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EFC workshop provides SMEs with essential insights and support for growth DURBAN, KWAZULU-NATAL – South Africa has one of the highest small business failure rates globally, with a significant number of startups closing their doors before they even get off the ground. “I think small businesses in South Africa struggle to survive because of a …
The stunning KwaDukuza will host the 55th Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill from 25 June to 8 July. Alongside all the surfing action of The Ballito Pro Challenger Series at Willard Beach, visitors to the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast’s shores can enjoy the jam-packed festival programme featuring live entertainment, quality retail, extreme sports, art activations, kids’ …
KZN working towards a permanent solution for flood victims
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is working towards a permanent solution for the people affected by the recent storms.
“We are working closely with the eThekwini Municipality and the Provincial Department of Human Settlements to find quick solutions for sheltering those affected. SASSA [South African Social Security Agency] continues to capture applications for Social Relief of Distress food vouchers in response to the devastating storm in uThongathi,” KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, said on Thursday.
Mop-up operations continue in eMagwaveni settlement, as residents rebuild their homes in uThongathi. The area was hit by a devastating tornado, resulting in the loss of lives, livelihoods, and properties.
Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, said the temporary repairs of the Southern Aqueduct, in the south of Durban, will be completed in September this year.
Kaunda, accompanied by Deputy Mayor, Zandile Myeni and Human Settlements and Infrastructure Deputy Chairperson, Bheki Mngwengwe visited the aqueduct on Thursday to assess the progress on the replacement of the aqueduct.
In April this year, Kaunda introduced a contractor to commence with the replacement of the 30km bulk pipe, which supplies water to areas such as uMlazi, KwaMakhutha, Folweni, Chatsworth and Shallcross.
“While the R1.2 billion project is underway, the contractor is also doing temporary repairs on the existing pipeline to ensure that there is reliable water supply in the southern areas.
“The temporary repairs will be completed in September this year. The completion of the project will take 24 months,” Kaunda said.
Once completely repaired, the pipeline will improve water supply to the south of Durban areas. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 06/14/2024 - 08:58
SA records second death from Mpox, with six known positive cases
Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has announced a second death linked to Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox.
The announcement comes less than 24 hours after the government provided an update on its efforts to control the spread of the infectious disease.
According to the department, the deceased was a 38-year-old male patient, who was admitted at a local hospital in uMgungundlovu, KwaZulu-Natal.
The patient tested positive for Mpox on Wednesday after presenting with extensive lesions, lymphadenopathy, headache, fatigue, oral ulcers, muscle pain, and a sore throat.
“The patient has unfortunately demised in KwaZulu-Natal the same day his test results came back positive,” the statement read on Thursday.
The deceased is said to have been living with HIV and listed his residential address as Brakpan in Gauteng.
This brings the total number of positive cases in the country from five to six, and two deaths within five weeks.
“The department is working closely with both Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Departments of Health to investigate the case. Further updates and reports will be provided once the investigation has been concluded.”
Data shows that the sequencing results for the first three cases, sequence typed as clade ll b, the same as the sub-lineage responsible for the multi-country outbreak, which began in 2022 and has since spread to over 100 countries.
Phaahla emphasised the importance of personal hygiene, timely presentation at a health facility for early diagnosis, effective treatment in the case of suspected symptoms, and close physical contact with a known case.
“Mpox is a preventable and treatable disease if diagnosed early. People are urged to avoid physical contact with someone who has Mpox, practice hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.”
The department is also warning patients to avoid contact with immunocompromised people, children or pregnant women, who may be at higher risk of severe symptoms if exposed.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, the Minister said there was currently no registered treatment for Mpox in South Africa.
However, he said the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends using Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX, for treating severe cases, such as in individuals with a CD4 count of less than 350.
He announced that the department has obtained TPOXX via Section 21 South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAPHRA) approval on a compassionate use basis for known patients with severe disease.
The Minister said they are still looking at obtaining vaccines and considering various options, including who will be the priority target in terms of immunisation.
Government is also looking at immunising sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), healthcare workers, and laboratory workers.
The department, working together with partner organisations, has intensified both targeted and public awareness to empower citizens with crucial information related to Mpox.
The Minister also emphasised the importance of managing stigma for key populations at risk, while there have been no recommendations for any travel restrictions.
“I think one can safely say that, especially for adults, anybody who develops those kinds of eruptions on their skin, even if you may think it might be chickenpox, even young people, should seek medical attention,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:18
MDDA calls for community media grant applications
The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) will this week host the first of two workshops to inform potential and existing MDDA grant funding applicants about the compliance requirements for the 2024/25 grant funding cycle.
The agency recently made a call encouraging community media projects with valid class broadcast service licenses, including radio, TV and community print publications, as well as small commercial print, to apply for the 2024/25 grant funding.
The application window officially opened on 31 May 2024 and will close on 28 June 2024.
The MDDA said community media projects are encouraged to apply.
“The MDDA aims to encourage media ownership, access and control to media, particularly by historically disadvantaged communities and diminished indigenous languages and cultural groups,” it said.
For print and digital publications, this year’s grant funding application call is focusing on Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State and the Western Cape.
The virtual workshop will be held from 10am to 1pm on Friday, 14 June 2024, on Microsoft Teams at the following link: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/b5a52a3d-5128-4b2f-87f5-84c3c346c317@be508088-e9e6-4190-b402-329c20fd7bce.
For more updates regarding MDDA-related news and information, go to @MDDA_Media or WhatsApp 0635094934. – SAnews.gov.za
Janine
Thu, 06/13/2024 - 10:25
Twelve life terms, plus 75 years in prison for serial rapist
Bhekithemba Fanozi Nxumalo has been sentenced to 12 terms of life imprisonment and an additional 75 years in jail in the Mtubatuba High Court for a string of rapes.
The sentence was handed down on 10 June 2024.
“Nxumalo’s reign of terror started in July 2012 when he broke into a house in Mdungandlovu Reserve around midnight and found an elderly woman asleep with her two granddaughters.
“Nxumalo demanded money from the granny at knife point and when he could not find any, he raped her 24-year-old granddaughter.
“The granny and the younger granddaughter were saved by the 24-year-old granddaughter, who managed to send a call back to her brother, who came to their rescue. Nxumalo managed to escape into darkness,” said the police in a statement.
According to the police, Nxumalo continued his raping spree, targeting young women who were walking alone.
He would drag them into the bushes and sugarcane fields, and threaten them with a knife before raping them.
In most of the cases, he would rape his victims more than once.
“His 10-year raping spree was brought to an abrupt end when police cornered and arrested him in April 2021. Nxumalo’s application for an appeal was refused and he was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said police.
The police said the investigative work by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit ensured an end to the 42-year-old’s rape spree.
In other convictions, the Empangeni FCS Unit secured a lifetime imprisonment sentence for a 59-year-old man who was found guilty of raping his eight-year-old stepdaughter.
The Esikhaleni Regional Court heard that the stepfather raped the little girl several times when her mother was not around.
The court also sentenced a 58-year-old man to a term of life imprisonment following a guilty verdict on a case of rape in which he raped his 12-year-old granddaughter in Madlankala in February 2024.
The Empangeni Regional Court has also handed a 25-year prison sentence to a 25-year-old man who was found guilty of assaulting and raping his 22-year-old girlfriend.
According to the police, the victim had to be hospitalised after she attempted suicide after the rape ordeal. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 06/12/2024 - 10:11
One Mpox patient passes away, while four are still in recovery
Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has announced that one of the five Mpox patients in South Africa passed away on Monday at Tembisa Hospital in Gauteng.
This comes after two cases were confirmed in Gauteng and three in KwaZulu-Natal.
“In all cases, patients are males aged between 30 to 39 years without travel history to the countries currently experiencing an outbreak, which suggests there is local transmission of this infectious disease in the country,” the Minister said on Wednesday.
According to the Minister, the deceased was originally from KwaZulu-Natal but has not been at home since December last year.
The Minister made these announcements during a media briefing on Wednesday centred on the management of the monkeypox outbreak in the country.
Phaahla stated that all cases were classified as severe cases, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO) definition requiring hospitalisation.
The patients have comorbidities and have been identified as key populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM).
The Minister told the media that one of the patients has since been discharged, one is isolating at home, while two are still in hospital.
Phaahla explained that the sequencing analysis of three of the cases revealed Mpox clade IIb, a variant dominant in the multi-country and post-outbreak, which began in 2022.
The last time South Africa recorded positive cases of Mpox was in 2022, when five cases were confirmed in the Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Gauteng, with no cases reported in 2023.
“So, the one in our country is consistent with the multi-country outbreaks in various parts of the world and different from the strain variant in the DRC,” he explained.
Contact tracing
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the Minister said, continues with epidemiological and surveillance activities to identify cases for investigation to estimate the magnitude of disease through systematic data collection and analysis.
He told the media that 38 contacts were identified in KwaZulu-Natal, while one of the patients indicated to have had sexual contact with multiple partners, including both males and females.
Meanwhile, the Outbreak Response Team have embarked on contact tracing and case finding in the affected provinces.
“Encourage people who may know that in one way or another have been associated with someone with the disease or showing any symptoms of skin lesions or rashes to approach their nearest health facility.”
Vaccine
Currently, there is no registered treatment for Mpox in South Africa.
However, the Minister said the WHO recommends using Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX, for treating severe cases, such as in individuals with a CD4 count of less than 350.
He announced that the department has obtained TPOXX via Section 21 South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAPHRA) approval on a compassionate use basis for known patients with severe disease.
The Minister said they are still looking at obtaining vaccines and considering various options, including who will be the priority target in terms of immunisation.
However, he believes that high-risk groups should be prioritised, including sex workers, MSM, healthcare workers, and laboratory workers.
The department, working together with partner organisations, has intensified both targeted and public awareness to empower the citizens with crucial information related to Mpox.
The Minister also emphasised the importance of managing stigma for key populations at risk, while there have been no recommendations for any travel restrictions.
“I think one can safely say that, especially for adults, anybody who develops those kinds of eruptions on their skin, even if you may think it might be chickenpox, even young people, should seek medical attention.”
He said government endeavours to prevent any further deaths.
“We already have one fatality and he was quite sick, and were informed that even though the antiviral agent because of the severity of the sores, he could not swallow his treatment and died within a few days.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 06/12/2024 - 12:50
KZN government calls for helping hand for flood victims
The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has appealed to the public to extend a helping hand to flood victims by donating essential items such as building materials, as restoration work is underway in the northern parts of eThekwini Metropolitan.
The provincial government is currently on the ground providing relief and humanitarian services to hundreds of people of uThongathi, who lost most of their belongings during the storm that hit the area.
“The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government is currently coordinating humanitarian aid relief in uThongathi following the disastrous freak storms, which caused loss of life, damage to property, and left many members of the community without food, clothing and shelter.
“You are urged to help those in need by donating what you can, particularly building materials,” the provincial government said.
Donations can be delivered at the KZN Provincial Disaster Management Centre at 66 Shortts Retreat Road, Pietermaritzburg, 3212. The donations can also be delivered at the uThongathi Sports Centre in Gandhi’s Hill, uThongathi, 4399.
Power supply restored
The eThekwini Municipality reported that power supply has been restored to most areas where electricity infrastructure was severely damaged when the storm hit.
“Affected areas include Burbreeze, Sandfields, Greylands, eMagwaveni, Maidstone and La Mercy. Electricity teams have restored power supply to most of areas in Fairbreeze, Sandfields, Jan Roz and Burbreeze.
“Temporary arrangements are still in place for a continuous supply of electricity. Repair teams are working round the clock to ensure power restoration to Magwaveni area,” the municipality said.
Search for two missing people continues in Kariega
Meanwhile, the search for two missing people following the recent floods in Kariega in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) is still underway.
The municipality’s Disaster Management Official, Thomas Cameron, said the metro’s Fire and Emergency Services and lifeguards had joined the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Coastal Water Rescue in the intensified search efforts.
"Currently, we have the SAPS [South African Police Service], who are still busy with the search operations. They are assisted now by other organisations, including our NMBM teams. Their team has now increased to make the search more efficient,” Cameron said.
While a total of 575 residents have been moved from halls and churches and accommodated at lodges and student accommodation facilities, Cameron said more residents were expected to be relocated to newly identified facilities from Sunday.
Cameron said joint operation centres are still running and meetings are being held daily.
“A few people in Gqeberha were displaced and moved to the accommodation centres. There are also two accommodation centres in Gqeberha and six accommodation centres in Kariega,” Cameron said.
Eastern Cape Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Zolile Williams, said it will cost the provincial government an estimated R6 billion to repair damaged infrastructure.
Williams said government will find permanent accommodation for displaced communities by 31 July 2023. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 06/12/2024 - 10:46
Southern Sun Newlands Café, nestled in the heart of Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs, has launched its new Winter menu. As the temperatures drop, guests can now indulge in a delightful fusion of flavours that celebrate South African heritage and local ingredients. Nose-to-Tail Cooking and Zulu-Inspired Flair Executive Chef Sihle Dlamini, the creative force behind the …
CoGTA Minister to visit KZN following severe storms
The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Thembi Nkadimeng, will visit KwaZulu-Natal today to assess the impact of the heavy storms that ravaged parts of the province, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
According to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, the heavy rains and strong winds have affected districts including eThekwini, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, and uMkhanyakude District Municipalities.
“Minister Nkadimeng is visiting the affected areas as she is responsible for National Disaster Management in the country.
“The visit will provide the Minister with the opportunity to see the extent of the damage, and engage various stakeholders and role players who are already on the ground assisting the affected communities,” the department said in a statement.
The Minister has reiterated government’s commitment to assist those affected by the recent storms.
Nkadimeng has lauded government agencies that have been on the ground providing humanitarian support and assisting the affected communities that have been displaced.
At least 11 people lost their lives, including seven people from uThongathi in the north of Durban, and four in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa.
Meanwhile, over 55 people were also reported to have suffered minor to moderate injuries and are receiving medical treatment in hospital.
“Minister Nkadimeng conveys her sincere, heartfelt condolences to those who lost loved ones as a result of this disaster. She also wishes those who suffered injuries a speedy recovery,” the department said.
Last week, Nkadimeng and Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, visited areas devastated by floods in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in the Eastern Cape.
READ | Government hastens flood relief efforts in the Eastern Cape
This is after parts of the Eastern Cape were flooded, with the most affected areas being the Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay metros. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 06/12/2024 - 09:33
June 2024, Durban KwaZulu-Natal – Since 2022 Ignition Group (Ignition) has been working in conjunction with The Learn Project on the Book Corners and School Library initiative. “We believe that by supporting literacy and reading programmes for foundation phase, learners at less privileged schools get the base they need to participate in and benefit from …
Health Minister to brief media on Mpox outbreak
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, will hold a media briefing on Wednesday to provide an update on the outbreak of Monkeypox disease, also known as Mpox.
According to the statement, the Minister will outline plans by the department in collaboration with various stakeholders in the sector to curb further spread and prevent mortality.
Last week, the department reported that two more cases of Mpox had been detected at Addington and St Augustine Hospitals in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
Additionally, the country recorded two infections last month, one in Durban and the other in Gauteng.
The briefing will be joined by experts from the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and senior managers from the department.
Some common symptoms of Mpox include a rash lasting for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen glands.
The department explained that the painful rash looks like blisters or sores and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital, and/or anal regions.
The briefing is scheduled to take place on 12 June 2024 at Tshedimosetso House, 1035 Francis Baard Street, Hatfield, Pretoria, starting at 10am. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 14:59
Mop up operations continue across KZN
Mop up operations continue across KwaZulu-Natal following heavy rains, which wreaked havoc in various parts of the province.
Last Monday’s heavy rains, accompanied by strong winds, wreaked havoc in various parts of the province, affecting the districts of eThekwini Metro, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Umzinyathi, Amajuba and Umkhanyakude District Municipalities.
At least 11 people lost their lives, including seven people from uThongathi in the north of Durban, and four in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa, respectively.
Over 55 people were also reported to have suffered minor to moderate injuries and are receiving medical treatment in hospital.
The storm also left extensive damage to schools and power lines, leaving many parts of eThekwini without electricity.
The eThekwini Metro was hardest hit, with dozens of people treated for injuries in health care facilities.
The eThekwini Municipality said relief intervention in the form of food, blankets, mattresses and building material is underway to assist displaced residents in eMagwaveni, uThongathi.
“eThekwini teams and volunteers are working together to clear debris in preparation for rebuilding. Water standpipes and water tankers have been provided to ensure an interim water supply. The restoration of electricity is also in progress,” the municipality said.
The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) has also deployed community works participants playing a crucial role in helping affected families.
KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Nonhlanhla Khoza and eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, has also conducted an assessment on the restoration of basic services in eMagwaveni, uThongathi.
Khoza said social workers have been deployed to provide relief and support, including assistance with important documents and school uniforms for affected learners.
“Partnerships with organisations like the Hollywood Foundation and South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) ensured immediate aid, including meals and shelter in community halls.
“The government pledged to construct proper homes for victims and increase disaster relief coordination efforts. Despite ongoing relief efforts, more aid is needed for affected areas like uThongathi, Osizweni, and Eshowe,” Khoza said.
Other interventions include assessment of the families who have lost loved ones and construction of temporary residential units (TRUs) for displaced families. Debris and fallen trees on the roads has been cleared; and electricity supply has been restored to certain areas.
A command centre has also been established on site to assist community members, and Social Relief of Distress grants are being disbursed by SASSA and the Department of Social Development.
Relief, in the form of building material, food, blankets and mattresses is being provided to residents of uMgababa, Ward 98, who were also affected by the heavy rains and strong winds.
eThekwini Deputy Mayor, Zandile Myeni, and Chairperson of the Governance and Human Capital Committee, Nkosenhle Madlala, recently visited the area to assess the extent of the damage.
About 30 families from the area lost their homes to the storm. While injuries were reported, no deaths have been recorded in the area.
Myeni said eThekwini Municipality, including provincial government, non-profit and non-governmental organisations are working together to provide relief to the affected families, and work to restore services is also underway.
Jozini Municipality responds to tornado disaster
Meanwhile, Jozini Local Municipality Mayor, Mfananaye Mathe, visited the KwaJobe area in northern KwaZulu-Natal to address the aftermath of a devastating tornado that struck the area leaving more than 59 families displaced.
The Gumede family, where nine children aged between four and 10, along with their grandmother, saw their RDP house collapse while they were inside.
Two of the children are hospitalised, with one admitted at Obonjeni Hospital and the other at Ngwelezane Hospital in Mpangeni.
Mathe has provided essential supplies, including groceries, blankets, and sleeping sponges to support the affected families.
The Jozini Local Municipality Disaster Management Team has also supplied temporary tents to all those impacted by the tornado.
While acknowledging the challenges in providing immediate assistance to everyone, Mathe emphasised the municipality's commitment to swiftly intervening where possible.
The mayor also expressed his gratitude to the Department of Community Services for its ongoing support during this crisis. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 06/11/2024 - 10:26
Congratulations to Comrades Marathon runners
Acting Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Maropene Ramokgopa has congratulated all participants and organisers of the 2024 Comrades Marathon on a successful event.
Popularly known as the “ultimate human race”, the 103rd edition of this epic endurance race took place in KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday, 9 June 2024.
South Africa’s Gerda Steyn made history when she won her third Comrades Marathon in a row and broke her record to win the women’s race, while Pete Wiersma from the Netherlands won the men’s race.
“The Comrades Marathon represents the best of South Africa, and the power of sport to foster national unity and social cohesion. A signature event in South African sport, the Comrades Marathon brings together people from all walks of life, and from all parts of the world to tackle one of the world’s most famous running routes.
“I am pleased to see the Comrades Marathon continuing to draw runners and visitors into the country from all over the world. This is why this marathon is important in boosting sports tourism in the country,” Ramokgopa said on Monday.
As South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy, the country’s cultural, creative, and sports sectors continue to raise the country’s flag sky high.
“Amapiano artist Kabza de Small and orchestral conductor Ofentse Pitse have collaborated for a spectacular show at the Red Bull Symphonic South Africa. DJ Black Coffee showcases the best of South African music in Ibiza, while many of the country’s creatives continue to make their mark locally and abroad.
“In the sports sector, South African tennis ace Kgothatso Montjane recently competed in the French Open final in the women’s wheelchair doubles draw. The Proteas Men, the national men’s cricket team, is competing in the World T20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies, while Bafana Bafana continues to fight for a place in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers when they face Zimbabwe in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, 11 June 2024,” the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 06/10/2024 - 11:27
Graduates are required by law to complete the Internship and Community Service Programme in order to practise
New Catchment Management Agencies to ensure good water governance
In an effort to ensure the involvement of stakeholders in the management of water resources, the Department of Water and Sanitation is expected to launch four Catchment Management Agencies (CMAs).
They will be launched during the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) conference set to take place in Durban this week.
The establishment of the Catchment Management Agencies is in line with the provisions of the National Water Act (NWA) and the National Water Policy for South Africa.
The purpose of Catchment Management Agencies is to enhance decentralised decision-making in managing water resources, in an integrated manner, at a local level.
The department said the CMAs will ensure participative management, good water governance and integrated planning and improving co-operative governance of the country’s water resources, in order to achieve the objectives of the National Water Act, equity, accessibility and government’s commitments to improving service delivery.
“A CMA manages all the water resources in a water management area at the catchment level. This means that a CMA is responsible for the protection, use, development, conservation, management and control of all the water resources in that particular water management area (WMA).
“This responsibility requires that all spheres of government, water users and communities in the water management area participate with CMAs as partners,” the department said in a statement.
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, finalised the appointment of Board Members of the Pongolo–Umzimkhulu and the Vaal-Orange Catchment Management Agencies, a decision concurred by Cabinet.
The Boards of Pongola-Umzimkhulu and Vaal-Orange CMAs appointments became effective from 1 December 2023.
The department has reconfigured the number of CMAs to six, including Limpopo-Olifants, Vaal-Orange, Pongola-Umzimkulu, Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma, Breede-Olifants and Inkomati-Usuthu.
The boards, as the accounting authority, will operationalise the CMAs including developing the catchment management strategy, effective participation of stakeholders and management of water resources in the water management area.
“In addition, the CMA will be more responsive to water user needs and speedy decision-making around water resources management and create a customer-focused culture for water resources management,” the department explained.
The appointed board members for Pongolo–uMzimkhulu include Dr Thava Kelly (Chairperson), Sibusiso Makhanya (Deputy Chairperson), Hlengiwe Ndlovu, Bhekumuzi Gumbi, Dr Lembi William Mngoma, Snenhlanhla Mngadi, Professor Purshottama Reddy, Mdandla Myeni, and Nokuthula Khanyile.
This CMA is an amalgamation of the previous WMA areas within the KwaZulu-Natal province, such as half of the Pongola-Usuthu WMA, the Thukela WMA, and the Mvoti-Mzimkulu WMA. Interim Chief Executive, Swaswa Ntlhoro, was appointed for the transitional phase.
The appointed board members for the Vaal-Orange CMA, which operates in the Central North-eastern part of South Africa and extends from Ermelo in Mpumalanga to Kuruman in the Northern Cape, include Desmond Solomon Fransman (Chairperson), Tsakane Zwane (Deputy Chairperson), Hubert Thompson, Nontuthuzelo Njeza, Nakana Masoka, Ponatshego Mothibi, Doris Dondur, Dichikane Mashego, and Louis Van Oudtshoom. Interim Chief Executive, Solomon Mathebula, was appointed for the transitional phase.
“The Minister has finalised the appointment of Board members of Mzimvubu-Tsitsikamma and awaiting concurrence by Cabinet. Interim Chief Executive, Sibusiso Mjwara, was appointed for the transitional phase. This agency’s footprint covers the majority of the Eastern Cape, and includes portions of KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, and the Northern Cape.
“For the Limpopo-Olifants CMA, the Advisory Committee has concluded their recommendation for the appointment of the Board and is awaiting the vetting of candidates and concurrence by Cabinet,” the department said.
Water Institute of Southern Africa conference
Meanwhile, the three-day Water Institute of Southern Africa conference will take place at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu Natal, from 12-14 June 2024.
WISA conferences provide a platform to discuss problems and solutions facing the water and related sectors. The conference is used to create mechanisms and collaborations, to ensure an enabling environment to set us on a path of implementation and impact. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 06/10/2024 - 11:57
KZN Premier congratulates Comrades winners
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has congratulated Comrades Marathon champions, Piet Wiersma of the Netherlands and South Africa’s Gerda Steyn, for winning the 97th edition of the marathon on Sunday.
Wiersma won the men’s race ahead of South Africa’s Dan Moselakwe, while Steyn won the women’s marathon, clocking a time of 5 hours 49 minutes.
“I am elated to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Comrades Marathon. All who participated in the 97th edition of the Comrades Marathon are champions in their own right and their efforts have made the country and the province proud.
“On behalf of the provincial government and the people of KwaZulu-Natal, we congratulate the over 20 600 runners from different countries of the world who came to KwaZulu-Natal to participate in this gruelling 86-kilometre uprun marathon from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. We also appreciate the spectators who lined up along the route to cheer up the runners and kept them motivated” Dube-Ncube said.
READ | Well wishes for officers in Comrades
The Premier also acknowledged the 5 000 volunteers, who kept the runners safe and hydrated throughout the marathon and worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event.
She said the race is indeed not just a race, but a celebration of human potential and community made possible by the runners’ unwavering commitment and hard work.
“This race continues to be a beacon of hope and a symbol of what is possible when we come together in the spirit of unity and perseverance. The Comrades Marathon is often revered as the ultimate human race, and is a unique and historic event that transcends the boundaries of sport.
“It embodies the very essence of human endurance, camaraderie, and the pursuit of excellence. This year’s marathon has once again highlighted the remarkable feats that can be accomplished through perseverance and an unwavering commitment to one’s goals.
Dube-Ncube also noted that this year’s Comrades brought a much-needed economic boost to the economy of the province, with both Pietermaritzburg and Durban reporting high accommodation occupancy rates.
The Premier further acknowledged the sponsors who continue to make the Comrades Marathon a global iconic event. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 06/10/2024 - 09:27
Call to minimise marine pollution
Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment Minister, Barbara Creecy has urged citizens to play their part in minimising marine pollution by adopting sustainable practices, including reducing littering, participating in beach clean-ups, and recycling materials.
Creecy made the call as South Africa joined the global community in celebrating World Oceans Day (WOD), held under the theme ‘Awaken New Depths.’
Observed on 08 June, the main objective of this year's WOD celebrations was to highlight the vital role of oceans in shaping socio-economic realities and environmental sustainability.
World Oceans Day also falls in June which is observed as Environment Month in South Africa.
“As a maritime nation bordered by three vast oceans — the Atlantic, Indian, and Southern, South Africa recognises the significance of our oceanic territory and the imperative to deepen our understanding and ensure protection of this invaluable ecosystem. Oceans influence weather patterns, support diverse ecosystems, and provide livelihoods for millions of people worldwide, including 40% of South Africa's population residing within 100km of the coastline.
"The theme ‘Awaken New Depths’ encapsulates our commitment to explore and harness the immense potential of our oceans. Through concerted efforts, we aim to enhance our understanding of marine environments and promote sustainable use for the benefit of current and future generations," Creecy said.
With an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extending 200 nautical miles into the ocean surrounding the mainland and encompassing territories such as the Prince Edward and Marion Islands, South Africa boasts a vast maritime area of 1.5 million square kilometres.
Despite this expansive territory, much of the world's oceans remain unexplored, emphasising the need for increased awareness and conservation efforts.
Creecy said South Africa has in the past few days experienced adverse weather conditions that have led to the destruction of property and loss of life, noting that the origin of this weather phenomena can be traced back to its source, the ocean.
“The heavy rains in the Eastern and Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal were due to the air-sea interaction processes. South African scientists and international collaborators are working hard to study these extreme events to understand their frequency and magnitude in future to be able to mitigate against devastating impacts in future.
“By working together, we can unlock the vast potential of our oceans while preserving their ecological integrity for generations to come. As we commemorate World Oceans Day, let us awaken to the depths of our oceans and embrace our role as custodians of these precious resources. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 06/09/2024 - 10:20
SA records two more monkeypox disease cases
The Department of Health is appealing to citizens who have been in close contact with known or suspected patients of monkeypox disease, also known as Mpox, to go to their nearest health facility.
This is after the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) detected two more cases of Mpox this week at Addington and St Augustine Hospitals in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
“The preliminary case finding report has revealed that the two recent cases had contact with the other previously confirmed case in the province, and this suggests that there is a local transmission of the disease, which could potentially lead to a larger outbreak in the province,” the department said in a statement.
This brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed infections in the country to four, with three in KwaZulu-Natal and one in Gauteng.
READ | SA records second case of Mpox
According to the data, all the patients are South African males in their mid to late 30s.
The department said close contact with lesions, sexual contact, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as bedding transmit the Mpox virus from one person to another.
The incubation period of Mpox is usually from six to 13 days but can range from five to 21 days.
“The health officials rely on transparency and cooperation from cases or patients for contact tracing and case finding to determine the rate of transmission of this infectious virus at community level.”
The department said they were pleased by the patients’ honesty and courage during the investigation process and thanked them for assisting officials in tracing suspected cases who also tested positive.
“It is through transparency of both confirmed and suspected cases that government can prevent further transmission and avoidable deaths.”
Meanwhile, the department in collaboration with various stakeholders in the sector is intensifying epidemiology and surveillance, and risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) activities.
“These will also help to address social stigma, which contributes to people’s decision not to openly speak out because they suspect communities will not accept them due to their health conditions.”
In most cases, the department said stigma contributes to the spread of the virus thereby making the outbreak and transmission worse.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms of Mpox include a rash, which may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands.
“The painful rash looks like blisters or sores, and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital and/or anal regions,” the department explained.
However, the department has urged the public not to panic because the situation remains under control and that they will keep the public informed of the situation. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 09:55
More service stations set up to provide humanitarian aid
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is at the centre of coordinating relief and humanitarian efforts in the aftermath of a devastating storm that ripped through parts of the province on Monday.
The uThongathi area in eThekwini was the hardest hit, with other district municipalities, including Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Amajuba, Umzinyathi and Umkhanyakude, being affected by the storm.
According to the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, 12 people across the province died following the storm and strong winds.
Initial assessments show that over 7 000 households have been damaged, affecting over 17 000 people. Eighteen schools have been damaged.
The provincial government said over 1200 homeless families were currently receiving humanitarian aid from government across the province.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube Nncube, said disaster teams were continuing with assessments to establish the total cost of the damages.
A central management centre has been set up in the eMagwaveni area in uThongathi, where all relief and support efforts are being coordinated, and more services to the areas affected by storms have been added.
“Every government department is on the ground to speed up recovery efforts, providing humanitarian relief and improve safety and security as mop-up operations continue. Government has also coordinated all the support from non-government organisations and private donors to ensure it reaches all those that are affected and avoid duplication.
“To support the South African Police Services and Metro Police to ensure maximum security, government has deployed safety volunteers from the Department of Community Safety and Liaison and the eThekwini Municipality.
“Power generators have been set up in strategic locations around the uThongathi area to ensure adequate lighting and visibility and power has been restored in some parts of uThongathi,” Dube-Ncube said.
Considering the scale of damages and amount of work required it is anticipated that power supply will progressively be fully restored in the coming days.
The provincial government has commended the progress made by Eskom in restoring power to affected communities across the province.
However, it appealed to the public to be patient as damaged infrastructure has led to challenges in accessing certain areas, hampering repair efforts.
“While water supply was not affected, eThekwini Municipality has provided water tankers to ensure everyone has access to water, and standpipe systems have been installed in areas where taps were damaged.
“The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs has increased the number of Community Development Workers and Expanded Public Works Programme workers to assist in clearing debris and cleaning the streets to make areas accessible.
“The Department of Social Development has made social workers available to provide counselling, and the South African Social Security Agency is assisting families to replace lost social grant cards.
“The Department of Home Affairs is also assisting community members who lost their identity documents, while government is provides three meals a day to the community members at the various centres that have been set up in the area,” said the provincial government.
The Premier assured residents that government was working hard to find permanent solutions to assist victims, particularly in uThongathi.
“We have engaged with eThekwini Municipality to review existing plans related to human settlements.
“Working together with the city and the Provincial Department of Human Settlements, we are seeking the quickest solutions to provide shelter for those affected.
“We appreciate the continuous support from non-government organisations that have extended a helping hand to our people. We are working closely with all grieving families to ensure they mourn with dignity and bury their loved ones in a dignified manner,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 15:02
Restoration of basic services in uThongathi a priority, says eThekwini Mayor
eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, has commended the work done and still underway to restore basic services in uThongathi following heavy rains, which caused widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure in the metro areas.
Kaunda conducted an assessment on the restoration of basic services in the eMagwaveni area in uThongathi on Wednesday, following recent heavy rains accompanied by strong wind and hailstorms.
Seven lives were lost and there was extensive damage to households and infrastructure in eThekwini metro.
Kaunda emphasised that the current priority was clearing of debris and fallen trees on roads so that municipal teams can access the area.
"We are pleased that this work has been done and work is underway to restore electricity. Government departments and non-government organisations that are providing temporary relief are now able to access the area.
“Working with the Department of Human Settlements, we are accelerating the process of rebuilding houses of the bereaved families so that they can commence with funeral arrangements in proper structures," Kaunda said.
Three temporary shelters have been established to accommodate displaced families, and assessments are ongoing to determine the extent of the damage to infrastructure.
Kaunda noted that the heavy rainfall came at a time when the municipality was preparing to commence with a housing project in the area at the end of June.
He said that instead of building temporary houses for the affected households, the municipality will accelerate the process of building permanent houses as part of the housing project that was planned for eMagwaveni.
Kaunda assured residents that water supply in the area was not severely affected and that there the community continues to receive clean drinking water from the taps.
uThongathi is currently the most affected area, with hundreds of houses severely destroyed. Other areas that have also been severely affected include Umgababa, south of the eThekwini Metro, Eshowe, Utrecht, Osizweni and KwaHlabisa.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government is currently coordinating various sector departments to provide humanitarian relief and other interventions to assist the affected communities. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 10:23
Humanitarian aid, service restoration underway in KZN
The KwaZulu-Natal government remains on the ground to provide humanitarian assistance to the families that have been displaced by devastating floods following heavy rains that have battered parts of the province on Monday night.
The heavy rains, accompanied by strong winds, wreaked havoc in various parts of the province, affecting five districts, including eThekwini Metro, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Umzinyathi, Amajuba and Umkhanyakude District Municipalities.
The preliminary reports indicate that at least 11 people have died, and these include seven people from uThongathi in the north of Durban, and four in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa, respectively.
Over 55 people were reported to have suffered minor to moderate injuries and are receiving medical treatment in hospital.
Dozens of people have also been left homeless after their homes were ripped apart by heavy winds. Three temporary shelters have been established, where the affected families are receiving humanitarian aid.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of people that have tragically lost their lives, and wished a speedy recovery to the people who were admitted and are recovering in hospital.
Dube-Ncube led a government delegation to various areas in eThekwini Metro on Tuesday to receive a first-hand report on the extent of the damage and ensure a coordinated rapid response from government.
The Premier said the provincial government’s priority is to ensure that the displaced families receive immediate humanitarian relief and to fast-track the restoration of services.
“We have rallied all government departments to ensure an all-hands on deck approach as we consolidate our rebuilding and recovery plan of action. Our aim is to support affected families to rebuild their lives.
“Assessments are continuing so that work to repair damaged infrastructure can begin. The assessment reports will give us a clear indication of the extent of the damage and funding that will be required,” Dube-Ncube said.
She has also urged the municipalities to ensure that all affected people are profiled and receive the necessary support from government.
Immediate humanitarian aid
Disaster management teams are conducting assessments and coordinating humanitarian efforts for the affected families.
Non-governmental organisations, including the Red Cross, Al-Imdaad Foundation, Gift of the Givers and IPSS Medical Rescue, are working closely with government to ensure the provision of hot meals, mattresses, blankets, food parcels and humanitarian assistance.
uThongathi is currently being classified as the most affected area, with hundreds of houses severely destroyed. Other areas, including Umgababa, south of the eThekwini Metro, Eshowe, Utrecht, Osizweni and KwaHlabisa have also been severely affected.
Public infrastructure, including schools, roads, community halls and health care facilities, were also affected.
Repairing of infrastructure
The Premier said repairs to damaged transformers and powerlines, which left many areas in the eThekwini Metro without power, have started, and power has been restored in some areas, while work continues to ensure that all areas are fully restored by the end of the week.
Overhead electricity infrastructure has been severely impacted. This includes infrastructure above-ground, such as electricity poles, transformers and overhead lines.
The heavy rain also resulted in higher levels of turbidity in raw water abstracted from the uThongathi water works and the water works was shut down for few hours.
The uThongathi water works is presently operating optimally and water supply is being gradually restored.
“Residents are urged to continue to heed weather warnings whenever they are issued to minimise the impact and loss of lives,” Dube-Ncube said. - SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 06/05/2024 - 09:42
Lamola condemns murder of children burnt to death in Soshanguve
Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola has condemned the brutal killing of two children in Soshanguve, Gauteng.
The two children, aged four and seven, died when the shack they were in was set alight by gunmen, who were allegedly after their father.
The suspects had allegedly already shot six other people at a shebeen in the same area, killing two.
“It is unconscionable that such horrific indent occurs during a period when our country is commemorating Child Protection Week.
“It highlights the urgent need for swift action from law enforcement to bring perpetrators to book. The full might of the law must be demonstrated to ensure justice for the victims and their families,” Lamola said.
Police have subsequently launched a manhunt for the alleged killers.
Lamola also condemned the killing of family members in Glenmore, KwaZulu-Natal, allegedly related to their support of Palestine.
“This senseless act of violence, which resulted in the death of a woman and the attempted murder of her husband and son, is a blatant attack on South Africa’s Constitutionally-guaranteed rights to freedom of association, expression and political choice.
“We call for a thorough investigation and prosecution to ensure that justice is served,” Lamola said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 06/05/2024 - 12:04
The strength of democracy
Many will be wondering how South Africa’s seventh democratic government will be constituted following the recent elections that resulted in no political party gaining an outright majority to lead the country for the next five years.
Citizens did their part in exercising their right to vote as pointed out by Section 19 of the Constitution which states that every adult citizen has the right to free, fair and regular elections.
The results of the seventh National and Provincial Elections released on Sunday showed that the African National Congress (ANC) garnered 159 seats in the 400-member National Assembly (NA), followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 87 seats and the uMkhonto weSizwe party (MK party) with 58 seats.
This translates to the ANC having received 40.18 % of the votes followed by the DA with 21.81% and the MK with 14.58%.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) garnered 39 seats while the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) got 17 and the Patriotic Alliance (PA) received nine seats.
Other political parties gained the other remaining seats in the House with between six, three, two, and single seats.
The distribution of seats in Parliament is proportional to the number of votes cast for the various parties.
The National Assembly Guide to Procedure 2004, states that the NA “is the House directly elected by the South African electorate” with the Constitution stating that the National Assembly must consist of no fewer than 350 and no more than 400 women and men elected as its members.
In August 2023, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business, convened a National Dialogue on Coalition Governments. The aim of the dialogue was to lay the foundation for a National Framework on Coalition Governments, which would serve as a guide for effectively managing and navigating coalition governments where they become necessary.
The Presidency said at the time that the need for such dialogue was informed by the adverse effects that had been observed in certain coalition arrangements at local government, particularly their impact on service delivery and governance.
But what exactly is a coalition government?
“A coalition government exists when two or more political parties (or independent representatives) combine their votes in a legislature or a council, to elect a government, and to support the decisions it takes. This becomes necessary when no single party has a majority of the seats in the legislature or council,” notes a National Dialogue on Coalition Governments Q and A subsection.
Elections in South Africa result in multiple parties being represented in Parliament, a provincial Legislature or a Municipal Council.
“And the executive leadership (President, Premiers and Mayors) is always elected by that legislature and can be removed by the Legislature. If none of the parties has more than 50% of the seats, a coalition is, therefore, necessary to support the executive. Otherwise, the President, Premier or Mayor is likely to be voted out of power,” the subsection further notes.
Government of national unity
South Africa is no stranger to coalitions having had one after the historic 1994 elections which resulted in a government of national unity (GNU).
In terms of the country’s then interim Constitution, the National Party and Inkatha Freedom Party participated in a government of national unity under President Nelson Mandela.
In 1994, the President was assisted by two Deputy Presidents, a Minister in The Presidency and 16 Ministers in the GNU which represented three political parties. In 1996 one political party exited the GNU, but maintained its official opposition status in the legislatures.
South Africa has also had coalitions at provincial level in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
There have been coalitions in municipalities, ever since the first democratic local government elections in 2000.
The will of the people
Speaking at the Electoral Commission’s Election Results ceremony at the Results Operation Centre in Midrand, President Cyril Ramaphosa said that by going to vote, the people of South Africa have taken responsibility not only for the future of themselves and their families, but for the future of their country.
“Through their votes they have demonstrated, clearly and plainly, that our democracy is strong, it is robust and it endures. Our people have spoken. As the leaders of political parties, as all those who occupy positions of responsibility in society, we have heard the voices of our people and we must respect their wishes,” he said on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Parliament is fully prepared, and all the necessary arrangements have been made for establishing the new National Assembly.
“Comprehensive plans are in place to ensure a seamless transition, including onboarding new Members of Parliament,” Parliamentary spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said in a statement.
READ | Plans underway for establishment of the seventh democratic Parliament
With South Africa having regularly held elections since 1994, the 2024 National and Provincial Elections are an affirmation of the strength this democracy. - SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Wed, 06/05/2024 - 14:34