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KZN speeds up pothole repairs

Location: News

KZN speeds up pothole repairs

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has unveiled 55 new trucks, which will be used to improve the turnaround time in addressing pothole patching in the province.

The procurement of the trucks, which were unveiled at the launch of the 2023 October Transport Month campaign, is part of the commitment made by the Premier in her State of the Province Address, where she committed government to improving the provincial road network conditions.

The trucks -- fitted with the latest pothole patching technology -- will be distributed to all Department of Transport District Offices, in a “fast and effective operation”.

The trucks will comprise a team of nine people, who will be responsible for routine and safety maintenance, including pothole patching, blacktop patching, drain cleaning and verge maintenance, among other duties.

Unveiling the trucks, Dube-Ncube emphasised that the transport sector is the heartbeat of the province’s economy, and crucial in the stimulation of socio-economic development of the nation.

She said during October Transport Month, the province will advance road safety initiatives and highlight several economic empowerment initiatives.

“Under the Department of Transport, over the coming months, the province will ensure that employment intensive road maintenance programmes are increased to provide employment opportunities for more women and the vulnerable in our province. The Zibambele Maintenance Programme will create 41 000 job opportunities,” Dube-Ncube said.

This year’s October Transport Month Campaign is being rolled out under the theme: ‘Siyakha – We are building better infrastructure to grow South Africa together!’.

During this month, the Department of Transport and its entities will showcase transport infrastructure services in aviation, maritime, public transport and roads. 

This month will also be used to further advance the country’s road safety initiatives, while creating awareness of the economic benefits of the sector. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Fri, 10/06/2023 - 10:31

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Read moreKZN speeds up pothole repairs

SAWS warns of heatwave conditions 

Location: News

SAWS warns of heatwave conditions 

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of heatwave conditions resulting in persistently high temperatures from Wednesday until Friday. 

These conditions are expected over the eastern parts of both the North-West and Free State, southern parts of Gauteng as well as Alfred Nzo and OR Tambo District Municipality of the Eastern Cape from 04-06/10/2023.

“Under these conditions a prolonged exposure to the midday sun poses health risks, hence it’s advisable to seek shades and keep hydrated. Extremely high fire danger conditions are expected over Northern Cape, western and northern parts of North-West, Western Bushveld of Limpopo, Amajuba Local Municipality of KwaZulu-Natal as well as Joe Gqabi District Municipality and Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality of Eastern Cape,” SAWS said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 09:43

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Read moreSAWS warns of heatwave conditions 

President Ramaphosa mourns Prof Hoosen ‘Jerry’ Coovadia

Location: News

President Ramaphosa mourns Prof Hoosen ‘Jerry’ Coovadia

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of Professor Hoosen Mahomed “Jerry” Coovadia, a leading scientist, health policy innovator, and anti-apartheid activist who has passed away at the age of 83 at his home in Durban. 

The President described Coovadia as an outstanding scientist and committed anti-apartheid campaigner who dedicated himself to the liberation struggle. 

The President has offered his deepest condolences to Coovadia’s wife Dr Zubeida Hamed, his son Prof Imraan Coovadia, and daughter Dr Anuschka Coovadia, on behalf of government and the nation. 

The Prof, the President said, dedicated himself to the physical well-being and social inclusion of people all over the world through his enterprising mission as a scientist and architect of public health policies.

“His pioneering, globally acclaimed research into mother-to-child transmission of HIV has rendered an immeasurable legacy to humanity in terms of which persons living with HIV can live long and healthy lives subject to early detection and access to treatment.

“Our nation’s loss will be felt globally but we can take pride at and comfort from the emergence of a giant of science and an icon of compassion and resilience from our country,” the President added. 

Although he faced numerous obstacles in apartheid South Africa, Coovadia established himself as a top paediatrician and became an international authority on HIV/AIDS, earning numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. 

Those who have been paying their tribute have described his passing as a great loss to the scientific community and remarked that his contribution will always be remembered. 

According to reports, he was appointed Associate Professor at the University of Natal now known as the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in 1982 and ad hominem Professor in 1986. 

From 1990 to 2000, he served as Professor and Head of Paediatrics and Child Health at the UKZN.

Director of Biomedical Science at the Centre for HIV/AIDS Networking (HIVAN), and the scientific director of the Doris Duke Medical Research Institute at the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine at the UKZN. 

He was awarded the 2013 AAAS Award for Scientific Freedom and Responsibility. He has also received the 1999 Star of South Africa Award from President Nelson Mandela and the 2000 Nelson Mandela Award for Health and Human Rights. 

The National Research Foundation (NRF), said during his career, he served as the Chairman of the Board of the UKZN Children’s Hospital Trust, a Commissioner for the National Planning Commission, and Associate Scientific Director at CAPRISA, which is home to the DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 13:12

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa mourns Prof Hoosen ‘Jerry’ Coovadia

KZN Premier unveils fleet of trucks to improve pothole repairs

Location: News

KZN Premier unveils fleet of trucks to improve pothole repairs

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube–Ncube has unveiled 55 new trucks, which will be used to improve the turnaround time in addressing pothole patching in the province.

The procurement of the trucks, which were unveiled at the launch of the 2023 October Transport Month campaign, is part of the commitment made by the Premier in her State of the Province Address, where she committed government to improving the provincial road network conditions.

The trucks -- fitted with the latest pothole patching technology -- will be distributed to all Department of Transports’ District Offices, in a “fast and effective operation”.

The trucks will comprise a team of nine people, who will be responsible for routine and safety maintenance, including pothole patching, blacktop patching, drain cleaning and verge maintenance, among other duties.

Unveiling the trucks, Dube-Ncube emphasised that the transport sector is the heartbeat of the province’s economy, and crucial in the stimulation of socio-economic development of the nation.

She said during October Transport Month, the province will advance road safety initiatives and highlight several economic empowerment initiatives.

“Under the Department of Transport, over the coming months, the province will ensure that employment intensive road maintenance programmes are increased to provide employment opportunities for more women and the vulnerable in our province. The Zibambele Maintenance Programme will create 41 000 job opportunities,” Dube-Ncube said.

This year’s October Transport Month Campaign is being rolled out under the theme, ‘Siyakha – We are building better infrastructure to grow South Africa together!’.

During this month, the Department of Transport and its entities will showcase transport infrastructure services in aviation, maritime, public transport and roads. 

This month will also be used to further advance the country’s road safety initiatives, while creating awareness of the economic benefits of the sector. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 10/04/2023 - 11:16

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Read moreKZN Premier unveils fleet of trucks to improve pothole repairs

Why you need to sign up with SEIFSA

Location: MyPR

The Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa (SEIFSA) has been very vocal in articulating the concerns of the sector in the media and with various influential stakeholders, including Government. The next round of industry negotiations are due in 2024 and SEIFSA is working hard to ensure that these negotiations are not a repeat …

Read moreWhy you need to sign up with SEIFSA

Dube-Ncube condemns witchcraft accusations aimed at elderly

Location: News

Dube-Ncube condemns witchcraft accusations aimed at elderly

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has strongly condemned the phenomenon where senior citizens are accused of witchcraft due to the onset of dementia and related mental conditions.

Dube-Ncube on Sunday commemorated International Day for Senior Citizens at Umkhanyakude District Municipality.

The Premier said she is worried about the increasing number of senior citizens, who are being killed because of claims of witchcraft.

“The onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s causes forgetfulness among the elderly. Unfortunately, this is interpreted as witchcraft by members of the public, who then hurl and inflict abuse on the senior citizens,” Dube-Ncube said. 

She said government has created an awareness campaign to educate members of society so that they understand the causes and symptoms of dementia and related mental conditions.

“We are gathered here today to tell our senior citizens that they are more precious than rubies, gold or diamonds. Senior citizens are reservoirs of knowledge, wisdom and history. We cherish their presence in our lives so that we can continue to quench our thirst for knowledge and wisdom,” the Premier said.

Dube-Ncube highlighted the provincial government’s achievements in supporting Small, Medium and Micro enterprises (SMMEs) owned by senior citizens.

“As the provincial government, we have thus far been able to create opportunities for senior citizens to run their own businesses successfully. Here in Umtubatuba, we have Lethusizo Old Age Club, which is managed by senior citizens, and government is funding it,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier also awarded cheques to the value of R1 million to assist senior citizen-owned cooperatives and entities, and showered centenarians with gifts.

She further advised senior citizens to take care of their lives by being active so that they stay healthy, and take their medications regularly and constantly because they still have a big role to play in society.

On the pressing issue of the late South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant payments, Dube-Ncube expressed her sincere regret and assured the senior citizens that she is in constant contact with Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu.

“The late payment of social grants to the elderly is deeply regretted and we assure the senior citizens that such mishaps do not happen again,” Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 09:58

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Read moreDube-Ncube condemns witchcraft accusations aimed at elderly

Defy’s solar-operated appliances a game changer for the environment

Location: News

Defy’s solar-operated appliances a game changer for the environment

The Defy manufacturing plant, the country's largest home appliance producer, on Monday declared its commitment to environmental progress.

The announcement was made during Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel’s visit to a plant situated in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal.

During his visit, Patel was hosted by Defy Appliances CEO Mustafa Soylu, management, staff and NUMSA shop stewards.

A major announcement was made regarding South Africa's advancement towards green technology and sustainability. The Ladysmith plant will initiate the production of fridges and freezers capable of operating entirely on solar energy, marking a substantial step in promoting eco-friendly alternatives in the appliance industry.

Soylu said the pioneering initiative marks a monumental step in the production of environmentally friendly appliances, positioning South Africa as a leader in the fight against climate change.

The innovative products, anticipated to be available  for retail by January 2024, is set to empower families to adopt a fully green approach to their food cooling units at home.

Patel expressed his support for this remarkable advancement.

“Climate change necessitates a comprehensive transformation of the technologies utilized both at home and within the industry. South Africa is actively ensuring the production of future technologies and meeting the demand for lower-emission consumer products,” he said.

Patel highlighted the significant progress from Defy’s previous hybrid units that required partial access to grid energy.

The new units, designed to operate exclusively on solar energy, will be equipped with an attached battery system, enhancing their efficiency and eco-friendliness.

“I am delighted that Defy is focusing on making these fridges and freezers affordable, enabling a broader consumer base to transition to green appliances,” Patel said.

Defy Appliances continues to make substantial contributions to the local economy, employing over 2 000 workers in South Africa and producing 1.5 million appliances locally.

The range includes fridges, freezers, stoves, ovens, dryers and top-loading washing machines. With two factories located in Jacobs in eThekwini and Ezakheni in the Ladysmith area, Defy stands as a significant player in the local manufacturing sector.

In addition to bolstering local production, Defy exports products to 35 other African countries said Soylu, reinforcing South Africa’s position as the continent’s largest producer of home appliances.

Today’s announcement and Patel’s visit underscore the commitment of both the South African government and industry leaders like Defy appliances to prioritize sustainable and green technologies.

This initiative not only contributes to the global effort to mitigate climate change but also signifies the nation’s dedication to innovation, economic growth, and the welfare of its citizens. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 13:03

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Read moreDefy’s solar-operated appliances a game changer for the environment

IEC concluded the revision of voting district boundaries

Location: News

IEC concluded the revision of voting district boundaries

The Electoral Commission has concluded the revision of voting district boundaries in an effort to increase voter access in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections.

As a result, some new voting districts have been created, others have been disestablished, while some existing voting districts have changed shape.

The revision of voting district boundaries, a process known as re-delimitation, has given rise to 23 296 voting districts, compared to 23 148 for the 2021 Municipal Elections –  an increase of 148 voting districts, or 0,6%.

“This increase in voting districts, however slight, implies increased access and convenience to voting for voters,” said Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo in a statement.

Unlike wards, voting districts are not political boundaries, but are the creation of the Electoral Commission for the purposes of electoral efficiency and planning.

Mamabolo said the Electoral Commission will embark on a campaign of targeted communication and re-registration of voters affected by the voting district boundary changes on Monday, 2 October 2023.

The campaign will continue until Friday, 27 October 2023, ahead of voter registration for the forthcoming elections.

By law, eligible voters must be registered in the voting district in which they ordinarily reside in order to participate in elections.

“Nationally there are 1 925 affected voting districts identified for this campaign, the majority of which are in KwaZulu-Natal (774), the Eastern Cape (332) and Limpopo province (296),” said Mamabolo.

The targeted communication and re-registration of voters affected by the voting district boundary changes will be done by a combination of methods, including trained fieldworkers walking from house to house in certain affected voting districts, and the use of direct messaging with affected voters via SMS and other digital channels to inform them of the need to re-register in their new voting districts.

“Our fieldworkers, identifiable by identification card and vest clearly marked with IEC branding, will be equipped with voter management devices (VMDs) to re-register voters on the spot,” Mamabolo said.

Where voters are not home, a flyer will be dropped off communicating details of their new voting district and station, the national registration weekend dates, and also directing them to the Voter Portal where they can self-register online 24/7.

Voters are encouraged to check their voter registration status on the Electoral Commission’s Voter Portal.

Visit www.registertovote.elections.org.za or scan the QR code in the banner below, or SMS your ID number to 32810 to get a notification of the current voting district and station on record for you.

When you visit the Voter Portal or use the SMS line, your registration details will be displayed, including your voting district and station. If you have moved to a new home, you are most likely in a different voting district.

“We appeal to voters that if your voting district has indeed changed, it is important that you re-register in your new voting district to ensure that your name appears on the voters’ roll segment for your voting district on Election Day,” Mamabolo said.

The Electoral Commission will host the first registration weekend for the 2024 Elections on 18-19 November 2023, when all voting stations will be open from 8am to 5pm on both the Saturday and Sunday. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

Edwin
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 13:16

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Read moreIEC concluded the revision of voting district boundaries

Home Affairs Minister welcomes sentencing of corrupt official

Location: News

Home Affairs Minister welcomes sentencing of corrupt official

Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, today welcomed the lengthy sentences recently meted out to two South Africans and a Pakistani national in two different cases in Durban and Johannesburg, respectively, for passport related crimes.

Arfan Ahmed, a Pakistani national who was arrested in a sting operation that included the Counter Corruption Branch of Home Affairs, the Hawks and the Police Crime Intelligence on 24 March 2022 at the Home Affairs office in Krugersdorp, has been sentenced to eight years imprisonment by the Brixton Magistrate Court.

He was sentenced for the passports that were found in his house following his arrest in Krugersdorp. The department awaits his sentencing for his role in the Krugersdorp passport syndicate.

Ahmed is a kingpin of a passport syndicate that sought to undermine the country’s laws by fraudulently procuring South African passports for Pakistani nationals who did not have a legal right to possess South African passports.

He was working with some corrupt officials of Home Affairs in a network that spanned Gauteng, Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Mpumalanga.

While the Pakistani is languishing in jail, the 12 corrupt Home Affairs officials who enabled his scheme have already been fired and submitted to the Hawks for criminal investigations.

In another important development, the Durban Magistrate Court sentenced Anda Ngozi and Nomathandazo Mboyane to 26 and 24 years, respectively. The two were officials of the Department of Home Affairs employed at the office in Queenstown, in the Eastern Cape.

They used to travel 650km each way at a time during the night to Home Affairs offices in Commercial Road and in Prospecton in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, to fraudulently process 52 passports for foreign nationals, mostly from the DRC, who are not legally entitled to them.

They were paid between R3 000 and R5 000 for each passport. South Africans who were prepared to lend their identities for this nefarious scheme were paid a paltry R500. These were usually young people who were on nyaope.

The two were arrested in November 2022 by Counter Corruption Branch of Home Affairs and the Hawks following the conclusion of an internal investigation led by the Counter Corruption Branch.

Ngozi was sentenced for eight years for fraud, as well as for contravention of the:

•            Identification Act – four years

•            Immigration Act – four years

•            Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act – 10 years

Mboyane was sentenced for eight years for fraud, as well as for contravention of the:

•            Identification Act – four years

•            Immigration Act – four years

•            Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act – eight years

The sentences of the two will run concurrently, practically meaning that Ngozi will spend 10 years, while Mboyane will spend eight years.

“I am extremely pleased that the courts are meting out lengthy sentences to those who seek to undermine the integrity of Home Affairs systems. It is worth noting that the courts had refused bail to all three after their arrests.

"I am also happy the collective work of the multidisciplinary law enforcement teams has ensured that these rascals face the full might of the law for their criminal actions,” said Minister Motsoaledi.

Minister Motsoaledi added that he was looking forward to the sentencing of more people related to these two cases as the Hawks haven't yet closed their investigations.

“Once again, I want to reiterate that we shall stop at nothing in ensuring that all Home Affairs officials who engage in malfeasance face the full might of the law. If you are at Home Affairs and are corrupt, expect our knock at your door," said Minister Motsoaledi.

He added that the actions of corrupt officials, kingpins, South Africans and corrupt foreign nationals have the following consequences for the country:

•            People who don’t qualify for South African passports are legitimised through these actions to the detriment of the sovereignty of our country.

•            They can use these documents to travel the world as South Africans, and in the process, they may be committing acts that are detrimental to the reputation of the country.

•            More worrisome is the fact that even those who claim to be asylum seekers or refugees use these passports to travel back to their home countries proving that the whole claim of asylum was just a rouse.

•            South Africans will find it difficult to travel the world as the authenticity of their documents will be questioned.

"South Africans who stupidly lend their identities to be utilised in this manner end up suffering serious prejudice when trying to do transactions with other State institutions, banks and some industry associations.

“This is because the SA Social Security Agency (SASSA), banks and the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) verify the identity of the people they transact with through the Home Affairs National Population Register (NPR).

"Every time you apply for an ID or passport you are required to take a photo. The latest photo you take becomes the one in our database and all previous ones are automatically deleted.

"So, if a South African sells their identity in this way, it means that the photo in the Home Affairs system is that of the foreign national. So, institutions verifying through NPR refuse to deal with people whose identity at Home Affairs have pictures that don't look like the person in front of them," said Motsoaledi.

The Durban Magistrate Court also ordered that the 52 passports be surrendered to the State.

Because of this abuse of the passport application system, Home Affairs has drastically changed the processes through which passports are acquired in the country. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 13:28

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Read moreHome Affairs Minister welcomes sentencing of corrupt official

KZN Health launches urgent investigation after hospital assault of 13-year-old boy

Location: News

KZN Health launches urgent investigation after hospital assault of 13-year-old boy

KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has instituted an urgent investigation after a 13-year-old boy was filmed while being assaulted by two security guards at Ladysmith Hospital.

According to the department, the incident took place last week Thursday, and the matter was brought to the attention of hospital management on Friday.

Department spokesperson, Ntokozo Maphisa, said the security company implicated in the matter was immediately informed about the incident, and immediately took action against the employees.

“The department can, in the meantime, confirm that the two security guards have been immediately dismissed by their employer, who is contracted to provide security services at the hospital. The department has also instituted an internal disciplinary process against the nursing staff implicated in the matter,” Maphisa said.

Maphisa said the patient, who suffers from a disability and was a resident of a place of shelter before his admission to Ladysmith Hospital, has since been moved to another healthcare facility in Durban.

“As a department, we are shocked and appalled by this incident. Our Health MEC, Nomagugu Simelane has made it clear that the safety and well-being of our patients is our priority, and that their abuse under any circumstances, and in any way, shape or form, will not be accepted.

“We can confirm that the matter has been reported to the police, and to the Department of Social Development. We can also confirm that a disciplinary process is underway into this matter,” Maphisa said.

He said the disciplinary process will look into, among others, where the nurses were when the incident took place, who called the security guards and why the patient was assaulted. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Mon, 10/02/2023 - 11:20

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Read moreKZN Health launches urgent investigation after hospital assault of 13-year-old boy

Navigating the Future of South African Healthcare: A Reflection on the NHI Fund and Bill

Location: MyPR

By Dr Nivisha Parag (Head of Healthcare Management Studies at Regent Business School) In an era of constant transformation within the healthcare sector, it is crucial to pause and reflect on the profound changes shaping the future of healthcare in South Africa. Recently, Dr Nivisha Parag from Regent Business School had the privilege of hosting …

Read moreNavigating the Future of South African Healthcare: A Reflection on the NHI Fund and Bill

Multimedia centre set to boost IT skills of Ezingolweni community

Location: News

Multimedia centre set to boost IT skills of Ezingolweni community

The community of Ezingolweni in Port Shepstone will now have access to the use of a multimedia centre, giving them access to educational content and learning material to upgrade their computer skills. 

Social Development Deputy Minister, Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, in partnership with the MTN SA Foundation, will launch the multimedia centre today in Kwa Nkosi Nzimakwe, Ezingolweni in KwaZulu-Natal. The launch is part of build-up activities to Social Development Month, which is observed in October.

The handover forms part of a longstanding public-private partnership between the department and the MTN SA Foundation. The department said the intention of this initiative is to highlight the urgency and importance of tribal authorities in rural communities. 

In 2018, the Department of Social Development, in partnership with the National House of Traditional Leaders, launched the Rock Leadership Programme, which aims to galvanise traditional leaders in the fight against HIV and Aids, and gender-based violence. 

“The handover of the multimedia centre is the next step in the MTN Foundation’s support of the communities of KwaZulu-Natal at large. 

“The state-of-the-art multimedia centre, with connectivity at MTN’s cost for 24 months, is a 20-seater, with an electronic curriculum and an interactive board,” the department said. 

Social Development Month is celebrated annually to bring social development services closer to the people. This year, the month will be celebrated under the theme: ‘Working together to eradicate poverty and other social ills’. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 09:35

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Read moreMultimedia centre set to boost IT skills of Ezingolweni community

Retailability Hails Re-Build At Cornubia Logistics Park

Location: MyPR

South African retail group, Retailability has described the reconstruction of its 13 000m² apparel distribution centre at the Cornubia Ridge Logistics Park north of Durban as a “massive collaboration” and a “good news story” for the regional economy. The retail brand which includes Edgars, Legit, Swagga Style and Keedo was just one of the hundreds …

Read moreRetailability Hails Re-Build At Cornubia Logistics Park

Pretoria-Kempton Park PRASA service resumes

Location: News

Pretoria-Kempton Park PRASA service resumes

The commuter rail service from Pretoria to Kempton Park has resumed its commercial service, bringing the number of recovered lines by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) to 20.

Commuters can now save on their travel costs, as a trip from Pretoria to Kempton Park costs just R9.50, while Pretoria to Germiston is R11.50, and Pretoria to Olifanstfontein at R8.50.

“The resumption of this service takes us a step closer towards running the service between the three big metros in Gauteng. Soon, trains will be running from Pretoria to Ekurhuleni, and all the way to Johannesburg Park Station, reflecting the interconnectedness between our metros,” PRASA Group CEO, Hishaam Emeran, said.

Thursday’s resumption of the commercial service followed the necessary permit from the Railway Safety Regulator. The agency introduced the service with the new modern high-tech trains from Pretoria to Kempton Park, with a service available from Kempton Park to Germiston station at both peak and off-peak.

The affordable services are expected to ease the burden of travel costs on commuters, many of whom are from the lower LSM groups, spending up to 40% of their household income on transport.

PRASA said it has gained ground in its efforts to rebuild passenger rail corridors and move commuters on the new blue modern trains, Isitimela Sabantu.

To date, 20 lines have been recovered out of 40, with trains now running on 26 operational lines in Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

The organisation has made significant progress in rehabilitating vandalised stations, with a total of 230 stations refurbished to basic functionality.

“The number of reopened lines and those earmarked for reopening tells the story of solid progress in returning passenger rail to its rightful place as the future backbone of public transport. By the end of this financial year, PRASA will have recovered 80% of the passenger rail corridors and lines, while bringing to our people a modernized passenger train experience,” Emeran said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 09/29/2023 - 09:27

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Read morePretoria-Kempton Park PRASA service resumes

KZN Premier pays tribute to Zoleka Mandela

Location: News

KZN Premier pays tribute to Zoleka Mandela

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has joined South Africans in expressing her deepest condolences to the Mandela family on the passing of Zoleka Mandela.

Mandela, who was the granddaughter of the late first South African democratically elected President Nelson Mandela and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, passed away on Monday at the age of 43.

She was admitted to hospital on 18 September 2023 for ongoing treatment for metastatic cancer in the hip, liver, lung, pelvis, brain and spinal cord.

In her tribute, Dube-Ncube said Mandela was a brave and outspoken advocate for cancer awareness.

“Her story and her fight against cancer inspired many people to seek help and support those who are affected by cancer, and her legacy will live on in the work that continues to be done to raise awareness on cancer.

“Zoleka Mandela was a fighter: at a young age she fought abuse and later in life she fought cancer, and in her battle with cancer she became an inspiration to many people. Zoleka was a loving mother to her children, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her,” Dube-Ncube said.

The Premier said Mandela’s legacy will live on in the work that continues to be done to improve the lives of cancer patients in South Africa.

She urged people who are battling cancer to seek help at an early stage so that it is detected and attended to. 

“There are many resources available to help people get the support they need, and there is no shame in asking for help. If you are struggling with cancer, please know that you are not alone.

“There are many people who care about you and want to help. Please reach out to a trusted friend or family member, or contact health professionals," Dube-Ncube said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Wed, 09/27/2023 - 12:27

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Read moreKZN Premier pays tribute to Zoleka Mandela

Over 50 avian influenza cases confirmed in South Africa

Location: News

Over 50 avian influenza cases confirmed in South Africa

South Africa is dealing with a number of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 and H7 outbreaks, with more than 50 cases confirmed in various parts of the country, according to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD).

The department has urged poultry farmers to immediately report any suspicion of the disease to the nearest State Veterinarian.

As of 21 September 2023, a total of 50 HPAI H7 outbreaks and 10 HPAI H5 outbreaks have been reported.

Gauteng province is the hardest hit by HPAI H7, with 37 confirmed cases.

Mpumalanga, Limpopo and North West have confirmed two cases, respectively, while the Free State has recorded one case. 

“The reported number of chickens that have died is 107 705, while the reported number of chickens that were culled is 1 318 521. Based on these reported figures, there has been a total loss of 1 426 226 chickens.

“The Western Cape province is the hardest hit with regards to the HPAI H5 outbreak, having a total of seven reported outbreaks. The other 3 HPAI H5 outbreaks are within the KwaZulu-Natal province,” the department said in a statement.

The reported number of chickens that have died of HPAI H5 is 98 249, while the reported number of chickens that were culled is 1 156 283, bringing the total loss of 1 254 532 chickens.

The department said it has noted an increasing number of newly detected H7 and H5 PCR positive farms, and urged the industry to ensure biosecurity on poultry farms to reduce the risk of introduction.
 
The department has facilitated the importation of fertile eggs for the broiler industry and, it said “a similar request for the table eggs will be considered if received”.

It is also facilitating the transit to Eswatini of fertile eggs for their broiler production.

The department has met with vaccine registration regulators and it was agreed that the registration of vaccination will be fast tracked. However, the meeting agreed that safety, efficacy and quality will not be compromised.

Due to the high probability of the avian influenza virus mutating and becoming zoonotic, the department warned that care needs to be taken on the quality and efficacy parameters of the vaccine chosen for use in this exercise. 

“The criteria under which vaccination will be permitted is almost in its final development, and only farms with good biosecurity and approved to vaccinate by the department will be given permission to vaccinate. The other requirements for vaccination will be surveillance to enable early detection of incursion and mandatory slaughter of vaccinated chickens. 

“The department further encourages all producers to intensify their biosecurity measures on the farm. The basic measures should aim at preventing contact with wild birds, including their faecal material, which can be transported in boots and equipment,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Tue, 09/26/2023 - 15:23

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Police record successes in dealing with criminal syndicates

Location: News

Police record successes in dealing with criminal syndicates

Police Minister Bheki Cele says the police are pushing back against crime in the country, and flushing out ruthless and greedy organised criminal syndicates.

“The work of the South African Police Service (SAPS) has, through intelligence-led operations and weekly high density operations, resulted in the arrest of thousands of criminals, especially dangerous and hardened criminals,” Cele said at a briefing in Pretoria on Tuesday.

The Minister outlined some of the successes achieved by the police in dealing with crime in the country.

He said assets worth millions of rands have been recovered and firearms have been removed off the streets.

“These covert operations have also resulted in multiple deaths of suspects who violently resisted arrest,” Cele said.

Cele said some of the meticulously conducted take-downs should renew hope in the country, that the men and women in blue are gaining ground against crime and continue to flush out criminality in both affluent and impoverished areas of society.

“South Africans on various platforms have welcomed the bolstered and decisive policing efforts by the SAPS, who are going toe-to-toe with criminals.

“But in the same breath, we are also aware that the SAPS triumph over crime is a bitter pill to swallow by some,” the minister said.

Cele said crime intelligence information remains central in the take-down of armed and ruthless gangs.

Cele said in the past week alone, police have registered a number of successes, including the latest take down of cash-in-transit heist suspects in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, where four suspects were killed and three suspects arrested.

“We would like to take this opportunity to appreciate the working relationship with the Hoedspruit Farmwatchers, who worked closely with the SAPS in taking down this syndicate.

“Among those arrested was a most wanted suspect, a Mozambican national, linked to the murder of a police officer, a spate of car hijackings, house and business robberies and fraud cases. Police seized one pistol, a rifle and some of the stolen money,” the Minister said.

Provincial overview

Among the successes achieved by the police include, in Gauteng, a multidisciplinary team led by the Anti-Kidnapping Task Team, rescued an 18-year-old Wits University student from a kidnapping syndicate last Wednesday.

The syndicate had been targeting the LGBTQI+ community through a popular dating app. Police have broken the back of this particular kidnapping syndicate, which has so far been linked to over 50 kidnappings, where ransom demands were being made.

In KwaZulu-Natal, following a shooting incident which resulted in the fatal shooting of five men at a parking lot in a shopping centre in Richards Bay on the 19th September 2023, police - 24 hours later - acted on information and traced two suspects to an upmarket estate in Ballito, where a shootout ensued.

The pair were shot and killed during a take-down operation, which involved specialised units of the SAPS, including the National Intervention Unit (NIU).

One of the suspects was on the police’s wanted list and being investigated in a number of cases. One suspect is being sought by the police.

In the Eastern Cape, police arrested a gang that had robbed a store of R1 million worth of jewellery.

Just hours later, police followed up on information and tracked down and arrested all 10 suspects, following a crime intelligence-driven operation. All the stolen jewellery was recovered, as well as four firearms. The syndicate is linked to numerous other similar heists across the country.

In Carolina, Mpumalanga, the illicit mining task team shutdown an illegally operated coal mine and seized mining equipment worth over R60 million, as well as coal worth R12 million.

A mine manager was arrested and a manhunt is underway for the mine owner.

In Khutsong, Gauteng province, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) - under Operation Gillette - arrested nine suspects for illegal mining and they attached, through a preservation order, 58 properties (51 vehicles, including luxury vehicles and seven houses) to the value of over R17 million. They will be appearing in court on 29 September 2023.

In the Northern Cape, 867 illegal miners were arrested during an intelligence driven operation in the Namakwa region on Tuesday, 19 September 2023. The area, which is a hotspot for illegal mining activities, is being closely monitored, and police are working closely with other relevant departments to combat illegal mining activities. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 09/26/2023 - 12:21

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Read morePolice record successes in dealing with criminal syndicates

Experience It Durbs

Location: MyPR

Whether it’s romance and fine dining, family fun, a lively night out with friends or affordable accommodation for groups, Southern Sun’s Durban hotels and restaurants have you covered with their latest offers. Don’t miss out on the hottest deals in Durban – keep returning to discover what’s fresh and exciting. Your gateway to the best …

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Work underway to resolve KZN water woes

Location: News

Work underway to resolve KZN water woes

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) says it is working tirelessly to assist municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal that are facing water challenges.

This after the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) released its final report and recommendations following an investigation into water challenges in that province.

“The challenges are known to the department, and the Ministry of Water and Sanitation is working tirelessly to assist the municipalities in the province, which are Water Services Authorities (WSAs), to meet their constitutional obligation for water and sanitation services provision to citizens.

“The Blue, Green and No-Drop reports, released in June 2023, are regulatory and support mechanisms of the department for municipal drinking water quality, wastewater management and water conservation and demand management. [The reports] also provided evidence of the deteriorating state of water and sanitation situation in most of these municipalities.

“The department… welcomes the report and its recommendations, which align to the findings of the department. The department further acknowledges the critical task of improving the management of waste water and restoration of water quality and reliability of supply, and that this will require increasing investments, ensuring revenue sufficiency ,as well as professional and capable technical and managerial skills,” the department said in a statement on Friday.

The DWS explained the steps it is taking to address these challenges, including funding of some R7.8 billion for several water infrastructure projects.

“Through its water entity, uMngeni-uThukela Water Board, the department has also allocated nearly R2.3 billion for the following projects: Greater Mpofana Bulk Water Supply Project in uMgungundlovu District; the Maphumulo Bulk Water Supply Project in iLembe District; UMshwathi Bulk Water Supply Project servicing both uMgungundlovu and iLembe Districts, and Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply Project in eThekwini. 

“uMngeni-uThukela Water Board is also implementing a Bulk Regional Water Scheme for Alfred Duma Local Municipality in uThukela District Municipality, at an estimated cost of R5 billion.

“Earlier this year, Minister Mchunu commissioned the completed Spring Grove Water Treatment Plant in Rosetta and Bruntville Reservoir in Mooi River, in the uMgungundlovu District, KwaZulu-Natal. It is one of the largest rural-based projects to be implemented in recent years and is aimed at providing access to safe drinking water to Mpofana and uMngeni Local Municipalities,” the department said.

According to the statement, the Minister has also invoked Section 63 of the Water Services Act in uMkhanyakude District Municipality.

“This involved providing strong support and direction to the municipality regarding the management, operation and maintenance of its water and sanitation infrastructure in order to restore services within the district.

“The uMkhanyakude District’s multibillion rand water projects include the Greater Ingwavuma Bulk Water Supply Scheme in Jozini Local Municipality, which will supply Jozin, Big Five Hlabisa and Mtubatuba municipalities, and the Mtikini Water Supply Scheme in Umhlabuyalingana Local Municipality, which will supply safe drinking water to the communities of Skhemelele, Mtikini and eScabazini.

“Ugu District Municipality has also been experiencing difficulties with water and sanitation service delivery, due to old and strained infrastructure and growing demand, exacerbated by illegal connections and vandalism. To address this, the department has allocated R150 million from the WSIG to the district in order to address immediate challenges,” the statement read.

Other steps taken by the department include:

  • Establishing a water partnerships office within the Development Bank of Southern Africa  “to encourage and stimulate strategic partnerships with the private sector to invest in water infrastructure”.
  • Reconfiguring water boards “to enable them to give more support to the under-capacitated WSAs”.
  • Establishing the uPongola-Mzimkulu Catchment Management Agency (CMA), which will be tasked with decentralised water resource management and the protection of all rivers in KwaZulu-Natal.
  • A notice has been gazetted to transform the existing Irrigation Boards to Water User Associations, in terms of Section 98 of the National Water Act.

“While all the support provided above is necessary, it is not sufficient to reverse the decline in water services. There is also a need for legislative reform, and the department will shortly be gazetting an amended Water Services Act, which will strengthen and clarify the role of municipalities as Water Services Authorities to ensure that Water Service Providers provide water services in accordance with minimum norms and standards.

“The amendments will also enable the national department to intervene more decisively a last resort when municipalities fail to respond to directives to address deficiencies in the provision of water and sanitation services,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 09/24/2023 - 14:42

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Heritage Day celebrates SA’s rich tapestry of cultures

Location: News

Heritage Day celebrates SA's rich tapestry of cultures

Heritage Month is an opportunity for all South Africans to reconnect with their roots and celebrate cultural diversity.

This is according to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who was delivering the keynote address at this year’s Heritage Day celebrations at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Today’s celebrations take place under the theme, ‘Celebrating our cultural diversity in a democratic South Africa’, an important theme that tasks us to reflect on our democratic journey, and also embrace the complexities that come with nation building and social cohesion in the context of our past, present and future.

“[Our] theme shines the spotlight on South Africa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage incorporating African, Asian and European cultures and traditions. The preamble of the 1996 Constitution reminds us that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity, and calls upon us to heal past divisions and establish a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights,” he said.

The Deputy President reflected on South Africa’s painful past, in which some cultural heritage and practices were “marginalised and demonised by colonisers”.

“We all know that many tribulations underscore our history because of both colonialism and apartheid, but also the triumph of the people against these oppressive regimes is noteworthy. Ours is a unique history that has inspired many nations towards embracing unity and diversity, and showing that difference can be a platform for development and not destruction and divisions.

“People of South Africa, our democratic country, as we know it, emerged from centuries of colonialism and apartheid that ensured that social groups were hierarchically graded, and that some had a heritage that was not freely appreciated and promoted.

“The cultural heritage of people indigenous to South Africa was in the past marginalised and demonised by colonisers, with this also affecting critical aspects of our traditions and heritage linked to land ownership, language use, livelihoods and social structures,” he said.

Mashatile said that despite this past, South Africa’s young democracy has seen significant gains.

“In democratising the heritage landscape after 1994, it has thus been very important to recognise, rehumanise and celebrate the significance of our diverse living heritage, safeguard it for future generations and harness it as the basis for social cohesion and nation building.

“We are here to acknowledge and celebrate South Africa’s diverse heritage, which is being showcased and highlighted throughout September. Heritage Month holds immense cultural significance in South Africa, as it provides a platform for communities to celebrate and display their unique traditions, customs and languages.

“This celebration of cultural diversity not only strengthens the identities of various communities but also helps preserve and promote their heritage for future generations. It provides an opportunity for our people to reconnect with their roots, honour their ancestors, and pass on important cultural practices and values,” Mashatile said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 09/24/2023 - 12:57

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Mashatile: Work underway to resolve service delivery issues in local govt

Location: News

Mashatile: Work underway to resolve service delivery issues in local govt

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has assured Members of Parliament (MPs) that the State is attending to issues facing local government. 

The Deputy President on Friday said the challenges are multi-dimensional and primarily rooted in governance, institutional capacity, poor financial management and political instability. 

“To this end, we have conducted oversight visits to six provinces to ensure that we resolve the challenges of poor governance and lack of service delivery in these areas,” he said. 

The Deputy President was responding to questions in the National Assembly on a range of issues facing the country.

Mashatile said outreach programmes were conducted in North West, Gauteng, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape. 

“This was to ensure that we resolve challenges of poor governance and lack of service delivery in these areas,” he explained, adding that they also identified areas of improvement for coordinating service delivery related to infrastructure backlogs and essential services. 

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has identified 66 out of 257 municipalities as those that need support. 

The State, Mashatile said, is also working through the District Development Model (DDM) to improve intergovernmental relations on policy planning, budgeting and execution. 

“Together with the Department of COGTA, we established what we call the Result Management Office (RMO), which will be used to strengthen this work.” 

The RMO will focus on ensuring that municipalities improve service delivery with support and capacity from the war room.

It will also act as an engine for integrated service delivery that links to the community, coordinates profiles and integrates service delivery. 

The State is also looking at addressing resources, capacity and skills in the local government space. 

It also plans to facilitate improvements in planning, coordination, execution, monitoring and reporting on the delivery of projects. 

“We aim to create resilient, sustainable and cohesive communities, where municipalities serve as catalysts and enablers of development,” said the Deputy President.

In addition, he said government will be looking at the hardships facing the City of Johannesburg. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 09/22/2023 - 11:57

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Read moreMashatile: Work underway to resolve service delivery issues in local govt