KwaZulu-Natal

26 July 2024

Chikunga donates infrastructure to Umlazi school

Location: News

Chikunga donates infrastructure to Umlazi school

Minister in Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, in partnership with the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA’s), will donate R6 million worth of infrastructure to benefit a school in KwaZulu-Natal.

More than 400 learners of Mason Lincoln Special School will benefit from the Inter-SETA collaboration project, which aims to improve the operations of the special school.

The school is located in Umlazi.

Friday’s donation includes infrastructure support through the provision of mobile classrooms, teacher, and learner tools of the trade through the provision of desktops, assistive devices, digital boards, and wheelchairs.

“Further support will include skills development opportunities for persons and learners with disabilities,” the department said.

Chikunga will be joined by the Health and Welfare SETA, FoodBev Manufacturing SETA, Insurance SETA, Services SETA, and Mining Qualifications Authority. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 10:13

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26 July 2024

The right to protest is being blocked by administrative barriers

Location: News

Municipal officials often misinterpret the law

26 July 2024

KZN social sector departments get largest chunk of budget

Location: News

KZN social sector departments get largest chunk of budget

The KwaZulu-Natal Departments of Education, Health and Social Development have been allocated the lion’s share of the provincial budget for the 2024/25 financial year.

Presenting the provincial government budget for the 2024/25 financial year at the KZN Legislature in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday, KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers, announced that the bulk of the provincial budget is allocated to the social sector departments, which received 80% of the provincial budget, while the balance of 20% goes towards funding all the other votes.

“Education receives between R4.1 billion and R4.4 billion per annum over the MTEF [Medium-Term Expenditure Framework], Health receives between R2.6 billion and R2.8 billion per annum over the MTEF, [and] Social Development receives between R134 million and R144 million per annum over the MTEF,” Rodgers said.

Conditional grant allocation increase

Rodgers said the conditional grant allocation has increased by R501.3 million in 2024/25 and reduced by R989.3 million in 2025/26 and R593.5 million in 2026/27.

The budget allocated towards Ilima/Letsema Projects, under the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, has been cut by R24.7 million in 2024/25.

The MEC said the cut is due to National Treasury reprioritising the funds towards the Presidential Employment Stimulus.

In aggregate, Rodgers said the province receives R141.4 million through two Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) conditional grants aimed at increasing job creation in the province.

Rodgers said the EPWP Integrated Grant for Provinces and the Social Sector EPWP Incentive Grant for Provinces have been reduced in 2024/25 due to National Treasury reprioritising these funds towards the Presidential Employment Stimulus.

He said these grants were cut by R42 million and R29 million, respectively, against various Votes.

The MEC said the Education Infrastructure Grant has increased by R58.1 million in 2024/25.

Rodgers noted that the grant is incentive based, and the increase is partly due to the incentive allocation where the department scored well, achieving 98% in terms of submitting planning documentation and showing capacity to spend, and thus received an incentive allocation of R89 million.

“The National School Nutrition Programme grant receives an increase of R19 million in 2024/25 to continue with the provision of nutritious meals. The budget for 2024/25 after the increase is R2.2 billion,” the MEC said.

The budget for the Health Facility Revitalisation Grant has also increased by R31.1 million in 2024/25.

Rodgers said the addition to the grant is due to incentive based and the department’s score at 99%, in terms of submitting planning documentation and showing capacity to pend and was allocated R72.9 million. The budget for Health Facility Revitalisation Grant is R1.5 billion in 2024/25.

Significant increase for Provincial Roads Maintenance Grant

The Provincial Roads Maintenance Grant has also seen a significant increase of R691.8 million in 2024/25 for the maintenance and rehabilitation of the provincial road network, as well as repairs to infrastructure damaged by floods.

“The budget for this grant is R3.2 billion after this increase and shows our commitment to improving the provincial road network,” Rodgers said.

The Human Settlements Development Grant has decreased significantly by R268.7 million in 2024/25 to be able to provide funds to the social sector for the 2023 wage agreement carry-through costs.

“The budget for this grant in 2024/25 is R2.5 billion after the budget cut. The Informal Settlements Upgrading Partnership grant also had a large budget cut of R228.6 million in 2024/25, in line with National Treasury’s decision to source funds through reprioritisation to provide funds to the social sector for the 2023 wage agreement carry-through costs.

“This budget cut is carried through over the MTEF and the budget for 2024/25, after the budget cut, is R597.1 million,” Rodgers said.

The Provincial Treasury receives R7.7 million over the MTEF (R2.6 million per annum) towards the costs of upgrading the Biometrics Access Control System to strengthen its security and ransomware features, while Sport, Arts and Culture was allocated R4.1 million for the construction of a monument in honour of the 1860 arrival of the Indian indentured labourers.

“Transport requested that R3 million be suspended from their Vote in 2024/25 for allocation to Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs with respect to sourcing an airport emergency fire and rescue vehicle for the Margate Airport.

“This relates to the ongoing collaboration between these two departments to ensure the successful operation of the provincial regional airports,” Rodgers said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 14:34

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26 July 2024

Big build-up to 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup semi-finals

Location: MyPR

After a two-day rest, the action kicked off once again at KwaZulu-Natal’s Durban Shongweni Club in the Valley of 1000 Hills on Day 4 of the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup. Thursday saw the Northern Hemisphere teams Ireland and the UK go head-to-head in the first round of playoffs, with Ireland victorious with a …

26 July 2024

KZN works to facilitate economic growth

Location: News

KZN works to facilitate economic growth

KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC, Francois Rodgers, says the provincial government is working hard to create an enabling environment to facilitate the growth of the economy through practical plans that focus on creating employment.

The MEC was tabling the R150.5 billion provincial government budget for the 2024/25 financial year at the provincial legislature in Pietermaritzburg on Thursday.

Rodgers said the budget proposals presented, ignites hope in that resources are allocated to bring about direct change to the lives of people.

“It is evident that the provincial government is allocating financial resources to facilitate the journey towards achieving a capable and ethical developmental state. The journey will be a long bumpy road with detours and speed humps but, with the commitment of all politicians and public officials to utilise public funds wisely and effectively in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act, we will not only reach our end destination, but we will arrive with petrol in our tanks,” Rodgers said.

Good governance

Acknowledging the current socio-economic outlook and the direct impact it has on the province and its citizens, the MEC said the current administration has already started to take the necessary tough decisions to turn the tide.
“All government departments and public entities must follow the principles of good governance, good financial management; take a zero-tolerance stance against corruption, fruitless and wasteful expenditure. With tight financial controls, this will allow government to direct more funds towards service delivery.”

The MEC also urged the Heads of Departments, including chief executive officers of public entities, chief financial officers, and senior management officials, to share notes on good practice and experiences to improve the public service.

“Government departments, public entities and municipalities must strengthen the monitoring and evaluation of programmes to assess the measurable impact of the programmes over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), and to make the necessary adjustments to improve service delivery,” Rodgers said.

Rebuilding the lives of veld fires victims

While acknowledging the immense destruction due to recent veld fires that befell various parts of the province, Rodgers said the incident will not stand in the way of government to grow the province’s economy.
He noted that the destruction impacted people financially and psychologically, and it will take time for those who were affected to recover.

“Government is still assessing the full extent of the damage and the national government will make a determination on whether to declare the incidents as a provincial disaster. Provincial government has allocated resources to rebuild the lives of the victims and reinstate hope in their lives.

“We are extremely encouraged to see that social partners have come closer to partner with government in extending a helping hand to the affected communities. We implore more businesses and social partners to get on board and assist in any way that they are able,” Rodgers said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/26/2024 - 14:24

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26 July 2024

Jacaranda FM Comes Out Tops For Online Radio Listeners

Location: MyPR

(Cape Town, 26 July 2024): The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) South Africa’s Industry Measurement Dashboard reveals dedicated radio listeners in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal for Q2 2024. According to the industry organisation’s audience data across the months of April through June, independent radio station Jacaranda FM garnered an impressive 5,64 million daily listeners via its web …

25 July 2024

Call to reform Expanded Public Works Programme

Location: News

Call to reform Expanded Public Works Programme

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, believes that urgent reform is needed for the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to provide a sustainable pathway to permanent employment.

This follows the ongoing protest action by former EPWP employees in Ethekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.

The Minister has condemned any violence or damage to public property during the protests, particularly as it has halted key municipal service delivery such as the removal of waste which creates a health hazard.

“The EPWP program was always designed to be a short-term program to give recipients work experience and training in order for them to find permanent employment,” Macpherson said, adding that due to the stubbornly high unemployment rate in South Africa, many have grown dependent on the program, having been employed as an EPWP worker for many years.

“As mentioned during the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure budget speech last week, it is therefore imperative that the EPWP program be re-imagined to become skills outcomes-based which leads to South Africans climbing up the opportunity ladder, rather than being stuck in EPWP for years on end,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

Macpherson looks forward to working with all stakeholders in the coming months to look at a better outcome for recipients nationwide.

The Expanded Public Works Programme is one of the government’s strategies to alleviate poverty through the creation of work opportunities using labour-intensive methods. The programme is implemented in four sectors namely: infrastructure, social, environment and culture, and non-state.

All spheres of government and state-owned entities are expected to implement the programme.

The EPWP participants (beneficiaries) work on different projects such as the Community Work Programme (CWP), Early Childhood Development Programmes, Home Community Based Care Programmes, Extra School Support Programmes, Working on Fire, Working for Water and roads maintenance projects.

Since its inception on 01 April 2004 to 31 March 2022, more than 13 million work opportunities have been created in the EPWP space across all spheres of government. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 10:01

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25 July 2024

Solar geyser rollout benefits Woodyglen residents

Location: News

Solar geyser rollout benefits Woodyglen residents

The Woodyglen community in Hammarsdale in KwaZulu-Natal will now enjoy cost savings and reduced energy consumption as the area goes green following the installation of new solar geysers in their households.

In a move towards embracing green energy, the eThekwini Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal has completed the installation of solar geysers in 700 homes in Woodyglen.

The project aims to significantly reduce electricity consumption and costs for residents.

Ward 6 councillor, Bless Majola, commended the project’s completion and announced plans for expansion of the project into other areas of the ward.

Majola said the municipality has ensured the transfer of skills during the installation process.

“Young people from the community have been trained to install and maintain the geysers, creating around 30 temporary jobs. We expect to employ more young people as the project progresses,” Majola said.

Project Manager of Gemmed Services, Lungelo Ngcobo, emphasised the geysers’ durability, with a lifespan of up to 15 years and a one-year warranty.

“Our work adheres to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy standards. Beyond installation, we prioritise skills transfer to empower the community for future maintenance needs,” Ngcobo said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 12:04

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25 July 2024

KZN commits to youth-oriented programmes

Location: News

KZN commits to youth-oriented programmes

The eThekwini Municipality has welcomed KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli’s commitment to youth-orientated initiatives and developmental programmes.

Ntuli, who led the Executive Council in a two-day Youth in Business Summit recently held in Durban, announced that youth-oriented programmes will be a priority throughout the tenure of his administration.

Hosted under the theme “Young people taking charge in leading economic development”, the summit provided a platform for engagement between the government and the youth.

The summit encouraged youth development, entrepreneurship and involvement in the mainstream economy throughout the province.

Speaking at the summit, Ntuli said the summit is a catalyst for change and a platform for dialogue.

The Premier said the Executive Council and provincial government have identified youth unemployment, youth development, and financial backing for youth-owned enterprises as some of the key priorities for the seventh administration.

As part of government’s interventions to fight the scourge of unemployment through the Premier’s Office, the provincial government has created a suite of funding schemes which include the Premier’s Youth Empowerment Fund which has been increased from R60 million to R100 million.

“This programme seeks to afford the youth of this province with an opportunity to interact with strategic business leaders and to also share their views and ideas on how they would want this province of KwaZulu-Natal to aid their initiatives and programmes,” Ntuli said.

eThekwini Municipality Deputy Mayor Zandile Myeni commended the Premier-led initiative.
“When we give business access to young entrepreneurs, we will be ensuring that we transform the economy,” Myeni said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 07/25/2024 - 11:07

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24 July 2024

Department works to secure water for all

Location: News

Department works to secure water for all

The Ministry and Department of Water and Sanitation, under the new administration, has committed to continue to ensure the implementation of all water projects without delay, and improved water and sanitation services.

Giving an update on the progress made in the water projects, which were previously delayed, Water and Sanitation spokesperson, Wisani Mavasa said in order to ensure water security, government is focusing on investing in additional national water resource infrastructure. This includes building awareness of the need to use water sparingly, and improving municipal water and sanitation services.

Mavasa acknowledged that in the past, water projects have been subjected to unacceptable delays.

However, good progress has since been made in recent years in unblocking and accelerating the delayed projects.

She highlighted that there are currently 14 major national water resource infrastructure projects valued at more than R100 billion, which are in different stages of implementation around the country.

Among the projects which have been unblocked, include the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase Two, uMkhomazi Water Project and the raising of the wall of the Hazelmere Dam in KwaZulu Natal, construction of Ntabelanga Dam on the uMzimvubu River in the Eastern Cape.

This also includes the raising of the Clanwilliam Dam wall in Western Cape, the Giyani Water Supply Project in Limpopo, and the Loskop Regional Bulk Water Supply Project in Mpumalanga and Limpopo.

“In addition to unblocking and accelerating these projects, Parliament recently passed the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency Bill, which will result in the establishment of an agency with a balance sheet which will enable substantially more funds to be raised for investment in national water resource infrastructure,” Mavasa said.

Water supply disruptions

Mavasa noted an increase in water supply disruptions in Gauteng and in eThekwini, which has resulted in hardship for residents.

According to the department, the demand for water in both areas is largely due to population growth.

The growth in demand was anticipated by planners, and new national water resource infrastructure projects were planned to meet it, unfortunately, the start of the projects was delayed.

“The new Polihali Dam and associated infrastructure, which is part of Phase Two of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, was due to be completed in 2019 to enable additional water to be supplied to the Integrated Vaal River System, which in turn is the main source of water for Gauteng.

“This project was unblocked, and the main contracts were all awarded in October 2022 and construction is now fully underway and is due to be completed by 2028.

“Similarly, the start of the uMkhomazi project to supply additional water to eThekwini and surrounding municipalities was delayed by nine years, due to concerns about its affordability in terms of the tariffs that would have to be charged to the residents of eThekwini. The affordability problem was resolved in 2023 with the approval by National Treasury of an application by DWS, with the support of the Presidential Infrastructure Fund, for a blended finance solution for the funding of the project which made the tariff more affordable,” she explained.

Among the solutions reached included a 25% interest-free loan and a 25% grant from the national fiscus, and this enabled the eThekwini Municipal Council to approve the water supply agreement on 31 January 2024.

The department has now started to raise the finance for the project and to commence with implementation. Work on the design of the dam and tunnel for the uMkhomazi project has started.

The department also noted the delays in a project to raise the Hazelmere Dam wall to further increase water supply to eThekwini Municipality and surrounding areas in KwaZulu-Natal, which started in 2011. This was due to contractual disputes between the department and the main contractor.

“The contract with the main contractor was terminated in 2018, resulting in a halt to the project. This was resolved in 2021, and the project was completed in 2023.”

Ntabelanga and Clanwilliam Dam upgrades

The department further noted that the construction of Ntabelanga Dam on a tributary of the uMzimvubu River in the Eastern Cape, which was planned to provide additional water for domestic and irrigation use was delayed because the department was unable to successfully motivate for a budget to be allocated to the project.

“The department resolved this blockage in 2023, by reconfiguring the project to reduce its cost while still providing the same benefits. The reconfiguration involved adopting a brown fields approach to water services infrastructure rather than the previous green fields (upgrading existing bulk water supply infrastructure rather than build new infrastructure).

“The reconfiguration of the project resulted in a decrease in the cost of the project from R18 billion to R8 billion, and National Treasury then agreed to fund the reconfigured project from the fiscus. As a result, site preparations and the process to obtain the license to construct the dam are currently underway and construction of the dam wall will commence by October 2024.”

A project to raise the wall of the Clanwilliam Dam in the Western Cape, resulting in a tripling of the volume of water than can be stored in the dam, was also started in 2013, but the implementation of the project was delayed due to budget constraints and several changes in construction approach.

As a result, by 2023 the project was only 10% complete. The delays have since been addressed, and the project is now fully funded and major construction work is currently underway.

Loskop Regional Bulk Water Supply project

The major Loskop Regional Bulk Water Supply project to increase water supply to Thembisile Hani Local Municipality in Mpumalanga and the Moutse-East area under the Sekhukhune District Municipality in Limpopo, has since been unblocked with construction having begun in 2022.

The project was originally planned to commence in 2019 but was delayed because of funding constraints and poor planning by the department.

The construction of a new bulk pipeline from Loskop Dam in Mpumalanga to Thembisile Hani Local Municipality and associated infrastructure is also underway.

Giyani Water Supply project

The Giyani Water Supply Project, which has been delayed for many years, and been the subject of investigations by the Special Investigations Unit, has since been unblocked and accelerated over the last two years.

Mavasa highlighted that the main bulk pipeline from Nandoni Dam to Nsami Dam near Giyani was completed last year, and projects are currently underway to refurbish and increase the capacity of the Giyani Water Treatment Works and to install bulk reticulation lines, bulk reservoirs, service reservoirs and reticulation to households.

“Water has started to flow to households in nine of villages in Giyani and we will strive to ensure a further 15 villages receive water by the end of August this year, and that a further 31 villages receive water within the next two years.”

Water Services Amendment Bill

In addition to assisting municipalities to improve their water and sanitation infrastructure, the department has proposed amendments to the Water Services Act, to address the poor municipal performance illustrated by the results of the Blue, Green and no Drop reports which were issued in December 2023.

“The Water Services Amendment Bill will be submitted to Cabinet shortly for approval for it to be tabled in Parliament.”

Improvement in issuing of water use licence

Meanwhile, the department’s turnaround plan for the issuing of water use licences has seen an improvement in performance from 35% of applications being processed within 90 days to 70% being processed within 90 days.

“In addition, the backlog of more than a thousand applications has been largely eradicated, with no more than 100 applications which have taken longer than 90 days to process,” Mavasa said.

The department has committed that further improvement towards the President’s 2020 State of the Nation Address (SONA) target of processing all applications within 90 days, will be achieved during this financial year. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 10:53

433 views

24 July 2024

Hollywood and Manqoba Mngqithi Foundations Partner to Prioritise Youth in Football

Location: MyPR

The Hollywood Foundation is pleased to announce its sponsorship of the upcoming Manqoba Mngqithi Foundation tournament, aimed at fostering youth sports development in Umzimkhulu, KwaZulu-Natal. The tournament, scheduled for 27 July 2024, at the Umzimkhulu Turf Ground, promises to be a pivotal event for local youth football. The Manqoba Mngqithi Foundation, founded by esteemed coach …

24 July 2024

KZN Transport and SANTACO to meet over route disputes

Location: News

KZN Transport and SANTACO to meet over route disputes

The KwaZulu-Natal Transport Department is expected to hold a meeting with the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) and law enforcement officials to discuss and find lasting solutions to the ongoing disputes over taxi routes.

The meeting is scheduled for Thursday.

This comes after illegal taxi operators blocked a road in Mayiwane, Ulundi, on Monday morning, and the blockaded the R34 in Empangeni Mill, on Tuesday morning.

The road in Empangeni was later re-opened following intervention by law enforcement agencies and the department.

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, commended the consistent and bold leadership displayed by SANTACO regarding the management of a dispute over the Nkonjeni route and illegal taxi operations in the region.

The MEC has received a briefing from the Head of the Department, Siboniso Mbhele, and the team regarding the disputes over the taxi routes, dating back to over two years.

“The department’s interventions and enforcement of the law will be intensified to ensure stability,” Duma said, while also emphasising that the meeting will not only ensure that a long-lasting solution is reached, but will also mark the beginning of a new chapter for the benefit of local commuters who rely on public transport.

The MEC also commended law enforcement agencies and municipalities that are working closely with the department to ensure compliance with the laws and the by-laws.

“The safety of commuters and the public at large is our priority. In particular, as a department, we have a responsibility to protect the businesses of honest taxi operators from illegal taxi operators and other criminals who use the taxi industry to achieve their objectives.

“Having assumed my new responsibilities in the department, we will have standing meetings with SANTACO. This is an important stakeholder, as it represents more than 246 associations and 16 regions.”

He added that SANTACO is responsible for the socio-economic well-being of the province.

“Across South Africa, statistics show that the number of people using taxi services each day is more than 15 million, with an annual turnover of more than R40 billion. In addition, taxi operators spend more than R15 billion on fuel and more than R10 billion on vehicles, [and] spend more than R150 million buying tyres annually.” SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 07/24/2024 - 12:54

61 views

23 July 2024

South Africa already striding ahead in the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup!

Location: MyPR

KwaZulu-Natal’s Durban Shongweni Club, situated in the Valley of 1 000 Hills, is the place to be from 17 to 28 July 2024 with the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup well underway! The first round of games between the top 8 polocrosse countries has been a treat for spectators with two-time World Cup champions, …

23 July 2024

KZN hammers out programme of action for the new administration

Location: News

KZN hammers out programme of action for the new administration

The KwaZulu-Natal Executive Council, led by Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, will today meet for the first provincial lekgotla of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU).

The two-day lekgotla, which takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday in Durban, is expected to consolidate the programme of action for the seventh provincial administration.

“The lekgotla will serve as a critical platform for strategic planning and will consider the Medium-Term Development Plan. The meeting will also evaluate the implementation of key initiatives, and set a clear direction for future actions,” the provincial government said in a statement.

The meeting is expected to be attended by Members of the Executive Council, including senior government leaders, councillors, CEOs of public entities, and other relevant entities, who will engage in comprehensive discussions, share insights, and develop actionable plans to enhance governance and service delivery in the province.

“Key areas of discussion will include economic development, infrastructure projects, healthcare improvements, education, and social services and many others. The lekgotla will also develop resolutions that will be outlined during the upcoming State of the Province Address,” the provincial government said.

Premier Ntuli will deliver the opening address on Tuesday, paving the way for “crucial discussions”. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 07/23/2024 - 10:58

273 views

22 July 2024

Experience 5km running at its best at the 2024 Boxer Super Run! Entries are officially open.

Location: MyPR

The action-packed Boxer Super Run returns to Durban on Sunday, 13 October 2024. Both social and elite runners (and walkers) can look forward to experiencing 5km running at its finest. Entries are officially open! Launched in 2023 in a partnership between Stillwater Sports, Boxer Superstores and Coca-Cola, the Boxer Super Run is a world class …

19 July 2024

CoGTA Minister describes GNU as ‘a bold, necessary step in the right direction’

Location: News

CoGTA Minister describes GNU as 'a bold, necessary step in the right direction'

Newly appointed Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has emphasised his party’s commitment to a stable and successful Government of National Unity (GNU).

“The GNU is not about politics but about the will of the people for the future of our country. We campaigned and expressed our views to the electorate, but the electorate in response, said ‘work together',” Hlabisa said.

Hlabisa, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader, spoke during Friday’s debate on the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA).

The debate is in response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s OPA delivered in Cape Town on Thursday, where he outlined government’s agenda, priorities, and policies for the next five years.

Hlabisa told Members of Parliament (MPs) that his party will continue in their founder’s footsteps, Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who spoke “loudly” on behalf of the people.

“We will continue to play that role constructively in the GNU for the good of our country,” he said.

He described the GNU as a bold and necessary step in the right direction.

“We have repositioned South Africa to embark on a journey of rebuilding herself and the future of our generation and the generations to come.

“The real way of changing the lived reality of every South African must proceed with the utmost haste. The change voters demand must be practically seen, felt and experienced in the next few months.”

Hlabisa welcomed the plan laid out yesterday evening by President Ramaphosa.

He is of the view that the President’s OPA opened a new chapter for the country under the collective wisdom, skills and capabilities of leaders who chose to work together for the sake of the people of South Africa.

Municipalities

The IFP has welcomed the position taken by the President about reviewing the Municipal Funding Model to ensure that municipalities become fully functional.

Hlabisa is of the view that this marks a turning point in the country’s 30-year history.

“The IFP believes that local government is a critical sphere of government to impact development and change in the lives of the people of South Africa.”

As the Minister of CoGTA, Hlabisa said he was determined to see all municipalities receive the administrative, technical and financial support needed to become viable, stable, and able to deliver and maintain infrastructure.

He took the time to thank the President for his commitment to appoint political champions of the District Development Model (DDM) to fast-track the “one-plan” solution.

“With the DDM institutionalised, champions working tirelessly and CoGTA playing its role, we will ensure that every municipality works.”

Hlabisa said his party will also champion the interests of and deepen working partnerships with traditional and Khoi San leaders as they play a key role in a stable democracy.

Disaster management

The Minister touched on climate change, which has necessitated a new approach to disaster management that is proactive, less bureaucratic and timeous.

He also spoke about the devastation that has engulfed the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal residents following the floods and wildfire.

“The IFP is committed to the continued development of a new approach in dealing with disaster management.”

He stated that the GNU must be seen to be responsive, empowering and a force for good.

“It must work, as the IFP has always done, hand in hand with the people.”

In addition, he said his party was committed to a national dialogue to address social cohesion, landlessness and the growing gap between the rich and poor.

“We are committed to creating a stable GNU, that is responsive and delivers. This is our commitment to South Africa.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 07/19/2024 - 12:58

309 views

19 July 2024

Southern Sun Employees Unite for Mandela Day: Hundreds Volunteer in Community Projects

Location: MyPR

Once again South Africans honoured the legacy of Nelson Mandela on Thursday, 18 July. Hundreds of Southern Sun employees went out into their local communities to volunteer at the many projects that are regularly supported by the group’s hotels and resorts in South Africa. Heeding the call to collectively address social and economic security of …

19 July 2024

President’s call to turn SA into a construction site welcomed

Location: News

President’s call to turn SA into a construction site welcomed

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement to turn South Africa into a construction site through increased infrastructure investment and support for Infrastructure South Africa.

Infrastructure South Africa is, said the Minister, the central authority for the coordination and planning of major construction projects.

“As Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, I have publicly mentioned that my focus for the department will be to unleash a wave of construction projects in the country to increase South Africa’s economic growth and create sustainable jobs.

“I therefore welcome the President’s support for my department’s endeavours as we work to improve the lives of our people,” said the Minister in a statement, following the President’s Opening of Parliament of Address, on Thursday.

“The only way we can meaningfully bring change to the South African people and improve living conditions is if we grow the economy and create jobs which can be achieved through infrastructure investment - an approach which enjoys the full support of the President as mentioned in his Opening Of Parliament Address. I have no doubt we will be successful,” he said.

The Minister said his focus will be to expand and capacitate Infrastructure South Africa for the efficient and successful execution of construction projects, as well as working with other government departments to improve the long-term planning and execution of infrastructure investment.

Macpherson further welcomed the President’s commitment to address the rise of the construction mafia which has paralysed infrastructure investments in provinces such as KwaZulu-Natal.

The Minister said he looked forward to working with his colleagues across the Government of National Unity, in particular the Minister of Police, to restore the rule of law at construction projects, in order to safeguard investment in infrastructure that can contribute to building a better South Africa.

“It is only through working together that we can build South Africa to truly live up to the ideals of democracy. In the months ahead, I invite all South Africans to join me in unleashing infrastructure development and building a better nation. Let’s build South Africa,” Macpherson said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 07/19/2024 - 10:04

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19 July 2024

Interesting facts about four of South Africa’s biggest and oldest coastal Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)!

Location: MyPR

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are the ‘nature reserves’ of the sea, conserving marine biodiversity to protect threatened species and ocean health. South Africa is home to some 41 MPAs which play a vital role in ocean conservation, although currently only 5% of the country’s ocean space is protected by these vital areas. In celebration of …

19 July 2024

Government leaders pay respects to families of KZN fallen firefighters

Location: News

Government leaders pay respects to families of KZN fallen firefighters

Government leaders have expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families of six firefighters who died while battling a runaway fire which engulfed a farm in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands on Sunday.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, visited the grieving families this week to convey their condolences on behalf of the national and provincial governments.

Mabongi Shishane, Ntombikhona Nxele, Nonsikelelo Zuma, Vusi Hudula, Nomfundo Nxele, and Khethiwe Ngcobo, lost their lives while battling a runaway fire at the farm near Mpophomeni.

The firefighters from Famusa, a contracting company that provides Sappi with firefighting services, lost their lives while battling a runaway fire, allegedly started by poachers, along the R617 near Boston and Mpophomeni.

The fires which destroyed hectares of land in Mpophomeni and surrounding areas also caused millions of damages to the farmers.

During the visit, Ntuli, Hlabisa and his deputy Dickson Masemola, KZN MECs, and traditional leaders, amongst others, gathered in Boston, uMngeni Local Municipality to pay their respects and offer support to the bereaved families.

The leaders emphasised the heroism and dedication of the fallen firefighters, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Ntuli expressed his deepest condolences, noting that the bravery and dedication of the late firefighters, will never be forgotten.

“Their commitment to protecting our communities, even at the cost of their own lives, stands as a testament to their heroism. We are here to support you in this difficult time,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli also called for an urgent review of current protocols and resources to prevent such tragedies in the future.

"We must ensure that our firefighters and all emergency responders are equipped with the necessary tools and support to carry out their duties safely," Ntuli said.

Hlabisa echoed Ntuli’s sentiments, emphasising the need for continued support for the families and communities affected by this tragic loss.

"We stand with the families in their time of grief and pledge our ongoing support. The sacrifice made by these firefighters underscores the dangers faced by our emergency responders every day," Hlabisa said.

The Minister also extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and victims of the earlier veld fires that ravaged parts of the King Cetshwayo, Ilembe, uThukela, and Zululand Districts, which claimed seven lives.

The leaders also assured the families that both national and provincial governments would provide ongoing assistance to help them through this challenging period.

The traditional leaders present during the visit also pledged their support to the affected families and called for community solidarity during this time of mourning.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), as a key player in the administration and implementation of fire services legislation and related duties, stands ready to support the Midlands Emergency Management Services and KZN local authorities during this period of mourning and recovery. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/19/2024 - 10:45

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19 July 2024

Modern technology to help fight crime

Location: News

Modern technology to help fight crime

A heightened focus on the use of modern technology to help with crime prevention efforts will continue to be a key priority of the seventh administration.

“A data-driven approach will be used to identify violent crime hotspots and inform the allocation of policing resources alongside prevention measures,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said at the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) on Thursday.

The President was outlining apex focus areas for the next five years, which will be driven by the Government of National Unity (GNU). After the National and Provincial Elections in May produced no outright majority winner, various political leaders were tasked to work together to form a Government of National Unity, comprised of 10 political parties.

In his address tonight, President Ramaphosa said the country must have capable, sophisticated and independent law enforcement agencies that can fight complex and organised crime.

He committed that the Government of National Unity will continue to tackle priority crimes, including illegal mining, gang violence, cash-in-transit heists and the construction mafia, through specialised police units.

“We will continue to implement the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), and expand victim support services, like the Thuthuzela Centres and GBV desks in police stations,” President Ramaphosa said.

Land reform

Switching focus to the land reform programme, the President announced that government will increase the funding thereof, prioritise the transfer of State land and improve post-settlement support by strengthening the institutional capacity of the structures relevant to the programme.

“To achieve rapid, inclusive growth, we need to fix our struggling municipalities. Growth happens at a local level, where people live and work.

“Our municipalities must become both the providers of social services and facilitators of inclusive economic growth. They must work to attract investment,” President Ramaphosa said.

Meanwhile, the President expressed words of comfort to families affected by floods in the Western Cape and veld fires in KwaZulu-Natal.

Thousands of people across the Western Cape were left destitute after storms damaged their homes, including businesses and infrastructure in the province.

“In recent days, we have witnessed runaway fires in KwaZulu-Natal, in which 14 people, including six firefighters, lost their lives. The fires also caused the destruction of homes, livestock and grazing land.

‘The thoughts of all South Africans are with all those people who have been subjected to these terrible weather conditions as they work to recover and rebuild,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:03

448 views

18 July 2024

Umgeni: A river of sewage flowing through Durban

Location: News

The municipal sewage works is one of the main pollution sources

17 July 2024

“New system” is needed to deal with natural disasters in SA

Location: News

"New system" is needed to deal with natural disasters in SA

Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, says South Africa is at an increased risk of natural disasters and needs a “new system” to manage these challenges more effectively.

“I wish to take this time to also convey our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those who have tragically lost their lives. We also acknowledge work undertaken to rebuild our societies and we urge all government structures to increase the speed of responding to the plight of communities,” Hlabisa said on Wednesday during his Budget Vote Speech.

He recognised the vital role played by the department following the floods and fires currently affecting communities in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

“We have learned with heavy hearts of the passing of 14 people who died in the veld fires in KZN. Among the 14, six were firefighters, some volunteers. These brave men and women paid the ultimate price to save communities. We convey our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of all the victims. May their souls find eternal rest.”

Hlabisa tabled the CoGTA 2024/25 budget, at R395.7 billion, with a significant portion 95.9% (R379.61 billion) to be transferred to municipalities and affiliated entities.

A total of R379.6 billion of the department’s total budget over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period will primarily cover the local government equitable share, disaster relief grant and the municipal infrastructure grant.

The Minister recognised that it was only through the department’s urgent interventions that lives and livelihoods were saved and thanked all those who are collaborating with government to assist distressed communities.

Hlabisa and his team are expected to visit the affected areas in KwaZulu-Natal to assess the situation and provide support.

In Cape Town, over 33 000 households have been affected across the metropole in both formal and informal settings following the floods, affecting some 95 000 people.

“We recognise that the challenges we face in disaster management are largely because South Africa has experienced not only an increase in the number of disasters - such as droughts, floods, COVID-19, and severe weather – but also an increase in their magnitude, severity, and impact.

“These events have occurred either simultaneously or in rapid succession, straining our resources and systems.”

However, the Minister believes that the challenges faced in disaster management are primarily due to deficiencies in regulatory legislation, which are not designed to adapt to the ever-changing risk environment.

“The systemic and structural design of our disaster management delivery, as guided by current laws, results in issues with timing and bureaucracy. Key elements of the disaster management function were assigned to municipalities through legislation, but without funding.”

He told the Members of Parliament (MPs) that this created a contradiction between the Disaster Management Act and the Municipal Systems Act (MSA) which requires sufficient funding and capacity for assigned functions.

“Consequently, municipalities lack the necessary funding and capacity.”

He admitted that government’s response has struggled with agility, efficiency, and effectiveness in risk analysis, prevention, mitigation, emergency preparedness, early warning systems, and recovery services.

He told MPs that the fire and rescue services also face significant hurdles and that in 2022, Cabinet mandated the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) to review and overhaul the disaster management system, including fire services.

“In response to this, we are proposing a new system for disaster management and fire services.”

This system, he said, aims to improve governance by reorganising administrative structures and financing models to better respond to growing disaster risks.

“We have since developed a new model based on best practices from New Zealand, Russia, Brazil, Mozambique, California, and Australia. The new model emphasises risk reduction and integrates disaster management into all levels of government planning, ensuring adequate funding and focus on resilience.”

He told Parliament that the NDMC undertook extensive consultations with all stakeholders through existing disaster management structures and across the three spheres of government and that inputs were received and used to refine the proposed model.

“We look forward to working with all stakeholders in the management of disasters, including rolling out training to Houses of Traditional Leadership, particularly those in disaster-prone areas, on disaster management.

“This will enable them to work closely with all spheres of government and stakeholders on the ground to assist in disasters. An implementation plan has been developed in this regard for effective implementation of this training,” he added.

This year, the department also signed a Memorandum of Collaboration with the Department of Defence that will see the Community Work Programme (CWP) participants playing a role in disaster preparedness and community development. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 11:32

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17 July 2024

CoGTA Minister talks tough on underperforming municipalities

Location: News

CoGTA Minister talks tough on underperforming municipalities

Newly appointed Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister, Velenkosini Hlabisa, has stated that the seventh administration is committed to working towards turning around dysfunctional municipalities, including the eThekwini Metro.

Hlabisa used his Budget Vote Speech in Parliament on Tuesday to acknowledge some of the challenges faced by local municipalities.

Going forward, the Minister stated that the department will continue to implement and enforce compliance with Municipal Support and Intervention Plans (MSIPs) and employ financial recovery plans in distressed municipalities.

Municipalities in distress

He told Parliamentarians that the current leadership plans to prioritise five additional municipalities that are in severe financial and governance distress which has negatively impacted service delivery.

“Some have struggled to pay salaries over the past three to six months. Some have debts that seem insurmountable as well as prolonged and expensive litigation,” he explained.

These municipalities are Ditsobotla in the North West, Kopanong and Mafube in the Free State, Emfuleni in Gauteng and Thabazimbi in Limpopo.

“Additionally, we will address the challenges faced by the eThekwini Metro, which is grappling with governance, institutional, and service delivery issues.”

According to the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) President, eThekwini is currently also receiving support from the national government led by the Presidency and KwaZulu-Natal CoGTA.

“It is important to note that this prioritisation does not imply that other municipalities are not facing similar challenges. Our commitment remains to support all municipalities that are experiencing difficulties.”

The Cooperative Governance budget is sitting at R395.7 billion, with a significant portion of 95.9% (R379.61 billion) to be transferred to municipalities and affiliated entities.

The R379.61 billion of the department’s total budget over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) period, will primarily cover the local government equitable share, disaster relief grant and the municipal infrastructure grant.

In addition, he stated that the Municipal Infrastructure Support Agent (MISA) will continue its efforts to assist the 22 distressed municipalities that are increasingly confronted with the need for infrastructure investments to deliver essential municipal services.

“They also struggle to mobilise resources for this infrastructure due to their borrowing limitations and reduced transfers from the national government amid fiscal constraints,” he explained.

He believes government’s success depends on the collective efforts of Parliament, departments, municipalities, traditional leaders, civil society, and every citizen.

He stated that his department aims to eliminate fragmentation in the planning, budgeting, implementation, and monitoring of government programs by the end of the seventh administration’s term.

“We cannot sit on the sidelines whilst the taxpayers’ money is not used as planned and infrastructure that could benefit our communities remains a dream,” he said.

Traditional leadership

Hlabisa also used his Budget Speech Vote to throw his weight behind traditional leadership, including the Khoi-San community.

“Time for lamenting is over; we must join hands to make an impact by turning dysfunctional municipalities around and improve support for institutions of traditional and Khoi-San leadership. The seventh administration has opened a new chapter which must be a turning point for the CoGTA sector post 30 years of freedom and democracy.”

The Traditional Affairs department has been allocated a budget that amounts to R187.3 million, which has been reduced by R5.8 million compared to the previous year’s allocation.

According to the Minister, the institution of traditional and Khoi-San leadership has raised several issues with the government through various engagement platforms during previous administrations.

“Our traditional and Khoi-San leaders also face their own set of challenges which include uneven provision of support and resources to fulfil their roles effectively, challenges in integrating traditional and Khoi-San leadership structures with municipal governance frameworks, and the need to finalise the formal recognition of khoi-San leaders and to promote respect for the cultural heritage which traditional and Khoi-San leaders are custodians of.”

During the current financial year, the department will continue to support the Commission on Khoi-San Matters (CKSM) to ensure it completes its work and submits recommendations.

The CKSM was established to handle applications for the recognition of Khoi-San communities and leaders and to submit recommendations to the Ministry.

The Commission has received 124 applications and conducted 62 Applicant Member Investigations (AMIs) to ensure application completeness.

“Let me remind this August House that the 2026 Local Government Elections are around the corner and the present term of local government comes to an end. We owe it to our communities to better their lives through effective and impactful service delivery.” – SAnews.go.za

Gabisile
Wed, 07/17/2024 - 10:31

116 views