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Five Winners of the 2024 Earthshot Prize Unveiled at Awards Ceremony in Cape Town

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  • Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems, High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, Keep IT Cool, Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative and Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO) revealed as 2024 Earthshot Prize Winners during star-studded ceremony broadcast live across 50 African countries
  • Each Winner to receive £1 million to accelerate and scale the impact of their innovative environmental solutions
  • Calls for nominations for the 2025 Earthshot Prize are now open

​Last night, the five 2024 Earthshot Prize Winners were announced at a star-studded awards ceremony in Cape Town, South Africa, hosted by Emmy, Grammy and Tony Award winner Billy Porter and award-winning television presenter Bonang Matheba. The 2024 Winners, selected from this year's 15 Earthshot Finalists, will be awarded £1 million each to accelerate and scale their game-changing environmental solutions.

Following a rigorous selection process focused on identifying impactful, inspiring and inclusive environmental solutions, the five Winners are:

  • Fix Our Climate: Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems
  • Revive Our Oceans: High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People
  • Build a Waste-Free World: Keep IT Cool
  • Protect and Restore Nature: Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative
  • Clean Our Air: Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO)

 Speaking during the Awards Ceremony, Prince William said:

“I believe our world can be rich in possibility, in hope, and in optimism. That is why The Earthshot Prize exists. To champion the game-changers, the inventors, the makers, the creatives, the leaders; to help them build upon the amazing things they've already achieved; to speed their innovations to scale and to inspire the next generation to create the future we all need."

Descriptions of the five Winners, by category:

WINNER for Fix Our Climate:

Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems (https://apo-opa.co/48EySP6), USA
Nominated by: Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems (ATS) has developed a simple, safe and scalable technology to capture waste heat and convert it into electricity, offering a game-changing solution for heavy industries like cement and steel production. These industries require extremely high temperatures, which generate vast amounts of waste heat that is typically lost. ATS's technologies have the potential to save gigatonnes of CO2.

“At ATS, we are proud to lead the way in converting this waste into clean, usable electricity.  Winning the 2024 Earthshot Prize underscores the transformative potential of our technology. Tonight is a key moment for us as we focus on scaling up production in larger manufacturing facilities.” – Kelly Adams, CEO, Advanced Thermovoltaic Systems.

WINNER for Revive Our Oceans:

High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People (https://apo-opa.co/3AxM7Ew), Global
Nominated by: Campaign for Nature

A groundbreaking alliance of 119 countries with the ambitious goal to protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030, High Ambition Coalition identifies technical, financial and knowledge gaps and connects governments with technical assistance and funding. They've already achieved a major milestone with the adoption of the “30×30” target in the 2022 UN Global Biodiversity Framework.

Rita Maria El Zaghloul, Director, High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People said, “On behalf of the alliance, we are deeply humbled to be a Winner of this year's Earthshot Prize. Today's award validates the hard work and dedication of all involved in the 30x30 initiative and fuels our excitement and determination to protect 30 percent of the world's land and oceans by 2030. Together, we can achieve a more sustainable and biodiverse future.”

WINNER for Build a Waste-Free World:

Keep IT Cool (https://apo-opa.co/3AAGjdr), Kenya
Nominated by: Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, Katapult Ocean

Keep IT Cool (KIC) addresses the challenge of food spoilage by providing sustainable, localized refrigeration systems that help small farmers and fishers preserve their produce. By installing solar-powered cold storage units where fish are landed, KIC significantly reduces spoilage and waste by ensuring the catch stays fresh and managing its transport to market. With plans to grow into East Africa and beyond, KIC is now working to expand their activities in poultry, fruit and vegetables and aims to bring their solution to more communities.

Francis Nderitu, Founder and Managing Director of Keep IT Cool said, “We are on a mission to revolutionise the food supply chain in East Africa. We are grateful for the recognition from The Earthshot Prize, and it is an important milestone for Keep IT Cool. We will continue to enhance market access, reduce waste and build climate resilience for small-scale fish and poultry farmers throughout the region.”

WINNER for Protect and Restore Nature:

Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative (https://apo-opa.co/3NWG3Zk), Kazakhstan
Nominated by: United Nations Environment Programme

Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative has achieved the almost unprecedented feat of saving the critically endangered Saiga antelope from extinction. This mission has grown into one of the world's largest conservation projects and is focused on protecting and restoring Kaakhstan's Golden Steppe, one of the world's least protected natural ecosystems.

Vera Voronova, Executive Director, Altyn Dala Conservation Initiative said, “We are thrilled to be receiving the 2024 Earthshot Prize for Protect and Restore Nature. Altyn Dala demonstrates that when governments and civil society work together with a shared vision, we can achieve remarkable results. The restoration of the Saiga antelope population and the revival of the Central Asian steppe are not just triumphs for wildlife but for the local communities that depend on these ecosystems.”

WINNER for Clean Our Air:

GAYO, Green Africa Youth Organization (https://apo-opa.co/3NVrpSe), Ghana
Nominated by: Clean Air Fund

A youth-led, gender-balanced organisation, GAYO uses its “Zero Waste Model” to drive behavioural change in waste management practices across Africa that cut greenhouse gas emissions and particle pollution, while also bringing additional income to communities. Their goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and particle pollution in Ghana by 70%, compared to open burning, as well as divert a total of 4,000 tonnes of waste by 2030. GAYO's plans to scale would make them the leading model for waste management on the continent.

Desmond Alugnoa, Co-Founder of the Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO) said, “We are incredibly honored to be winning the Prize, which is a testament to the power of community-driven solutions and the importance of empowering those most affected by climate challenges. Our work in Ghana demonstrates that sustainable waste management isn't just a possibility—it's a necessity. The recognition by The Earthshot Prize fuels our commitment to replicating these models across Africa, proving that local solutions can have global impacts.”

The five Winners of the 2024 Prize cohort were selected by Prince William and The Earthshot Prize Council, a diverse group of experts, advocates and individuals dedicated to championing urgent and innovative action to protect our planet. The Earthshot Prize Council is chaired by The Earthshot Prize Board of Trustees Chair, Dame Christiana Figueres, architect of the Paris Agreement.

Members of The Earthshot Prize Council include: His Royal Highness Prince William, Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, José Andrés, Sir David Attenborough, Cate Blanchett, Ernest Gibson, Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, Wanjira Mathai, Stella McCartney, Nemonte Nenquimo, Luisa Neubauer, Indra Nooyi, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Naoko Yamazaki.

In addition to the five £1 million prizes supporting the growth of Winners' solutions, each of the 15 Earthshot Prize Finalists will receive dedicated mentorship, resources and technical support through the year-long Earthshot Prize Fellowship Programme.

That support includes access to the Prize's robust network of influential experts and partners, including The Earthshot Prize's Global Alliance of Partners (https://apo-opa.co/4fh0E6D), comprised of some of the world's largest businesses, donors, investors and environmental organisations committed to climate action.

Finalists will also have access to Launchpad (https://apo-opa.co/3O1bhi2), Earthshot's bespoke online finance platform to matchmake Earthshot solutions to a growing community of members made up of mission-aligned donors and investors seeking to speed proven environmental solutions to scale.

The Earthshot Prize is already gearing up for the 2025 Earthshot Prize. Nominations for the Prize's fifth cohort of innovative solutions and entrepreneurs are now open.

If you missed last night's spectacular live event you can watch repeat broadcasts of the star-studded ceremony from 07 November on DStv Catch Up, Showmax, and on multiple DStv channels across Africa from 08 November. Check your local television schedules for more details.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

NOTES FOR EDITORS:
Follow The Earthshot Prize on:  
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3UKashj
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4fEHeZ8
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3AA6uB4
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3YU9tNY
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3UGroFo
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/4fFj00P

About The Earthshot Prize:
Founded by Prince William and incubated in the The Royal Foundation in 2020 for a year before becoming an independent platform/organisation, The Earthshot Prize is a global environmental prize and platform designed to discover, accelerate and scale ground-breaking solutions to repair and regenerate the planet. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's Moonshot, which united millions of people around the goal of reaching the moon, The Earthshot Prize aims to catalyse an Earthshot challenge to urgently encourage and scale innovative solutions that can help put the world firmly on a trajectory towards a stable climate, where communities, oceans and biodiversity thrive in harmony by 2030. The five challenges are: Protect and Restore Nature; Clean Our Air; Revive Our Oceans; Build a Waste-Free World; and Fix Our Climate.

The Prize aims to turn the current pessimism surrounding environmental issues into optimism by championing inspiring leadership and helping to scale incredible cutting-edge solutions. It will discover 50 winners over 10 years with the power to repair the planet. More than an award, The Earthshot Prize works in partnership with a Global Alliance of Partners to support the scaling of the solutions discovered and selected each year.

The Global Alliance Founding Partners are a group of leading global organisations and philanthropists, which act as strategic funding partners to the Prize, including Aga Khan Development Network, Bezos Earth Fund, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Breakthrough Energy Foundation, Coleman Family Ventures, DP World in partnership with Dubai EXPO 2020, Eleven Eleven Foundation, Giving Grousbeck Fazzalari, Holch Povlsen Foundation, Jack Ma Foundation, Law Family Charitable Foundation, Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, Marc and Lynne Benioff, Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Rob Walton Foundation, Sandy and Paul Edgerley, Standard Chartered Bank, Temasek Trust, and Uber.

Global Alliance Partners are non-profit environment and sustainable development organisations that bring expertise, global reach and serve as nominating organisations each year. For a full list of our Global Alliance Partners, visit: https://apo-opa.co/4fh0E6D.

Global Alliance Members are some of the world's largest and most influential companies and brands that will support The Earthshot Prize, implement ambitious changes within their businesses and accelerate the advancement of the solutions of Prize Finalists and Winners. They are Arup, Bloomberg L.P., Deloitte, Herbert Smith Freehills, Hitachi, Ingka Group (IKEA), Microsoft, The Multichoice Group, Natura &Co, Safaricom, Salesforce, Unilever, Vodacom Group, and Walmart.

For more information about The Earthshot Prize, visit: www.EarthshotPrize.org.

Read moreFive Winners of the 2024 Earthshot Prize Unveiled at Awards Ceremony in Cape Town

DCS working to apprehend escaped convict

Location: News

DCS working to apprehend escaped convict

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is working with other law enforcement agencies to re-apprehend an inmate who escaped from the Boksburg Correctional Centre.

The inmate, Martin Jackson, escaped from custody on Wednesday.

“The DCS confirms that an inmate has escaped from Boksburg Correctional Centre. The escape incident occurred on Wednesday, 6 November 2024 under circumstances currently under investigation. 

“Correctional Services is working with other law enforcement agencies to locate and apprehend the escapee,” the department said.

Jackson is serving a 20-year sentence for robbery, theft and possession of firearm with ammunition, and has been behind bars since April 2015.

“Correctional Services has mobilised resources and will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that Jackson is rearrested and brought back to justice.

“The public is urged to remain vigilant and we call upon anyone with information on the escapee’s whereabouts to contact the nearest police station or a Correctional facility. Members of the public are also advised not to approach the escapee if spotted, as he may be dangerous,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Thu, 11/07/2024 - 11:03

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Basic Education works to develop school safety guidelines

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Basic Education works to develop school safety guidelines

Following recent cases of food poisoning among learners, the Department of Basic Education is working with the Department of Health to develop safety guidelines for schools to effectively mitigate the risks of organophosphate pesticide exposure in school environments.

This was announced by the Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube at a media briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday.
Gwarube said that learner safety is her top priority, and that the Department of Basic Education (DBE) is taking the matter seriously.

“In response to these incidents, my department is working with the Department of Health to develop safety guidelines for schools on how best to mitigate the risks of organophosphate pesticides entering school environments. 

“These will be aimed at ensuring that communities and vendors near schools are aware of the risks associated with hazardous chemicals, especially those used for pest control purposes. I will ensure that these are finalised as soon as possible,” she explained.

This as the country has experienced a spate of deaths and children falling ill after eating snacks from local spaza shops across the country.  Six Soweto children died after they were said to have consumed snacks from a local spaza shop. At a recent media briefing, Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, announced that forensic tests unveiled that the six primary school children were killed by a highly toxic organophosphate called Terbufos.

READ | Death of six Soweto children linked to Terbufos

At the briefing Gwarube highlighted that initial investigations have shown that incidents originated from food items purchased outside of school premises, particularly items tainted with hazardous chemicals such as organophosphates. 

READ | Mother and son hospitalised after consuming food from spaza shop

Organophosphate pesticides are highly toxic substances and pose a significant risk, especially to young children. In these cases, it appears that certain foods were contaminated, resulting in serious health consequences for the affected learners.

“I want to urge communities, parents, and vendors to exercise extreme caution when handling, storing, and selling pesticides, particularly those known to contain harmful chemicals. The proper handling of pesticides is not just a matter of regulatory compliance but of ensuring that our children are safe in the environments where they learn, play, and grow,” she said. 

The Minister said that she is exploring all possible legal avenues, within a basic education context, to ban these pesticides and insecticides from entering into school environments. 

“It is my view that no school should be permitted to store or use these dangerous chemicals on its premises. Our objective is to create a safe learning environment for every child, and we are committed to implementing the necessary steps to make this a reality.”

Learner safety

Within the DBE’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all learners, Gwarube said it was with a heavy heart that she addresses the deeply distressing incident of the rape of five Grade 12 learners in the Eastern Cape.

The incident occurred in Mqhekezweni, outside Mthatha, where the learners from Jongintaba High School were sexually assaulted by two armed intruders last week. 

“I want to express my deepest sadness for what these young people have endured. Such acts of violence are abhorrent and utterly unacceptable, particularly during a time when these learners should be focused on their studies and their futures.

“In response to this tragedy, the department has prioritised psychosocial support for the affected learners, ensuring that they have access to counselling and trauma care services. Our priority is to support them in their recovery, giving them the space and assistance they need to heal.”

She added that this incident also highlights the broader need for a more robust approach to safeguarding learners from gender-based violence (GBV) within and outside the school environment. 

She emphasised that schools are a space of learning and growth, and that this should be reflected in communities as well. 
“It is unacceptable that women and children should feel unsafe in this country, we must act with all urgency to end the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide. 

“We are working closely with local law enforcement and community stakeholders to ensure that justice is served for those five learners,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Wed, 11/06/2024 - 15:20

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Lebombo border temporarily closed due to safety concerns

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Lebombo border temporarily closed due to safety concerns

Due to security incidents and in the interest of public safety, the Lebombo port of entry has been temporarily closed until further notice.

This as the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, has received reports of vehicles being torched on the Mozambican side of the port.

“Due to these security incidents and in the interest of public safety, the port has been temporarily closed until further notice. This decision was made to ensure the safety of all cross-border transporters, travellers, traders and officials operating at the port. 

“The BMA is coordinating closely with Mozambican authorities and South African law enforcement agencies to monitor the situation and work towards reopening the port as soon as it is safe to do so,” said the BMA in a statement on Tuesday night.

The Commissioner advised all stakeholders to suspend travel through the Lebombo port until further notice. 

“Alternative routes to Mozambique must be used where feasible at the moment until the situation has stabilised,” Masiapato said.

He said South African officials are on the ground providing assistance to seven officials from the Mozambican side who have requested refuge on the South African side for safety and protection. 

“The BMA and its counterparts are working urgently to address the situation, and we are appreciating the cooperation we are receiving at the moment,” he said. 

The BMA and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will continue to provide updates through official channels and notify stakeholders as soon as the port is deemed safe for reopening. – SAnews.gov.za

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Majodina reassures residents of sufficient water storage amid tunnel closure

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Majodina reassures residents of sufficient water storage amid tunnel closure

Water and Sanitation Minister, Pemmy Majodina has reassured residents in the municipalities affected by the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel maintenance of continued access to water.

The maintenance of the LHWP tunnel entails a total shutdown that began on 01 October 2024. The maintenance project includes general inspection and repair works, in order to ensure the integrity and reliability of the entire water tunnel system.

READ | Lesotho Highlands Water Project Tunnel undergoes maintenance

The operation is jointly undertaken by the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) which focuses on Delivery Tunnel North within South Africa, and the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) which undertakes maintenance on the transfer tunnels at the Muela Hydro power station in Lesotho.

Reflecting on the Ministry’s performance in its first 100 days at a media briefing held in Pretoria on Tuesday, Majodina said the project will ensure that the tunnel continues to operate effectively in the long-term, supplying water to parts of the Free State and Gauteng.

Majodina said engagements with the two provincial governments and affected municipalities of Nketoane, Mfube and Dihlabeng was done in this regard.

“Specific work has already taken place, which include the upgrading of water treatment works, upgrading of raw water pumps, construction of new water reservoirs and the drilling and equipping of boreholes.

“The department has established the War Room to oversee the implementation of the shutdown and communication as a tool to raise awareness and to educate the public about water security issues.”

Majodina, together with Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Sello Seitlholo, will inspect the Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel in Clarens, Free State on 15 November 2024.

Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority projects 

Majodina said during the 100 days in office, the department and its entity, the TCTA, continued with the implementation of 14 major national water infrastructure projects aimed at raw water security.

The approximately R100 billion projects include the R42 billion second phase of the Lesotho Highlands Water project to supply additional water to Gauteng, the R28 billion construction of a new dam and transfer tunnel on the uMkhomazi River in KwaZulu Natal to supply additional water to eThekwini and surrounding municipalities.

The projects include a R6.5 billion raising of the wall of the Clanwilliam Dam in the Western Cape, and the R750 million raising of the wall of the Tzaneen Dam in Limpopo.

Water sector reforms aligned to Operation Vulindlela 

Majodina also reported that the department is currently undertaking water sector reforms, which are aligned to the Operation Vulindlela Programme, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Operation Vulindlela aims to modernise and transform network industries.

With regard to the water sector, the programme’s focus includes the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) Act signed into law by President Ramaphosa.

The act provides for the establishment of the National Water Resource Infrastructure Agency (NWRIA) through the amalgamation of the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority, the Water Trading Entity and the infrastructure branch of the department.

“The functions of the NWRIA will include the financing, development, operations and maintenance of the national water resource infrastructure and the treaty and non-treaty functions performed by the TCTA. Processes are now underway to manage the establishment of the agency,” Majodina said.

The programme also focuses on the establishment of the remaining Catchment Management Agencies as required by the National Water Act, to enable improved catchment management with local stakeholder involvement; improving turnaround times for the issuing of water use licenses and reform of municipal water and sanitation services. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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Tue, 11/05/2024 - 13:09

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Investigative report finds Pretoria Girls High head committed misconduct

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Investigative report finds Pretoria Girls High head committed misconduct

An independent investigative report on incidents at Pretoria High School for Girls has recommended that the principal and deputy principal responsible be charged with misconduct.  

The Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, on Monday released the independent investigative report which probed allegations of a culture of racism at the school and provided recommendations to address such incidents. 

The investigation, which was conducted by Mdladlamba Attorneys, a law firm commissioned by the Gauteng Department of Education came after pupils created a “whites only” WhatsApp group where they shared insensitive messages with racial undertones.

The 12 learners who were part of the WhatsApp group were subsequently charged and taken through a formal disciplinary inquiry by the school’s School Governing Body (SGB) and were all found not guilty on the basis that the WhatsApp group was deemed to be a private platform. 

Director of the law firm, Charles Mdladlamba, told a media briefing that the principal and deputy principal of the school mishandled the issue and should be charged with misconduct.  

“School Official 1 mishandled this matter and thus failed to comply with her obligations under paragraphs 5.1.1.2 c) and 5.1.1.5 i) and n) of the School Policy. She further breached the learners’ rights under paragraph 10.1.1 of the PHSG Learner code of conduct and thus item 3 – sections 9 (1) and 10 of the constitution. 

“It follows therefore that School Official 1 has committed misconduct as envisaged in section 18 (1) (a) and (f) of the Employment Equity Act (EEA),” Mdladlamba said. 

The report also found that some white teachers at the school did not greet their fellow black colleagues "because they do not know whether they are cleaners or educators at the school".

Mdladlamba said the allegation that some white teachers do not greet their black colleagues was confirmed by the principal, Phillipa Erasmus, who is suspended.

"According to the principal, this is the biggest frustration that she must deal with at the school, including the ill-treatment of the administration staff by some educators. 

"The principal indicated that her challenge is that the administration staff do not want to name the educators that are ill-treating them and thus she cannot take the necessary disciplinary steps against them."

The report recommended that she as well as the deputy principal responsible for discipline as well as two educators be charged with misconduct.

It also recommended that the estate manager and the HR manager be charged with misconduct.

"The GDE [Gauteng education department] is to consider removing the governing body chairman from the governing body for his allegations of interfering with the legislative powers and functions of the MEC.”

Having investigated the matter, the law firm recommended that the GDE must ensure that the school offers counselling to all learners who were affected by the incident, including the 13 learners that were found guilty by the disciplinary hearings. 

“We will implement the recommendations, and bring social cohesion into the school in a manner that involves everyone, learners and teachers alike. We will also bring the school closer to the National Dialogue that is being purported by the Government of National Unity,” MEC Chiloane said. 

How the probe emerged

The probe followed a visit to the school by Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane on 30 July after 12 white girls, including eight prefects, were suspended on 24 July for suspected racism.

According to the department, the conversations allegedly included racial commentary about the ongoing dissatisfaction among black pupils regarding issues they faced at the school, alluding to these issues being insignificant.

"Similar commentary about a black hair protest by learners that reportedly took place at the school in 2016 was also made in the group chat."

They were subsequently cleared of the allegation during an internal disciplinary hearing earlier this month.

Following the outcome of the disciplinary hearings of the 13 learners, various sections of society expressed disappointment with the outcome of the disciplinary process and pleaded with the GDE to commission an independent inquiry into all allegations.

Notwithstanding the previous investigation - which made clear findings and recommendations - similar allegations had resurfaced.

The allegations that were put forward were tested against the records and policies of the school and the law. 

The report is based on evidence and the rules of engagement were explained thoroughly to all individuals who were interviewed. Therefore, the findings of the investigation are based on evidence and concessions made by some of the implicated persons.

The investigation found that the principal, deputy principal and acting principal should be charged with misconduct; there is selective application of discipline based on race; the SGB attempted to interfere with the suspension of the 12 pupils; some white staff do not greet their black colleagues; and the estate manager committed misconduct. - SAnews.gov.za

 

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Mon, 11/04/2024 - 15:19

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Call for meaningful action to deal with wildlife crimes

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Call for meaningful action to deal with wildlife crimes

Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called for decisive and integrated action to deal with wildlife crimes, as they threaten the country’s rich biodiversity and the potential of the eco-tourism industry.

Addressing the United for Wildflife Global Summit 2024 in Cape Town on Monday, the Minister said the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) plays an indispensable role in shaping South Africa's future within the borders and in the increasingly complex global geopolitical landscape. 

“However, despite local and international efforts to address environmental crime at the highest levels of government, it is essential that we now refocus our efforts towards action. 

“Representatives from the police, customs, prosecuting authorities, financial intelligence units, and environmental and wildlife investigative agencies all hold crucial roles, and your collaboration is essential. 

“We all recognise this global scourge that can only be overcome through a focused and integrated international effort,” the Minister said.

South Africa’s wildlife, plant life and marine life is a target for illicit activities. 

“Our lions, rhinoceros, pangolin, succulent plants, abalone, and our fish stock, to name only a few, are significantly at risk and we must respond. 

“These crimes... have a devastating impact on our country’s moral fabric (where the poaching culture consumes communities) on our existing and potential eco-tourism industry, and on our good standing in the international community as custodians of irreplaceable natural heritage,” George said.

He emphasised that South Africa remains resolutely focused on implementing the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Wildlife Trafficking. 

This strategy aims to establish a well-resourced, integrated, multidisciplinary law enforcement approach to dismantle the illicit value chain of wildlife trafficking within our country and beyond. 

“We recognise that achieving this objective requires the unwavering commitment of our entire government to enhance law enforcement capabilities and to mobilise societal support. 

“As part of implementing the strategy, South Africa actively participated in both informal and formal negotiations leading up to the recent United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime, Conference of Parties. 

“We supported the resolution sponsored by Brazil, France, and Peru, which aims to enhance measures to prevent and combat crimes affecting the environment. This important document recognises that environmental crimes has evolved into a major form of transnational organised crime,” the Minister said.

South Africa remains committed to implementing the key proposals outlined in the resolution.

“We must confront the stark reality that these crimes are not isolated to a series of arbitrary incidents, and that they have developed into highly sophisticated, greed-driven enterprises orchestrated by international criminal syndicates. 

“They exploit our natural heritage for financial gain and cause immeasurable harm to the environment while undermining our conservation efforts. These environmental crimes threaten to ravage the world's natural resources, impose immense financial burdens, and lead to the widespread loss of economic and development opportunities. 

“While we are keenly aware of the threat this poses to security and the rule of law, we must also remain cognisant of the complex issues of poverty and the lack of alternative livelihoods that contribute to the rise of such illicit activities,” the Minister said.

South Africa has also actively participated in WIRE meetings since 2016, which have been instrumental in overcoming obstacles related to information sharing and cooperation in investigations. 

“This has provided an invaluable platform that enables the international community to strategies, overcome obstacles, ensure meaningful cooperation, and respond swiftly when necessary, despite the bureaucratic processes inherent in any government. 

“Collaborating with international counterparts is crucial for tackling wildlife crime, especially since the illicit market is primarily in Southeast Asia. It is essential that we reinforce our working relationship with law enforcement agencies in these countries,” the Minister said. - SAnews.gov.za

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Mother and son hospitalised after consuming food from spaza shop

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Mother and son hospitalised after consuming food from spaza shop

The Gauteng Department of Health has confirmed that a 38-year-old mother and her four-year-old son from Alexandra in Johannesburg, are currently receiving treatment at Edenvale Hospital, following a suspected foodborne illness. 

According to the department, both patients are in a stable condition and under medical care after allegedly consuming food from a spaza shop. 

The family’s 10-year-old daughter passed away after being rushed to the Alexandra Community Health Centre emergency unit on Friday, 2 November 2024.

According to the department, further reports are awaited on the cause of the sudden illness and death.

“The department extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time,” the statement read. 

Meanwhile, government said it was concerned about the rising incidents of foodborne illnesses, particularly those affecting children.

“The department is working closely with multiple stakeholders and the municipalities to heighten awareness in townships, informal settlements, and hostel communities.” 

On Friday, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, lamented the lack of food safety standards at some of the local spaza shops in Ekurhuleni townships.

The MEC, together with City of Ekurhuleni officials and local councillors, conducted a food safety blitz in the area, following the recent spate of deaths and children falling ill after eating snacks from local spaza shops across the country.

Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, announced last week that forensic tests following the deaths of six primary school children from Naledi, Soweto – who had allegedly eaten snacks from a foreign-owned local spaza shop – showed they were killed by a highly toxic organophosphate called Terbufos.

The provincial department has urged the public to exercise caution when purchasing and consuming food items. 

In addition, the department said it was important to purchase food from reputable sellers with valid permits to operate, check expiration dates and avoid consuming expired products.

They also encourage locals to ensure that food packaging is intact and has not been tampered with and that shops adhere to the conditions of their permits, which include compliance with environmental health regulations and maintaining hygiene standards.

“We appeal to the public not to take the law into their own hands but to rather notify relevant authorities where they pick up noncompliance issues.”

According to the provincial department, the public can contact an Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) at the municipal offices closest to where the supplier is based.

The can also lodge complaints against suppliers that sell expired goods or foodstuffs without labelling and notify the Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs on 011 355 8006 or consumer@gauteng.gov.za. 

Alternatively, the public can contact the Gauteng contact centre on 0800 GAUTENG (4288364) or 0800 22 88 27 (toll-free), USSD *134*47472# or *134*GPGSA# (zero rated), email support@gauteng.gov.za and hotline@gauteng.gov.za.

The department is also available on X at @GautengHotline or WhatsApp 082 601 1000. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 09:55

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Read moreMother and son hospitalised after consuming food from spaza shop

Let’s ensure a safer festive season

Location: News

Let's ensure a safer festive season

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has called on communities to assist in ensuring a safer festive season for all through Operation Shanela.

The weekly multi-disciplinary, high-density operation, which commenced on Monday, 28 October 2024 until Sunday, 3 November 2024, executed in the five districts of the Northern Cape, resulted in the apprehension and arrest of 334 suspects, and the confiscation of numerous items.

Safer Festive Season Operations are in full swing in all districts throughout this period and beyond, encompassing high-density operations, which include regular roadblocks, stop and searches, the tracking and tracing of wanted suspects and heightened police visibility aimed at preventing and combating serious and violent crimes during the holiday season and beyond.

Numerous vehicle check points (VCPs) and roadblocks were conducted across the province, during which a total of 2 247 vehicles and 4 136 persons were stopped and searched.

Compliance inspections at second-hand dealers, scrapyards, recyclers, private security, firearm dealers, formal and informal businesses, as well as farms were conducted, including community awareness campaigns.

Operational successes achieved include the arrest of 280 suspects for murder, attempted murder, assault, burglary, illegal dealing in liquor, illegal firearm and ammunition, theft of or out of motor vehicle, malicious damage to property, driving under the influence of alcohol, robbery, rape, possession of dangerous weapons, dealing in and possession of drugs, illegal immigrants, stock theft and other crimes.

Police in De Aar tracked down a robbery suspect and recovered stolen property, including bank cards, clothing and traveling bags, and managed to link the suspect to several other cases.

Fifty-four wanted suspects were traced and brought to book by detectives for evading court appearances and contravention of court orders.

The police confiscated large volumes of alcoholic beverages, drugs, dangerous weapons, fuel, copper and cash that is believed to be the proceeds of crime.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Kholiswa Otola, expressed her gratitude to all law enforcement agencies for the collective efforts and actions executed during this period. 

Otola reiterated that no one will be left behind when it comes to fighting crime as it involves the robust involvement and support of community structures.

She urged everyone to be alert and vigilant, and report any suspicious criminal activity immediately to the police using the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or on the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Mon, 11/04/2024 - 10:02

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Read moreLet’s ensure a safer festive season

Call to champion disability rights

Location: News

Call to champion disability rights

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD), Sindisiwe Chikunga, has called for a disability-inclusive society that upholds a better quality of life and the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.

This call marks the beginning of Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), which is observed from 3 November to 3 December 2024.

“This month provides an important platform to champion disability rights and to work toward a South Africa where dignity and equality are universal. Whether disabled or able-bodied, all individuals must be empowered to contribute toward an inclusive society,” the Minister said on Saturday.

DRAM is taking place under the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: Creating a Disability-Inclusive Society for a Better Quality of Life and the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”

This month-long campaign underscores the universality, interdependence, and fundamental rights of persons with disabilities, advocating for the full enjoyment of these rights without discrimination.

It aims to drive awareness, inclusion, and empowerment of persons with disabilities across South Africa.

“Aligned with the 2024-2029 Medium-Term Development Framework, which seeks to address current socio-economic challenges, DRAM2024 serves as a bridge uniting South Africans to build a disability-inclusive, barrier-free society.

“It envisions a South Africa where persons with disabilities actively contribute to socio-economic empowerment within their communities.

“Government also urges all members of society to participate in the significant process of domesticating the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, facilitated by the South African Law Reform Commission. This process will contribute to the development of the Disability Rights Bill,” the DWYPD said.

The purpose of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.  -SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Sun, 11/03/2024 - 10:51

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Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (Ti̇Ka) Provides Equipment Support to Stellenbosch University in South Africa

Location: News

Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA)
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Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has provided equipment to the Medical Plant Biology Laboratory at Stellenbosch University, which continues its educational and research activities in South Africa.

TİKA provided equipment support to the Medical Plant Biology Laboratory at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, ranked among the world's top 200 universities in plant and animal sciences.

Through this project, a centrifuge machine, water purification system, spectrophotometer, plant growth chamber and lyophilizer were provided to support the cultivation of plants under controlled conditions, DNA analysis and the preservation of plants and extracts as required.

South Africa is home to 9,000 endemic plant species

South Africa hosts approximately 9,000 plant species, the majority of which are endemic. These plants, integral to the development of traditional medicine, have been used by local communities for medicinal purposes over centuries.

However, during the apartheid era the Witchcraft Suppression Act 3 of 1957 restricted this usage. Following the repeal of this law in 1994, academic research surged, allowing many native plants to be widely adopted in medicine and cosmetics.

Stellenbosch University is now dedicated to integrating traditional knowledge into academic research. To support this, TİKA provided the university with equipment to study the reactions of local plants to different production conditions, determine optimal cultivation and storage methods and conduct DNA-level analyses.

Handover ceremony organized

The handover ceremony was attended by Yonca Sunel, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Cape Town; Abdulkadir Abukan, TİKA's Coordinator in Pretoria; Vim de Villiers, Rector of Stellenbosch University; Sibusiso Moyo, Vice Rector; as well as academics and students.

During the ceremony, Rector de Villiers expressed gratitude to TİKA for its contributions. Vice Rector Moyo emphasized the significance of international cooperation in enhancing the university's research capacity and provided information about the partnerships with universities in Türkiye.

Consul General Sunel noted that this program marked her first official visit since her appointment and expressed her pleasure in collaborating with the esteemed institutions of South Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA).

Read moreTurkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (Ti̇Ka) Provides Equipment Support to Stellenbosch University in South Africa

President Ramaphosa assents to Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Bill

Location: News

President Ramaphosa assents to Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Bill

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially assented to the Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Bill, a key piece of legislation aimed at accelerating petroleum exploration and development with participation by black South Africans, as part of the nation’s social and economic advancement. 

The Presidency said in a statement that the Bill ensures petroleum resources are developed responsibly, provides fair access, and promotes sustainable growth. 

It also allows for active involvement from government and black South Africans in building up the country’s petroleum sector. 

“The legislation acknowledges that South Africa’s petroleum resources belong to the nation and that the state is the custodian of these non-renewable natural resources which must contribute to South Africa’s social and economic development,” The Presidency said. 

As part of advancing industrialisation and manufacturing diversity, the law provides for local content as a development strategy to enable skills development, local recruitment and national participation through supply of goods and services.

The Bill reaffirms the state’s commitment to regulatory certainty and to guaranteeing security of tenure in respect of petroleum rights.

The Bill separates petroleum provisions from minerals provisions as currently provided for in the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act.

“This separation is necessary from a policy and administrative perspective to ensure matters in the petroleum and minerals industries are addressed on the basis of their distinctive features, to bring about stability and security to investors, especially in the upstream petroleum sector,” the Presidency said. 

The law sets out the functions of the South African Agency for Promotion of Petroleum Exploration and Exploitation, which include receiving and evaluating applications for reconnaissance permits, petroleum rights and retention permits, and making recommendations to the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy.

Reconnaissance refers to any operation carried out for or in connection with the search for petroleum by geological, geophysical and photo geological surveys. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Fri, 11/01/2024 - 11:34

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa assents to Upstream Petroleum Resources Development Bill

SARS welcomes MTBPS, increases its compliance focus

Location: News

SARS welcomes MTBPS, increases its compliance focus

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has welcomed the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) presented in Parliament by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana on Wednesday. 

The MTBPS revised the February 2024 Budget net tax revenue forecast from R1.863 trillion to R1.8408 trillion.

SARS said as of 30 September 2024, it has collected gross revenue of R1 070.4 billion, yielding a net revenue of R846.2 billion and R224.3 billion in refund payments. 

The revenue performance was bolstered by stronger collections from CIT Provisional tax and lower-than-expected VAT and PIT refund payments. 

This was offset by lower-than-expected collections from Customs taxes, PAYE, and the General Fuel Levy. 

The areas that were adjusted downward are: 

  • Lower-than-expected previous year salary adjustments, reducing the nominal wage bill estimate from 8.4% in the 2024 Budget to 5.5% in the MTBPS 2024. 
  • Slower growth on capital projects across general government, public corporations and private sector, with gross capital formation anticipated to decline from 9.5% in the 2024 Budget to 5.2%.
  • Downward revision in outlook of nominal exports from 5.2% to 3.5%, as well as nominal imports from 6.0% to 3.8%.
  • At Budget 2024, a 13.8% growth in PAYE, based on the 8.4% growth in the wage bill, was assumed. PAYE collections for year-to-date (September 2024/25) amount to R340.0bn, lower than the PE by R12.0bn (3.4%) and higher than previous year by R30.8bn (10.0%).

SARS highlighted that the deficit in revenue collections was partially offset by strong collections in CIT provisional tax collections (at R150.2 billion) against an expectation of R141.4 billion, yielding a surplus of R8.8 billion, up by 2.7% or R3.9 billion from the previous year. 

The fuel levy has faced challenges this financial year due to a year-on-year decrease in fuel consumption, with 1.333 million litres less fuel used. SARS said that this decline, attributed to factors like reduced load shedding and a shift to alternative energy sources, has directly impacted the Net Fuel Levy, resulting in a 3.9% year-on-year contraction and a R7.2 billion shortfall.

Trade taxes also underperformed, as imports, which were expected to grow by 1.9%, have instead declined by 5.1% year-to-date. Total trade flows have decreased by R39.2 billion (or -2.0%) compared to the same period last year, primarily due to lower import flows of electrical machinery and vehicles.

SARS noted that Provisional Corporate Income Tax (CIT) collections reached R150.2 billion, recording a surplus of R8.8 billion (6.2%) and a year-on-year growth of R3.9 billion (2.7%), driven by the Finance, Electricity, and Manufacturing sectors. 

Collections exceeded the Budget 2024 target rate of -3.3%. However, the Mining sector continues to struggle with volatile commodity prices, particularly in Platinum Group Metals, Coal and Iron Ore, which has negatively impacted profitability and provisional payments. Additionally, the sector faces ongoing transport, logistics, and border crossing issues, leading to delays and higher export costs.

Despite having finalised ± 1.3 million more debt cases, which is almost 290% more than the previous year, SARS said its debt compliance efforts have yielded lower returns year-on-year by R9.3 billion, which equals to a 23.6% year-on-year contraction. 

SARS further recorded significant year-on-year increases in deferred payment arrangements, requests for suspension of payments, and final demands, highlighting the financial hardship taxpayers are experiencing and its impact on their ability to meet tax obligations.

“The SARS Strategic Intent will continue to focus on Voluntary Compliance, ensuring that taxpayers and traders have clarity and certainty regarding their obligations, along with the necessary tools to facilitate easy and straightforward compliance. Conversely, SARS will impose significant legal and administrative costs on taxpayers and traders who deliberately fail to meet their obligations,” the revenue service said.

SARS said that its compliance efforts continue to yield success in dealing with non-compliance in particular segments and tax products. To date, compliance revenue secured R110.1 billion, reflecting a growth of R8.1 billion (8.0%). 

The Revenue Service emphasised that it will continue to intensify its efforts to maintain visibility and reinforce compliance, with plans to invest further on compliance initiatives to close the tax gap by targeting various taxpayer segments. 

SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter said that in pursuing the attainment of the 2024/25 tax revenue estimate of R1 840.8 billion, SARS will be unrelenting in its drive to engender voluntary compliance. 

“Critical in this pursuit is to ensure that intermediaries charged by law to collect taxes on behalf of SARS pay it over. Importantly, SARS is ready to act against those who willfully and defiantly ignore their legal obligations by misrepresenting their true economic status. Those who enable this conduct are equally culpable. 

“Taxpayers who abdicate their legal obligations place a disproportionate burden on honest taxpayers. Taxes play a critical role in cushioning the most vulnerable and destitute in our society. In this respect, voluntary compliance is sacrosanct,” Kieswetter said.   

The Commissioner further emphasized that SARS will continue to intensify and deepen its existing administrative efforts. 

“We will continue to use sophisticated data science and artificial intelligence, to maintain the balance between service to taxpayers/traders, whilst managing risks to the fiscus by detecting dishonest taxpayers,” he said. 

SARS will deploy more data science and artificial intelligence (AI) to step up its focus on the following areas of compliance risk:

  • Broadening the tax base via third-party data sources: Leveraging data from both formal and informal sectors to widen the tax base.  
  • Work to register all taxpayers and traders, through predictive modelling, who ought to be on the register and ensure that they honestly file their declarations and pay their dues where necessary. 
  • Build its detection capability using machine learning models and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to significantly improve service and offer a seamless service to honest taxpayers. This will also be used to detect dishonest taxpayers, improve debt collection while expanding the tax base and deal with tax avoidance.
  • Enforcing trade laws against the illicit economy (Customs and Excise): Strengthening tools to detect and prevent illicit activities, including those related to tobacco, fuel, and illicit financial flows.
  • Focusing on dispute prevention and resolution: Prioritising products and strategies that prevent disputes that can be resolved.

“SARS is the nation’s treasure; a well-functioning tax and customs administration is a cornerstone to our vibrant democracy and should never be taken for granted. SARS seeks to ensure revenue sustainability by securing appropriate investment in SARS, and funding certainty. 

“From a human capital perspective, SARS will continue to attract, develop and sustain a workforce that is future ready. We will be building the leadership bench strength of SARS and protect the autonomy of the institution,” the tax revenue said. 

Despite the tough operating environment, SARS said it expects that the start of a cycle of interest rate cuts will spur consumption expenditure. This expansion is expected to drive economic growth and widen the tax base, resulting in buoyant corporate tax, and VAT revenues. 

Additionally, the introduction of the “Two-Pot” system is expected to increase the tax base in the short to medium term. 

“The 12 821 SARS staff, to whom we express sincere appreciation, will continue to work diligently in achieving the revised revenue estimate as presented by the Minister of Finance,” SARS said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 10/31/2024 - 11:03

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Read moreSARS welcomes MTBPS, increases its compliance focus

Team established to deal with BELA Act concerns

Location: News

Team established to deal with BELA Act concerns

The Government of National Unity (GNU) clearing house mechanism has formed a task team to address concerns raised by various parties regarding the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act.

This comes after leaders met on Wednesday to discuss the issue of the Act, which has two clauses that have been the centre of concern by some members of the signatories of the statement of intent of the GNU.

According to the Deputy President’s Office, the meeting was attended by most parties that participate in this structure. 

“The meeting noted the need to resolve the matter within the three months that President Cyril Ramaphosa has allocated.

“After an extensive engagement, the clearing house mechanism agreed on the establishment of a small team to work on the concerns as raised by some parties.” 

The team comprises Deputy Minister Andries Nel; Dr Cornelius Mulder from the Freedom Front Plus; Brett Herron from the GOOD Party; Helen Zille from the Democratic Alliance, and Mdumiseni Ntuli from the African National Congress. 

In September, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Bill into law but delayed by three months the implementation of clauses 4 and 5, which deal with school admissions and language, to make room for more discussion and deliberations after it received some opposition.

According to the Deputy President’s Office, the team has since been given two weeks to work and report to the clearing house mechanism. 

“The meeting also agreed on the need to put party-political interests aside and find a solution to benefit all South African people.” 

The GNU clearing house mechanism was established by President Ramaphosa last month to address policy disagreements within the 10-member GNU, led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, regarding policy agreements and other disputes. – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile
Thu, 10/31/2024 - 13:08

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Read moreTeam established to deal with BELA Act concerns

Government to launch next phase of Operation Vulindlela

Location: News

Government to launch next phase of Operation Vulindlela

Government is expected to launch the next phase of Operation Vulindlela, which is aimed at accelerating the implementation of structural reforms.

This is according to the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) released by National Treasury on Wednesday.

Treasury explained that the country’s economic growth prospects are closely tied to Operation Vulindlela and structural reforms to “improve competitiveness and productivity and boost investment”.

“In its first phase, this initiative implemented 35 reform actions in five network industries, including reducing power cuts, improving the performance of the logistics system, lowering data costs, improving water supply and enabling the country to attract critical skills.

“The next phase of reforms will support higher medium-term growth, which is required to significantly expand employment. New initiatives aim to reverse local government decline, tackle spatial inequality and advance digital government to improve large-scale service delivery,” National Treasury said.

Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery.

Government has set its focus on Eskom’s restructuring as a priority and to establish a bustling energy market, with adequate supply for a growing economy.

“The cumulative effects of reforms include improved power station performance and no ‘load shedding’ since 26 March 2024. The Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill was signed into law in August of this year. 

“This, together with the creation of the National Transmission Company of South Africa, which began operating on 1 July 2024, is establishing rules and procedures for a competitive electricity market. 

“The ongoing Energy Action Plan has boosted efforts to restore energy availability and procure new generation. By end-August 2024, project registrations with South Africa’s energy regulator exceeded 8500 megawatts,” the MTBPS stated.

The critical sector of freight rail logistics is also receiving attention.

“Transport reforms that open the freight rail network to private operators will reduce inefficiencies and costs, helping firms offer lower prices and boosting economic growth. To this end, the Economic Regulation of Transport Bill – enabling private-sector use of the rail network – was signed into law in June 2024. 

“Transnet freight volumes grew from 149.5 million tonnes at the end of the previous financial year to approximately 151.7 million tonnes by end-March 2024, supported by the implementation of a recovery plan from October 2023 and reversing a years-long decline. Port cargo handled has stabilised relative to 2023 levels,” National Treasury stated.

Treasury emphasised that reforms in the water sector are critical for economic growth and water security.

“The National Water Resources Infrastructure Agency Bill, signed on 27 August 2024, creates an independent agency to oversee bulk water resources. The Water Services Amendment Bill, allowing for intervention in failing municipalities, has received public comment and will soon be submitted to Cabinet for approval,” Treasury said.

Reforms in that sector target supply and infrastructure challenges.

“Water sector reforms being prioritised by Operation Vulindlela include independent regulation, strengthening local water services by licensing water service providers, legal proceedings on non-compliance by municipalities and trading services reforms. 

“Trading services reforms refer to governance, institutional, management and financial reforms to improve essential services, enabled by a new performance-based grant. The National Treasury is also working closely with the Water Partnerships Office to identify opportunities for private sector participation, such as non-revenue water projects. Non-revenue water refers to the revenue lost from leaking water infrastructure.

Elsewhere, the visa system has been reformed by the Department of Home Affairs to attract skills and boost tourism while the rollout of 5G infrastructure has tapered data costs, expanded connectivity and improved access to network services. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Wed, 10/30/2024 - 14:46

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Read moreGovernment to launch next phase of Operation Vulindlela

KwaZulu-Natal not a haven for criminals, warns Premier

Location: News

KwaZulu-Natal not a haven for criminals, warns Premier

With the festive season approaching, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has sent a strong warning to criminals that the police will intensify efforts to prevent criminal activities from taking place in the province.

“KwaZulu-Natal is not a haven for criminals and police will do all in their power to curb criminality wherever and whenever it rears its ugly head,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli sent the warning during a crime crackdown in the Durban city centre, which led to the arrest of more than 30 people found without legal documentation to be in South Africa.

In a concerted effort to rid the Durban city centre of crime and criminal elements, Ntuli joined law enforcement authorities in a high-impact operation targeting shops employing undocumented foreign nationals on Tuesday.

The joint raid, led by Ntuli and the provincial Police Commissioner, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, included an inspection of foreign-owned spaza shops and establishments suspected of selling counterfeit goods.

The raid highlighted the provincial government’s commitment to making Durban a safer place for residents, business owners, and visitors.

With increased vigilance and coordination between provincial authorities and law enforcement agencies, Ntuli said KwaZulu-Natal aims to ensure that criminal elements are rooted out and that communities feel safe in their own neighbourhoods.

Ntuli affirmed that the operation is just one of many measures to ensure a secure environment for citizens and tourists.

The Premier emphasised the police will intensify their efforts to prevent criminal activities from taking root in the province.

“Our message is clear: criminality will not be tolerated, and we will pursue justice wherever and whenever it is needed,” Ntuli said.

The Premier reiterated that the provincial government, alongside local law enforcement, is committed to maintaining peace and security across the region and reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance on crime.

Restoring safety within communities

Meanwhile, during his visit to the families of four people who tragically lost their lives during a brutal attack in Estcourt, Ntuli emphasised the urgent need for justice and the importance of restoring safety within communities.

Ntuli visited the families on Monday following the attack that claimed the lives of four members of the Mazibuko family, aged 45, 57, 60 and 61. Three victims died at the scene, while two others sustained injuries; and one later succumbed to their injuries.

The incident took place during a traditional celebration at a homestead in Nyezane, where six heavily armed suspects stormed the gathering and opened fire on Sunday afternoon.

According to police reports, the suspects, who wore masks, carried out the assault in a violent and calculated manner, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, law enforcement authorities launched an intelligence-driven investigation, which led to swift apprehension of a 28-year-old suspect.

The arrest marked a crucial step in the pursuit of justice for the Mazibuko family and the affected community.

During his visit, Ntuli expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families, acknowledging the profound pain caused by such senseless violence.

The Premier pledged his administration’s commitment to tackling violent crime in the province.

“This is a tragic loss, not only for the Mazibuko family but for the entire community. We stand in solidarity with those affected and are determined to see that those responsible for this heinous act are held accountable,” Ntuli said.

He said the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, alongside law enforcement agencies, remains dedicated to supporting the bereaved families and working towards a safer, more secure province for all its citizens. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 10/30/2024 - 11:59

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Read moreKwaZulu-Natal not a haven for criminals, warns Premier

Call to ensure safety of initiates ahead of initiation season

Location: News

Call to ensure safety of initiates ahead of initiation season

To ensure the integrity of the upcoming customary initiation season in December, the safety and well-being of all initiates must be prioritised, as required by the Customary Initiation Act of 2021.

This is according to the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, who made the remark during a media briefing on South Africa’s preparedness for the upcoming summer season and disaster response.

The Customary Initiation Act established the National Initiation Oversight Committee (NIOC) and Provincial Initiation Coordinating Committees (PIOCs). 

These committees work together with traditional leaders, parents and communities to oversee initiation practices, ensuring they adhere to legal and health standards.

“The Act is a vital tool for eliminating abuse and dangerous practices, aiming to safeguard young initiates through clearly defined norms and safety protocols,” he said at Monday’s briefing.

Initiation is a sacred and respected custom practised as a rite of passage to adulthood. In South Africa, it is observed by various traditional communities, especially in the Eastern Cape.

With the forecast of extreme summer heat, Hlabisa urged that all initiates undergo pre-season health checks, stay hydrated and have access to medical care. 

To further protect the youth, he called on initiation schools to secure parental consent, comply with health guidelines, and register at least three months before each initiation season. 

“We call on all South Africans to work with us and play their part by reporting illegal schools to law enforcement to prevent the exploitation and endangerment of young initiates,” Hlabisa said.

He called on all stakeholders to act responsibly and to ensure the initiates experience this tradition with dignity, safety and respect for cultural heritage.

“While the risks posed by the upcoming summer season are significant, we face them with a solid plan, a unified response, and a deep commitment. 

“The path to resilience is paved with collaboration, preparedness and dedication. Together, we will overcome the challenges ahead and emerge more robust as a nation to face and mitigate climate change effects that we are experiencing.” 

Funding for disasters

Meanwhile, the Minister announced that CoGTA and National Treasury are working together to explore new funding mechanisms, as the country experiences more disaster events.

He said a funding request has been submitted to Treasury to support affected groups and organisations with the reconstruction and rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure.

“We acknowledge the challenges faced by the country in funding disaster interventions, mainly due to increased disaster damages, fiscal deficit and competing priorities.

“The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs is currently engaging National Treasury on other funding mechanisms to ensure sustainability,” he said.

Government is also working around the clock to enhance the weather early warning system, which is core to the State’s preparedness for disaster events. 

“We have strengthened our collaboration with the SAWS [South African Weather Service] to ensure accurate, timely weather warnings reach every corner of our country, especially vulnerable communities,” Hlabisa said.

By providing early information about potential hazards like thunderstorms, flash floods, lightning and heat waves, the Minister said citizens can be empowered to take the necessary precautions and protect their lives and properties. 

READ | CoGTA, Treasury work together on disaster relief funding

“Early warnings and early action are the most effective means of saving lives," he stressed. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Tue, 10/29/2024 - 09:35

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Read moreCall to ensure safety of initiates ahead of initiation season