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Social Development visits funded community based organisations

Location: News

Social Development visits funded community based organisations

The Department of Social Development is conducting nationwide oversight visits to various community-based organisations that are funded to render social development services across South Africa. 

In a statement on Sunday, the department said the visits form part of the department’s ongoing measures to build and strengthen the capacity of non-governmental organisations that render much-needed services to communities. 

This includes psychosocial support to vulnerable children and families, HIV prevention, teenage and unplanned pregnancies targeting children and young people. 

The department highlighted that South Africa remains the epicentre of the HIV epidemic and there is a great need to prevent and reduce new infections, with a strong focus on young people. 

“As one of the key departments in HIV and AIDS response, Social Development has developed a compendium of social and behaviour change programmes which seek to contribute to the reduction of new HIV infections as well as mitigate the impact of HIV/AIDS on individuals, families and communities.

“The compendium of programmes consists of the following programmes: You Only Live Once (YOLO), ChommY, Boys Championing Change, Men Championing Change, Family’s Matter and the Rock Leadership programme, which specifically targets traditional leaders,” the department said. 

The community-based organisations that were visited last week include Brother Services Community Development in Bushbuckridge, Mpumalanga. The organisation received funding to prevent new HIV infections, child protection and teenage pregnancy in Lillydale and surrounding communities under the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality. 

“With a staff complement of 23 receiving a monthly stipend and reaching over 5000 beneficiaries through its various programmes, the organisation plans to expand its services by working closely with local schools,” the department said. 

A 2022 report by the Department of Health focusing on adolescent and youth district data showed that every year, young girls become pregnant, with Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga respectively identified as teenage pregnancy hot spots. 

The department noted that early pregnancies among teenagers presents a myriad of long-term socio-economic challenges such as health risks for teenage mothers and their babies, perpetuating the cycle of intergenerational poverty due to early school dropout, the spread of HIV infections, emotional, psychological, and post-natal depression, among others. 

“Social and behaviour change (SBC) programmes are essential components of HIV prevention represent one of the priority interventions highlighted in the National Strategic Plan for HIV, TB and STIs (2023-2028). Social and behaviour change efforts aim to reinforce protective sexual behaviour by addressing knowledge, attitudes, skills and social norms,” the department said. 

In Limpopo, the Deputy Minister of Social Development Ganief Hendricks visited Nhlayiso Community Health Drop-in Centre, which renders care and support services persons living with HIV and AIDS as well as psychosocial social support services to orphans and vulnerable children in Greater Tzaneen under the Mopani District. 

The organisation also works with local schools and health facilities to prevent teenage pregnancy, gender-based violence, substance use, addiction, and other substance-related harms. 

“One of the key successes of the organisation is that it provides job opportunities for unemployed social service professionals such as social work graduates, social auxiliary workers and child and youth care workers,” the department said. 

In line with its developmental mandate, the department will continue with its oversight visits to funded community-based organisations to monitor the effectiveness of the compendium of social and behaviour change programmes especially those that are targeted at children and young people. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Mon, 03/17/2025 - 10:07
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Department prepares for Pongolapoort Dam water release

Location: News

Department prepares for Pongolapoort Dam water release

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) is preparing for the imminent release of water from the Pongolapoort Dam in Jozini, northern KwaZulu-Natal.

This follows weeks of heavy rainfall that have caused several dams in the region to exceed their capacity.

The department issued a statement this week, noting that the Pongolapoort Dam has reached 90.8% of its capacity due to continuous inflows, prompting it to implement the standard operating rule of the dam safety protocol.

“This decision [to release the water] underscores the critical importance to maintain dam safety and prevent potential risks associated with overcapacity. Water release is a necessary measure to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and safeguard surrounding communities from the dangers of uncontrolled spillage or dam failure,” the department said.

If the current inflows persist, the department said it may be required to activate releases by Friday, 14 March 2025.

It also noted that the inflows are unpredictable and may change at any time.

“For instance, current inflows may significantly increase, requiring the department to release water before the anticipated time. On the contrary, inflows may significantly reduce, necessitating a halt to the release.

“Currently, the inflow slightly exceeds the outflow, and the dam level continues to rise steadily. It is for this reason that communities are notified of the imminent release to ensure preparedness and safety,” the department said.

Communities in and around Jozini, and Makhathini Flats (Welcome, Hlazane, Mboza, KwaShukela, Mzinyeni, Skhemelele, KwaLulwane, Bhekabantu, Mamfene, Shemula, Hlokohloko, Madonela, and Ndumo), have been urged to exercise extreme caution during and after the water release.

Additionally, the department is continuously engaging with the Lower Pongola Water User Association, representing water users and communities in the riparian of the river, to keep stakeholders informed on the department’s emergency preparedness plan.

The increased flow into the Pongola River will raise water levels, potentially affecting low-lying areas, floodplains, low-level bridges, and agricultural activities.

Residents downstream have been advised to remain vigilant, as the release may lead to localised flooding.

The department emphasised that the Pongolapoort Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water management and flood control.

The department will continue to monitor the dam’s performance, including inflow rates, to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the dam.

It emphasised that the proactive approach highlights the importance of balancing water storage with safety, ensuring the well-being of communities and the environment, while maintaining the dam’s functionality.

“The DWS follows operating rules and procedures when releasing water from dams necessitated by floods as a result of heavy rains and will gradually implement the releases in line with the established flood management protocols in coordination with the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), Provincial Disaster Management Centres (PDMCs), and affected local municipalities.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Thu, 03/13/2025 - 14:43
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Government steps in to assist citizens affected by severe weather

Location: News

Government steps in to assist citizens affected by severe weather

Government has called on all citizens to exercise caution in parts of the country that experience severe weather conditions.

This after a national state of disaster was declared in KwaZulu-Natal, where heavy downpours have battered the coastal province – leaving at least nine dead, infrastructure and housing destroyed and people displaced.

During a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday in Cape Town, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni urged residents to exercise caution.

“Cabinet calls on all South Africans to exercise extreme caution whenever there is inclement weather. Heavy rain poses a risk of localised flooding, particularly in low-lying areas, bridges and roads.

“In cases of heavy rains, communities are urged to avoid flooded roads and to monitor news broadcasts, radio bulletins, and government official social media pages for real-time updates and alerts,” she said.

The Minister also assured those impacted by the severe weather that government is stepping in to assist.

“The impact of severe weather conditions in KwaZulu-Natal has led to a national state of disaster being declared - to allow the provincial Department of Corporate Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) to mobilise all organs of State to augment support measures, limiting the impact of the disaster on communities.

“Government continues to provide flood victims with assistance and the Department of Human Settlements has allocated R100 million to KwaZulu-Natal to assist managing the flood aftermath,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 03/13/2025 - 11:42
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Orange level 6 weather warning for parts of KZN

Location: News

Orange level 6 weather warning for parts of KZN

An orange level 6 weather warning has been issued for parts of KwaZulu-Natal over the next two days due to ongoing disruptive rains in the area.

Forecast models indicate that significant rainfall is expected in the southeastern regions of KwaZulu-Natal from Thursday until Friday. 

The heavy rainfall is expected to result in flooding of roads and settlements, as well as damage to infrastructure and mud houses.

According to the South African Weather Service (SAWS), the affected areas include eThekwini, KwaDukuza, Mkhambathini, Ndwedwe, Ray Nkonyeni, Umdoni, Umuziwabantu, and Umzumbe.

“A cold front is expected to pass through the eastern parts from tomorrow accompanied by ridging high resulting in persistent widespread showers and thundershowers over the southeastern part until Friday evening,” the SAWS warned. 

Meanwhile, the government’s meteorological service stated that the heavy downpours pose a danger to life and could disrupt essential services such as water, electricity, and communication.

“If possible, avoid crossing rivers and swollen streams where water is above your ankles.” 

The SAWS cautioned that if people are trapped in their vehicles during floods, they should abandon the vehicle and climb to higher ground.

Residents in buildings are encouraged to move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level and turn off the electricity at the building’s supply point.

In addition, the rural residents are encouraged to protect or relocate animals to a safe place on higher ground.

Meanwhile, MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Thulasizwe Buthelezi, has welcomed the declaration of a National State of Disaster for KwaZulu-Natal due to severe weather events that have caused damages amounting to R3.1 billion in recent weeks.

This declaration, promulgated in terms of Section 23(1)(b) of the Disaster Management Act, 2002, represents a critical intervention to ensure a cohesive and comprehensive response to the devastating consequences of the recent disruptive rainfall, thunderstorms, floods, and powerful winds. 

The widespread destruction also led to the tragic loss of 22 lives across the province. 

“We wish to reassure the people of KwaZulu-Natal that the department will work diligently to ensure the efficient coordination of response and recovery efforts. Our unwavering commitment lies in providing support and assistance to all affected communities, and in rebuilding robust and resilient infrastructure,” Buthelezi said over the weekend.

Residents across the province are strongly advised to remain vigilant and adhere to warnings issued by the SAWS, as more rainfall is anticipated. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Wed, 03/12/2025 - 13:49
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Condolences for R21 bus crash victims

Location: News

Condolences for R21 bus crash victims

President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered his condolences to the families who lost loved ones in a bus crash on the R21 highway, near the OR Tambo International Airport, in Gauteng.

"The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery,” the Presidency said in a statement.

As of today, the death toll from the bus crash has risen to 16. Initially, 12 passengers were declared dead at the scene, with four additional fatalities occurring in the hospital.

According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the crash involved a passenger bus owned by the City of Ekurhuleni and a light motor vehicle (LMV). The bus was carrying passengers from Katlehong to Pomona.

RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said preliminary reports suggest that both vehicles were travelling in the third lane (from the right) of the R21.

"It is alleged that the LMV suddenly applied brakes after missing the off-ramp exit lane.

"In an attempt to avoid a collision, the bus driver also braked and swerved, resulting in the bus losing control, rotating clockwise, overturning, and coming to a rest in the off-ramp lane, facing south," Zwane said.

The injured were transported to OR Tambo, Tembisa and Edenvale hospitals.

The President said the country must reflect on driver behaviour.

“Incidents such as these impact on people’s ability to earn a living; they impact on our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect business who lose personnel in this process.

“As we reflect on the lives that have been lost, we must also reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets in behind the wheel of a vehicle, big and small, in our country,” said the President.

He further added that “when we ask how safe our roads are, we actually need to ask how safe we are as drivers and pedestrians. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions.”

“Drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and must obey the rules of the road. They are there to keep us safe. Where drivers ignore these rules, they stand a chance of losing their lives or being critically injured. And where they survive, they will end up in our courts and correctional centres,” the President said.

Call for caution 

Meanwhile, the Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy and her Deputy Mkhuleko Hlengwa have joined the President in expressing their condolences to the families and loved ones of those who perished in Tuesday’s crash.

The Minister and Deputy Minister expressed deep concern over the spate of recent road crashes involving passenger busses where lives were lost.

The Minister and Deputy Minister have called for heightened caution and vigilance from all motorists and road users to ensure they stay safe on the roads at all times.

They also wished the injured a speedy recovery.

In his statement, President Ramaphosa said his thoughts were also with the families of at least nine bus passengers who lost their lives in an incident in KwaZulu-Natal at this past weekend, in which 39 people were injured as well.

“While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors,” he said.

The accident occurred on Sunday afternoon when a bus, transporting members of the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity from Richards Bay to Shakaskraal, near KwaDukuza, experienced a tyre burst.

READ | Condolences following N2 bus crash

The incident caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Additionally, Minister Creecy has also expressed her concern at the spate of bus accidents.

“The Minister is extremely concerned that this is the third serious bus accident in the past week. Accordingly, she has instructed the RTMC to convene a meeting with all bus operators within the next week to discuss ways to enhance passenger safety in the bus industry,” said the department.

READ | RTMC to convene bus stakeholder engagement
-SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 17:14
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President Saddened by Loss of 16 Lives in Ekurhuleni Bus Crash

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the reported deaths of 16 persons  in a bus crash on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport earlier today, Tuesday 11 March 2025.

The President offers his condolences to the bereaved families and wishes survivors of the incident a speedy and full recovery.

President Ramaphosa's thoughts are also with the families of at least nine bus passengers who lost their lives in an incident in KwaZulu-Natal this past weekend, in which 39 people were injured as well.

The President said: “While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors.

Incidents such as these impact on people's ability to earn a living; they impact in our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect business who lose personnel in this process.

As we reflect on the lives that have been lost, we must also reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets in behind the wheel of a vehicle, big and small, in our country.

When we ask how safe our roads are, we actually need to ask how safe we are as drivers and pedestrians. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions.

Drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and must obey the rules of the road. They are there to keep us safe.

Where drivers ignore these rules, they stand a chance of losing their lives or being critically injured. And where they survive, they will end up in our courts and correctional centres.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Read morePresident Saddened by Loss of 16 Lives in Ekurhuleni Bus Crash

Summit to boost small enterprise development in KZN

Location: News

Summit to boost small enterprise development in KZN

Business leaders, entrepreneurs and government officials in KwaZulu-Natal are currently engaging on critical issues impacting small enterprises across the province.

These role players are gathered at the 2025 Umyezane Summit, Conference and Awards, which is taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre and hosted by the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA).

Addressing the opening of the summit on Monday, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli emphasised the pivotal role played by small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in driving economic transformation and creating jobs within the province.

“The growth of SMMEs is central to building a resilient and inclusive economy. Through initiatives like the Umyezane Summit, we aim to empower small businesses, strengthen township and rural economies, and ensure that historically disadvantaged entrepreneurs are given meaningful opportunities to thrive,” Ntuli said.

He highlighted the provincial government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for entrepreneurs by addressing barriers including crime, access to funding, and market opportunities.

The summit and accompanying awards reflect the provincial government’s vision of fostering a thriving, inclusive economy driven by small enterprises.

Ntuli assured entrepreneurs that KwaZulu-Natal remains committed to policy reforms, financial support, and capacity-building programmes that will position SMMEs as key drivers of economic growth.

EDTEA MEC Musa Zondi noted the importance of public-private partnerships in unlocking economic opportunities for SMMEs.

“We must remove red tape, foster innovation and create sustainable pathways for small businesses to succeed in both local and global markets,” Zondi said.

The summit features panel discussions, policy dialogues, and networking sessions, where stakeholders engaged on topics including:

•    Crime and business security – Addressing the impact of crime on small businesses and strategies to enhance security.
•    Regulatory and policy compliance – Simplifying business registration and licensing processes.
•    Revitalising township and rural economies – Exploring innovative approaches to support businesses in historically underserved areas.
•    Access to funding and market opportunities – Strengthening financial support mechanisms for SMMEs.
•    The Black Industrialists Programme – Accelerating transformation by expanding support for Black-owned enterprises in key sectors.

Recognising excellence in entrepreneurship

During the award ceremony on Monday, Ntuli commended the recipients for their dedication and contribution to economic development, reaffirming government’s ongoing support for the province’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The awards celebrated outstanding entrepreneurs, who have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and business excellence in KwaZulu-Natal, including youth and women-owned businesses, rural enterprises, and emerging industrialists.

The summit ends today. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tue, 03/11/2025 - 12:30
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Operation Shanela nets more than 14 000 suspects

Location: News

Operation Shanela nets more than 14 000 suspects

Through its high-density operation, commonly known as Operation Shanela, the South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested 14 165 suspects between Monday, 03 March 2025, and Sunday, 09 March 2025.

“Through Operation Shanela, the SAPS continues to take a bold and decisive approach in dealing with crime in the country. These crime fighting activities include tracking operations, roadblocks, high visibility patrols, stop and searches as well as tracing of wanted suspects,” the SAPS said in a statement.

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

During the period, the following arrests were made:

  • A total of 1 870  wanted suspects were arrested. These suspects were wanted for various serious and violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder, rape, carjacking, business and house robberies.
  • A total of 185 suspects were arrested for murder, the majority of these suspects were arrested in KwaZulu-Natal (37).
  • A total of 154 suspects were arrested for attempted murder, 72 more arrests than the previous week.
  • A total of 235 suspects were arrested for rape, 96 of these arrests were made in KwaZulu-Natal.
  • A total of 1 513 suspects were arrested for assault GBH during this period.
  • A total of 166 drug dealers were arrested, the majority of these suspects were arrested in the Eastern Cape (43).
  • A total of 2 176 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs, 650 more arrests than the previous week. The majority of these suspects were arrested in Western Cape (1 237).
  • A total of 105 suspects were arrested for being in the illegal possession of firearms.
  • Four suspects were arrested for human trafficking during this period.
  • A total of 525 drivers were arrested for drunk and driving in the past week.

Under recoveries and confiscations, police registered the following successes:

  • A total of 155 firearms were confiscated in the past week, 48 more firearms confiscated than the previous week.
  • A total of 3 627 rounds of ammunition were confiscated; and
  • 50 hijacked and stolen vehicles were also recovered during this week’s operations.

On Friday, 07 March 2025, the National Commissioner for SAPS, General Fannie Masemola presided over a drug destruction process in which R340 million worth of drugs were destroyed, this included cocaine worth R220 million seized during police operations.

General Masemola commended the vigilance and commitment of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) and Crime Intelligence officers in the Western Cape following the arrest of two suspects at a storage facility in Bellville, Cape Town. 

The arrest of the duo, a man and a woman, followed the discovery of 50 000 mandrax tablets and an arms cache including three AK47 rifles and twelve 9mm pistols amongst other firearms

Also, a shipment of cocaine worth R6 million was detected and seized at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday, 04 March 2025. The drugs were concealed in boxes disguised as hair products. 

Preliminary investigations revealed that the shipment was en route to France from Brazil via South Africa.

Police arrested a 37-year-old suspect for theft and tampering with essential infrastructure; the suspect illegally connected electricity. The team also seized 41 Eskom transformers worth millions in lost revenue during multiple operations carried out in Winterveldt, Erasmia and Diepsloot, last week.

“The police will continue with their operations by asserting the authority of the state to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans and visitors to the country,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Tue, 03/11/2025 - 14:37
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RTMC to convene bus stakeholder engagement

Location: News

RTMC to convene bus stakeholder engagement

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has instructed the Road Traffic Management Corporation to urgently convene with stakeholders in the bus industry in light of recent accidents involving buses in South Africa.

The Minister conducted a media briefing at Pelonomi Hospital in the Free State, where she visited bus crash survivors. 

During the last seven days, at least 19 people have died in bus related accidents in two separate incidents in the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal.

Last year, several bus accidents caused alarm, with one of the worst taking 45 lives in Limpopo during the Easter pilgrimage to Moria. 

“We’ve been through quite a considerable period of time where we haven’t had bus accidents. But now, in the light of these two accidents that have occurred, it’s very important that we call all stakeholders together and we emphasise the issues of appropriate driver conduct in all kinds of weather conditions, making sure that vehicles are in a roadworthy condition, and adherence to things like speed.

“We don’t know the cause of these two accidents and I’m not pointing fingers at any particular individuals. But in my view, prevention is better than cure and it is very important that we urgently bring all of our bus companies and once again reiterate the message of safe driver behaviour so that we save lives,” she said.

Turning to the accident in KwaZulu-Natal, where a bus rolled down an embankment, killing at least 10 people on board, the Minister passed her condolences to those who have lost loved ones in the incident.

The RTMC has confirmed that the accident is under investigation.

“A team from the Road Traffic Management Corporation has started with the South African Police Service to establish the cause of the crash that claimed the lives… of people on the N2 between Richard’s Bay and Shaka’s Kraal.

“The crash involved a passenger bus from Pontys Transport – Tongaat. Preliminary reports suggest that the crash happened due to a tyre failure, causing the driver to lose control. The bus subsequently went through a crash barrier, plunged down an embankment and overturned.

“The incident resulted in [fatalities] and… four individuals sustained serious injuries, 35 suffered minor injuries, and 12 remained uninjured... The precise cause of the crash is still subject to an ongoing investigation,” the RTMC said in a statement on Sunday. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mon, 03/10/2025 - 11:55
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Condolences following N2 bus crash

Location: News

Condolences following N2 bus crash

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC, Siboniso Duma, has expressed condolences to the families of the nine church members who lost their lives in a bus accident on the N2, between Mandeni and Stanger, in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

The accident occurred on Sunday afternoon when a bus, transporting members of the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity from Richards Bay to Shakaskraal, near KwaDukuza, experienced a tyre burst.

The incident caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Duma commended the coordinated efforts of the rescue teams involved in the operation, including the Road Traffic Information (RTI) team, traffic departments, fire and disaster teams from Mandeni and KwaDukuza, and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

“The team conducted a very complicated search and rescue operation due to the steep embankment and thick bush. The operation was completed at 11:30pm [Sunday], and no victim was found left in the wreckage,” Duma said in a statement on Monday.

Duma noted that the incident occurred just as the province was finalising its Road Safety Plans ahead of the Easter holidays.

On Monday, Duma visited the site of the crash, which was located approximately 100 meters down the embankment along the N2.

The wreckage was retrieved and transported to the RTI offices in Gingindlovu to facilitate investigations by the SAPS, Road Traffic Management Corporation, and RTI.

“This is a difficult period for the Twelve Apostles Church in Trinity in KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa as a whole. We pray to God to shine his face on the families, relatives, church members and those who were injured.

“The department will be in touch with all families and the leadership of the church, starting from [Monday]. We want to ensure that the victims are given a dignified funeral,” Duma said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Mon, 03/10/2025 - 13:33
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KZN unveils women empowerment initiatives

Location: News

KZN unveils women empowerment initiatives

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has unveiled new initiatives aimed at accelerating gender equality and economic empowerment for women.

Ntuli announced several government interventions on Saturday when he led the province’s International Women’s Day celebrations at KwaMashu Indoor Sports Centre, north of Durban.

Held under the theme, “Accelerate Action: Collectively, We Can Accelerate Action for Gender Equality”, the event highlighted the need for urgent and practical interventions to support women in various sectors. 

Ntuli addressed the pressing challenges women face, including gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), economic exclusion, and limited access to resources, while recognising their invaluable contributions to KwaZulu-Natal’s development.

Tackling gender-based violence

The Premier reflected on the disturbing statistics of gender-based violence and femicide in the province, particularly in eThekwini, where 2 252 cases were reported between October and December 2024. 

“These figures are a national crisis that demands urgent and collective action,” the Premier said.

To combat this, the Premier announced government interventions, including:

  • The launch of a GBVF mobile app, developed in partnership with the private sector, to provide real-time emergency assistance and access to support services.
  • The construction of a new Thuthuzela Care Centre in Jozini, in collaboration with the Spar Group Ltd, to provide support for GBV survivors.
  • The fast-tracking of the establishment of a Khuseleka One-Stop Centre in eThekwini, ensuring better access to critical GBV services.
  • The strengthening of psycho-social care and support through 21 shelters and 31 White Door Centres, offering emergency accommodation and victim assistance.

Women advancement fund

Recognising the link between economic vulnerability and gender-based violence, Ntuli also reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to empowering women financially. 

He highlighted the R200 million Women Advancement Fund, launched in August 2024, which provides funding for women entrepreneurs to start or expand their businesses, mentorship and skills development programmes to ensure long-term business success, and access to markets and resources, enabling women to fully participate in the province’s economic activities.

The Premier announced that district-wide roadshows will be conducted shortly to assist women in applying for funding and accessing business development support.

Call for collective action

Ntuli urged all sectors of society, including government, business, community leaders and traditional authorities, to unite in the fight for gender equality. 

He emphasised that gender justice is not just a women's issue, but a societal responsibility.

“We must commit to accelerating action and move beyond words and implement real, measurable interventions that bring lasting change. Women are the backbone of our communities, and we must ensure they live in a world where they are safe, empowered, and given equal opportunities,” the Premier said.

The International Women’s Day celebrations concluded with stories of resilience and success from women across various industries, inspiring others to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the provincial government. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mon, 03/10/2025 - 11:47
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Government activities for the week 10 – 14 March 2025

Location: News

Government activities for the week 10 – 14 March 2025

On Monday, 10 March, the Department of Health will commemorate World Obesity Day at Ritson Campus Hall, Durban University of Technology, KwaZulu-Natal.

Also on Monday, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy visits victims of a tragic Free State crash at Pelonomi Hospital.

On Tuesday, 11 March, the Acting Director-General of the Department of Military Veterans, Nontebeko Mafu invites the media to a Military Veterans Memorial Lecture and South African Military Veterans Association (SANMVA) engagement in the Eastern Cape.

Wednesday, 12 March, no confirmed event.

On Thursday, 13 March, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof Blade Nzimande, will host the inaugural National System of Innovation Transformation Summit from 13 to 14 March.

Friday, 14 March, no confirmed event.
 

 

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Mon, 03/10/2025 - 11:58
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Police commended for drug bust at Durban school

Location: News

Police commended for drug bust at Durban school

KwaZulu-Natal Education MEC, Sipho Hlomuka, has commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) for their swift and effective operation at Fairvale Secondary School in Wentworth, south of Durban, which led to the confiscation of illegal substances and large sums of cash.

The massive operation on Friday follows the reports of violence and drug-related activities within the school.

Over 60 police officers conducted a thorough search and seizure to ensure that teaching and learning can continue in a safe and drug-free environment.

Among the illegal substances confiscated are vapes, cigarettes, sharp scissors, pocket knives, pain medication, and some unknown pills.

Hlomuka reiterated that the department is against criminal activities permeating the schools and putting learners' futures at risk.

"We will not idly stand by while drugs and illegal activities threaten the safety and education of our children," Hlomuka said.

The MEC also implored parents and guardians to play an active role in monitoring their children’s activities.

“We ask that parents be intentional about ensuring that their children stay away from the use of illegal substances and any criminal activities. The safety and well-being of our learners requires joint effort between the department, law enforcement and families,” Hlomuka said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Mon, 03/10/2025 - 10:27
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Department of Health commemorates World Obesity Day

Location: News

Department of Health commemorates World Obesity Day

The Department of Health will observe World Obesity Day on Monday, 10 March 2025, to raise awareness about the global challenge of obesity and advocate for systemic changes that promote healthier lifestyles.

This year’s World Obesity Day is celebrated under the theme: “Changing Systems, Healthier Lives,” which emphasises a need to shift focus from individuals to the systems that influence people’s health.

According to the department, previous responses to obesity have primarily focused on individual behaviours. However, this year, they are shifting their focus.

“This highlights the need for multi-sectoral interventions to address the root causes of obesity and improve health outcomes.”

The department highlighted that being overweight and obesity are serious health issues in South Africa, significantly contributing to non-communicable diseases, and are associated with an increased risk of death and disability from these conditions.

According to the 2022 National Food and Nutrition Security Survey, nearly 50% of adults in South Africa are overweight or obese, with 68% of women and 38% of men affected. 

In addition, almost 69% of obese adults reside in households that do not have enough food. 

It is estimated that by the year 2025, one in four people will be living with obesity.

“It is time we turn our attention to creating supportive environments where people can have access to available healthy food and physical activity opportunities and to receive appropriate nutritional information to make decisions that will contribute to healthy eating habits and lifestyles,” the statement read. 

World Obesity Day is observed on March 4 every year to raise awareness about the causes and prevention of obesity in adults and children and to encourage action to address it.

The commemoration will take place at the Durban University of Technology in KwaZulu-Natal today. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Mon, 03/10/2025 - 08:51
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Government will move with urgency to restore City of Gold

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Government will move with urgency to restore City of Gold

President Cyril Ramaphosa has moved to assure residents of the City of Johannesburg that government is determined to move with urgency to resolve the service delivery challenges facing the city.

The President was addressing residents during a stakeholder engagement at the Johannesburg City Council Chamber on Friday afternoon.

Earlier in the day and on Thursday, the President together with the National Executive conducted an oversight visit to Gauteng.

“As a resident of Johannesburg, I share the concerns that have been expressed here about the deterioration of services and infrastructure. 

“Over the last two days, members of the National Executive have engaged the leadership of Gauteng and the City of Johannesburg on the challenges they face and the work that is being done to address them. 

“We are committed to ensuring cooperation among the three spheres of government to urgently attend to these challenges. We may well have said so in the past, but the enormity of the challenges and the problems compels us to now say we are going to redouble our efforts,” he said.

The President highlighted some of the challenges facing the city, including deteriorating road infrastructure, the closure of public facilities like the Johannesburg Library and delayed or unfinished infrastructure.

“Through the Department of Cooperative Governance, National Treasury and the Provincial Government, we are supporting the City of Johannesburg to stabilise its governance and financial affairs. 

“We need to ensure that we unlock service delivery backlogs and begin to address the backlog in infrastructure provision,” President Ramaphosa said.

Rejuvenating the city

Turning to the establishment of the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group announced earlier in the day, President Ramaphosa explained that the group will be made up of not only government bit also stakeholders.

A similar approach has been applied in KwaZulu-Natal with the establishment in 2024 of the eThekwini Presidential Working Group to turnaround the fortunes of Durban and position it as an investment and tourism hub.

“Our learnings in eThekwini make us confident that this is the correct model to address Johannesburg’s many challenges. 

“Over the last month, the Presidency has engaged the City of Johannesburg, the province of Gauteng and some social partners on establishing a Presidential Johannesburg Working Group. 

“There has been broad support from everyone engaged for an intergovernmental mechanism that will strengthen cooperation and leverage the expertise and resources of all stakeholders in the City of Johannesburg,” he said.

The working group’s first focus will be on governance and financial sustainability.

“We will work to strengthen the internal governance and financial management of the city by restoring institutional capacity. The second focus will be on water and sanitation and the third focus will be on electricity. 

“We will work to stabilise critical infrastructure by improving maintenance, increasing funding and focusing on the whole value chain. 

“The fourth focus will be on public spaces and beautifying the city. Specific interventions will include fixing road infrastructure, restoring street lighting and traffic lights, and enhancing waste collection throughout the city,” President Ramaphosa said.

Focus will also be placed on improving law enforcement and urban security, accelerating housing delivery, launching an inner-city rejuvenation project.

“We have set out a timeframe to achieve all this. It should not be an elongated timeframe. This Working Group will report on a regular basis to the Ministers and myself. 

“We cannot act as if it is business as usual. We must recognise the crisis before us and meet it with the resources, timeframes and accountability measures required,” he said.

The President called on stakeholders to join hands with government to turn the city back to its former glory.

“Government cannot do it alone. The involvement of broader stakeholders in the Working Group will not only hold us collectively accountable to the targets set, but accelerate our efforts. 

“In the coming weeks, my team will be engaging business, labour, civil society and academia regarding their respective roles in the Presidential Johannesburg Working Group. 

“Johannesburg is a city of resilience. It is also a place of innovation and…a place of great hope. Let us move forward with determination, unity and a shared commitment to leaving no one behind,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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KZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder

Location: News

KZN Premier calls for swift arrest in Sphindiwe Hlongwa’s murder

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has called for the swift arrest of the perpetrators involved in the rape and murder of Sphindiwe Hlongwa, whose body was found dumped near her home in Mkhazini, south of Durban.

According to reports, Hlongwa, 31, was found strangled to death, with visible signs of assault and a swollen face after being dropped off by a Renault Kwid near her home on Monday evening.

Ntuli has condemned Hlongwa’s killing, describing the act as “barbaric, inhumane, and an attack on the dignity and safety of women” in the province.

“We are deeply horrified by yet another grotesque act of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). The perpetrators of this heinous crime must be brought to justice without delay. This is one of many murders linked to the scourge of GBVF in our province. 

“However, working with the SAPS [South African Police Service] under our Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi, we will make sure to treat every case as an emergency, one case at a time. We will never give up and we will do everything to defeat GBVF,” the Premier said.

Ntuli urged anyone with information related to the crime to come forward and assist the police by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or their nearest police station.

International Women's Month commemoration

Meanwhile, Ntuli will on Saturday lead a delegation of the Members of the Executive Council (MEC) to commemorate International Women's Day at the KwaMashu Civic Centre.

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women's achievements and a call for gender equality. Observed annually on 8 March, the day is a reminder of the contributions women make to society and the challenges they continue to face. – SAnews.gov.za

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Fri, 03/07/2025 - 11:54
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President Cyril Ramaphosa Concludes Meeting Between the National Executive and the Gauteng Provincial Executive Council

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a meeting between the national executive and the Gauteng provincial executive council. The meeting follows three engagements with the provincial governments of Limpopo, KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. 

President Ramaphosa intends to visit and engage the leadership of all nine provinces. 

The national and provincial executive meetings are aimed at strengthening intergovernmental cooperation, collaboration and consultation. They are also important for ensuring better alignment of provincial priorities with the priorities of the Government of National Unity.

President Ramaphosa urged the province to accelerate the resolution of recurring problems across Gauteng. Some of these include governance failures, financial mismanagement, crumbling infrastructure, crime and lawlessness and unreliable service delivery. This includes broader national challenges—unemployment and poverty. The provision of water across some areas in the province remains a concern. 

The province tabled several strategic areas that require support from the national government. These include disaster preparedness, response and recovery in areas affected by sinkholes. 

The province also requires more support from law enforcement agencies in responding to threats presented by taxi violence, illegal mining and undocumented foreign nationals.

Other strategic areas of national-provincial cooperation that could stimulate economic development in the province include investment in bulk infrastructure, collaboration in enhancing investment in high-tech manufacturing for the green economy, mining services, biotech and digital sectors and the energy generation and transmission eco-system. 

Premier Panyaza Lesufi welcomed the engagement with the national executive and committed to continue working closely with the national government on the priority areas of governance, social and economic development.

The Premier identified the expansion of special economic zones and critical infrastructure refurbishments as vital elements for stimulating economic growth and sustainable service delivery in the province. 

In closing, President Ramaphosa commended the province's focus on the areas of cooperation between the national and provincial governments that will be a catalyst for social and economic growth. 

The President outlined the importance of balancing development ambitions with budgetary realities.

Furthermore, the President encouraged the province to work closely with the private sector in ensuring innovative ways of funding key infrastructure projects, including working with metros in providing incentives to crowd in private sector participation. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

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