Judge slams lawyers who preyed on refugees
Attorneys and advocate who did “a cut and paste job” for clients ordered to pay the costs from their own pockets
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Government and communities must come together to fight GBV
Government and communities must come together to fight GBV
Active citizenry and the active involvement of communities have an important role to play in fighting the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
This according to Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Andries Nel, who was speaking during the launch of the Mitchell’s Plain Thuthuzela Care Centre on Monday.
Nel explained that Mitchell’s Plain has South Africa’s highest prevalence of crimes like common assault, drug related crimes, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition attempted murder – breeding a dangerous environment for women.
“This explains the environment within which GBVF is taking place. It also underscores the point… that our Justice, Crime Prevention and Security cluster, our criminal justice system, has an indispensable role to play.
“But the reality is, there’s a social and economic foundation to these problems, which we are not going to solve without a broader socio-economic transformation of our country, our communities but also the active involvement of each and every citizen,” Nel said.
The Deputy Minister said as communities are being urged to play their role, government is also doing its part in passing new laws and amending legislation that “aims to bring about changes, which are practically implementable and offer meaningful protection to those who need it”.
Those three new laws are:
- the Criminal Law Sexual Offences and Related Matters Amendment Act;
- the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act, and
- the Domestic Violence Amendment Act.
“This legislation, amongst others, addressed the need to include the particulars of all sex offenders and not only sex offenders against children and persons who are mentally disabled. It also expanded the list of persons who are to be protected to include other vulnerable persons.
“It also increases the period for which a sex offender’s particulars must remain on the register before it can be removed. It also creates a reporting duty that any person who has knowledge, reasonable belief or suspects that a sexual offence is being committed against a person who’s vulnerable must report…immediately to a police official.
“The Domestic Violence Amendment Act… has also been amended to address practical challenges, gaps and anomalies which have been in the Act since 1999. The amended legislation has included new definitions [of abuse] such as controlling behaviour and coercive behaviour,” he said.
Nel said government is also working to ensure that the number of TCCs – which provide crucial medical and psychosocial support to victims – is increased throughout the country.
“That’s why we must endeavour to increase the number of TCCs as quickly as possible. The new Mitchell’s Plain TCC will increase the national footprint to 65 across the country. This is the tenth TCC in the Western Cape.
“There are a number of TCCs that are ready to open and start operations but they need input from other departments and we commit ourselves to facilitate that engagement,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 08/19/2024 - 14:10
255 views
Let’s harness improved confidence to drive inclusive growth – President
Let’s harness improved confidence to drive inclusive growth - President
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government remains committed to collaborating with business, labour unions, and other social partners to advance the structural reforms necessary for fostering inclusive economic growth and creating jobs.
The President said this in his weekly newsletter to the nation on Monday.
“We cannot rebuild our country unless all South Africans work together. We will continue to work with business, labour and other social partners to drive the structural reform process that will boost inclusive economic growth and jobs.
“There is indeed an air of optimism in our country. Let us harness this confidence and goodwill to increase the momentum of our shared efforts to build and strengthen our economy,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that over the last few months, the country has seen a growing confidence among investors, business and citizens over the prospects of the economy.
The latest Business Confidence Index published by the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) points to an increase in business confidence since the elections in May.
The President noted that this sentiment is evident in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange’s All-Share Price Index, which increased by about 8% from the end of May to the end of July 2024.
“This is welcome news, particularly in light of the most recent employment figures released by Statistics South Africa, which show that unemployment remains extremely high at 33.5%.
“Business confidence is so important to our efforts to create jobs because it signals an improved business environment and encourages new investment. Greater investment in the economy enables faster growth and more job opportunities,” he said.
For several years, the country has experienced low levels of business confidence, having been negatively affected by the prolonged electricity crisis, State capture, concerns about corruption, the decline of State-owned enterprises and the manner in which law enforcement agencies had been compromised.
President Ramaphosa further reflected that investors have also been concerned about obstacles to growth, such as delays in the release of broadband spectrum, inefficiencies in ports and rail operations, and regulations that have slowed down licensing processes.
The President lauded the successful holding of the national and provincial elections in May and the formation of the Government of National Unity, both of which have had a positive effect on business confidence.
He said the progress that has been recorded in the reform process thus far has also contributed to the improved sentiment.
Rooting out corruption
To create a conducive environment, the President said government has shown its determination to tackle corruption.
Bodies like the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and the Hawks have brought several high-profile cases to trial. The permanent establishment of the NPA’s Investigating Directorate has also given further impetus to the fight against corruption.
Crime is also being tackled. Across the country, the President said, initiatives such as Operation Shanela have upped the war on crime.
“We are clamping down on illicit mining operations. Criminal syndicates involved in cable theft and extortion at construction sites are being dealt with.
“Through a concerted effort from all stakeholders, we have confronted the electricity crisis. We have now had more than 140 consecutive days without load shedding. There has been a huge increase in new power generation capacity.
“Investors have seen the growth opportunities in the far-reaching energy reforms we are undertaking. Just last week, I signed into law the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act, which will enable the establishment of a competitive electricity market,” the President said.
The progress made in electricity provision, he said, gives confidence that the country can overcome the problems on the freight rail lines and ports.
Transnet’s recovery plan is showing progress, with the private sector providing significant technical support and resources to Transnet Freight Rail and Port Terminals.
In Gauteng, the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, newly launched state-of-the-art passenger trains are now operating along refurbished and reopened rail corridors, offering commuters faster and more affordable transportation options.
This development is expected to significantly reduce commuting times and costs for users.
Reforms and investment
Additionally, government has implemented changes to immigration regulations to attract skilled professionals, investment and tourists to South Africa.
Approval processes for water use licences and energy projects have been expedited, and the release of broadband spectrum aims to unlock the full potential of the telecommunications sector.
These reforms are set to drive economic growth and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
The country is also making progress on infrastructure investment. According to Nedbank’s Capital Expenditure Project Listing, the value of fixed investment project announcements in the first half of this year rose to approximately R800 billion.
This was up sharply from just over R190 billion in 2023.
The public sector accounts for most of these projects in areas such as energy, transportation, health facility upgrades, roads and housing.
“As government, we held a meeting with business leaders last week. Business expressed optimism about the recovery and growth of our economy. They committed themselves to a new era of partnership with government. We agreed on key actions we must now take to build on the progress that has already been made,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 08/19/2024 - 11:08
91 views
What happens to financial losses suffered by banking customers following a kidnapping?
What happens to financial losses suffered by banking customers following a kidnapping? According to media reports there has been a significant increase in kidnappings in South Africa, where criminal syndicates have targeted South African entrepreneurs. The banking division of the National Financial Ombud Scheme (NFO) has received some complaints relating to kidnappings where consumers disclose …
Mpumalanga police make headway in the fight against crime
Mpumalanga police make headway in the fight against crime
Mpumalanga’s Acting Police Commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has expressed delight at a breakthrough made in the fight against cash-in-transit robberies that led to the arrest of four suspects.
This is after four suspects, aged between 30 and 49 were arrested in Vosman, Witbank on Saturday, 17 August.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) stated that the success of this operation was made possible by the proactive efforts of crime intelligence, which provided crucial information about the suspects’ plans.
“This information enabled a joint team to operationalise and strategically position themselves along the R545 Road, heading to Ogies. Upon spotting the suspects attempting to carry out the robbery in a white Mercedes Benz sedan, of which they failed, the members were able to intervene and prevent the attack on the security cash truck.”
The suspects then fled the scene in several other vehicles including a blue BMW 330i sedan and a charcoal Kia SUV.
“A high-speed chase ensued, with law enforcement agencies successfully intercepting the suspects in the Vosman policing area,” the statement read.
During the arrest, the SAPS said the suspects were found in possession of three AK-47 rifles with six magazines as well as 134 live rounds of ammunition, one 9 mm pistol with two magazines and 27 live ammunition.
“Additionally, hand gloves as well as balaclavas were confiscated during the arrest.”
The vehicles used in the attempted robbery were also seized for further investigation with preliminary findings revealing that the Mercedes Benz was reported stolen in Kabokweni last month.
Several officials were involved in this breakthrough, including the tracking team from Limpopo in conjunction with the one from Mpumalanga, and crime prevention members from Vosman and Fidelity Special Service.
The suspects will face multiple charges, including possession of prohibited firearms and stolen vehicles, and conspiracy to commit a robbery.
The suspects are due to appear at Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) taking over the investigation.
“The confiscated firearms will be subjected to ballistic testing to determine whether these weapons were not previously used in the commission of crime elsewhere hence police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges against the suspects as the investigation continues,” the police added.
Mkhwanazi said this operation, once again highlights the dedication and expertise of local law enforcement officers in combating violent crimes and ensuring the safety of communities.
“Firstly, we would like to appreciate the collaboration displayed by the team from Limpopo as well as our team from Mpumalanga and not forgetting the Fidelity Special Service which culminated in this magnificent achievement.
“We encourage the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with police to fight against criminal activities,” the Major General added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 12:30
282 views
Home Affairs finalises deportation of Libyan nationals
Home Affairs finalises deportation of Libyan nationals
The Department of Home Affairs says it has concluded its preparations to deport the 95 Libyan nationals who were arrested in White River, Mpumalanga, last month.
This comes after charges were dropped against 95 men who were arrested on suspicion of receiving training at an illegal military camp.
“They are scheduled to leave South Africa from the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport this morning in a flight that has been paid for by the Libyan government,” the department said in statement on Sunday.
The Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, has since welcomed the swift conclusion of the deportation.
“I commend the Home Affairs officials and other law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to ensure an expeditious deportation.
“We will continue to deploy all resources at our disposal to ensure that the country’s immigration laws are respected and observed,” said Schreiber.
READ | Home Affairs welcomes court decision on 95 Libyans
Last week, the Minister said his department will not hesitate to act decisively to ensure that anyone who breaches the immigration laws of the country is processed through the courts and accordingly faces the consequences.
“Respect for the rule of law is sacrosanct,” the Minister added. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 13:44
120 views
Government outlines further plans to commemorate Women’s Month
Government outlines further plans to commemorate Women’s Month
Government departments will continue to host a variety of activities to commemorate Women’s Month.
On 9 August, South Africa commemorated Women’s Day in the Northern Cape under the theme: “Celebrating 30 years of democracy towards Women’s Development”.
READ | President Ramaphosa pays tribute to women
This follows the launch of Women’s Month on 31 July.
This year’s Women’s Month marks the 68th anniversary of the historic march of thousands of South African women from all walks of life to the Union Buildings in 1956. The march was in protest of the introduction of apartheid pass laws for Black women in 1952.
“During Women’s Month, we celebrate women as active agents of change and social transformation. The commemoration also allows us to take stock of achievements and the challenges that remain while mobilising support for the further development of women,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement.
The GCIS believes this year’s Women’s Month marks an important juncture for collective reflection on how South Africa has empowered and advanced the rights of women over the past three decades.
“We also celebrate 30 years of the Women’s Charter, which was established to drive equality.”
Government said it will advance the Women’s Charter for Accelerated Development that was formulated in 2021 to accelerate economic reforms to unlock women’s economic progress.
Several socio-economic empowerment programmes and events will take place during the month including a trade expo, fashion show, and social dialogues.
Advancing women
The Women Economic Assembly (Wenoca) will launch its research project findings on the ‘Economic Empowerment of Women in South Africa’s Property Sector’ at the University of South Africa (Unisa) in Pretoria.
The Wecona study focuses on using evidence-based methods to explore and address the challenges faced by women in the property sector and sub-sectors and identifies opportunities for economic empowerment.
The Charlotte Mannya Maxeke Foundation and Freedom Park in promoting social cohesion and discussing issues that delay women’s empowerment as a threat to gender equality, will host a Women Inclusivity Dialogue.
The dialogue will focus on assessing progress 30 years later and celebrating women's empowerment.
The session will also seek to find solutions to justice and equality for women led by women.
Meanwhile, the Department of Transport will host an information-sharing session for Cross Border Women Operators, to increase the participation of women in the cross-border market leading to the transformation of the industry. It will also encourage them to consider other sectors within the cross-border market.
In addition, the Department of Mineral Resources will host a Women in Energy and Mining Symposium to share opportunities in the energy and mining sector for women and the youth.
Youth initiatives
On 12 August, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) in partnership with the National Youth Development Agency launched the Job Shadowing Programme in all nine provinces through the respective Offices of the Premier.
In addition, the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI) first-quarter report was released last week.
The PYEI is South Africa’s most comprehensive effort to address youth unemployment to enable more young people to move from learning to earning.
The GCIS said the PYEI is committed to addressing the gender gap in employment and a significant achievement of the intervention is that 70% of the opportunities have been secured by young women.
Women in law enforcement
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Parade is the celebration of women in uniform supported by men in solidarity with the Women, Peace and Security Agenda and United Nations Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security that was adopted by the United Nation (UN) Security Council on 31 October 2000.
The resolutions acknowledge the disproportionated and unique impact of armed conflict on women and girls.
In the Northern Cape, a provincial law enforcement parade will be held in Kuruman, to display a disciplinary approach which encourages service delivery in various sectors of government and further advocates the empowerment of women.
The South African Police Services (SAPS) has also started a campaign to highlight and celebrate women in the service who are behind major crime operations and also various fields within law enforcement such as forensics, crime intelligence and criminal investigations.
Public engagements and awareness campaigns
Across provinces, various community dialogues and workshops will take place on gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) initiatives.
Government in partnership with civil society will hold the 3rd National Men’s Day Against GBVF which will be officiated by Deputy President Paul Mashatile and His Majesty the King Misuzulu kaZwelithini on 24 August 2024.
The event led by the Goodmen Foundation in partnership with DWYPD seeks to use this event to increase awareness about the impact of GBVF on society, educate citizens about gender equity and profile support available for survivors and facilitate healing.
READ | President speaks out on gender-based violence
Women in transport
The National Aviation Gender Summit (NAGS) 2024 themed: ‘Lift as we rise: The journey towards 2030!’ will examine the progress made by the South African civil aviation industry towards this goal.
The summit will focus on addressing gender transformation gaps within the sector and emphasise the significance of mentorship in promoting gender equality.
The NAGS 2024 is targeting female aviation professionals and various industry representatives with responsibilities and a personal stake in issues of gender equality and diversity.
Women in the public service
Various provincial heads of departments and Directors-General with senior women managers will host the Public Service Women Management Week to evaluate and monitor progress on the implementation of women empowerment and gender equality programmes in departments.
“Ending the scourge of GBVF requires the efforts of government, private sector, civil society and every member of society. It is the responsibility of all South Africans to end the culture of silence around gender-based violence and protect the women and children.”
In elevating the fight against GBV in his 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Cyril Ramaphosa initiated the anti-GBV campaign, in which he called upon all South African men to unite to end GBV.
“Government continues to uphold its constitutional responsibility and national priority to protect, promote and advance the rights of women and persons with disabilities and the 2024 Women’s Month programme seeks to shine a spotlight on women in diverse fields and the strides made for advancing gender equity in the past 30 Years of Freedom and Democracy,” said the GCIS.
Further details on the events listed above as well as additional events are listed on the Women’s Month calendar which can be located at www.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 08/18/2024 - 13:27
9 views
PRASA’s hiring and firing of CEO has cost R15-million and counting
Zolani Matthews has been given the boot again, this time for “operational reasons”
President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law
President Ramaphosa signs Electricity Regulation Amendment Act into law
President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act which sets out far-reaching reforms of the country’s electricity sector, including the establishment of a competitive electricity market.
In a statement on Friday, the Presidency said the bill assented to by the President amends the Electricity Regulation Act of 2006. This is so as to respond to current realities in the electricity sector.
It also opens up pathways to greater competition and reduced energy costs; increases investment in new generation capacity to achieve energy security; establishes an independent transmission company as the custodian of the national grid; and imposes severe penalties for damage to and sabotage of infrastructure.
The Electricity Regulation Amendment Act provides for the establishment, duties, powers and functions of the Transmission System Operator SOC Ltd (TSO) – which must be established as an independent entity within five years – and for the National Transmission Company of South Africa to act as the TSO in the interim.
It also provides for an open market platform that allows for competitive, wholesale or retail buying and selling of electricity.
The Act provides for market operation as a new activity that may be licensed by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA).
In addition, it requires the development of a Market Code that will establish rules to govern the future competitive market and outlines the process through which the code will be approved.
The Act further clarifies the principles that apply to the setting or approval of prices, charges and tariffs, providing, among others, that NERSA must enable an efficient licensee to recover the full cost of the licensed activity, must allow for a reasonable return proportionate to the risk of the licensed activity, and may provide for incentives for continued improvement of technical and economic efficiency.
As it does so, the regulator may consider factors such as security of supply, the diversity of supply and the promotion of renewable energy.
In addition, the Act distinguishes between tariffs that must be set or approved by the regulator, such as network charges, and those which are subject to a direct supply agreement or arise as an outcome of a competitive market.
“To ensure a level playing field for competition between multiple electricity generators, the Act provides that the system operator shall not discriminate between different generators or customers in relation to dispatching or balancing the system, except for objectively justifiable and identifiable reasons approved by the regulator.
“Access to the transmission and distribution power system must be objective, transparent and non-discriminatory,” said the Presidency.
These changes are in line with the broader reforms guided by the Energy Action Plan and the Eskom Roadmap, which aim to modernise and transform South Africa’s electricity system to end load shedding and ensure long-term energy security.
It is anticipated that diversity of supply and the promotion of renewables will stimulate a demand for new skills, innovation and technology in the electricity sector, which will generate new industrial activity and in turn mitigate unemployment.
Reinforcing the protection of public infrastructure as part of the fight against crime, the law provides for fines of up to R1 million or five years in prison – or both – for persons who, among other offences, damage, remove or destroy any transmission, distribution or reticulation cable, equipment or infrastructure.
Penalties for persons who unlawfully receive such cables, equipment or infrastructure face fines of up to R5 million or 10 years in prison, or both.
Going forward, the Act will lead to long term energy security, a more competitive energy system, more rapid uptake of renewable energy sources, and ultimately lower energy prices for all South Africans.
The Electricity Regulation Amendment (ERA) Bill was passed through a majority in the National Assembly in March.
READ | National Assembly passes Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill
-SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Sat, 08/17/2024 - 08:32
85 views
Investigating Directorate bolsters fight against corruption
Investigating Directorate bolsters fight against corruption
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, says the operationalisation and establishment of the Investigating Directorate against Corruption (IDAC) – which resides within the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) – is a crucial step in government’s fight against corruption in the country.
The Minister was speaking at a media briefing in Tshwane on Friday.
In May this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa assented to the NPA Amendment Act and on Thursday, signed a proclamation which brought the Act into operation.
“The establishment… marks a significant milestone in our fight against corruption. Unlike the previous Investigating Directorate, which was subject to dissolution by proclamation, IDAC’s permanence ensures its independence and the necessary parliamentary oversight. It also provides the IDAC with criminal investigation powers.
“The IDAC will no longer rely on secondments for staffing. Instead, it will recruit permanent staff and invest in long-term training. This will enhance our capacity to combat complex corruption, implement decisions from commissions of inquiry, and uphold the recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption, and Fraud in the Public Sector,” Simelane said.
She added that the Justice Ministry is empowered to make regulations to support the critical work of the IDAC.
“The necessary regulations for section 19D(3) and section 22A(4) of the NPA Act have been prepared and will be published on 19 August 2024. Additionally, we are finalising regulations under section 8, which will allow for the appointment of a retired judge to oversee complaints related to IDAC investigators.”
Data of the State Capture Commission
Turning to work in the pursuance of justice as a result of the recommendations of the State Capture Commission, Simelane revealed that during a meeting between business and government this week, a commitment was made to collaborate to set up a digital evidence unit.
READ | Government, business partnership begins to flourish
During its existence, the commission’s data centre collected more than a petabyte of both structured and unstructured data stemming from:
- Park Town Office: This office stored digital records from the Commission's hearings, investigations, and legal work, including data from the Commission's website.
- Registry Office: This office received and collected documentary data submitted to the Secretariat office.
“The outcome of the meeting between the business-government partnership and President Cyril Ramaphosa is that the partnership is collaborating to set up a new independent digital evidence unit.
“The unit will extract and analyse data from encrypted devices such as cellphones and laptops to come up with the evidence needed to prosecute criminal cases of corruption successfully, specifically cases related to state capture,” she said.
The Minister was at pains to explain that the data collected by the commission during its existence has been shared with law enforcement agencies and that those agencies continue to have access to it.
“The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is the legal custodian of the Commission's assets, including its data, on behalf of the South African State, government, and people. Law enforcement agencies have priority access to the data but do not have exclusive access or ownership.
“To facilitate this, the Commission amended its Regulation 11 to grant special access to its data. The Commission also trained over 20 NPA investigators to access its digital forensic platforms,” Simelane said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 12:41
327 views
Pre-dawn operation moves homeless people off Cape Town’s streets
City is offering “Safe Space” shelters but some people don’t want to go there
Home Affairs tackles ID fraud
Home Affairs tackles ID fraud
The Department of Home Affairs is taking decisive action against fraud involving identity books and cards.
Through a publication in the government gazette, the department has called upon persons who are currently in possession of blocked IDs to provide written reasons and representations within 30 days for why their ID should not be cancelled.
The submissions must be sent to: Sylvia.Phasha@dha.gov.za.
The department will also undertake a sustained social media advertising campaign to provide the public with an opportunity to make representations.
Through the move, Home Affairs aims to both resolve the decades-old issue of wrongfully blocked IDs while reducing the number of fraudulent documents in circulation.
Some of the IDs were originally blocked as far back as 2005 for a range of reasons. This includes the biometric system flagging the documents as duplicates, held by illegal immigrants, or because the ID holder had passed away.
By providing the public with an opportunity to make representations, the department intends to end the inconvenience caused by the block to holders of legitimate IDs, while cancelling IDs held by unauthorised persons.
The gazetting of this measure is also in furtherance of compliance with a court order handed down earlier this year, which required the department to undertake a fair administrative process to differentiate between IDs that have been wrongfully blocked and IDs that represent genuine security threats.
“I encourage members of the public to make use of this opportunity to ensure that we conduct a just and equitable process to unblock IDs that have been wrongfully blocked,” Minister Leon Schreiber said.
“At the same time, the gazetting of these decisive measures underscores our commitment to clamp down on fraud, and to move with urgency to resolve longstanding challenges while upholding the rule of law,” Schreiber said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 14:28
192 views
BMA Commissioner to visit Port of Cape Town
BMA Commissioner to visit Port of Cape Town
The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, will undertake a monitoring and evaluation visit to the Port of Cape Town.
The purpose of the visit is in response to the recently reported increased numbers in cruise liners utilising the port as an international destination of choice.
In preparation for the upcoming 2024 and 2025 cruise season, Tuesday’s visit to the port is to ensure that it is ready to deal with the projected increase in international visitors.
“Cape Town Port of Entry is also the second largest cargo processing seaport and cruise liner in the country with recent rapid increases having mandated the extension of the cruise season to be moved from November to June 2024 due to high demand,” the BMA said on Friday.
The BMA is responsible for the execution of frontline border law enforcement functions related to immigration control, port health, access control, biosecurity, food safety and phyto-sanitary control, land border infrastructure development and maintenance, border information and risk management. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 14:42
111 views
The Essential Role of Answering Services Across Various Industries
In today’s competitive business environment, providing exceptional customer service is crucial for maintaining client satisfaction and loyalty. One of the key components of superior customer service is ensuring that all client communications are handled promptly and professionally. This is where answering services come into play. Whether for law firms, hotels, or medical practices, specialized answering …
Home Affairs welcomes court decision on 95 Libyans
Home Affairs welcomes court decision on 95 Libyans
The Department of Home Affairs has welcomed the court decision that the 95 Libyan nationals that were arrested in White River, Mpumalanga, be deported.
In that regard, Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, has instructed the department to proceed with speed, while observing all the legal processes to ensure that the deportations are conducted swiftly.
This as the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) withdrew charges against the 95 who were arrested at a suspected military camp in Mpumalanga last month.
READ | Charges withdrawn against 95 Libyan nationals; deportation next
“Consequently, Home Affairs officials were in court to secure the confirmations for deportation from the Magistrate as this will pave the way for their deportation,” the department said in a statement on Thursday.
Home Affairs officials are finalising logistics for the deportation.
"As indicated earlier, deportation was among the options Home Affairs considered working with other law enforcement authorities,” it said, adding that it stands ready to send the group back to their home country.
“We will not hesitate to act decisively to ensure that anyone who breaches the immigration laws of the country is processed through the courts and accordingly faces the consequences. Respect for the rule of law is sacrosanct,” said Minister Schreiber. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 08/16/2024 - 09:08
108 views
Man suspected of raping a disabled child is at large after police bungle arrest
Mother says Elliot police have failed her
Stop new mining on West Coast, say fishers
“We depend on the ocean”
Holistic approach needed to address underlying factors behind GBVF
Holistic approach needed to address underlying factors behind GBVF
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has underscored the need for a holistic approach that addresses both the immediate and underlying factors behind gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Chikunga made the remarks during a dialogue on Women, Democracy and Leadership in South Africa, held at the University of South Africa (UNISA) on Thursday.
Chikunga, together with UNISA and the United Nations Women, hosted a dialogue, which looked deeply at women’s representation and administrative arrangements needed to achieve a gender-responsive government.
Chikunga said government has come to terms with the fact that laws alone will not prevent the killing of women.
“Despite being a constitutionally assured right, women continue to live in fear, grappling with alarming rates of gender-based violence and femicide. This remains a deeply entrenched problem with multifaceted roots, including historical inequalities, cultural norms, economic disparities, and systemic failures in law enforcement and justice systems,” Chikunga said.
Government has passed several laws, including the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1997, Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998, Protection from Harassment Act 17 of 2011, Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, Promotion of Women’s Rights, Empowerment and Gender Equality Bill, and the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Act 9 of 2024.
However, to effectively prevent and combat GBVF, Chikunga said a holistic approach is needed, “one that addresses both the immediate and underlying factors”.
Significant strides in women representation
Reflecting on the journey travelled by women over the past three decades of the country’s democratic dispensation, Chikunga said over the past 30 years, the country has seen significant strides in ensuring women representation in decision-making and law-making circles.
Today, women make up 43.5% of the Parliament of National Unity, holding 171 of the 400 seats, an increase from 28% representation in 1994.
“Of the 75 Executive Members appointed in June 2024, 32 are women, representing 42.66%. Fourteen of the 32 Cabinet positions are held by women, and 18 of the 43 Deputy Minister positions are held by women,” Chikunga said.
The Minister emphasised the substantive contribution that women should make once in such positions.
“As we celebrate the strides that we have made, we also give due consideration to the tasks that remain undone, [these include] the need to drive inclusive growth and job creation; to reduce poverty and to tackle the high cost of living, and the task of building a capable, ethical, and developmental state. We remain mindful of the fact that in each of these priority areas, women are the most affected,” Chikunga said.
The Minister also highlighted significant progress made towards the fight against HIV/Aids, particularly in the rollout of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for pregnant women, and an increasing number of students that have gained access to education, especially higher education from which they were previously excluded due to their social class or marginalised race or ethnic group.
Redefining advocacy to address plight of businesswomen
Chikunga also stressed the importance of redefining advocacy and mainstreaming to be strategy-programmes-goals-oriented and action-driven, to address the plight of women in business, government, farm workers, mining, and the unemployed.
“We need to advocate and mainstream women, youth and persons with disabilities across all sectors, with a focused lens on industries with high potential for growth and development.
“We need to ring-fence funds in the budget to ensure implementation of women, youth and persons with disabilities socio-economic empowerment, starting with the allocation of change oriented -budget allocation for the department, which need to reflect intentional implementation of the gender planning and budgeting framework,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/15/2024 - 12:59
410 views
Homeless people removed from Cape Town’s city centre
“We want everybody to have dignified accommodation,” says ward councillor
Public Procurement Bill to redress women socio-economic exclusion
Public Procurement Bill to redress women socio-economic exclusion
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga, says the Public Procurement Bill provides the department with an opportunity to advocate and mainstream tangible models and interventions to redress the ongoing socio-economic exclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities.
Chikunga commended the significant efforts by President Cyril Ramaphosa after signing into law the Public Procurement Bill last month, which aims to create a single framework that regulates public procurement, including preferential procurement, by all organs of State, with the necessary efficiency, cost-effectiveness and integrity.
“As a department, we will be bringing forward tangible interventions through which this legislation will serve to redress the longstanding and ongoing socio-economic exclusion of women, youth and persons with disabilities,” Chikunga said.
Addressing a dialogue on Women, Democracy and Leadership in South Africa at the University of South Africa (UNISA) on Thursday, Chikunga also commended President Ramaphosa, as the Chairperson of the African Union in 2020, for putting forward a number of recommendations for the advancement of women on the continent, which have been adopted by AU Heads of State.
READ | Government, business partnership begins to flourish
Increase in support for women entrepreneurs
Chikunga also acknowledged a surge in the establishment, growth and support of women-owned businesses in key sectors, including energy, tourism, agriculture, the ocean economy, and manufacturing.
According to the most recent Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs (MIWE), South Africa ranks as the second highest country in Africa in terms of its proportion of women-owned businesses and the formal support available for women entrepreneurs.
The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Women’s Entrepreneurship Report also revealed that women in countries like South Africa are among the most innovative and high-growth entrepreneurs in the world.
“There is sufficient evidence that reaffirms the importance of women entrepreneurs in contributing to the overall productivity and transformation of our economy through diversifying industries, innovation, and fostering economic resilience.
“In addition, women-owned businesses contribute to the creation of employment opportunities, promote inclusive supply chains, and stimulate local economies,” Chikunga said.
Women economic advancement in the Continent
Chikunga further underscored the importance of the adoption of the Decade for African Women’s Financial Inclusion and Gender Equality, 2020-2030.
“This is a critical initiative for the women of Africa, given that the lack of access to finances hinders their socio-economic progress, and thwarts their ability to have ownership and control over resources such as land, businesses and property,” Chikunga said.
She added that women’s access to markets continues to be a challenge for women on the continent, especially access to trade and global markets.
The Minister argued that the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA) will open doors for global trade and markets for women, and “this is of huge importance to the women in South Africa to leverage on the opportunities this AfCTA promises for the economic empowerment and wealth creation for women in Africa”.
“Africa must be Africa’s biggest trading partner and demand for products across the continent offers African women the opportunity to be suppliers to this demand. Joint initiatives of pooling resources in this regard will help grow women businesses, provide the necessary skills and training required for this, and open markets and export trade opportunities,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/15/2024 - 13:49
284 views
Charges withdrawn against 95 Libyan nationals; deportation next
Charges withdrawn against 95 Libyan nationals; deportation next
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has withdrawn charges against 95 Libyans who were arrested at a suspected military camp in Mpumalanga last month.
The 95 were facing charges of Contraventions of the Immigration Act.
“The Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Sonja Ntuli, reviewed all available evidence and the representations made on behalf of the accused and having considered the evidence and policy considerations, has decided to withdraw the charges preferred against all accused who were arrested at the military training camp in July 2024.
“The charges related to alleged misrepresentations made by the accused in their applications for study visas. There were other more serious allegations that [the] SAPS [South African Police Service] needed to look into,” the NPA said on Thursday.
READ | Cabinet commends continued law enforcement agencies successes
Other matters, according to the prosecutorial body, will be “dealt with administratively in terms of the Immigration Act and its Regulations by the Department of Home Affairs officials”.
“Importantly, the SAPS (Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations) are proceeding with investigations against the planners, organisers and financiers of the military training camp. The NPA is working closely with DPCI to ensure that these alleged criminals are brought to justice as appropriate.
“The NPA has coordinated with its criminal justice partners and the 95 accused will be under the custody of the Department of Home Affairs that will facilitate the deportation process,” the NPA concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/15/2024 - 14:03
67 views
NPA Aspirant Prosecutor Programme back on track
NPA Aspirant Prosecutor Programme back on track
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has announced that it will reinstate the much vaunted Aspirant Prosecutor Programme.
The programme was suspended this year due to budget constraints.
“In 2022/23, the NPA absorbed over 1000 law graduates into its Aspirant Prosecutor Programme. Due to the unplanned budget cuts, many of these aspirants could not be given contracts after completion of the programme.
“The recent improvement in the NPA’s budget situation has allowed the organisation to offer contracts to many aspirants that are already in the system, gradually filling the vacant district court posts that are being created through internal promotions,” the NPA said in a statement on Thursday.
The institution added that training for the 2025 intake is expected to start on 1 March 2025.
“For 2024, the NPA is starting the process to recruit a smaller intake of 80 aspirants for the year, but with a specific focus on NPA offices that have the capacity to train these colleagues and utilise them in priority high need areas.
“The advertisement for the 2025 intake will be published on 16 August on the NPA and DPSA [Department of Public Service and Administration] websites, as well as on the NPA social media platforms,” the NPA said.
Enquiries on the programme can be sent to communication@npa.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 08/15/2024 - 09:51
382 views
30 years of service delivery
30 years of service delivery
By Dr Namane Masemola
On the 29th of May this year, South Africans went to polls to renew our constitutional democracy based on the will of the people and rule of law.
For the first time since 1994, there was no outright winner in the national elections and this situation required political parties to negotiate amongst themselves on the formation of the 7th Administration.
The Government of National Unity (GNU) presents a unique opportunity to build on the gains made since 1994 by ensuring collaboration across diverse political parties. This unity allows for a more inclusive approach to governance and multiple perspectives are considered in decision making informed by the statement of intent, which finds it expression in the State of the Nation address, a profound government policy statement that sets the trajectory for socio-economic development.
Working through the GNU, South Africa will be working to, for example, expand services to meet the basic needs of all the people, particularly the majority of those who had been deliberately denied by the apartheid government.
In the past, basic services were provided based on race and black people were excluded. In 1994, 12 million people had no access to safe drinking water, 17 million lived below the poverty line while 21 million had no adequate sanitation. About 2 million were subjected to using the bucket system which was a stark violation of the right to dignity and unhygienic. The urban housing backlog in 1990 was conservatively estimated at 1.3 million units. Including hostels and rural areas, the backlog rose to approximately three million units.
Our villages and townships were almost pitch dark at night as there was non-existent or inadequate street lighting. Most people also used open fires and coal stoves and that led to high levels of sulphur dioxide, which adversely affected the health of many people.
To uplift the material condition of all South Africans, the democratically elected government implemented the Reconstruction and Development Programme aimed at addressing and prioritising the provision of the basic needs of people such as water, electricity, housing, sanitation, refuse and waste removal.
Thirty years into our democracy, South Africa is a vastly different place compared to what it was when the government took over in 1994. Key progress is reflected in the Census 2022, with the number of households in the country having almost doubled from 9,1 million in 1996 to 17,8 million in 2022. In 2022, almost 29,9 percent of household reside in a government-subsidised dwelling or RDP house while over 82,4 percent of households had access to piped water either inside their dwelling or inside their yard.
In 2022, approximately 66,3 percent of households in the country had their refuse removed by a local authority once a week, as opposed to 52 percent in 1996. About 13,7 million people have been provided with homes through various social housing programmes from 1994 to 2022. In 2022, 83.2 percent of households had access to improved sanitation services while those using electricity as the main source of energy for lighting increased from 58,1 percent in 1996 to 94,7 percent in 2022.
Another important intervention was to allow households who cannot afford municipal services access to free basic services through the municipal indigent policy. Through this policy, every poor household is guaranteed to receive at least a minimum standard of basic services such as 6 kilolitres of water and 50 kilowatts of electricity monthly.
This free basic services programme currently supports more than 3.5 million indigent households and reduces the burden of household labour and brings about relief to poor households who experience a lower quality of life. It also ensures that no citizen is denied the right to basic services, regardless of their ability to pay.
As we reflect on the progress we've made since 1994, it's equally important to acknowledge the challenges we face, including the lingering issues inherited from our past, even 30 years into our democracy.
To build on our achievements, we must unite as a nation. Every South African has a role to play in shaping our future. In line with the District Development Model, we need collaboration across all sectors—government, business, and civil society—to drive economic growth, create jobs, and foster hope for a better tomorrow.
*Dr Namane is the CoGTA Deputy Minister.
Matona
Thu, 08/15/2024 - 12:35
49 views
WHO declares mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency
WHO declares mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency
The ongoing outbreak of Mpox has been officially declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
The upsurge of Mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and a growing number of countries in Africa has been determined by the WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, to constitute a
Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (IHR).
Ghebreyesus’ declaration came on the advice of an IHR Emergency Committee of independent experts who met on Wednesday to review data presented by experts from the WHO and affected countries.
A PHEIC is the highest alert level under international health law.
“The emergence of a new clade of Mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighbouring countries are very worrying. On top of outbreaks of other Mpox clades in DRC and other countries in Africa, it’s clear that a coordinated international response is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives,” Ghebreyesus said.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, said significant efforts are already underway in close collaboration with communities and governments, with country teams working on the frontlines to help reinforce measures to curb Mpox.
“With the growing spread of the virus, we’re scaling up further through coordinated international action to support countries bring the outbreaks to an end,” she said.
Committee Chair, Professor Dimie Ogoina, indicated that the current upsurge of Mpox in parts of Africa, along with the spread of a new sexually transmissible strain of the Mpox virus, is an emergency, not only for Africa but for the entire globe.
“Mpox, originating in Africa, was neglected there, and later caused a global outbreak in 2022. It is time to act decisively to prevent history from repeating itself.”
According to the WHO, the multi-country outbreak of Mpox was declared a PHEIC in 2022 after it spread rapidly via sexual contact across a range of countries where the virus had not been seen before.
That PHEIC was declared over in May 2023 after there had been a sustained decline in global cases.
Meanwhile, Mpox has been reported in the DRC for more than a decade, and the number of cases reported each year has increased steadily over that period.
Last year, the WHO said reported cases increased significantly, and already the number of cases reported so far this year has exceeded last year’s total, with more than 15 600 cases and 537 deaths.
“The emergence last year and rapid spread of a new virus strain in DRC, clade 1b, which appears to be spreading mainly through sexual networks, and its detection in countries neighbouring the DRC is especially concerning, and one of the main reasons for the declaration of the PHEIC,” the WHO said.
In South Africa, the total number of cases stands at 24, of which 12 were reported in Gauteng, 11 in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape and three deaths.
Vaccine donation
The WHO announced it was working with countries and vaccine manufacturers on potential vaccine donations and coordinating with partners through the interim Medical Countermeasures Network to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics and other tools.
The WHO said it anticipates an immediate funding requirement of an initial US$ 15 million to support surveillance, preparedness and response activities.
To allow for an immediate scale-up, the WHO said it has released US$ 1.45 million from the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies and may need to release more in the coming days.
“The organisation appeals to donors to fund the full extent of needs of the Mpox response.”
READ | Everything you need to know about Mpox disease – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/15/2024 - 09:57
133 views