law

27 November 2023

Eskom receives global credit ratings boost

Location: News

Eskom receives global credit ratings boost

Eskom has welcomed the decision by global ratings agency S&P Global to upgrade the power utility’s credit rating to ‘B’ from ‘CCC+’ with a stable outlook on the company’s senior secured and senior unsecured debt.

In addition, S&P Global also upgraded Eskom’s South Africa national scale rating to ‘zaBBB/zaA-2’ from ‘zaB/zaB’.

Eskom Acting Group Chief Executive Calib Cassim said: “Eskom welcomes the decision to upgrade the company’s credit rating by S&P Global. We continue to work with key stakeholders, particularly shareholder ministries as we implement our turnaround plan with a focus on key strategic objectives which include operations and financial recovery; people, culture and ethics, and legal separation of the business.”

The credit ratings agency cited government’s R254 billion debt relief package as key in the electricity company’s credit quality.

“In their rationale, the credit rating agency stated that the upgrade is due to their expectation that the South African government’s R254 billion financial support package, as part of the Eskom Debt Relief Act signed into law on 7 July 2023, will cover Eskom’s debt servicing and repayment obligations over the current and coming two financial years resulting in an improvement of the company’s credit quality.

“The stable outlook reflects S&P Global’s view that Eskom’s creditworthiness will continue to benefit from explicit and timely support from the South African Government, facilitating a strengthening of Eskom’s liquidity position and less risk of default as the debt relief agreement is implemented as stipulated,” Eskom said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 11/27/2023 - 10:02

35 views

26 November 2023

Office of Tax Ombud ready to assist with complaints against SARS

Location: News

Office of Tax Ombud ready to assist with complaints against SARS

While the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) is committed to those seeking assistance with their tax complaints against the South African Revenue Service (SARS), Tax Ombud Yanga Mputa has reminded citizens that the entity is not in the business of helping taxpayers and businesses dodge their tax responsibilities.

Addressing the celebration of 10 years of the existence of the Tax Ombud, Mputa reiterated that the OTO champions taxpayers' rights and tax compliance.

“The office provides taxpayers and tax practitioners with a simple and impartial channel to seek a resolution for a service, procedural or administrative dispute they might have already unsuccessfully tried to resolve through SARS's complaints management channels.

“We play a unique taxpayer complaints resolution role and align with the Public Protector... The Public Protector exists to ensure administrative justice by being a check on the exercise by the government and its agencies of their authority, and on the other hand, the Tax Ombud exists to ensure administrative justice by being a check on the exercise of authority by SARS,” she said on Friday in Pretoria.

Mputa said the OTO is celebrating a decade of making a difference in the lives of taxpayers and a beacon of hope to scores who have tax complaints with the revenue collector.

Taking place under the theme: “10 Years of Making Taxpayers' Rights Matter," the Tax Ombud said until the establishment of the office, there was no independent redress channel for taxpayers, who had exhausted the normal SARS complaints mechanisms.

“The OTO was not a 'nice to have' but a prerequisite institution that has positively contributed to improving our country's tax administration system. Our intervention has saved taxpayers millions of rands, homes and businesses, to mention a few. However, we are not oblivious that we would not have achieved all this without our stakeholders,” she said.

Mputa said one of the important commitments of the Office of the Tax Ombud is the improvement of South Africa's tax administration system.

“Defending taxpayer rights is central to a tax system that follows a voluntary compliance/self-assessment tax system. In a voluntary compliance/self-assessment tax system, if taxpayers believe they are treated or may be treated arbitrarily and impulsively, they may mistrust the tax system and be less likely to comply with the law voluntarily.

“On the other hand, if taxpayers have confidence in the fairness and integrity of the tax system, they will be more likely to comply,” the Tax Ombud said.

In 2022, the Office of the Tax Ombud published the country's first-ever Compilation of Taxpayers' Rights, Entitlements and Obligations.

“This document's main aim is to highlight taxpayers' rights and obligations as contained in various laws, including the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 and the Tax Administration Act, 2011,” Mputa said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 11/26/2023 - 10:12

235 views

26 November 2023

Government committed to ending GBV

Location: News

Government committed to ending GBV

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reiterated that government remains committed to work aimed at eradicating the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“We will not rest until our communities are safe for all, especially women and girls. We must report and condemn the perpetrators who reside within our communities,” the Deputy President said on Saturday.

Mashatile presided over the launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign for 2023 at Nsikazi Stadium in Gutshwa, Mpumalanga.

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign this year will be commemorated under the theme: “Accelerating Actions to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide: Leaving No One Behind”.

This is a call to action to raise awareness about the devastating impact that gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) has on women, children and the entire social fabric.

“Since the dawn of democracy, this government has consistently shown commitment to addressing GBV by implementing legislative, policy and other measures to advance equality and empowerment for women, children, and people with disabilities.

“Recently, we passed six pieces of legislation related to gender-based violence and femicide, and the ongoing implementation costing exercise underscores our commitment to ending GBVF,” Mashatile said.

He mentioned that one significant milestone is the recent assent of President Cyril Ramaphosa to crucial legislative reforms, which include the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act Amendment Bill, the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Bill, and the Domestic Violence Amendment Bill.

“This month marks a historic milestone with the passing of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill by the National Assembly. The establishment of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, underpinned by this robust legislative framework, is an urgent and critical task.

“In addition, we have established and capacitated the Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at provincial and local levels to end the pandemic. This includes the development of the Comprehensive National Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Prevention and the Integrated Femicide Strategic Frameworks, which signal a holistic approach to turning the gender-based violence tide,” Mashatile said.

The Deputy President noted the National School of Government's effort to impart knowledge through a dedicated online course covering gender mainstreaming and gender-responsive planning and budgeting, which exemplifies government's commitment to mainstreaming women's and girls’ priorities.

“The existence of the Intersectional Shelter Policy, the Psycho-Social Support Services (PSSS) Policy, and the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre, which is a 24-hour helpline, demonstrates our resolve to provide essential services and support to survivors.

“Provinces are identifying and refurbishing underutilised buildings for shelters and interim housing. The Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) are being expanded, with three new centres established. Our initiatives primarily focus on bolstering women’s economic empowerment across diverse sectors,” Mashatile said.

He recognised efforts by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in combatting GBV and femicide.

“The recent identification and takedown of 27 sexual predators in the country and the recent sentencing of Mario Giusti to 6 400 years in jail after being found guilty of more than 1 000 charges of child pornography is a step in the right direction.

“Witnessing such law enforcement actions is encouraging, and we hope to observe further arrests of this nature in the future,” Mashatile said.

He called on government, communities and civil society to act on the widespread prejudice against the LGBTQIA+ community and the apathy that allows the victims to be "invisible" and denied basic human rights.

“Moreover, we must understand that sexual violence is not only about sexism. A woman can perpetrate against a man, a man can perpetrate against a woman, and it can happen between same-sex couples as well.

“Today, we must recommit ourselves to ending violence against women and children. We have the ability to shape a future in which women and children are safe and their rights are respected.

“I urge men in our communities to be role models to young boys. Remember, boys are born, and men are made. As men, we can help develop men in our society who respect women; men who do not see women as objects; men who recognise the equality of women,” he said.

The Deputy President also urged traditional leaders to intensify their role as community leaders against unfair inheritance practices and GBVF.

“As custodians of our culture, customs and origin, you must say no to cultural practices that are harmful to women and children, such as ukuthwala, child muthi killings, witchcraft burning, and many other practices.

“Let us join together, leaving no one behind, as a community to accelerate actions to end gender-based violence and femicide,” Mashatile said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 11/26/2023 - 09:02

104 views

24 November 2023

Consumers urged to exercise caution when buying food products on Black Friday

Location: News

Consumers urged to exercise caution when buying food products on Black Friday

The Department of Health has urged consumers to exercise extra caution when buying goods, especially food products, during the Black Friday frenzy by prioritising quality and safety over quantity and savings to mitigate buying counterfeit and expired foodstuffs.

“It is indisputable that Black Friday deals provide consumers with discounts and savings on a variety of goods. Therefore, it is important for consumers to guard against purchasing counterfeit and expired foodstuffs by thoroughly checking food labelling and expiry dates on food items to prevent ongoing sporadic cases of life-threatening food poisoning.”

The department has reminded consumers to be on the lookout and report any suspicious goods sold by outlets and retailers to environmental health practitioners or food inspectors at their nearest municipal offices or Consumer Goods Council of South Africa.

“Consumption of expired and counterfeit foods can pose serious health risks, including food poisoning, allergic reactions and long-term health complications.”

The department said through its food control and environmental health sections, it has been working closely with other stakeholders to raise public awareness about the dangers of consuming counterfeit and expired food products to keep the public safe.

The country, according to the statement, has 1 712 environmental health practitioners, known as health inspectors, spread across 44 districts and eight metropolitan municipalities, serving 62 million South Africans. This translates to one health inspector for every 36 000 people.

“This means the efforts to prevent production and selling of counterfeit and expired foodstuffs detrimental to human health cannot be left solely in the hands of food inspectors, but it should be everyone’s business,” the department said.

People are advised to not buy or consume highly perishable products with damaged packaging or lapsed expiry dates, even if they smell and look good.

Meanwhile, the department said the South African Police Service (SAPS) is empowered to investigate and is also authorised, under the Foodstuffs Act, as inspectors and has powers to collect food samples for analysis as part of their investigation, especially where there is a case of unnatural death.

“Members of the public are not allowed, in terms of this legislation, to take the law into their own hands to conduct any food inspection blitz in food outlets, but they should report any outlet to the relevant authorities,” the department explained.

Tips to identify possible illicit food products:

- Colour would normally differ from the original because incorrect additives were used to manufacture the fake products.

- Inconsistency in the texture, smell and colour of the product.

- Check if manufacturing and expiry date are not adulterated with or damaged, or not clearly visible.

- Check the nutrition label on supplements and food items because in most cases, fake goods contain some discrepancy in listing the ingredients.

- Carefully look at the packaging if it is not suspicious because counterfeiters produce close replicas, but mostly cannot perfect it. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 11/24/2023 - 10:11

71 views

23 November 2023

Nxesi denies allegations of corruption in R5 billion UIF jobs deal

Location: News

Nxesi denies allegations of corruption in R5 billion UIF jobs deal

Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi is set to file court papers to set aside the controversial R5-billion Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) jobs deal with Thuja Holdings.

Nxesi briefed the media on Thursday following allegations of his involvement in the UIF jobs deal saga with Mthunzi Mdwaba's Thuja Holdings.

The allegations were made by Mthunzi Mdwaba, the CEO of Thuja Holdings, and former Chair of Productivity SA, in relation to a R5 billion agreement that was concluded in December 2022 between his company and the UIF.

He accused Nxesi and other high-ranking government officials of trying to solicit a bribe from him. The Minister said that the agreement was signed without the knowledge of the executive authority or of National Treasury.

“Today, I signed my affidavit in support of various orders, chief amongst being the setting aside of the agreement. I have brought this application on an urgent basis. In that affidavit I challenge Mdwaba to present his evidence in support of his allegations that I have demanded any payment of a corrupt fee in relation to the agreement.

“If he cannot produce that evidence, I have asked the court for an interdict to stop him from promoting his campaign of false and unsupported lies.

“In simple terms, I have taken the decision to have the agreement concluded by the UIF with Mdwaba set aside, because it was concluded in breach of section 54(2) of the PFMA [Public Finance Management Act],” he said.

The Minister further denied allegations by Mdwaba that he and other Ministers tried to solicit a R500-million bribe in the UIF jobs deal.

“Mr Mdwaba’s allegations of seeking bribes against myself, and others, are false and unsupported by any actual evidence. Let me be clear: I categorically deny these recent allegations of corruption…you must ask why Mdwaba waited nearly a year to come up with these allegations…Mdwaba will now have to prove these allegations in a court of law.”

The Minister also questioned the legality of the Thuja Capital deal stating that the real issue is “whether the deal is legal and valid, and [whether] due processes were followed in terms of the law.”

“This is an issue to be settled by the court. Mdwaba’s 10% bribe allegation will also be placed on record and subjected to the scrutiny of the court.”

LAP Programmes

The Minister said that as preparations to file papers in court continues, further allegations have been made, apparently by an anonymous individual seeking immunity for past crimes committed.

The allegation is that the former Director-General of the department, Thobile Lamati and the Minister colluded in illegally siphoning off R3 billion from Labour Activation Programmes (LAP) 11 programmes.

“On the last issue of R3 billion, I am happy that this will be investigated by law enforcement agencies to establish the processes followed and the roles of all parties concerned. To this end, I have instructed all staff members to fully cooperate with state agencies investigating the matter,” said the Minister.

Nxesi has also mandated the Department of Employment and Labour (including the UIF and LAP), through the Acting DG Dr Alec Moemi , to strengthen internal business processes including risk management, financial controls and consequence management, as well as to increase capacity in project and programme management, governance, and digitalisation to improve effectiveness and efficiencies among others.

He said the UIF and Compensation Fund organisational architecture has been comprehensively reviewed exactly to achieve these objectives. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Thu, 11/23/2023 - 14:42

315 views

23 November 2023

Hawks hard at work in dealing with national priority offences

Location: News

Hawks hard at work in dealing with national priority offences

The Directory for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) is hard at work in dealing with national priority offences.

This is according to the National Head for the Directory for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, who briefed media on Thursday.

Giving an update on the Hawks' second quarter of 2023/24 financial year report, Lebeya said at least 801 suspects were arrested nationally, which is made of 791 natural persons and 10 juristic persons, who were secured before the various courts across the country.

Lebeya said he is happy with the conviction rate of suspects.

He said 244 accused persons, consisting of 234 natural persons and 10 juristic persons, were convicted and sentenced.

“The top five national priority offences contributed a high number of arrests of 173 suspects for fraud, 172 for precious metals and diamonds, 52 for narcotics, 48 for cash-in-transit robberies (CIT) and 37 for corruption.”

During these arrests, the DPCI seized various exhibits including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R92 407 269.33.

“In terms of crime categories relating to convictions, out of the 244 convictions, fraud contributed the highest number of 75, which is made of 62 South Africans, six foreign nationals and seven companies.

“The second is precious metals and diamonds with a total number of 51 accused persons. In terms of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act 121 of 1998 (POCA), a total number of 30 accused persons and two companies were convicted for a pattern of racketeering activity and money laundering.

“In terms of nationalities relating to conviction and sentences, 193 are South Africans, while 84 are foreign nationals,” Lebeya said.

The foreign nationals consisted of 48 Zimbabweans, seven Chinese, seven Mozambicans, four Nigerians, three Tanzanians, three Basotho, three Pakistanis, three Ethiopians, two Bangladeshis, two Zambians, one Canadian and one Ghanaian.

Police killings

Lebeya said attacks on police officials are an attack on the State and that the death of one police official is one too many.

He said 35 police officials were murdered in the second quarter, and 37 arrests were made, of which 10 are for older cases.

“Furthermore, of the 10 who have been sentenced, five accused persons were sentenced to share 10 life imprisonments and a combined 391 years imprisonment.”

Illegal mining

With regard to illegal mining, 172 suspects were arrested by the DPCI for precious metals and diamonds.

“We have conducted illegal mining disruptive operations and arrested a number of people, including seizing a number of equipment,” he said.

Among the things seized in one of the illegal mines include three rifles, ammunition, unwrought precious metals, food items, medicine and gold refining paraphernalia.

Kidnappings, drugs and CITs

With regard to kidnappings, a total number of 40 suspects were arrested on kidnapping related charges and 11 victims were rescued by a multidisciplinary kidnapping task team.

Lebeya said drugs, including clandestine laboratories valued at R11 086 284.00, were seized, with total number of 52 suspects arrested, of which 30 are South African nationals and 22 are foreign nationals.

“It is therefore imperative to educate our communities to stop the demand of drugs whilst law enforces to stop the supply.”

Meanwhile, cash-in transit heists continue to be a thorn in the economy of the country and the DPCI, in collaboration with private organisations, continues to strengthen the fight against these crimes.

“For this quarter, 48 arrests were effected and two convictions secured,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 11/23/2023 - 14:59

71 views

23 November 2023

Lottery to lay criminal complaints against former board members

Location: News

Chairperson Barney Pityana says Auditor-General must be held accountable for giving the National Lotteries Commission clean audits

22 November 2023

BRICS nations call for immediate and sustained humanitarian truce in Gaza

Location: News

BRICS nations call for immediate and sustained humanitarian truce in Gaza

The BRICS group of nations has strongly called for an immediate and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities in the situation in the Middle East.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, as Chair of the BRICS group of nations, convened a BRICS Extraordinary Joint Meeting on Tuesday to exchange views on the current situation in Gaza and other Palestinian Occupied Territories as well as its spillover effects.

Leaders of BRICS countries - Brazil, Russia, India and China - joined the virtual Extraordinary Meeting with invited BRICS leaders of Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.

“We called for an immediate, durable, and sustained humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities. We reiterated our strong support for regional and international efforts aimed at achieving an immediate cessation of hostilities, ensuring the protection of civilians and the provision of humanitarian aid,” a statement from the Presidency read.

The Chair’s summary of the Extraordinary Joint Meeting of BRICS stated that the leaders expressed their deep concern at the latest escalation of violence since the 7 October 2023 attack and the grave deterioration of the situation in the region, “in particular, the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and the rest of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and in Israel”.

All nations further condemned acts of violence aimed at Palestinian and Israeli civilians, including war crimes, indiscriminate attacks and targeting of civilian infrastructure, as well as all acts of provocation, incitement and destruction.

“We emphasised that civilians must be protected, in accordance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law,” the leaders stressed.

The Chair further called the immediate and unconditional release of all civilians who are being illegally held captive, demanding that their safety, and well-being are guaranteed, and that humane treatment is accorded to them in compliance with international law.

The leaders also stressed the need to pursue accountability saying, “we must ensure that independent and transparent investigations are conducted in accordance with international standards”.

Furthermore, the nation’s jointly condemned any kind of individual or mass forcible transfer and deportation of Palestinians from their own land.

Many leaders reiterated that the forced transfer and deportation of Palestinians, whether inside Gaza or to neighbouring countries, constitute grave breaches of the Geneva conventions and war crimes and violations under International Humanitarian Law.

The leaders further reiterated the need for full respect of international humanitarian law and the need for full, immediate, safe, unhindered, and sustained humanitarian access and the provision of aid in accordance with the basic principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence established in UNGA resolution 46/182.

“We reiterated our commitment to the peaceful resolution of differences and disputes through dialogue and inclusive consultations in a coordinated and cooperative manner and support all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of crises,” the statement read.

Moreover, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the basic principle that peace and security in the Middle East should be achieved and sustained in accordance with, and in full respect for, international law and the United Nations Charter.

They also reaffirmed the primary role of the UNSC in maintaining international peace and security. We joined other global leaders in welcoming the adoption of UNSC resolution 2712 on 15 November 2023 under China's UNSC Presidency and called for its full implementation.

The BRICS leaders acknowledged the important role played by relevant international and regional organisations, including the League of Arab States and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, in addressing threats to peace and security in accordance with Chapter VIII of the UN Charter.

They further welcomed the briefing by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the outcomes of the Joint Extraordinary Arab and Islamic Summit held in Riyadh on 11 November 2023. They also welcomed the efforts led by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, in hosting the Cairo Peace Summit.

“We emphasised the importance of preventing further destabilisation and escalation of violence, including the spill over of the conflict in the region and called upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint and, upon all those with influence on them, to work toward this objective.

“We reaffirmed that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be achieved by peaceful means,” the statement read.

The Chair called for the international community to support direct negotiations based on international law including relevant UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative, towards a two-state solution, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/22/2023 - 09:50

919 views

22 November 2023

Raising South Africa’s Economic Prospects by Curbing Crime

Location: News

The World Bank Group
Download logo

The impact of crime on South Africa's economic prospects is high and broad-based, according to a World Bank report released today. The report aims to contribute to a better understanding of the impact of crime on South Africa's economic growth.

The research is intended to support the government in the design and implementation of policies to combat and mitigate the costs of crime on the economy and society. This aligns with the government's objectives to initiate reforms aimed at enhancing the fight against crime, as outlined by South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, in the 2023 State of the Nation Address.

The fourteenth edition of the South Africa Economic Update, entitled Safety First: The Economic Cost of Crime in South Africa estimates that crime costs the economy at least 10 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually, in terms of stolen property; protection costs – encompassing security and insurance; and missed economic opportunities. The report investigates the economic impact of high crime rates on households, businesses, and the public sector, focusing on economically motivated crimes. The study is informed by official statistics from South Africa, and as well as data recognized in international sources.

"With this new edition of the Economic Update, the World Bank aims to contribute to the policy debate and support the government's action to reduce the incidence of crime, by quantifying its economic impact. This comes at a time when South Africa needs to address structural constraints that have locked the economy in a low growth-low employment trajectory,” says Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly, World Bank Country Director for South Africa, Eswatini, Botswana, Lesotho, and Namibia.

The prevalence of crime in South Africa remains a pressing concern, particularly due to high rates of violent offenses. With a consistent ranking among the top five countries globally for homicide rates, addressing this issue is crucial. Domestic organized crime is also increasing, including theft of key infrastructure networks.

The economy is on a low growth–low employment trajectory, with persistent poverty. Real growth in the gross domestic product (GDP) has been trending downward since the global financial crisis (2008–09), and GDP per capita has contracted on average since 2015. Socioeconomic outcomes have been weak, with high unemployment, poverty, and inequality. Structural constraints, especially the deepening electricity crisis and the transport bottlenecks, have exacerbated these problems. Medium-term prospects are weak, with real GDP growth estimated at 0.7 percent in 2023 and projected to average 1.5 percent annually over 2024-2026. Unemployment and poverty are projected to remain elevated. In this context, confronting the problem of crime and its socioeconomic costs is critical.

Government has put fighting crime at the forefront of its policy priorities. This study underscores the need for multi-faceted actions. Addressing crime is complex and requires long-term efforts, but past experiences in South Africa and abroad suggest that targeted, well-designed, and implemented policies can be prioritized for effective crime reduction over the short and medium term. Such policies and measures include law enforcement measures, regulatory reforms, and targeted violence prevention interventions. These are consistent with the government's current priorities. The report also highlights that sustainably reducing crime requires addressing root causes linked to socioeconomic challenges, including poverty and unemployment.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

22 November 2023

President Ramaphosa welcomes agreement on humanitarian pause in Israel-Palestine conflict

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
Download logo

President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomes the announcement by the State of Qatar that a four-day humanitarian pause has been agreed in the conflict in Gaza.

The President commends the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America on mediation efforts that will enable the release of Palestinian detainees and Israeli hostages, as well as the provision of relief aid to Gaza where an Israeli military incursion remains in place.

President Ramaphosa said: “As a member of the international community that stands for peace, justice and the rule of international law in all parts of the world, South Africa welcomes the agreement reached.

“It is my hope that the achievement of this pause will strengthen efforts to achieve an outright end to the current conflict.

“This pause, which regrettably implies a possible resumption of conflict at some point, must be accompanied by tireless efforts to secure a durable political resolution of the decades-long challenge in the Middle East.

“The people of Palestine, Israel and the nations of the region must work together with the international community to entrench the rights, peace and sustainable development of the Palestinian people as part of the multilaterally endorsed two-state solution.”

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

22 November 2023

Nzimande speaks out on violence against women at universities

Location: News

Nzimande speaks out on violence against women at universities

Universities and colleges have been urged to continue to implement programmes towards addressing sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) within the Post School Education and Training (PSET) system.

Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, made this call during a media briefing on Tuesday after a video of a university student stabbing his wife at a private student residence in Belhar, Cape Town, circulated on social media.

“This kind of barbaric behaviour by males against women must be condemned and perpetrators must face the full might of the law. We cannot continue like this in our society, where as many as 38% of murders are committed against women, often by their intimate partners,” Nzimande said.

He urged both the government and the PSET sector to intensify campaigns to confront and defeat the scourge of GBV in society and at post school education and training and higher learning institutions.

“I launched the Transforming MENtalities initiative, which is a multi-stakeholder partnership within the PSET, with a particular focus on mobilising men in our sector to be part of championing a world free of gender biases, stereotypes, violence and discrimination.”

He commended the arrest of a senior Fort Hare University employee for the alleged murder and attempted murder of employees at the university.

The accused, including nine men and a woman, appeared in the Alice Magistrate's Court on Tuesday on charges of murder and attempted murder of Fort Hare Fleet Manager, Petrus Roets and Mboneli Vesele, who was the bodyguard to Vice-Chancellor Professor Sakhela Buhlungu.

The case was postponed to 13 December 2023 for the finalisation of pending bail applications for three of the accused.

“We had indicated to Minister Cele (Police Minister) that indeed, no stone must be left unturned in going to the reasons for the killings at Fort Hare. Without prejudging the situation, as Minister, I am deeply concerned about the latest arrest of someone inside the Vice-Chancellor's office and ostensibly responsible for the security in the institution.

“This may point to the fact that the problems at UFH may be deeper than meets the eye. I will be further engaging with Council on the latest developments, particularly given the fact that complaints have been raised with me about alleged illegal surveillance of Council and staff members,” Nzimande said. - SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 11/22/2023 - 10:40

43 views

21 November 2023

Cox Yeats Adds To Annual Awards Haul With Best Lawyers® Win For 2024

Location: MyPR

COX YEATS ADDS TO ANNUAL AWARDS HAUL WITH BEST LAWYERS® WIN FOR 2024 The legal profession’s oldest and most respected peer-review title, Best Lawyers® has announced the winners in the 15th Edition of Best Lawyers® in South Africa for 2024. A total of 15 Cox Yeats lawyers were recognised in their areas of speciality on …

21 November 2023

BMA, SARS collaborate to ease traffic congestion

Location: News

BMA, SARS collaborate to ease traffic congestion

Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, has signed an agreement with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to ease traffic congestion at the Lebombo border post.

The agreement, which will see the piloting of a system aimed at eliminating delays, was signed during a bilateral visit to the Republic of Mozambique earlier this month.

The collaboration will ensure efficient and coordinated interventions at ports of entry for easy and cost-effective facilitation of legitimate trade and travel while preventing illegal border crossing of goods and people.

The Lebombo border post has been experiencing increased cargo volumes and this has resulted in long queues and blockages on the N4 corridor, preventing smooth flow of trade through the port.

Also, there have been protests between truck drivers and a taxi association in Komatipoort recently which caused long queues for trucks.

SARS and BMA have now forged a collaboration to pilot a system to co-locate in the canopies at the Lebombo border post to ease movement of trucks as part of the commitment made in the BMA implementation protocol.

Truck drivers will be processed without disembarking from their trucks. The drivers will be required to have all required customs documents and immigration passport ready before approaching the canopies.

After marking for arrival, the driver will then proceed straight to the exit canopy to ease flow in the bypass. This will be done with the exception of cases that require elevation to the police, agricultural services, port environmental or port health.

The marking for arrival and exit are both conducted by customs to facilitate imports and exports. The passport control is conducted by the Border Management Authority at the canopies and will no longer be in building 310 as it was conducted previously.

The aim of this process is to eliminate the time spent in the bypass where drivers were previously required to disembark from trucks and walk to building 310 for passport processing. It is also envisaged that through this process the turnaround time for trucks moving through the bypass will be reduced.

Masiapato emphasised that this process will not negate the requirement by authorities to perform their functions for compliance and border law enforcement at ports.

“It is our main priority to ensure efficient trade facilitation and compliance for the development of the region. This process will contribute to efficient processing at the Lebombo border post,” Dr Masiapato said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 11/21/2023 - 09:05

540 views

21 November 2023

The Liberalisation Of The Energy Sector And Climate Change

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

THE LIBERALISATION OF THE ENERGY SECTOR AND CLIMATE CHANGE Durban, South Africa – Since the President’s State of the Nation Address in 2022, significant steps have been taken by Government to liberalise the energy sector, loosen the hold which Eskom has on the generation and distribution of electricity and move from a monopolistic electricity supply …

21 November 2023

Global unity vital in pursuit of equal access to education for every – President

Location: News

Global unity vital in pursuit of equal access to education for all - President

President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the urgent need for global unity in ensuring equal access to education for all, particularly amidst ongoing instability.

The President was speaking at the Education International 10th Africa Regional Conference held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

Education International Africa Region is holding its 10th Regional Conference in Johannesburg. About 400 delegates, observers, and guests from across and beyond the region are attending the conference.

President Ramaphosa lauded the conference organisers for their commitment to advancing education, particularly in times of crisis, which is crucial for the future of the African continent and the world.

The President told delegates that as nations navigated the turbulent waters brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the world was confronted with political upheavals and conflicts.

“These crises further strained our social fabric, affecting the livelihoods of countless individuals and denying many children their fundamental right to education. In these times of instability, it is even more critical for nations to stand united in pursuit of equal access to education for all.

“Education is the cornerstone upon which societies build their future. Through education, we cultivate respect for human rights, the rule of law and the principles of democracy,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said the work of the UN High-Level Panel on the Teaching Profession, which demonstrates the adaptation of education systems to a rapidly changing world, is one of the most important tasks of the moment.

The panel draws expertise from diverse stakeholders, including Ministers of Education, labour representatives, teacher unions and civil society organisations, and includes South Africa's own Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga. It's main objectives underscore the importance of educators’ voices in finding solutions to educational challenges.

“Educators play a fundamental and irreplaceable role in shaping our societies, and their insights are invaluable in our quest for sustainable solutions. Curriculum reform that responds to the changing world of work is another vital task.

“In South Africa, we are on the brink of a significant educational reform with the implementation of the Coding and Robotics curriculum from Grade R to Grade 9.

“This initiative is part of our broader strategy to integrate STEAM [science, technology, engineering, arts and maths] subjects into our education system. By doing so, we aim to equip our learners with the digital skills necessary to thrive in a fast-paced world,” President Ramaphosa said.

Decolonising education

The President said that the decolonisation of education has become increasingly important.

He added that the discussions at this conference, focusing on tackling racism, decolonising education and promoting democracy, human rights and trade union rights, could not be more timely.

“The project of decolonising education in Africa is not just a matter of academic interest. It is a pressing need. We must challenge colonial theories and practices to build resilient education systems that are centred on African perspectives and experiences.

“This requires a shift away from a Eurocentric worldview to embrace a more diverse and inclusive perspective.

“We must acknowledge and value the knowledge systems of all peoples and integrate them into our curricula and knowledge selection processes,” the President said.

He said the responsibility to nurture and defend the right to education extends to all parts of society.

The President called on labour movements, civil society organisations and non-governmental organisations operating within the educational sphere to collaborate to protect this critical space.

Through such partnerships, he said, the world can prepare learners to be active, informed citizens in democratic societies.

“The role of organisations, such as Education International, are vital. As advocates for quality education, your mission is to ensure inclusive and equitable learning opportunities for all.

“We know that quality education is not just a matter of access. What is also needed are safe, conducive environments where the rights of all learners are respected and upheld.

“By improving access to education, we can alleviate poverty and empower marginalised communities, unlocking their potential and contributing to the development of nations,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Tue, 11/21/2023 - 14:15

317 views

21 November 2023

The NPA, the former Lottery boss and the Rolls Royce

Location: News

Alfred Nevhutanda sold the car just three months after he bought it for R6.3-million

21 November 2023

Rescue location for the Master’s Office

Location: News

Details are still sketchy and the plan will not be publicly circulated

21 November 2023

Government committed to rooting out illegal mining

Location: News

Government committed to rooting out illegal mining

The deployment of some 3 300 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) personnel in the fight against illegal mining is an indication of government’s seriousness of rooting out the scourge.

This is according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

“Cabinet welcomed the deployment of 3 300 members of the [SANDF] from 28 October 2023 until 28 April 2024, to support the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to deal with illegal mining in the country.

“This deployment affirms government’s commitment to put an end to illegal mining and create conditions for inclusive growth and transformation of the economy,” the Minister said at a post-Cabinet media briefing in Pretoria on Monday.

Turning to crime and corruption, Ntshavheni said Ministers forming part of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster have made “progress with work underway to fight against crime” with Police Minister Bheki Cele having already provided an update to the nation on quarterly crime statistics.

Furthermore, Cabinet has welcomed the “successful hosting” of the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council’s (NACAC) National Dialogue.

The dialogue was held last week and deliberated on progress in implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy and recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture.

“The progress includes 8 out of 16 recommended pieces of legislative reforms to address specific recommendations of the State Capture Commission that are now before Parliament. These Bills cover areas such as public procurement, administrative reform, conduct of public servants, reform of intelligence services, money laundering and electoral reform.

“The Asset Forfeiture Unit has been granted freezing orders worth R14 billion for state capture related cases and recouped R5.4 billion of the ill-gotten gains. In addition, the Investigating Directorate has taken 34 state capture and corruption cases to court, involving 205 accused persons,” Ntshavheni said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:06

537 views

20 November 2023

Cabinet reiterates call for an terminate to Gaza conflict

Location: News

Cabinet reiterates call for an end to Gaza conflict

Cabinet has reiterated the call made by African leaders for an end to the conflict in Gaza, during the African-Saudi Summit in Riyadh hosted by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.

The summit condemned the targeting of civilians, and the violations of international law by the Israeli government.

“The world cannot simply standby and watch. The global community needs to rise to stop this genocide now,” Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said during a media briefing on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting, on Monday.

Ntshavheni said Cabinet continues to be concerned by the atrocities of the Israeli government against the people of Palestine, including the deliberate attacks on the United Nations School in Gaza, and the massacre of hundreds of children who had sought refuge at the school. This is in addition to the continued attacks on hospital staff, patients and hospital infrastructure.

Ntshavheni noted that it is because of these continued atrocities that are being committed with impunity by the Israeli government with the support and protection of powerful countries that on 17 November 2023, South Africa, together with the Comoros, Djibouti, Bolivia and Bangladesh, jointly referred the situation in Palestine and Israel to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

While the Palestinian Authority did ask the ICC to investigate crimes under the court’s jurisdiction in 2018, the Minister said South Africa believes the current atrocities, particularly in Gaza needs renewed attention with the full backing of state parties.

“Our ambassador in the Hague delivered the referral in person, which asked the ICC to investigate the commission of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide with a view to holding those most responsible accountable. Given that much of the global community are witnessing the commission of these crimes in real time, including statements of genocidal intent by many Israeli leaders, we expect that warrants of arrest for these leaders including Prime Minister Netanyahu will be issued shortly.

“The ICC has been able to investigate the situation in Palestine since 2021 when the issue of territorial jurisdiction was settled, however, we have noted that the office of the prosecutor has continued to drag its feet despite the gravity of the situation. The current atrocities may not have occurred if these investigations took place as soon as the Palestinian Authorities first made its referral.”

Ntshavheni said South Africa now expects that other state parties also add their voices for an end to the impunity by Israel, and the significant levels of evidence available, that international warrants of arrest will be issued by the time the Conference of Parties meet in mid-December in New York.

“Failure to do so will be indicative of a lack of will to act by the ICC and a strong signal to the total failure of the global system of good governance and the need to establish a new system.”

The Minister also noted that more children have been killed over the last month than those killed per annum in all conflicts combined for the last three years. This include more United Nations (UN) staff members who have been killed in Gaza since the founding of the United Nations.

“The numbers of journalists killed have been staggering. These are all people killed by the actions of the Israeli government, not to defend itself, but evinced by the statements of its leaders to clear most of Gaza of Palestinians and to occupy it,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:16

503 views

20 November 2023

Gaza: UCT senate calls for ceasefire

Location: News

In a statement it also called for “the release of hostages and unlawfully held prisoners”

20 November 2023

Progress recorded at Dinokana water project in N West

Location: News

Progress recorded at Dinokana water project in N West

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu has committed to ensure that Operation Bulela Metsi meets its obligations to the people of Dinokana, North West, and ultimately the whole province.

The Minister said this during the sod-turning of the R106 million Dinokana Water Supply Intervention Project, implemented by Magalies Water, in Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipality.

The Dinokana project is one of the 27 water and sanitation projects under Operation Bulela Metsi that were unlocked and reprioritised after intergovernmental interventions led by Mchunu and the North West government earlier this year.

Mchunu conducted an oversight visit to the construction sites of the water project ahead of a meeting with the community of Dinokana.

During the visit, the delegation was taken through the ‘sacred’ Dinokana eye, a natural spring where the water source and pump station is located. The delegation also conducted a walkabout at the site, where a 15-kilometre bulk pipeline is being laid.

Mchunu said through intergovernmental structures set up in the province and the constitutional mandate of each institution, the programme will ensure that every household has access to water through a standpipe, and that people need to be patient as the project is being implemented in phases.

The project scope entails the refurbishment and upgrade of the Dinokana rural water supply infrastructure, which includes high lift pump refurbishment and upgrade from 2 Ml/day to 4 Ml/day; refurbishment of boreholes; upgrading of the spring water pump station and pipeline; refurbishment of the distribution system up to the bulk water reservoirs, and constructing an additional 2 Ml reservoir to provide additional gravity pressure.

Mchunu commended the progress made, saying that water will eventually reach everyone who needs to benefit from the project.

“We are now here to point to the work that is currently being carried out. Refurbishing the pump station is critical so that all the pumps are working optimally in order to pump the required quantities, and be able to meet the demand of these communities in the four wards,” Mchunu said.

Over 1 000 metres of bulk pipeline has already been laid, including the commencement of work on the refurbishment and the bulk distribution network, which has also commenced.

Mchunu was accompanied by his deputy Judith Tshabalala, North West Premier Bushy Maape, Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality Mayor Khumalo Molefe, Ramotshere Moiloa Local Municipal Mayor Dinah Pitso, Magalies Water Board Chairperson, Dr Lydia Sebego, and local chiefs.

Addressing Ramotshere Moiloa residents, Mchunu said 27 water and sanitation projects under Operation Bulela Metsi are currently underway throughout the North West province, and the Dinokana project is among them.

Dinokana Water Supply Intervention project is being implemented in four phases including:
Phase 1 - Bulk pipeline distribution construction, including reservoir and refurbishment to existing transmission lines.
Phase - 2 Refurbishment of boreholes and additional drilling and equipping of boreholes.
Phase 3 - Reticulation and standpipe at 200m radial distance within village boundary.
Phase 4 - Upgrading pump station and pumping line to allow both reservoirs to be fed by pump station. The objective is to provide an additional 35 000 residents with standpipes.

Mchunu said with the current 17 local people benefiting through the Dinokana water supply intervention project, five more job opportunities will in future be added to benefit 25 locals per ward.

The Dinokana project, which commenced on 30 September 2023, is expected to be completed on 30 September 2024.

The Minister encouraged locals with illegal water connections to report to the local mayor to be legally connected for free, so that they won’t face the wrath of the law.

He further called on the community to safeguard the infrastructure, warning that connecting water illegally damages the pipes.

Operation Bulela Metsi is a water and sanitation intervention programme, which was introduced by Mchunu and the North West provincial government in July this year.

The programme is a culmination of a series of intergovernmental engagements among the three spheres of government, including business, traditional leaders and community structures on the water and sanitation challenges faced by the province. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 14:43

318 views

20 November 2023

An Investors Guide on Foreign Withholding Tax Recovery

Location: MyPR

In the realm of international investing, one aspect that often goes unnoticed but can significantly impact returns is foreign withholding tax. Investors across the globe face the challenge of reclaiming excess withholding tax on foreign dividends, interest, and royalties. Understanding this process and the services available can be crucial in maximising investment returns. Understanding …

20 November 2023

Government support programmes there to assist struggling families

Location: News

Government support programmes there to assist struggling families

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has urged members of the public to make use of government programmes aimed at assisting families in need of food.

She was speaking during the Post-Ccabinet media briefing on Monday.

This in the wake of a report released by the South African Human Rights Commission, which found that children in the Eastern Cape are dying of hunger.

“Cabinet noted with concern the reported deaths of children due to malnutrition, as reported by the Human Rights Commission.

“Cabinet wishes to remind members of the community about government support programmes such as the child support grant, which is aimed at assisting families to meet the basic needs of children. This is in addition to the comprehensive Social Assistance Programme, through which government provides healthy meals to vulnerable households through the School Nutrition Programme and Community Nutrition and Development Centres,” Ntshavheni said.

On the deadly scourge of gender-based violence and femicide, Ntshavheni said Cabinet condemned “in the strongest terms” the stabbing of a female Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) student at the hands of her husband.

“Cabinet calls on society to work together with government to eliminate gender-based violence, whilst law enforcement agencies continue to bring perpetrators of such callous acts to justice,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:27

118 views

20 November 2023

The Importance of Outsourced Customer Service Solutions

Location: MyPR

In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective communication with customers is more critical than ever. One increasingly popular solution for maintaining high-quality customer interactions is outsourcing customer service functions, including telephone and call answering services, live chat support, and specialised industry-specific customer handling. 24/7 Telephone and Call Answering Services With the global market …