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Five family members killed in stabbing spree

Location: News

Five family members killed in stabbing spree

Police in KwaZulu-Natal have launched a manhunt for a suspect, who allegedly killed five of his family members in a stabbing spree that left two others injured.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening at the suspect's home in the Bethany area in Bergville.

“Reports indicate that the suspect and his uncle went to visit the neighbours and on their return, the suspect found his mother sitting in the lounge with others. Information further suggests that the suspect took a knife... and stabbed his mother, who managed to run outside of the house. 

“Thereafter, he turned his attention to his uncle, who died in the passage as he tried to flee to the neighbours. The suspect went on to stab and kill two girl children, aged two and six years old. The blood thirsty suspect also stabbed and killed a woman who was living with disability, as well as another elderly woman who had visited the house. The suspect's mother and another four-year-old girl survived with multiple stab wounds.

“The suspect’s sister managed to run to safety with her one-year-old baby. The exact ages of the other victims are yet to be verified. Preliminary investigations have confirmed that the suspect had several domestic violence delated cases opened against him. However, all of them were later voluntarily withdrawn,” Police said in a statement.

Community members with any information on the whereabouts of the man are encouraged to urged to contact the nearest police station or call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or send information on the MySAPSApp. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 10/13/2024 - 09:51

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Hawks crack down on criminals

Location: News

Hawks crack down on criminals

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks, will continue to pursue criminals without fear, favour or prejudice.

This is according to Hawks Head, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, who briefed the media on Sunday to outline progress and take stock of milestones achieved during the second quarter of the 2024/25 financial year.

“The DPCI remains committed to its mandate of investigating, preventing, and combating national priority offences without fear, favour or prejudice. The DPCI has made significant inroads in apprehending individuals involved in high-profile cases, thus ensuring accountability and justice for the victims. 

“These arrests targeted people involved in serious corruption, serious organised crime, serious commercial crime, including fraud, theft, money laundering, police killings, cash-in-transit robberies, illegal mining, drug trafficking, damage to essential infrastructure and trafficking in endangered species,” he said.

During the reporting period, some 818 natural and juristic persons were arrested and appeared in courts around the country.

Most of the suspects were arrested in Gauteng, the North West and KwaZulu-Natal.

During these arrests, some 84 firearms and 2 049 rounds of ammunition were seized. Seven clandestine drug laboratories were dismantled, with a total value exceeding R17 million.

“During this same period, the Directorate secured convictions on 301 accused. Of these convictions, 285 accused persons, inclusive of 13 juristic persons, were sentenced, while the balance of 16 convicts are to be sentenced on dates after the quarter under review.

“Of the 272 sentenced natural persons, 164 are South Africans, while 108 are foreign nationals. Most of these convictions and sentences were secured in the Gauteng province.

"Of these convictions, the Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit secured 143, Serious Commercial Crime Investigation secured 120 and Serious Corruption Investigation secured 22. We shall, in the coming months, analyse the 16 convicts, as and when they are sentenced,” Lebeya said.

Furthermore, the Priority Crime Specialised Investigation has “contributed towards the issuing of a combined 75 freezing and forfeiture orders”, amounting to more than R72 million.

“An amount of R8 178 798.87 has been deposited into the Criminal Assets Recovery Account. These [bring] the total recorded successes on arrests, convictions and attachment of assets to 1 194.

“[In] line with our moto of 'Seek, find and strike', the DPCI shall continue to execute its mandate without fear, favour or prejudice, in accordance with the Constitution and other laws of the Republic,” Lebeya said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 10/13/2024 - 11:49

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Condolences to KZN families who lost children in morning crash

Location: News

Condolences to KZN families who lost children in morning crash

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has conveyed her sincerest condolences to the families who lost loved ones in a crash that claimed the lives of eight people on Friday morning, in KwaZulu-Natal.

Eight people died in a head-on collision between a vehicle carrying children and a truck on the N2, near Mandeni.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who have lost their loved ones this morning,” the Minister said. 

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, said reports indicate that a driver of a seven-seater light motor vehicle lost control of his car.

“The car went over the other lane and colluded with a truck, causing it to veer off the road and overturn. Our hearts are with families and relatives of the eight victims of the horrific road accident between bridges 18 and 19 on the N2 Mandeni.

“What saddens us is that the victims of the road accident include young people. We request motorists to drive carefully on the roads,” the MEC said. - SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Fri, 10/11/2024 - 14:18

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Government invests billions in road infrastructure projects in KZN

Location: News

Government invests billions in road infrastructure projects in KZN

With an investment of billlions of rands into the N2 and N3 road infrastructure projects in KwaZulu-Natal, the province is witnessing the biggest road infrastructure upgrade campaign that has been undertaken by government in several decades.

This investment is expected to play a key role in unlocking economic growth and has to date provided training for 1 000 young people, including civil engineers, quantity surveyors, chartered accountants and artisans.

“Once completed, we will have covered 135 kilometers, including the east, west and north and south areas. The total value of the project will be in the region of about R50 billion.

“Easing traffic congestion, making these roads safer both for passengers and freight is a major objective of the project. At the moment, these areas have been plagued by congestion.

“Seventy percent of the freight that moves on land moves through this N2 and N3 corridor to the ports of Durban and Richards Bay,” Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said on Thursday.

As part of the Transport Month programme, Creecy assessed the progress on the projects, starting by vising the Key Ridge project in Peacevale, before making her way to the EB Cloete project upgrades and the N2 KwaMashu to Umdloti River Bridge.

The visit signaled the South African government’s commitment to fast-track the delivery of critical road infrastructure, which is key to unlocking economic growth and the potential of the country. 

“The first objective is to widen the existing roads. On the N3, we want to increase the lanes to four or five lanes. We also want to increase the number of lanes on the interchanges.

“This particular project is extremely interesting because it is about efficiency and road safety. Once it has been completed, there will be a new roadway that connects the N3 from one high level piece of ground to another high-level piece of ground.

“This will eliminate the sharp descent areas and the very sharp curves. That will have an enormous impact on road safety. It will also cut down on travel time and make it much more efficient,” the Minister said.

This work will promote the work of small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) and the work of young people, whether they are in the artisan class or whether they are university graduates.

“They have an opportunity to undertake onsite training so that they can be registered as professionals or as artisans in their particular category of work.

“One of the major problems that we face in this country, in terms of economic development and growth from a construction point of view, is that it is difficult to for small construction companies to grow and attain the necessary experience so they can move up the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) registration ladder,” Creecy said.

Contractors, who wish to work in the public sector, must register with the CIDB. The Register of Contractors (RoC) supports clients in infrastructure procurement, and categorises and grades contractors from 1-9, according to financial and works capability.

“Thirty percent of the spend of this huge project is on subcontractors. The total value of this particular package of work is about R8 billion. The intention is to make sure that by the time a company is finished their particular package of work, they are able to upgrade their CIBD grading and in the future, be able to undertake a higher-level category of work and work of greater value.

“With this project, we have trained 1 000 young people to date, including civil engineers, quantity surveyors, chartered accountants and artisans. Once they have completed their training, they will be able to register as professionals,” Creecy said.

Throughout the history of South Africa, State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) have played an important role in giving practical training to graduates of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and universities.

“In... this project, we are spending R340 million on the training of young people. The intention is that overtime, there will be 2 000 young people that will receive their formal technical training on all these construction sites,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 10/11/2024 - 10:22

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President Ramaphosa to lead Presidential Imbizo in KZN

Location: News

President Ramaphosa to lead Presidential Imbizo in KZN

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to lead the second District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo under the Government of National Unity (GNU), in Umgababa, in KwaZulu-Natal.

The imbizo that is scheduled for Friday, 8 November, will be held at the Umnini Sportsfield in Ward 98.

“Cabinet calls on residents of Umgababa and surrounding areas to join the imbizo and engage their public representatives on solutions to challenges in their community and find ways to improve service delivery,” said Cabinet in a statement on Thursday.

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.

The first Presidential Imbizo of the seventh administration was held in Tsakane in Gauteng in August. 

The Presidential Imbizo is where leaders from all three spheres of government interact with residents on service delivery challenges, which communities have brought to government’s attention, as well as plans for the development of this district.
– SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/10/2024 - 12:37

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DPWI Minister reflects on 100 days in office

Location: News

DPWI Minister reflects on 100 days in office

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has reflected on the work done in his department since coming into office 100 days ago.

The Minister’s focus has been on building a firm foundation in order to turn the country into a construction site and use public assets for public good.

Macpherson was appointed Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure on 3 July 2024.

Measures the Minister has implemented over the past three months include:

  • Reforming and strengthening the role of Infrastructure South Africa to become a single point of entry for all priority infrastructure projects to ensure that they are completed on time and within budget.
  • Meeting with a large number of financial institutions, technical advisory and construction specialists to drive new interest in the country’s construction book.
  • Tackling maladministration and corruption head-on by launching investigations into failed public sector construction projects, such as the nearly R1 billion that was spent on the Telkom Building projects in Tshwane.
  • Working with municipalities such as Tshwane, eThekwini and Cape Town to establish technical task teams between the cities and the department to address problem State-owned buildings, and to work together to use State assets for the public good.
  • Finalising two orders in Cape Town to remove people who have invaded State-owned properties at the Castle of Good Hope and the Waterloo properties to ensure the properties are used for the public good.
  • Tackling the construction mafia by organising an urgent summit in KwaZulu-Natal to develop a comprehensive response to the construction mafia with Ministers in the law enforcement cluster, and Public Works Members of the Executive Council (MECs) across the country.
  • Improving oversight of property management by moving the Prestige Unit, which was responsible for the Nkandla scandal, back to Director General’s office, and removing the ability of officials to spend up to R20 million without Accounting Officer approval.

The Minister said while a lot of progress has been made to bring stability to the department, these efforts need to be accelerated to turn the country into a construction site and use public assets for public good in order to grow the economy and create jobs. 

“South Africans urgently need to start seeing the fruits of our interventions. I applaud the government officials and stakeholders in both the public and private sector, who have worked tirelessly with me over the past three months. There is truly a new energy within the department to deliver on our mandate.

“In the weeks and months ahead, we need to expedite our efforts to ensure that we get shovels into the ground, so that communities across the country can see the fruits of our work in practice. 

“In the weeks and months to come, there will continue to be difficult decisions we have to make, but the choices we make today will be to our advantage in the future,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 11:00

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SAWS warns of severe thunderstorms in KZN

Location: News

SAWS warns of severe thunderstorms in KZN

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of potentially severe thunderstorms over the northwestern parts of KwaZulu-Natal with damaging winds, excessive lightning and hail on Wednesday.

“Scattered showers and thundershowers are expected over the western parts of KwaZulu-Natal, otherwise isolated,” the weather service said on Wednesday.

The impacts of these weather conditions include localised damage to infrastructure, settlements, vehicles, livestock and livelihoods.

SAWS has warned of localised injuries and danger to life due to lightning, as well as power surges due to excessive lightning.

Last week, SAWS encouraged the public to remain vigilant as the upcoming months of October and November could be affected by heatwaves, severe storms and the possibility of damaging winds.

READ | Weather Service warns of severe weather conditions

Seasonal Climate Watch 

According to the Seasonal Climate Watch, dated October 2024 to February 2025, minimum and maximum temperatures are expected to be mostly above-normal countrywide for the forecast period.  

“The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently still in a neutral state and is predicted to weaken further. Current predictions indicate the development of a La Niña state during the start of the summer season. However, there is still significant uncertainty in the predictions. 

“It is advised to monitor the ENSO system during the start of the summer season, as it may change the rainfall outlook for the summer rainfall regions, if and when the La Niña materialises,” SAWS said.

Current predictions focus on the early- and mid-summer seasons and indicate wetter conditions over the interior of the country.

“The northeastern parts, however, at this stage indicate drier conditions extending through to the mid-summer period. These predictions may change if the ENSO predictions become more certain towards a La Niña state and as such, continued monitoring of future seasonal climate watches are advised.

“The anticipated wetter conditions over the interior of the country during the early- and mid-summer seasons may improve water levels, particularly in regions that receive most of the rainfall in the summer season. 

“Drier conditions, coupled with above-normal temperatures in the northeastern parts of the country, are likely to increase water loss and reduce water storage levels through evapotranspiration and drought, among other factors,” SAWS said.

The predicted wetter conditions during early- and mid-summer seasons over the interior of the country are likely to increase the likelihood of flooding in areas with inadequate drainage, posing immediate health risks such as drowning, injuries and hypothermia. 

SAWS has encouraged the public to take precautionary measures and follow the guidance of local authorities.

“The forecast indicates nationwide temperatures above the average, heightening the risk of prolonged ultraviolet (UV) exposure, potentially exceeding level 3 on the World Meteorological Organisation's UV Index. This elevated UV exposure could result in a greater incidence of sunburn and other UV-related health issues. 

“Moreover, the increased temperatures are expected to heighten pollen levels and heat exposure, enhancing the likelihood of skin and eye allergies, and accelerating the growth of food-borne pathogens. 

"This escalation poses a heightened risk of foodborne illnesses. The public is advised to maintain strict food hygiene and adhere to local health guidelines under these conditions,” SAWS said.

Agriculture 

Above-normal rainfall is forecasted for the central parts and the southeastern coastal areas of the country during the early and mid-summer seasons. 

“This above-normal rainfall forecast for these summer rainfall regions will likely have a positive impact on crop and livestock production. However, below-normal rainfall is expected over most parts of the northeastern areas of the country, including Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal. 

“Therefore, it is recommended that the relevant decision-makers advise farmers in these regions to implement soil and water conservation measures, proper water harvesting and storage techniques, establish effective drainage systems, and adopt other appropriate farming practices,” SAWS said. -SANews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 10:51

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KZN hosts Emerging Property Developers’ Summit

Location: News

KZN hosts Emerging Property Developers' Summit

Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala will on Thursday address the maiden Emerging Property Developers' Summit, organised by the KwaZulu-Natal Property Sector Association in Zimbali, north of Durban.

The summit aims to assess progress made in the transformation of the property sector through access to land and finance by the emerging property developers.

The summit will also reflect on the emerging trends such as remote working on the property industry, obstacles and opportunities for previously disadvantaged sectors in the property industry.

The property sector, which is taking strain from the prevailing economic challenges, has experienced a huge decline. 

Zikalala will give an update on the latest state of the property sector in South Africa and its reengineering programme, with the inclusion of emerging and young property players. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Wed, 10/09/2024 - 10:08

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Operation Shanela nets over 12 000 suspects

Location: News

Operation Shanela nets over 12 000 suspects

Through various high-density operations, commonly known as Operation Shanela, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested 12 187 suspects from Monday, 30 September to Sunday, 6 October 2024.

Through Operation Shanela, SAPS has taken a bold and decisive approach to dealing with crime in the country through tracking and tracing operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, as well as stop and searches.

All Shanela operations are led by the Provincial Commissioner of each province.

Just this week alone, the following successes were recorded:

  • 1 640 suspects were arrested, who were wanted for crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape and house robbery.
  • 157 suspects were arrested for murder.
  • 94 suspects were arrested for attempted murder.
  • 242 suspects were arrested for rape, with KwaZulu-Natal making the majority of arrests with 108.
  • 266 drug dealers were also arrested during this period.
  • 1 621 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs, and 814 of these arrests were made in Western Cape.
  • 1 496 suspects were arrested for assault GBH [grievous bodily harm] -- 364 more arrests than the previous week.
  • 109 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms, and 33 of these suspects were arrested in KwaZulu-Natal, while 30 were arrested in the Western Cape.
  • 535 suspects were arrested for illegally dealing in liquor, with 199 of these arrests being made in Mpumalanga and 180 in KZN.
  • 430 drivers were arrested for drunken driving, with 117 of them arrested in Mpumalanga.

Under recoveries and confiscations, police registered the following successes:

  • 131 firearms were confiscated during operations. Thirty of these firearms were confiscated during police operations in KwaZulu-Natal, while 23 were confiscated in the Western Cape.
  • 2 969 rounds of ammunition were confiscated.
  • 58 hijacked and stolen vehicles were also recovered during this week's operations.

A highlight of major takedowns and other successes include the following:

  • Every week in the last month, SAPS has arrested at least one drug mule at OR Tambo International Airport. 
  • This week alone, police arrested three drug mules, which include two Dutch traffickers, who were found with 80kg of Khat. 
  • On Sunday, 6 October, police arrested a 43-year-old Paraguayan national at the airport. He has so far released 117 bullets suspected to contain cocaine.

National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, applauded SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) detective, Warrant Officer John Tlala Mokoena, for securing 42 life terms and 791 years for serial rapist Nkosinathi Phakathi. 

The North Gauteng High Court, sitting in the Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court, sentenced Phakathi on Friday.

More boots on the ground

On Friday, 4 October, 1 812 graduates who underwent a six-month Introductory Police Learning Development Programme (IPDLP) stood on parade during passing out parades held at various SAPS academies.

This is the first at batch of the 2024/2025 Project 10 000 cohort to graduate from Police College. They will be deployed at various police stations across the country to capacitate and boost grassroots level policing.

Meanwhile, Operation Vala Umgodi continues to make significant strides in preventing and combating illegal mining activities in the country.

This past week, 93 illegal miners were arrested, and 58 of them were arrested in Mpumalanga.

“Police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the state to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country,” the South African Police Service said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 10/08/2024 - 09:56

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KZN Finance recommits to improved financial governance

Location: News

KZN Finance recommits to improved financial governance

KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers, has re-affirmed the Provincial Treasury’s mission to ensure improved financial governance despite financial constraints facing the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).

Rodgers joined KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli and other MECs at a media briefing held in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday, to present a progress report on the seventh administration’s first 100 days in office under the GPU.

“Over the past four financial years, the [National] Treasury cut our equitable share by R66 billion, [and] over the next three years, a further R12 billion is expected to be cut. This is due to a number of factors, including the performance of the economy,” Rodgers said.

The MEC said a plan including several cost-containment measures has been put in place but added that this will not neglect the poorest of the poor.

“Our priority remains being a capable and ethical state that looks after our most vulnerable citizens,” Rodgers said.

Ntuli revealed that the provincial GPU had inherited a debt to service providers amounting to R10 billion, and this will require an average of R150 million budget cuts over the next seven years, starting from 2025/2026 financial year to have a positive cash flow.

However, Ntuli reiterated the GPU’s commitment to upholding service delivery priorities, despite financial limitations currently facing the province.

“The KZN Provincial Government has limited financial resources, meaning that we will not do everything that was promised within the anticipated timeframe. However, we will ensure that we improve integration at planning and implementation so that we use resource in a smart way.

“It is our commitment to implement revenue enhancement, wherein all departments should look at ways of improving their own revenue raising and collections, as this will increase the funds available for priority service delivery programmes,” the Premier said.

Rodgers will in the coming days, deliver his own first 100 days in office report, which will unpack further details on the state of province’s finances, as well as strategies and plans going forward on the part of Treasury.

The MEC has recommitted to ensuring that the four key spending areas, including job creation, building a sustainable economy, service delivery, and alleviating inequality and poverty, remain non-negotiable priorities. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 10/08/2024 - 13:06

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Government activities for the week 7 – 11 October 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 7 – 11 October 2024

On Monday, 7 October, President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver a keynote address at the Olympic and Paralympics Sponsors’ Dinner at the Sandton Convention Centre.

On Monday, 7 October, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture hosts the 2024 Annual National Oral History Conference at the Emakhosini Conference Centre in Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal. The conference will conclude on 11 October.

On Tuesday, 8 October, the Department of Employment and Labour hosts an Inspectors Employment Standards Conference to discuss maximum compliance to employment and labour laws. The conference will conclude on 10 October.

On Tuesday, 8 October, the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, will attend the official opening of a Germiston Rail line.

On Wednesday, 9 October, the Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, will launch the National Food and Nutrition Security Survey in Pretoria.

On Wednesday, 9 October, the Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, Deputy Ministers Sibiya and Mgcina host an Inspections and Enforcement Conference in Durban. The conference will conclude on 10 October. 

On Thursday, 10 October, the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, leads the commemoration of the International Day for Disaster Reduction in Polokwane, Limpopo.

On Friday, 11 October, the Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, will officially launch the Durban Rail line. – SAnews.gov.za

Matona
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 13:58

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KZN Premier commends arrest of unscrupulous officer

Location: News

KZN Premier commends arrest of unscrupulous officer

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has commended the swift response of law enforcement agencies, which led to the arrest of a police officer for theft and fraud charges.

The constable, stationed at Cato Manor, was arrested on Friday morning during a raid at his home in Seaview after being found in possession of a bank card stolen from a hijacking incident, which left an 11-yer-old girl, Zarah Ramsamy, dead in Malvern last month.

According to the KZN police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the constable was arrested after he was found in possession of a bank card, which belongs to the owner of the vehicle that was hijacked during the incident.

At the time of the hijacking, the police constable was on duty in the Cato Manor policing precinct where he is stationed. When the hijacked vehicle was recovered in the Cato Manor area, the same constable was called upon to drive the vehicle to the Malvern station.

It was during that time that the constable got hold of the bank card and stole it.

The police officer is facing charges of theft and fraud for stealing and using the bank card of the victim's family after the hijacked vehicle was recovered.

Ntuli said while the officer’s actions tarnish the integrity of the police force, the successful operation, led by the Hawks Provincial Tracking Team and other units, demonstrates the unwavering commitment of law enforcement to root out corruption within their ranks.

Ntuli warned that the provincial government will not allow rogue officers to undermine the public’s trust in the South African Police Service.

“Officers, who abuse their position to engage in criminality, have no place in our police force. The arrest of this dishonest constable is a clear message that no one is above the law," Ntuli said.

The Premier also commended the collaborative effort of the numerous law enforcement units involved in the operation and reiterated government’s commitment to fighting crime in the province.

As the officer faces internal disciplinary action, Ntuli has invited all stakeholders -- religious groups, private businesses, neighbourhood watch groups, and community leaders -- to join hands with the provincial government to combat crime and restore trust in law enforcement.

“The provincial government remains committed to ensuring that justice prevails, not only for the Ramsamy family but for all victims of crime in KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli said.

Netshiunda said the police officer will also face internal disciplinary process proportional to the crimes with which he has been charged. – SAnews.gov.za  

GabiK
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 15:15

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SIU to probe academic fraud at Fort Hare

Location: News

SIU to probe academic fraud at Fort Hare

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed six new and two amended proclamations authorising the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration at various institutions. 

The SIU has on Friday been given the green light to probe several provincial government departments and the affairs of the University of Fort Hare. 

According to the SIU, the agency’s investigation period for the university has been extended to start from 1 January 2004 until 4 October 2024. The new scope allows the unit to probe the registration or admission of non-eligible people to enrol for, study for or be awarded degrees, including Bachelor’s, Honour’s, Master’s and PhD degrees.

“Without limiting the scope of non-eligibility grounds, this includes persons who did not have the requisite degrees or matriculation results to enrol for, study for or be awarded the degrees in question,” the SIU explained. 

Investigators will probe the maintenance of the university’s infrastructure from 1 January 2022 to 31 March 2023 and zoom in on the installation of CCTV cameras and associated security features at the staff village in Alice in the Eastern Cape from 18 March 2022 to 2 June 2022. 

They will also look into the refurbishment and maintenance of student residences at the university’s Alice campus in 2009 and the Capacity Building Programme for the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature.

The SIU will further investigate the appointment of a Head of Department and the affairs of the university in the Nguni Cattle Development Trust.

“Serious maladministration and malpractices, as well as conduct which may seriously harm the interests of the public in the affairs of the university regarding the administration and payment of allowances for food, accommodation, books, stationery, cash and study-related costs to qualifying students.”

In addition, investigations will cover the university’s Faculty of Health Sciences’ Albertina Sisulu Executive Leadership Programme in Health and the Master of Public Health Programme including the registration or admission of non-eligible people to enrol for, study for or be awarded degrees. 

Further, the provincial Departments of Transport will be put under the microscope. 

According to the agency, the SIU’s investigation will continue to probe the registration and licensing of motor vehicles, registration of motor vehicle ownership or licensing details, issuing of driving licences, learner’s licences or professional driving permits, conversion of foreign driving licences and military driving licences to driving licences, and issuing of roadworthy certificates. 

The state agency will investigate conduct at the Limpopo Department of Sports, Arts and Culture and provincial Health Departments in KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape. 

The SIU will also probe the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality and Tlokwe Local Municipality. 

In the provincial departments and the municipalities, the matters are mostly related to tenders and contracts. 

The SIU will examine if the contracts adhered to National Treasury guidelines and ascertain whether the payments were irregular, fruitless, and wasteful expenditures or financial losses for the department or the State. 

“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.”

In line with the SIU Act, the agency said it would refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action. 

Meanwhile, the agency is also authorised under the SIU Act to initiate a civil action in the high court or a special tribunal in its name to address any wrongdoing identified during its investigation resulting from acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Sun, 10/06/2024 - 11:29

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Mining’s potential remains high: Mantashe 

Location: News

Mining’s potential remains high: Mantashe 

Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has told an indaba that there is evidence to suggest that mining is “the bedrock of our economy” and that the country is an attractive investment destination for mining.

According to the Minerals Council of South Africa, the industry contributed some 6.3% to South Africa’s nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) last year.

“There is a strong case emerging out of the study on ‘The State of Mining’ that the South African mining industry not only remains the bedrock of our economy, but an attractive investment destination for mining. 

“Coupled with the draft South Africa’s ‘Critical Minerals Strategy’, the study points to the reality that the South African mining industry is diversifying from the gold mining era to an industry with wide-ranging mineral resources, including the world’s largest known deposits of platinum group metals (PGMs), manganese, chrome, coal, gold, copper, vanadium, and other natural resources that are considered critical for the just transition,” the Minister said at the Annual Joburg Indaba in Sandton on Thursday.

He added that with the diversification of the industry, its potential to continue growing remains high.

“Notwithstanding the challenges faced by the gold mining sector, including deep level mines and heightened safety concerns, the 2023 gold production statistics positioned South Africa as the world’s thirteenth and Africa’s fourth largest gold producer. 

“Despite the fluctuating prices of palladium and rhodium, of which South Africa supplies 38% and 81%, respectively, to the global commodities market, the PGMs sector is poised to play a catalytic role in sustaining the South African mining industry, and in the growth of our economy.

“Considering South Africa’s reserves of known manganese and chrome deposits, as well as being the largest producer and exporter of manganese and chrome ore, the South African manganese and chrome sectors are poised to continue playing a significant role globally driven by their use in the automotive and construction industries,” Mantashe said.

Addressing challenges 

He acknowledged that during last year’s Joburg Indaba, industry players raised issues that “we needed to resolve for the sector to thrive, including the need to ensure the necessary policy and regulatory certainty for investment”.

“Although the South African mining industry’s regulatory framework is stable and predictable, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources is drafting amendments to the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA). 

“This is so as to address its shortcomings and ensure that areas that have been challenged legally are strengthened against international best practice. The amendments will further improve the business environment while keeping in sync with our socioeconomic fabric.

“The completion of the migration process to the new efficient and transparent mining licensing system, in June next year, is poised to modernise our licensing system, ensure regulatory certainty, and the sustainability of the South African mining industry. 

“Having completed the first phase of the project, which included the assessment of the current environment to establish the baseline and its readiness, and the requirements with respect to system hosting, software integration, and the enhancement of cybersecurity, the development of the new system is therefore progressing very well,” the Minister explained.

READ | Presidency transfers Department of Mineral Resources and Energy legislation

Furthermore, the Minister told the industry leaders that between April 2023 and March this year, the department has processed and finalised 127 mining rights, 1 527 prospecting rights, and 2 313 mining permits and ancillaries.

There are no backlogs in the Western Cape and the Free State while backlogs in the Northern Cape, Limpopo, North West, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal have been significantly reduced. Mpumalanga is the only province with a significant backlog.

“As we come to the end of this year’s Indaba, we wish to encourage the South African mining industry to continue sharing insights about the realities of this industry, advance beneficiation at source, and support our exploration initiatives.

“We further encourage junior miners to take up the opportunities presented to them in order to transform the industry and ensure that the people of South Africa derive value from their country’s mineral endowment,” Mantashe concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:09

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Government working with communities to find suitable land for housing

Location: News

Government working with communities to find suitable land for housing

The Department of Human Settlements intends to partner with traditional leaders to identify disaster-resilient areas suitable for human settlements development, using geo-mapping.

Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi made the announcement at meeting held with Members of Executive Councils (MINMEC) responsible for Human Settlements across the country on Thursday.

Kubayi said the collaborative initiative with traditional leaders aims to enable traditional leaders to identify safe land parcels for settlement purposes and avoid disaster-prone areas in vulnerable provinces.

She said the department intends to pilot this approach in rural KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo Provinces, paving the way for proactive disaster mitigation and sustainable human settlements.

“By leveraging geo-mapping technology, the department aims to inform decision makers to make better land allocation decisions, ensuring the safety and well-being of communities. We cannot be chasing after or reacting to disasters.

“We must be proactive and put measures in place to mitigate future disasters. Climate change is upon us, and we should be better prepared and be able to respond accordingly,” Kubayi said.

The Minister convened the meeting with the MECs, focusing on the 2024/2025 human settlements priorities.

This was the second meeting in the seventh administration included the Mayors and Members of Mayoral Committees (MMCs) for Human Settlements in metropolitan municipalities and representatives from the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) to tackle key critical areas.

These include prioritising vulnerable groups in housing allocation, the Title Deeds Restoration Programme, housing for military veterans, emergency housing, and an update on the Human Settlements White Paper.

The meeting discussed the finalisation of the White Paper and MINMEC was informed that extensive consultations have been undertaken to ensure that all sectors of the community took part in shaping the new policy.

Approved by Cabinet in 2023 for public consultation, the draft White Paper seeks to address the prevailing gaps and inconsistencies in the housing and human settlements sector by responding comprehensively to contemporary sector reforms.

The meeting heard that sectors including NGOs, civil society, labour, academics, developers and contractors, and identified government departments were consulted.

The draft White Paper will be presented to Cabinet for approval, and once approved, a nationwide awareness campaign will be launched to educate the public on the policy's key points through various media channels.

The Minister also underscored the importance of building integrated communities including rural areas, saying human settlements should be where people are, feel safe and have access to economic opportunities and social amenities.

“Accordingly, the government has availed resources to build social amenities in rural areas including community halls and other facilities to encourage development within the communities,” the Minister explained.

Assisting those affected by disasters

On emergency response to people affected by disasters, MINMEC welcomed a briefing on the Emergency Housing Framework developed to ensure immediate response to people affected by disasters.

MINMEC stressed the need to clarify roles and responsibilities since the national department has assumed responsibility.

The meeting adopted a proposal outlining disaster response protocols, dividing responsibilities between the National Department of Human Settlements, provinces, and metros based on disaster severity.

“Significant and severe disasters, affecting 51 to 100 or more households, will be jointly responded to by the National Department and provinces/metropolitan areas, while minimal and minor disasters, impacting 1 to 50 households, will be addressed by provinces working with metros,” Kubayi said.

In response to disasters, the Emergency Housing Guidelines provide four key interventions, and these include restoration, rebuilding, relocation, and repairs.

MINMEC emphasised the need to address historic disasters that occurred from 2019 to April 2024, which have affected numerous households, with estimated damages totalling R1 billion. – SAnews.gov.za

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Hlabisa to lead engagements with KZN provincial leadership

Location: News

Hlabisa to lead engagements with KZN provincial leadership

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa is expected to lead various engagements with the KwaZulu-Natal provincial and eThekwini leadership as well as the Provincial House of Traditional and Khoisan Leaders (PHTKL). 

The engagements are expected to take place on Saturday.

The first engagement will include the Minister, Deputy Minister Prince Burns Ncamashe, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, CoGTA MEC Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba and the metro’s executive committee. 

This will be followed by a meeting with the PHTKL on issues affecting the sector. 

Both meetings will be held in Durban. 

Eastern Seaboard Regional Development

On Monday, the Minister will lead the Eastern Seaboard Development Political Engagement with the Premier of the Eastern Cape and Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Oscar Mabuyane and Ntuli, respectively.

They will be joined by traditional leaders, MECs, Mayors and Councillors from the Ugu, Harry Gwala, OR Tambo and Alfred Nzo districts at the Wild Coast Sun, Port Edward. 

“The Eastern Seaboard Regional Development was declared as a region on 20 June 2022 in terms of Section 19 of Spatial Planning and Land Use Management (Act 16 of 2013) and has also been identified as a strategic area ready for investment. 

“The region covers an area spanning the southern coastline of KwaZulu-Natal and the northern part of the Eastern Cape provinces and spans across four districts and 17 local municipalities,” the department explained.

The Regional Spatial Development Framework, according to the department, has since been developed and catalytic projects across the four districts identified. 

“This planned Ministerial engagement will review progress to date and agree on plans going forward in the implementation of the Eastern Seaboard programme. 

“The meeting will also fortify traditional leadership participation in the next steps of the implementation phase of the programme, which include buy-in, stakeholder engagement and the awareness-raising of the project to all role players.”

The department described the development as a flagship project facilitated through the District Development Model (DDM) and provides an opportunity to drive spatially referenced transformation through the integration of urban and rural development as well as targeted rural revitalisation.

“Launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2021, the development has reached a critical stage, and significant progress has also been made concerning its design, establishment and coordination of key stakeholders to respond to the region’s rich cultural and environmental assets but remains deprived of substantial economic development and targeted investment in the region,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Fri, 10/04/2024 - 11:39

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Three suspects linked to extortion, murder cases killed in shootouts with KZN police

Location: News

Three suspects linked to extortion, murder cases killed in shootouts with KZN police

Three suspects, who were wanted for a string of extortion and murder cases in the eThekwini district, were shot and fatally wounded in two separate incidents of shootouts with police in KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday afternoon and the early hours of today.

On Wednesday afternoon, police followed up information regarding the whereabouts of a suspect, who was wanted for at least four cases of extortion and another four counts of murder, which he allegedly committed in the KwaNdengezi and Mariannhill areas. 

When police arrived at a house at Gilebe in Inanda, the suspect fired shots at the police and during the shootout, the suspect was shot and fatally wounded. He was found in possession of a 7.65 pistol with four rounds of ammunition.

In another incident today, police operationalised intelligence which uncovered the hideout spot of two suspects, who were also wanted for extortion and murder cases. 

The suspects were cornered at Edabe informal settlement in Tshelimnyama, Mariannhill, and the suspects shot at the police from inside the house. 

In self-defence, police returned fire and during the shootout, the two suspects were shot and fatally wounded. They were found in possession of two firearms. 

All recovered firearms will be taken for ballistic testing to ascertain if they are linked to other crime scenes.

The three deceased suspects had linkages to the six suspects, who were shot and fatally wounded in a shootout with police at a holiday accommodation in South Beach, Durban, in the beginning of September 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 09:17

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KZN Premier condemns bridge attack that claimed Pietermaritzburg mother’s life

Location: News

KZN Premier condemns bridge attack that claimed Pietermaritzburg mother’s life

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has condemned the brutal bridge attack that claimed the life a Pietermaritzburg mother.

Madhumathie Bunwarie, 62, was killed on Sunday when a car battery was thrown from a bridge and struck the car she was travelling in on the N3, near the Pavilion Shopping Centre. The car battery reportedly crashed through the windscreen, hitting Bunwarie on the head.

At the time of the incident, Bunwarie and her family were returning to Pietermaritzburg after attending a funeral in Durban.

“This appalling act of mischief and criminal recklessness has not only robbed a family of a beloved mother, but it has shaken the entire KwaZulu-Natal community. We cannot, and will not, tolerate such inhumane and cowardly behaviour that brings untold pain and trauma to innocent people,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli extended his heartfelt condolences to the Bunwarie family and their loved ones during this difficult time. 

“No words can ease the grief they are feeling but as a province, we mourn with them and promise to act,” Ntuli said.

The Premier has called on law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the individuals responsible for the heinous act. 

He stressed the need for justice, not only for Bunwarie but for all victims of violence and reckless criminality in the province.

“I have instructed the Department of Community Safety and Liaison to work closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to increase police visibility and patrols in high-risk areas, particularly near bridges along major highways. We must ensure that incidents like this are prevented at all costs. 

“The safety of our people is non-negotiable. Additional security measures, including the installation of surveillance cameras and heightened monitoring of bridges, will be explored urgently to deter such cowardly acts of violence,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement without delay. 

“Together, as a community, we must stand united against those who seek to disrupt the peace and security of our province. May Mrs Bunwarie rest in peace, and may her family find strength in this time of mourning. 

“Let this tragic incident serve as a solemn reminder of the importance of compassion, responsibility, and collective vigilance,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Motsoaledi to engage various stakeholders in KZN on NHI

Location: News

Motsoaledi to engage various stakeholders in KZN on NHI

The Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will this evening engage stakeholders in KwaZulu-Natal on the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act and its benefits.

According to the Department of Health, the visit is part of ongoing roadshows on this health reform to understand concerns and recommendations from various sectors of society on how the NHI can be effectively implemented to meet the healthcare needs of the entire population.

“The NHI reforms’ primary objective is to unify the current fragmented health system to ensure Section 27 of the Constitution is realised.

“This piece of legislation is not just a policy, but a commitment of a better, healthier future for every South African,” the department said.

The countrywide stakeholder engagement programme also targets communities, ordinary people, and healthcare providers who will benefit the most from the phased implementation of NHI.

Motsoaledi will be joined by KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane and other leaders at the University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Health Sciences at 6pm. 

In May this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the then NHI Bill into law. During the signing ceremony, he said the signing was a “milestone in South Africa's ongoing quest for a more just society”. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 10/03/2024 - 10:05

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Employment and Labour to host Employment Standards Conference 

Location: News

Employment and Labour to host Employment Standards Conference 

The role of labour inspectors with the aim of protecting vulnerable workers in different sectors of the South African labour market, will come to the fore at the Department of Employment and Labour’s Employment Standards Conference.

The department’s Inspection and Enforcement Services (IES) branch is set to host the conference from 8 to 10 October at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

“The conference promises to be an enlightening platform for the more than 350 inspectors expected to attend, offering an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogues, exchange ideas, and explore strategies to enhance compliance and maintain equality of inspections within the labour market.

It is an occasion to not only hear from leadership but also to contribute to the transformation of the inspections and South African labour market,” the department said.

The gathering will bring together inspectors specialising in the fields of basic conditions of employment, unemployment insurance, compensation for occupational injuries and diseases, employment equity, and the national minimum wage enforcement.

In recognition of work performed by the overstretched inspectors, the IES branch also plans to host an awards ceremony to reward the good work performed by the inspectors.

The department regularly conducts advocacy campaigns to ensure compliance with the labour legislation it administers. 

These include the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), Unemployment Insurance Act (UIA), Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (COID) Act, National Minimum Wage Act (NMWA), Employment Equity Act (EEA), Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), and the Employment Services Act (ESA).

The department said the theme of next week’s session “Advancing Social Justice through Effective Labour Inspections,” is a way of encouraging maximum compliance to employment and labour laws. – SAnews.gov.za

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Wed, 10/02/2024 - 12:23

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Call for no alcohol consumption this Social Development Month

Location: News

Call for no alcohol consumption this Social Development Month

With the country observing Social Development month, Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe is appealing all South Africans not to consume alcohol or sell alcohol to children during the month of October. 

The call comes as Tolashe and MEC for Social Development in KwaZulu-Natal, Cynthia Mbali Shinga, will be commemorating World No Alcohol Day on Wednesday, 3 October.

The commemoration will take place at Sweetwaters, uMgungundlovu District, Umsunduzi Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.

The two leaders will use the day to highlight the harms caused by alcohol abuse which affects individuals, families and communities.

The event will be held in partnership with Kwa Zulu Natal Provincial Department of Social Development, SAAPA (Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance) and the Central Drug Authority (CDA).

The day aims to highlight the effects of alcohol abuse, binge drinking amongst South African youth and the negative effect of selling alcohol to children.

World No Alcohol Day was proposed by India during the World Health Assembly in Geneva in 2008, where 193 World Health Organization (WHO) members signed a resolution to reduce alcohol-related harms. 

This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme: “Say No to alcohol and selling alcohol to minors is a crime”. 

The theme seeks to raise awareness about the risks associated with alcohol misuse and abuse, and the dangers of selling alcohol to minors which can lead to underage and binge drinking.
Sweetwaters was identified as the place to host the event given its high rate of alcohol abuse, crime and teenage pregnancy. 

This community also experienced a tragedy last year when 12 young people abusing alcohol and drugs were burned to death. 

The Minister will use this day as one of the targeted outreach programmes during DSD Month, which is held under the theme: “30 years of Democracy, Partnership and Growth: Towards Reigniting the role of the family”. 

South Africa’s alcohol consumption

The department highlighted that alcohol is the most misused legal drug in South Africa, and this has a negative impact on the fabric of many communities, especially children and young people.

South Africa has one of the highest rates of alcohol consumption globally with alcohol consumption per capita in the country having risen over the last 10 years. 

The department further highlighted that alcohol use plays a role in about half of all non-natural deaths. It is involved in 75% of homicide cases; 60% of automobile accidents; and 24% of vehicle deaths and injuries.

Minister Tolashe said alcohol is the third-largest contributor to death and disability after unsafe sex/sexually transmitted infections and interpersonal violence, both of which are themselves influenced by alcohol consumption as alcohol affects sexual and violent behaviour.

“Alcohol use has been recognised as a major contributor to the global burden of disease, with an even greater detrimental effect in low- and middle-income countries and people living in poverty. In total, more than 13 million disability-adjusted life years, or 7% of the total disease burden in South Africa, is attributed to alcohol.”

She said young people aged 15 to 29 have the greatest burden of disease attributable to alcohol use. 
Although, men generally use and abuse alcohol more frequently and experience a greater burden of disease than women, a significant proportion of young women in South Africa are also using alcohol.

Women in disadvantaged communities with comparable alcohol use to men are significantly less likely to obtain treatment. Alcohol use in young women is associated with high rates of multiple comorbidities including risky sexual practices, poor adherence to HIV medications, depression, and intimate partner violence (IPV).

Tolashe cautioned that alcohol use among parents /care givers can have long-standing negative effects on their children and their ability to thrive given their homes are often less organised, routines are more chaotic and maternal adherence to health regimens suffer.

“Alcohol use in young women, results in many children in South Africa born with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) which could lead to damage to the fetus among pregnant women. It is for this reason that during September, which is known as FASD (Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) month, the Department of Social Development conducted awareness campaigns in provinces highlighting the dangers of drinking while pregnant,” the Minister said.

Alcohol widely used among young people

Data from the 2016 South African National Demographic and Health Survey has found that at least one in every four young people had consumed alcohol by the ages of 15–19. 

“This is the reason the department, towards the commemoration of World No Alcohol Day is having Youth Dialogues to highlight the dangers of binge drinking and that alcohol should not be sold to minors,” the Minister said. 

South Africa witnessed a tragic incident in Scenery Park, in East London, where 21 young lives were lost at the Enyobeni Tavern.

The loss of lives in Scenery Park demonstrated the risks children are exposed to, exacerbated by the triple challenges of poverty, and unemployment as well as broken family structures, poor parenting, poor morale in communities and a lack of community forums/structures to actively implore preventative measures to protect children from such occurrences.

Coupled with this is the limited implementation and monitoring of government policies that govern access to alcohol to children under 18, and licensing of establishments, said the Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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