said during the engagements with both the municipality and the water board in eThekwini, he picked up huge concerns regarding the country’s sanitation.

He said sanitation is not being "taken seriously", particularly in the context of wastewater resources.

Seitlholo urged South Africans to realise that the country’s water security is hampered by the pollution happening in water resources.

“We cannot have quality raw water abstracted from our rivers that are deeply polluted because the value chain suggests that the more polluted the raw water, the more it costs to treat it. 

"We have to be able to be conscious about this reality, its economic impact and the damage this has on the livelihoods of the people, farmers and businesses.

“I’m making a call to all South Africans that pollution has to come to an end. Municipalities with dysfunctional wastewater treatment works must prioritise their infrastructure as a matter of urgency,” Seitlholo said.

The Deputy Minister said he will continue to raise awareness in all provinces and ensure that everyone takes responsibility and stops pollution. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 11/07/2024 - 14:27

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KZN a hive of activity ahead of Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

KZN a hive of activity ahead of Presidential Imbizo

The province of KwaZulu-Natal has been a hive of activity ahead of the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo taking place on Friday.

Ministers, Deputy Ministers and provincial government officials have been visiting various communities to check on service delivery deliverables.

Friday’s DDM will be held in conjunction with South Africa’s 30 years of freedom and democracy celebrations.

On Wednesday, Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, visited the Old Prison in Pietermaritzburg, the nearby Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) train station and the Nelson Mandela Capture site in Howick.

Addressing locals in Pietermaritzburg, Morolong said that as the country celebrates 30 years of democracy, it is also reminded of its painful past.

“We share our appreciation to those who laid their lives for our democracy. We convey our appreciation to the families of those who laid [down] their lives for democracy. We are reminded of our men who were brave and able to face the then apartheid regime. We are reminded of Nelson Mandela and others who stood firm and face[d] the apartheid regime so we could enjoy our democracy today.”

He emphasised the importance of preserving the Old Prison’s (which has been declared as an official heritage site) history for future generations.

According to Project Gateway, the prison houses “both a National Monument and a museum documenting some of South Africa’s diverse history."

“The Old Prison dates back to Voortrekker times, with more than 160 years of history, including the Colonial times, Apartheid, the Liberation Struggle, the Political Struggle and ultimately to the dawn of democratic South Africa in 1994,” said Project Gateway.

“Today we are a nation proud of its democracy. Today we are proudly celebrating 30 years of democracy. But we should not forget that our democracy did not come cheap. Sacrifices were made to achieve our democracy.

“We are also reminded of those women who were brave who fought for our democracy. We should be proud of our democracy. We should be proud of our government which is taking care of its people,” Morolong said.

Meanwhile, representative of the Ghandi Foundation, David Gangen, spoke passionately about events which led to South Africa’s democracy.

Gangen said what happened to Ghandi was the beginning of South Africa’s democracy.

“So having come to SA to fight a case, [Mahatma Ghandi]  was to stay for 21 years, during which time he established the first formal political structure in SA in 1894, the Natal Indian Congress (NIC). 

“The NIC celebrates its 130th anniversary this year. It was during this time that he experimented with truth and developed the core tenets of his philosophy in all aspects of life,” Gangen said.

Mayor of Ungungudlovu, Nzi Zuma Nxamalala, said he appreciated the visit by the Deputy Minister.

“As we do in our work, we keep on reflecting back to remind ourselves of our past. We appreciate being part of the celebrations [of] our democracy,” Nxamalala said.

On Tuesday, the Deputy Minister and a delegation visited the Open Gate Special School, a school with special educational needs for the disabled.

The visit to the school coincides with the commemoration of Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM) which is observed from 3 November to 3 December 2024.

The Deputy Minister also visited households that benefitted from Set-Top-Box installations and mobilised qualifying community members to apply for the set top boxes.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to lead the second DDM Presidential Imbizo under the Government of National Unity (GNU), in Umgababa, at the Umnini Sportsfield in Ward 98 on Friday.

Cabinet adopted the DDM in August 2019.

The DDM is an integrated planning model for cooperative governance which seeks to be a new integrated, district-based, service delivery approach aimed at fast-tracking service delivery. It also seeks to ensure that municipalities are adequately supported and resourced to carry out their mandate. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Edwin
Wed, 11/06/2024 - 15:51

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Read moreKZN a hive of activity ahead of Presidential Imbizo

President Ramaphosa to conduct multi-pronged KZN visit

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to conduct multi-pronged KZN visit

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to embark on a visit to KwaZulu-Natal over the next three days.

The visit will start with the unveiling of the King Shaka Zulu statue at the King Shaka International Airport in Durban, where both the President and King Misuzulu KwaZwelithini will deliver addresses.

“His Majesty King Misuzulu KwaZwelithini and Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli will join the President in officiating this tribute to King Shaka kaSenzangakhona, the founding father of the Zulu nation, whose leadership and military strategy forged one of the most powerful kingdoms in Southern Africa.
 
“The unveiling of this statue aims to honour the King’s legacy and preserve his memory for future generations. The monument will serve as a symbol of unity, strength, and pride for the people of KwaZulu-Natal and the entire nation, celebrating King Shaka's contributions to Zulu history, culture, and identity,” the Presidency said in a statement.

The unveiling of the statue will be followed by discussions with the provincial executive. 

“The President will be accompanied by relevant Ministers and Deputy Ministers in this engagement, which is part of a new series of interactions between the President and provinces aimed at enhancing intergovernmental coordination and improving service delivery, in line with the priorities of the 7th Administration.

“The provincial leadership will present to the President its five-year programme that will respond to the national priorities of securing inclusive economic growth, reducing poverty and building a capable and ethical State.

“The meeting will also discuss interventions to improve service delivery at local government level,” the statement said.

This engagement will conclude with a meeting with the Presidential eThekwini Working Group.

“[President Ramaphosa] will be updated on the work being done to support and accelerate efforts by the eThekwini Municipality to improve service delivery, improve business confidence, and reposition eThekwini as an investment and tourism hotspot.

“Established in February 2024, the Working Group represents an intergovernmental collaborative approach to addressing challenges in local government, and includes active participation from all levels of government, the private sector, State-owned enterprises, organised labour and civil society,” the Presidency explained.

The visit to the province will culminate with an engagement with residents at the Presidential Imbizo.

“On Friday, 8 November, President Ramaphosa and members of national, provincial and local government will hear directly from citizens and organised civil society formations during the Presidential District Development Model (DDM) Imbizo, held under the theme 'Leave No One Behind'.

“The imbizo is a platform that allows citizens to make proposals and ventilate problems directly to the leadership, who in turn respond to these inputs and set out plans for developing communities and the economy in the area visited by the President,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 11/06/2024 - 12:14

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa to conduct multi-pronged KZN visit

Justice Minister Simelane to visit Durban Magistrate’s Court

Location: News

Justice Minister Simelane to visit Durban Magistrate's Court

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Thembi Simelane, is expected to visit the Durban Magistrate’s Court to assess progress in the implementation of the virtual remand detainee system on Friday.

According to the department, the court has experienced “numerous connectivity challenges that have delayed the roll out the virtual remand detainee system”.

“As part of the visit, the Minister will together with Deputy Minister Andries Nel engage with officials from the Justice, Correctional Services and South African Police Services as well as the magistracy to receive a briefing on how they have experienced the system,” the department said.

The department explained the virtual system is part of the department’s modernisation programme and is used in the “postponement of criminal cases against accused persons who are in custody awaiting trial via a high-quality audio-visual link between the Correctional Centre and the Court”.

“This project is also congruous to the National Development Plan: 2030 which advocates for safer communities in that, it reduces a risk of escape by inmates while at the court or in transit. It also reduces security risk at the court and the propensity of smuggling contrabands and weapons at the holding cells. 

“Virtual hearings have been implemented successfully across most courts in KwaZulu-Natal Province with 169 virtual trials already conducted at the Durban Magistrates Court. This happened in the current financial year (2024/25) with connections with witnesses from other Provinces, as well as from the UK, USA, Dubai, Scotland, and Zimbabwe. 

“This technology has been extended for use in the remand of detainees. The courts in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, along with the correctional facilities to which they are linked, are now operational,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Wed, 11/06/2024 - 13:20

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Statement by Health Committee Chairperson and National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) on Consultation on Tobacco Bill

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, and Ms Lisa Seftel, the Executive Director of the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) have endorsed a consultation process between NEDLAC and the Department of Health on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (B33-2022). This is so that the social partners at NEDLAC, organised business, organised labour and community organisations represented at NEDLAC can engage on the draft Bill.

Following a committee mandate directing the Chairperson to engage NEDLAC following concerns with the consultation processes around the Bill, the Chairperson held an engagement with the NEDLAC Secretariat on 5 November 2024. The Chairperson appreciated the commitment exhibited by NEDLAC to consultation and is of the view that it embodies the founding values of consultation enshrined in our Constitution and the NEDLAC Act.

“It is important to categorically underline that Parliament and NEDLAC were never at odds and that the committee respects and will always promote the council's importance as a vehicle where government, labour, business and community organisations will cooperate, through problem-solving and negotiation, on economic, labour and development issues, and related challenges facing the country,” said Dr Dhlomo.

In line with this, the Chairperson and the Executive Director have urged the Department of Health to commit to the expedited process that the NEDLAC secretariat has set up where the NEDLAC social partners can be substantially consulted on the Bill. This will result in a consolidated NEDLAC report, which will form part of the inputs when the committee considers the Bill.

Furthermore, it is necessary to highlight that the commitment to a consultation process between NEDLAC and the department does not preclude the committee from continuing with its public participation process, which continues this weekend in KwaZulu-Natal.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreStatement by Health Committee Chairperson and National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) on Consultation on Tobacco Bill

Hlabisa checks on state of readiness ahead of Presidential Imbizo

Location: News

Hlabisa checks on state of readiness ahead of Presidential Imbizo

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has convened an inter-ministerial task team in preparation for the District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo, which is scheduled for this Friday.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake the DDM Presidential Imbizo at the Umnini Sportfield in Umgababa in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, on 8 November 2024.

In attendance will be Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, MECs, mayors, councillors and traditional leaders.

According to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), the meeting of the inter-ministerial task team received reports on the state of readiness to host the imbizo, the province’s socio-economic profile and service delivery issues, among others.  

“Various reports were discussed and the leadership collective from the three spheres [of government] provided guidance and advice on the preparations to ensure that the imbizo achieves its objectives,” a statement issued after the meeting read. 

Friday’s imbizo will focus on enhancing cooperative governance and integrated service delivery. 

“The DDM Presidential Imbizo is an important public participation platform that ensures the voices and perspectives of communities are heard to advance a participatory democracy. 

“In addition, it brings government closer to the people by ensuring that they can engage directly with communities and it enhances active citizenry to build better communities,” government said.

Today, the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) will host its annual Government Exhibition Day at Umnini Thusong Centre. 

The exhibition will provide access to essential services, such as the Department of Home Affairs and will assist residents with the issuing of identity documents (IDs), birth certificate registration and other identity-related services.

The GCIS will also host the Department of Labour and the South African Social Security Agency employees. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 11/06/2024 - 11:27

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Read moreHlabisa checks on state of readiness ahead of Presidential Imbizo

Government activities for the week 04-08 November 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 04-08 November 2024

On Monday, 04 November, the Deputy Ministers Kenny Morolong and Peace Mabe lead a guided educational tour to KwaMuhle Museum, Gandhi Settlement and Ohlange Institute in eThekwini. 

Also on Monday, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie will officially open the National Language Stakeholder Engagement Forum, at the Southern Sun Hotel, Arcadia, in Pretoria.

On Tuesday, 05 November, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola will host Rt. Hon David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development of the United Kingdom (UK) in Cape Town. 

On Wednesday, 06 November, Department of Employment and Labour will host an Employment Seminar on the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) which will be held in Wolmaransstad. 

On Thursday, 07 November, as part of the District Development Model build up programme, the Department of Employment and Labour is providing integrated outreach services to the community of Umnini at the Thusong Centre in Thekwini region in KwaZulu-Natal. 

On Friday, 08 November, President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the Presidential Imbizo in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.

Neo
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 11:32

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Read moreGovernment activities for the week 04-08 November 2024

Upington Residents Say Tobacco Bill Is Based on International Best Practice on Tobacco Regulation

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Portfolio Committee on Health has concluded three successful public hearings on the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill (B33-2022) in the Northern Cape province. The committee is satisfied that contributions made by residents of the Northern Cape were insightful and will ensure consideration of broader perspectives by the committee when it reviews the Bill holistically.

In Upington, participants argued that the provisions of the Bill were in line with international best practice on the regulation of tobacco products. Those who support the Bill argued that countries across the world have proved that it is possible to regulate tobacco products such as the utilisation of plain packaging, use of graphics that highlight the dangers of consumption of tobacco products and the imposition of smoke free zones in the protection of vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, children and non-smokers.

There were strong views that without the proposed regulations, non-smokers are being exposed to harmful second-hand smoke inhalation and that the speedy implementation of the Bill would help curb this challenge. They also argued that the contribution made by the tobacco industry to tax revenue doesn't offset the dangers and harmful effects of tobacco products. They pointed out that the industry was mainly concerned with profit making and not public health.

Meanwhile, producers of electronic delivery systems argued that the Bill in its current form was not effective in its inability to set out a clear distinction between traditional tobacco products, like cigarettes, and electronic nicotine delivery systems. They further argued that they are in support of regulation, but not as provided for in the Bill. They called for separate regulations addressing unique vaping environment.

Those supporting the Bill argued that vapes have inherent harmful products that are not clearly set out that might be harmful to consumers. They suggested that the vaping industry is using colourful packaging and social media to attract the youth into consuming their harmful products.

Those against the Bill reiterated the concern that the ban of the display at the point of sale will negatively affect businesses of small-scale traders, something they said was undesirable given the high unemployment rate in South Africa. A view that the implementation of the Bill as is would create a fertile ground for the illicit market to flourish at the detriment of lawful traders was reiterated.

The committee noted the overwhelming contribution by young people in the Northern Cape who in their majority underscored the dire long-term effects of tobacco for future generations. Many of them argued that the Bill is a timely intervention in an environment of increasing consumption of tobacco products and hooka pipes in townships. They also called for clear and concise enforcement plans to ensure the effective implementation of the Bill.

Having concluded the Northern Cape leg of public hearings, the committee will next weekend, 8-10 November conduct the last provincial public hearings in KwaZulu-Natal. Following this, the committee will review all public submissions and engage organisations that made written submissions to the committee.

“We are generally satisfied with the public participation process we undertook this weekend. The public hearings affirmed the correctness of the decision by drafters of the Constitution in ensuring that the public is central to decision-making as this ensures that their views and aspirations are encapsulated in decisions made by their representatives,” said Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, the Chairperson of the committee.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Read moreUpington Residents Say Tobacco Bill Is Based on International Best Practice on Tobacco Regulation

KZN launches Provincial Integrated Youth Development Strategy

Location: News

KZN launches Provincial Integrated Youth Development Strategy

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has unveiled the Provincial Integrated Youth Development Strategy, marking a transformative step towards empowering the province’s youth.

Launched at the Coastlands Conference Centre in Umhlanga, the strategy, spearheaded by the Department of Social Development (DSD), seeks to shift from a welfare-based approach to a development-focused model. The model is aimed at building a brighter future for young people in the province.

The vision of the Integrated Youth Development Strategy is to create a system that equips young people to be socially responsible, economically active, resilient, and self-reliant.

By prioritising skills development, economic participation, and personal empowerment, the strategy addresses the unique challenges faced by youth in the province and seeks to foster their growth into engaged and contributing members of society.

Ntuli emphasised the importance of the initiative, noting that youth empowerment is central to the province’s vision for sustainable development.

He expressed confidence that the strategy would inspire a generation of young leaders who can drive positive change and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.

“This strategy represents our commitment to investing in the potential of our youth. By empowering young people to be resilient and self-reliant, we are building a foundation for a stronger and more prosperous KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli said.

The Premier reaffirmed the provincial government’s dedication to supporting initiatives that offer meaningful opportunities for youth, and its commitment to a development-driven approach that builds a sustainable future for all. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 10:21

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Read moreKZN launches Provincial Integrated Youth Development Strategy