Agricultural hubs create work and hope for hundreds
But Industrial Development Corporation funding for the project in KwaZulu-Natal is coming to an end
KwaZulu-Natal
No public transport relief in sight for Tongaat workers as PRASA passes the buck
Tongaat residents struggle to afford to get to work since trains to Durban stopped operating four years ago
PRASA’s efforts to ensure trains run on time
PRASA’s efforts to ensure trains run on time
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa's ongoing efforts to re-signal its network in phases will go a long way to improving efficiency and making sure that commuter trains are reliable and punctual.
PRASA embarked on a journey to upgrade its near obsolete and outdated signalling system.
“When PRASA suffered massive theft and vandalism of the rail infrastructure, the newly installed state-of-the-art electronic interlocking and signaling equipment was not left unscathed. In rebuilding the rail infrastructure, PRASA is re-installing the stolen and vandalized signaling equipment. Through a project that would take seven years to complete, PRASA is re-signaling the network in phases. Nationally, PRASA has re-signalled six of the lines recovered,” Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said on Tuesday in Cape Town.
The Minister made these remarks during the launch of the train production of 200 modern high-tech Electric Multiple Units (EMUs), which are manufactured locally in Gauteng.
The launch marked significant progress towards PRASA's overarching goal of producing 600 X’Trapolis Mega Trains.
“PRASA is installing a state-of-the-art signaling system, including PRASA train control systems in line with the European Rail Traffic Management System. This will ensure that PRASA runs trains more efficiently, improving service frequency and enhancing the safe passage of trains on the rail network.
“PRASA has re-signaled 24 of the 39 stations from Cape Town to Simonstown. This means the train speed has been increased from 30km/hr to 75km/hr and commuters getting to their destination much faster. When there was no signaling on the line, trains were running every 90 minutes and the trip to Cape Town station was one hour and ten minutes. PRASA has reduced the journey time to 45 minutes and trains run every 20 minutes,” Chikunga said.
In real terms, this means that PRASA has now increased the number of trains it runs during peak from three to nine trains.
“No more will a commuter who missed a train, have to wait for one-hour and ten minutes to catch the next train, because another train will be available within 20 minutes. We are improving efficiency and making sure that PRASA delivers a reliable and punctual commuter rail service that commuters can depend on, improve on-time performance and minimize disruptions,” the Minister said.
The six re-signalled in the country include, Mabopane – Pretoria; Saulsville – Pretoria; Pretoria – De Wildt; Cape Town – Simonstown; Mutual – Langa and Umlazi – Reunion.
“Work is underway to upgrade signaling in KwaZulu Natal. The installed signaling nationally is the latest state of the art compatible with automatic train protection (ATP) systems, GSM-R/FRMCS Digital Radio Network Communication.
“The organization is also working on installing its own PRASA Train Control System (PTCS) for the KwaZulu-Natal Region. This system will bring the operations of the Region in line with the modern urban railways around the World,” the Minister said.
This morning Chikunga was accompanied by the PRASA Board of Control and Management during a train ride on the Southern Line in the Western Cape from Fish Hoek to Cape Town Station.
“PRASA is making significant strides in restoring passenger rail services. To date, 31 of the 40 lines it operates in have been partially recovered. The region has 14 lines across five municipalities, not just in the City of Cape Town. To date, PRASA has partially recovered 12 of the 14 lines.
“Of the 39 stations on the corridor, only 13 stations were operational. To date, all the 39 stations are operational, with a full train service. To date, PRASA has transported over 13 million commuters, with more than half (57%) transported on the Southern Line.
“Progress is being made to recover the Central Line from Phillippi to Nolungile and trains are expected to run by the May this year, adding to the services already running from Cape Town to Nyanga on the Central Line. At that time, trains will be running from Cape Town to Nyanga and all the way to Nolungile,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 04/23/2024 - 12:51
206 views
A Strong Will To Succeed Took Nozipho From Clerk To Head Of Operations
A strong determination to succeed, a mentoring nature and her grounding in humility are the attributes that have contributed to Nozipho Ngobese’s rise from junior clerk to Head of Operations during three decades at Ithala SOC Limited. Despite a passion to become a chartered accountant after matriculating at Bhekuzulu College in Nongoma, Ngobese’s parents could …
Cabinet welcomes R3.4bn terminal project
Cabinet welcomes R3.4bn terminal project
Cabinet has welcomed the opening of the R3.4 billion Newlyn Park Bayhead Rail Terminal project at the Port of Durban, which consists of 640 000 square metres of warehousing, rail sidings and open storage.
“The new terminal will facilitate the efficient movement of sea, rail and road cargo through the Port of Durban, and help address the recent challenges experienced in the logistics, infrastructure and network industries,” a Cabinet statement said on Monday.
WATCH |
The investment resulted in 4 013 direct construction jobs and the full-time employment of more than 1 000 people, with this number expected to grow as the facility handles more cargo.
“In revitalising our country’s rail network, Cabinet also welcomed the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa’s (PRASA) successful restoration of five crucial Metrorail services across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
“PRASA effectively brought 31 of its 40 lines back into partial operation and is working on achieving full operational status. The milestone demonstrates government’s commitment to revitalising passenger rail services and providing an efficient public transport option for South Africans,” Cabinet said.
WATCH | Transport Minister briefs on improvements at PRASA | 
Cabinet held a special Cabinet Meeting on Wednesday, 10 April 2024.
In a related development, Cabinet welcomed the announcement by the South African National Roads Agency that it would inject over R50 billion into road infrastructure development in the Eastern Cape.
READ | SANRAL invests R2 billion in Eastern Cape road maintenance
This infrastructure investment is geared towards the construction of new facilities, road improvements and strengthening, and special maintenance of the national road network in the province. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:59
983 views
Cabinet welcomes R500 million investment for upgrade of Tetra Pak facility
Cabinet welcomes R500 million investment for upgrade of Tetra Pak facility
Cabinet has welcomed the reopening of the Tetra Pak facility in KwaZulu-Natal by President Cyril Ramaphosa, which attracted an investment of R500 million.
The investment forms part of the Presidential Investment Mobilisation Drive, where government set the ambitious target in 2018 to attract R1.2 trillion investments over five years.
“Last year at the fifth South Africa Investment Conference, which marked end of the first phases of our investment mobilisation cycle, more the R1.5 trillion in investment commitments were raised. These investments translate into new factories, jobs in communities and greater economic activity around our country. Cabinet is confident that our investment drive will reignite economic growth and uplift our economy,” a Cabinet statement said on Monday.
Tetra Pak is a global leader in packaging and processing solutions for the food industry and has had a presence and manufacturing footprint in South Africa since 1963.
WATCH |
The factory was originally built 45 years ago, in 1979. Through this expansion, Tetra Pak will be exporting products to the continent.
VIEW | Click here for more images of the Tetra Pak Manufacturing plant in Durban.
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Cabinet held a special Cabinet Meeting on Wednesday, 10 April 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 15:15
318 views
Government activities for the week 22 – 26 April 2024
Government activities for the week 22 – 26 April 2024
On Monday, 22 April, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, will officially open a new Home Affairs office at The Pavilion Shopping Centre in Westville, KwaZulu-Natal.
On Tuesday, 23 April, President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the Inaugural Worker Share Ownership Conference at the Sandton Convention Centre.
On Tuesday, 23 April, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Makhotso Sotyu, will launch Community Forestry Agreements in Butterworth, Eastern Cape.
On Wednesday, 24 April, President Cyril Ramaphosa will officiate the 20 Years celebration of the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) and launch the Phase V of the programme in Buffalo City Municipality, Eastern Cape.
On Thursday, 25 April, a Webinar on the National Treasury two-pot system will be held via Zoom at 11am.
On Thursday, 25 April, the International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister, Alvin Botes, will host his Swedish counterpart for a bilateral meeting.
On Friday, 26 April, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake a working visit to the United States of America. – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:31
108 views
CSA T20 Challenge Semi-Finalists Confirmed
GQEBERHA: A career-best five-for from Daryn Dupavillon helped the Hollywoodbets Dolphins secure a home semi-final as the Cricket South Africa (CSA)...
The post CSA T20 CHALLENGE SEMI-FINALISTS CONFIRMED first appeared on Cricket South Africa.
New health centre to meet diverse needs of the community
New health centre to meet diverse needs of the community
Jubilation and ululations, mixed with tears of joy, were the order of the day as the community of Umtubatuba in KwaZulu-Natal witnessed the sod turning ceremony marking the official start of the long-awaited construction of a local community health centre.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, joined by Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane and UMkhanyakude District Municipality Mayor, Siphile Mdaka, presided over the sod turning ceremony at the site for the construction of the Mtubatuba Community Health Centre (CHC), which will provide comprehensive health services.
The establishment of the community health centre represents a vital step towards redefining healthcare access for the residents of Umtubatuba.
By bringing essential medical services closer to home, the CHC aims to alleviate the burden of traveling long distances in search of healthcare, thereby saving community costs and time.
The initiative aligns with the overarching goal of ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all members of the community.
The most noteworthy aspect of the CHC project is its commitment to provide a wide range of healthcare services tailored to meet the diverse needs of the community.
Upon completion, the centre will serve as a one-stop destination for disease screenings, medication collection, dental and optometric consultations, TB and cancer screenings, as well as specialised services for male health.
The centre will also offer free circumcision services and facilitate access to mobility aids, including wheelchairs and crutches, further enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Speaking at the event, Dube-Ncube said the construction of the community health centre will result in the creation of more than 300 jobs.
The Premier urged people responsible for employing staff to refrain from employing people based on political affiliation or membership.
“We also discourage community members who demand that only local professional people must be employed in health facilities. Employment of professionals in these facilities need to be done on merit – irrespective of where the health professionals hail from,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier introduced the contractor tasked with the construction of the health centre and handed over ten vehicles to Community Policing Forums (CPFs) in Umkhanyakude District Municipality.
The ten cars are part of a fleet of 85 vehicles that were unveiled during the handing over of tools of trade to community crime fighting structure in Durban on 5 April 2024.
Simelane emphasised that access to quality healthcare is a human right, and people in rural areas are also entitled to it like others in urban areas.
The MEC also assured that the local community will receive priority during recruitment of people who will work during the construction of the facility.
The Department of Health said the construction of the health centre is expected to be completed in the next three years.– SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 10:27
194 views
Upper uMkhomazi Water Project a catalyst for KZN water security
Upper uMkhomazi Water Project a catalyst for KZN water security
The signing of offtake agreements this week has signified the start of phase one of the much-awaited R28 billion Upper uMkhomazi Water Project.
The project is expected to be a catalyst to water security and vibrant economic activity in the eThekwini area and surrounding districts.
Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, joined by Deputy Minister David Mahlobo, lead the signing of joint offtake agreements with the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), uMngeni-uThukela Water Board and six KwaZulu-Natal municipalities during a ceremony at Deepsdale in Bulwer on Friday.
The project consists of the construction of an 81 metre high dam at Smithfield on the uMkhomazi River with a gross storage capacity of 251 million m3, as well as a 33 kilometre and 3.5 metre diameter tunnel from Smithfield Dam to the uMlaza River Valley, and a 5.1 kilometre and 2.6 metre diameter gravity bulk pipeline connecting the tunnel to the Baynesfield Water Treatment Works.
Upon its completion, the project is set to increase the amount of raw water in the uMgeni Water System yield by 55%, from 394 to 608 million cubic metres (or kilolitres) per annum.
The TCTA will implement the raw water component of project and uMngeni-uThukela will implement the bulk water treatment component for distribution to the identified six water services authorities.
Speaking at the event attended by various Mayors in the area, Mchunu noted the project has seen delays but they are excited at the commencement of the project.
The Minister said the department is hard at work with other projects within the province to address the water challenges.
“We are here to do a number of things, we visited the site where the Upper uMkhomazi Dam will be built [because] we wanted to see the actual site [and] we are delighted that we managed to view the site.
“The next thing is to allow TCTA to provide a road map about the actual construction of the dam and the timeframes regarding commencement and completion dates,” Mchunu said.
Mahlobo highlighted that the projects that are currently being implemented by the department, working together with entities and municipalities, are a response to an instruction from President Cyril Ramaphosa.
He said President Ramaphosa has put the Economic Reconstruction Recovery Plan at the centre of renewing the country.
“Water is one of the infrastructures that has become an impediment around the issue of economic growth, hence we are pushing major bulk water infrastructure projects to ensure that we do not run out of water,” Mahlobo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 04/21/2024 - 08:39
359 views
Titans Stun Lions As Play-Off Race Remains Open
CENTURION: A scrambled final-ball single helped the Momentum Multiply Titans steal a thrilling derby win over log-leaders DP World Lions and...
The post TITANS STUN LIONS AS PLAY-OFF RACE REMAINS OPEN first appeared on Cricket South Africa.
Programme to assist KZN small-scale farmers to become sustainable commercial businesses
Programme to assist KZN small-scale farmers to become sustainable commercial businesses
KwaZulu-Natal small-scale farmers have been afforded an opportunity to grow into sustainable commercial businesses through a holistic, integrated programme, which will provide mechanisation, infrastructure and sector expertise.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube led the provincial launch of the Integrated Agricultural Development Programme, where a total of 1 128 tractors, worth R17 million, and other implements were allocated for the small-scale farmers.
During the launch in Richmond on Thursday, Dube-Ncube, together with Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) MEC, Super Zuma, also handed over ownership certificates to community projects.
Dube-Ncube said through this initiative, the provincial government aims to strengthen the ability of farming groups to maintain, take responsibility and care for their assets.
She said additional mentorship and mechanisation training will be provided to community projects that are experiencing challenges in their farming activities to ensure self-sufficiency.
“Sustainable mechanisation is critical in the development of value chains and food systems, and through this programme, we are ensuring that even our small-scale farmers are given an opportunity to be competitive.
“They will be able to sufficiently cultivate land, be more efficient, effective and environmentally friendly in their operations,” Dube-Ncube said.
The Premier also emphasised that food security is a priority for the province, and the provincial government remains committed to opening the market for provincial farmers, through government’s Radical Agrarian Socio-Economic Transformation (IRASET) Programme.
She said the provincial government wants the farmers to be game changers of the market, as per the commitment made during the State of the Province Address to assist farmers to meet demands of the province.
“We want them to supply major markets locally and eventually service cross borders markets and we are ready to assist them to meet any criteria. Today we have officially handed over a cheque and equipment to SyaJay Agricultural Services, a project we are most proud of.
“SyaJay Agricultural Services (Pty) Ltd, is a 100% Black-owned business and the two beneficiaries are graduates of the Owen Sithole College of Agriculture. The project was approved for a total funding of R5.6 million from the Agricultural Development Agency (ADA) and 10 hydroponic tunnels, a cooling and irrigation systems have been completed. A mobile pack house will be ready at the end of May,” Dube-Ncube said.
Sya Ngcobo, one of the beneficiaries, said over and above becoming a sustainable business that is making profit, their vision is to create an information hub.
Ngcobo said they partly want to function as a demonstration site, where small-holder farmers would sharpen their skills and gain crucial sectorial knowledge.
“In many instances, you find that some farmers struggle once they have penetrated the market. Even though they may have good quality produce, vegetables do not sell because of incorrect packaging.
“We want to teach our farmers and give them an opportunity to come and see how it is done from the work we will be doing,” Ngcobo said.
Dube-Ncube said the items will at a later stage be distributed to all the districts when champion MECs roll out the programme. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 12:20
180 views
Inaugural CSA Professional Domestic Women’s League Concludes With Resounding Success
JOHANNESBURG: The inaugural season of the Cricket South Africa (CSA) Professional Domestic Women’s League has drawn to a thrilling close,...
The post INAUGURAL CSA PROFESSIONAL DOMESTIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE CONCLUDES WITH RESOUNDING SUCCESS first appeared on Cricket South Africa.
KZN political parties commit to peace, stability ahead of elections
KZN political parties commit to peace, stability ahead of elections
KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, says the commitment by political parties to free, fair and peaceful elections is a clear indication of the great strides made by the people of the province in entrenching stability and cementing lasting peace.
The Premier was speaking at the signing of the pledge by various political parties in the province, committing themselves and their supporters to ensuring that the upcoming general elections will be free and fair, and devoid of any illegal or violent incidents.
Various political parties from the province made the commitment in an event organised by the Electoral Commission (IEC) at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre this week.
South Africa will go to the polls on 29 May 2024.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dube-Ncube noted the major strides made in establishing peace and tolerance as a way of life in the province.
“As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of our democratic breakthrough, we commend the maturity displayed by various political parties through the signing of this pledge. Unlike most of our sister provinces, we know the brutality of political intolerance and the social devastation that this wreaks havoc on our people.
“Therefore, this commitment by political parties is much more than just appending signatures to a pledge, but a solemn promise to our people that they will not allow the elections to take us back to the days of instability,” Dube-Ncube said.
WATCH I
The Premier said conservative estimates put at 20 000 the number of people who have died because of political violence in KwaZulu-Natal, from the late 1980s to way beyond the democratic moment in 1994.
Through the efforts of all stakeholders, including political leaders, community members, religious leaders, amakhosi and non-governmental organisations, peace was finally achieved in KwaZulu-Natal.
“Following the attainment of peace, ours has been one of the best performing provinces in terms of service delivery and investment attraction, to mention but a few. This confirms the correctness of our long-held view that peace and development are inseparable and that one cannot be achieved in the absence of the other.
“Therefore, all of us have the responsibility to strive for peace, stability and tolerance, even beyond the elections so that our province can continue on its upward and forward growth trajectory,” Nxesi said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 10:06
43 views
World Cup police accommodation fraud and corruption case postponed
World Cup police accommodation fraud and corruption case postponed
The case against nine suspects facing charges relating to the R47 million Soccer World Cup police accommodation fraud and corruption investigation has been postponed in the Durban High Court.
The case was postponed to allow for pre-trial conferencing.
The accused in the case include former high ranking police officials including:
- Former KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner General Mmamonnye Ngobeni
- Colonel Navin Madhoe
- Former police captain Aswin Narainpershad
The other accused are:
- Businessman, Toshan Panday
- Panday’s mother, Arevenda Panday
- His wife, Privisha Panday
- His sister, Kajal Ishwarkumar
- Panday's brother-in-law, Seveesh Maharaj Ishwarkumar
- Panday’s personal assistant, Tasleem Rahiman
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Investigating Directorate spokesperson Henry Mamothame explained that the nine face at least 275 charges of racketeering offences and fraud, corruption, money laundering and forgery.
“[These were] allegedly committed between March 2009 and April 2010, wherein the prescripts of the Public Finance Management Act were allegedly ignored in procuring accommodation for members of the South African Police Service during the 2010 Soccer World Cup.
“The state alleges Panday’s family [were] party to a common purpose with Toshan and others to defraud SAPS, through their association with entities which were used to score lucrative contracts from SAPS. The policemen who are accused in this matter face accusations of colluding with Panday to receive contracts from the KZN police for an amount of over R47.3 million in fraudulent and irregular tender procedures.
“Judgment on an application for disclosure of certain information is still reserved for a date that will be provided by the court. The state has strongly argued against this application,” he said.
The case is expected back in court on 25 July 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 04/17/2024 - 09:12
577 views
Mashatile to launch second phase of Wi-Fi connectivity project in Limpopo
Mashatile to launch second phase of Wi-Fi connectivity project in Limpopo
Deputy President Paul Mashatile will lead the official launch of Phase 2 of the South Africa Connect project on Friday, 19 April 2024.
The project is a flagship programme aimed at bridging the digital divide by providing Wi-Fi access to communities and ensuring universal access to the internet.
The SA Connect Phase 2 launch event is organised by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies and will take place at the Ephraim Mogale Stadium, Modimolle Local Municipality, Waterberg District, in Limpopo.
The project aligns with the government’s commitment to achieving the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 goals related to technology.
The programme also aims to create an inclusive information society and enable the government to provide broadband to communities.
By playing an enabling role in the provision of broadband, the Presidency said, government will be better positioned to meet the needs of its citizens.
“It also galvanises the capability, resources, and energy of public and private sectors towards realising a bold vision to reach 80% connectivity by 2024,” the statement read.
Deputy President Mashatile is launching Phase 2 which is expected to connect more than 42 000 government facilities, including schools, health facilities, post offices, police stations, and government offices, to broadband services.
The project will cover eight rural district municipalities.
So far, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has successfully confirmed that more than 751 232 households and about 4 366 community Wi-Fi hotspots are connected in 11 district municipalities.
These include Mount Ayliff in the Eastern Cape and Kokstad in KwaZulu-Natal, with other districts to follow.
The Deputy President will also take the opportunity to interact with members of the surrounding communities to witness progress achieved by government in providing core access to network infrastructure to enable broadband connectivity to community Wi-Fi hotspots that connect households.
The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, Members of the Limpopo Provincial Executive Council, District and Local Mayors, as well as senior government officials will support Deputy President Mashatile. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Wed, 04/17/2024 - 11:23
127 views
Tiga Maine Bio
Celimpilo Kenneth Zungu (born 25 August 1997), professionally known as Tiga Maine, is a South African recording artist, performing artist, background artist, actor, producer, song-writer, promoter, music director, video editor, graphic designer, mentor, motivator and etc. Born in Kwazulu-Natal, Nkandla and raised in Mpumalanga, Balfour. He is regarded as one of the pushing artist independently …
Mashatile calls on traditional leaders to promote free and fair elections
Mashatile calls on traditional leaders to promote free and fair elections
Deputy President Paul Mashatile has urged traditional leaders to encourage eligible voters to participate in the May 29 elections, and ensure they are free and fair.
“We will, as a nation, hold the seventh democratic National and Provincial Elections. In this context, traditional leaders should continue to encourage all eligible voters to participate in the elections,” he said on Tuesday.
The Deputy President, as the Chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Task Team on matters of Traditional and Khoi-San leaders, delivered a keynote address during a dialogue convened by the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders in Pretoria.
“We urge traditional leaders to promote free and fair elections and ensure that all voters exercise their democratic right — a right that was hard fought for and must never be taken for granted.”
He also took the time to urge rural leaders to work with the government to address the killings of traditional leaders.
“As an institution located in rural areas, it is important that we collaborate to identify obstacles that are hampering community development, such as the killing of traditional leaders, especially in the province of KwaZulu-Natal.
“We encourage amakhosi and izinduna to continue working closely with the government to address this challenge effectively.”
The Deputy President condemned acts of violence and urged the community to serve as government’s eyes and ears by reporting those who conspire or have committed such crimes to the appropriate authorities.
“Our law enforcement agencies are also working hard to hold those responsible to account.”
Land
The country's second-in-command acknowledged the urgent need for the State to expedite its rural development efforts, particularly through the implementation of the InvestRural Master Plan.
The InvestRural initiative enables rural communities to unlock their potential and improve their livelihoods.
“Investing in local economies and land ownership is still critical for rural communities’ development.”
He recognised that land tenure and administration are contentious issues and government will work hard to transfer land ownership to its legitimate owners and sustain rural communities.
“Government has also undertaken to divest itself of the communal land it holds in trust for communities.”
The Deputy President assured leaders that government was prioritising land access for rural development and economic transformation.
“We are finalising the Draft Communal Land Bill and Policy, with consultations underway to solicit input from various sectors, including traditional leaders.”
The documents, according to the Deputy President, will be processed through government structures and the Cabinet for public comments during the 2024/25 financial year.
“We are confident that the Draft Communal Land Rights Bill will facilitate the transfer of government-held communal land to communities. It will also allow for communal land registration and dispute resolution mechanisms.”
He believes that it wais important to optimally utilise the land.
“If we can till the land, the people can fight hunger and poverty through small-scale farming or agricultural start-ups.”
Social issues
During the meeting,Mashatile offered to work with leaders to tackle pressing issues such as substance abuse, crime, and gender-based violence.
“GBVF has a negative impact on socio-economic conditions, particularly for women and girls. Therefore, ending this scourge is urgent and critical for our nation's development.
“You must never allow anyone to act violently and abusively against their partners in the name of culture. Together, we must stand firm and say no to all forms of abuse and violence.”
He also touched on the prevalence of HIV and AIDS and tuberculosis (TB), particularly among adolescent girls and young women.
“As part of our prevention efforts, we must continue to communicate good and compelling messages to young people about delaying the commencement of sexual interactions as much as possible, and when they do begin, having sexually safe relationships and living healthy lifestyles.”
He also encouraged local Houses of traditional leaders to establish relationships with community organisations to fight the scourge of drugs.
The Deputy President also took the time to congratulate Kgosi Seatlholo, Chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, on his recent election as Interim Chairperson of the Southern Africa Network of Traditional Leaders in Drug Demand Reduction.
“The establishment of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San leaders serves as evidence of the government’s dedication to recognising and valuing the viewpoints and contributions of our traditional leaders.” – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 04/16/2024 - 13:10
201 views
Update on Presidential eThekwini Working Group
Update on Presidential eThekwini Working Group
The Presidency has provided an update on the work of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group.
The group was announced following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s visit to the area earlier this year and is aimed at improving service delivery, improving business confidence, and repositioning eThekwini as an investment and tourism hotspot.
READ | Presidential Working Group to accelerate resolution of issues impacting eThekwini
It is co-chaired by the Director-General in the Presidency and Secretary of Cabinet, Phindile Baleni, and former KwaZulu-Natal MEC of Economic Development and Tourism, Mike Mabuyakhulu.
“On the 8th of April 2024, Director-General Phindile Baleni and Mike Mabuyakhulu led a series of follow-up engagements with the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, organised labour in eThekwini, and the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry to discuss the Working Group’s eight priority focal areas.
“The focal areas are the outcome of a deliberate consultation process within government and with social partners in eThekwini. The municipality, organised labour, and the business community expressed their commitment to leverage their expertise to support turnaround strategies across the identified focal areas.
“The Working Group represents an intergovernmental collaborative approach to addressing challenges in local government and will include active participation from all levels of government, the private sector, state owned enterprises, organised labour, and civil society,” the Presidency said in a statement.
The group’s focal areas are:
- Governance and financial sustainability
- Water and sanitation
- Safety and security
- Tourism revitalisation
- Roads, bridges, and transport
- Human settlements
- Disaster response
- Communication and stakeholder management.
The statement said the intervention is expected to last some 24 months.
“The Presidential eThekwini Working Group will be responsible for reporting progress on the implementation of turnaround strategies to the President and Minsters every three weeks. The intervention will last 24 months and focus on both short-term and long-term interventions.
“The learnings and outcomes of the Presidential eThekwini Working Group will inform similar interventions in other municipalities facing service delivery challenges,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 04/16/2024 - 09:25
183 views
Don’t miss your chance to enter the 1 Mile leg of the 2024 Oceans 8 Charity Swim
Swimmers keen to compete in an achievable, open water competition – while raising much-needed funds for charity – can book a spot on the 1 Mile event of this year’s Oceans 8 Charity Swim along Durban’s shores. Taking place on Saturday, 15 and Sunday, 16 June from the Durban Undersea Club, the 1 Mile swim …
KZN activates disaster teams
KZN activates disaster teams
Disaster teams have been activated in all KwaZulu-Natal municipalities following a level 5 warning of disruptive rains expected in eThekwini Metro and the south coast on Monday, which could result in localised flooding.
According to the warning from the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the heavy downpours may result in some areas receiving rainfall accumulation of more than 200 millimetres over a 24-hour period, which may lead to flooding of settlements and roads, damage to houses, and the displacement of communities over the extreme south-eastern part of the province.
In a statement issued on Monday, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs said areas that are likely to be affected include eThekwini Metro, Umdoni, Umzumbe and Ray Nkonyeni Local Municipalities on Monday.
The department said disaster teams reported that flood damage occurred in Margate town on Sunday night, which was caused by severe thunderstorms.
The department said businesses and public infrastructure, including roads and houses, have been severely damaged.
“No injuries or fatalities have been confirmed at this stage. Our teams are currently conducting an assessment. Updates will be communicated in due course.
“The public is advised to take precautionary measures by moving to safer places and avoid travelling to mitigate risk. These thunderstorms may cause localised damage to settlements, vehicles, livelihood, livestock and power surges due to excessive lightning,” the department said.
The department has also warned the public of the dangers of lightning and advised communities to seek shelter in safe places.
“Public facilities, such as community halls, are open as safe havens for those in need of shelter. Our teams may have to evacuate people should they foresee high risk of danger due to the inclement weather.
“Motorists are strongly advised to avoid travelling during this period, as bridges may become flooded, posing a risk to life,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 12:06
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Government activities for the week 15 to 19 April 2024
Government activities for the week 15 to 19 April 2024
On Monday, 15 April, the Mpumalanga Premier, Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, unveils an in-patient treatment centre in Delmas, Victor Khanye Local Municipality.
On Tuesday, 16 April, the Deputy Minister of Health together with the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation will interact with young people in KwaZulu-Natal as part of ongoing youth engagements and dialogues to tackle health-related challenges facing young people with potential to affect their academic journey.
On Thursday, 18 April, the Department of Tourism hosts a community engagement in the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality to share information on government’s programmes and opportunities that serve to empower SMMEs and create robust and sustainable local economies in the Free State.
Janine
Mon, 04/15/2024 - 12:18
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CSA T20 Challenge Update: Titans, Lions And Dolphins Win Big
CENTURION: David Wiese and Dayyaan Galiem shared six wickets before an astonishing unbeaten 90 by Rivaldo Moonsamy helped resuscitate the...
Launch of South Africa’s First Period Art Gallery
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in partnership with the Wireless Female Network (WFN) team up to launch first Period Art gallery in South Africa and on the African continent. The Wireless Female Network and the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) are thrilled by the concept of a Period Art gallery as this further dismantles the glass …