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KZN Premier receives provincial allocation of Home Affairs mobile offices

Location: News

KZN Premier receives provincial allocation of Home Affairs mobile offices

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Ncube-Dube has described the allocation of new Home Affairs mobile trucks as a game-changer in the provision of government services.

Dube-Ncube made the remarks when she received the provincial allocation of Home Affairs mobile offices that were unveiled by President Cyril Ramaphosa in Mokopane, Limpopo, this week.

READ | Mobile Home Affairs offices to bring convenience for Mokopane residents 

The unveiling of 100 new mobile offices on Tuesday is part of the Home Affairs Hybrid Access Model, which expands services to areas, where the department footprints is limited.

On Friday, Nomusa-Dube received 16 of the 100 mobile offices allocated to KwaZulu-Natal.

Speaking at the event held at Hoy Park Stadium in Durban, Dube-Ncube said the day marks yet another milestone in the quest to bring dignity to the people of the province.

“What we are seeing here today is just another milestone for us [and] our people in the townships and far-flung areas who have not been able to reach Home Affairs. Today, they will be able to reach Home Affairs.

“This is a game-changer in the provision of Home Affairs services. We are here to wage a war against the inaccessibility and unavailability of government services for our people,” Dube-Ncube said.

Dube-Ncube said with the allocation of the new fleet, people can now walk to a Home Affairs office and apply for identity documents and passports. 

The Premier said many people have been complaining about long queues at Home Affairs offices, especially in Umngeni, Durban central and Pinetown.

“With these mobile offices, our people... [can] wait for the trucks to come near their areas where they will be able to do their ID and passport applications or birth certificate registrations. Each truck is fully equipped and caters for people with disabilities and the elderly,” Dube-Ncube said.

IMAGES | Mobile offices handed over in KZN

Home Affairs mobile office handover. Home Affairs mobile office handover. Home Affairs mobile office handover.

She said with services being brought closer to where people reside, this will curb the unauthorised practice of people paying for spots in queues outside the offices.

The additional trucks will bring the total number of mobile trucks in the province to 30. Members of community safety will accompany the trucks, to ensure their protection from the criminals, while bringing services in various areas.

The Premier expressed her appreciation to the President and Motsoaledi for allocating mobile offices to the province.

She said the relevant provincial MEC will collect and dispatch the mobile offices to the districts. 

Provincial Manager for Home Affairs in KwaZulu-Natal, Cyril Mncwabe, said the trucks will be distributed to Home Affairs offices located in five district municipalities. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/10/2024 - 14:29

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Burning of SA flag is unacceptable: President Ramaphosa

Location: News

Burning of SA flag is unacceptable: President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the burning of the South African flag in a political advert saying it is “treasonous”.

“The flag of our country is sacred in the life of our country. It is that flag that unites all of us. It is despicable that a political party goes and burns the symbol of our unity, the symbol of our existence as a nation. I think it is treasonous,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President’s comments follow on the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) election advert depicting the burning of the national flag.

Speaking on the sidelines of the official opening of the Department of Home Affairs’ offices in Mokopane, Limpopo, the President said those that were involved in the making of the advert should be ashamed of themselves.

“All we want is to build South Africa and unity … People died for the flag of the nation. People rally around the flag of the nation and it is about us. They are destroying that unity, that identity that we all have. It is totally unacceptable,” President Ramaphosa said.

In a media statement issued by the Presidency later in the day, the President said he believes that the depiction of the burning flag “is desperate and inciteful” and undermines the principles of democracy and unity in the midst of the national celebration of 30 Years of Freedom and the preservation of tolerance and peace in the build-up to the 29 May national and provincial elections.

“All South Africans should deplore this abuse of our national flag for party political purposes.

“Our flag is a symbol of identity, integrity and unity that we fly with a pride and consciousness that transcends party political interests.

“Our flag holds profound significance for the nation as it represents the hard-won freedoms and peace achieved through historical struggles against injustice. 

“As government, we firmly defend the right to freedom of expression, with the expectation that this right be exercised with respect for all people and that it does not incite social upheaval or violence.

“To manipulate or exploit national symbols for personal or partisan gain is disrespectful and also undermines the essence of democracy and civic responsibility.

“It is our shared responsibility to ensure that our elections are free, fair and dignified.”

The President further called on all political parties and South Africans to uphold the dignity of all national symbols and to conduct themselves in ways that foster unity and progress for all. 

Meanwhile, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa has condemned in the strongest terms the political advertisement by the DA.

The Minister said the South African flag will not be used as an instrument to sow division and hysteria.

READ | Minister condemns burning of SA flag in advert

-SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 20:46

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Mobile Home Affairs offices to bring convenience for Mokopane residents 

Location: News

Mobile Home Affairs offices to bring convenience for Mokopane residents 

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday unveiled 100 Department of Home Affairs (DHA) mobile offices in Mokopane, Limpopo.

The unveiling of the new mobile offices is part of the DHA’s Hybrid Access Model, which expands services to areas where the department’s footprint is limited.

This purpose-built offices offers all Home Affairs services in a convenient way, which includes shaded waiting areas and ample parking.

Speaking at the unveiling of the mobile offices, President Ramaphosa said these trucks are assets meant for the benefit of all people and all communities.

“This new fleet of mobile Home Affairs offices won’t be moving constantly around the provinces. They will be available in a village or town at a particular time so that people can know when to go there,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa called on communities to see and treat these new Home Affairs trucks as their own.

WATCH I 

He said they should take pride in them and help government to care for them.

President Ramaphosa said apart from the 412 Home Affairs offices in different parts of the country, the Department has been able to expand the reach of services through partnerships with banks, shopping malls and with expanded offices like the one launched in Mokopane on Tuesday.

READ | President launches new Home Affairs offices in Limpopo

“Another way we have taken government’s services to you, the people, is by opening Home Affairs offices in hospitals for birth registrations. This has made a big difference in the rate of civil registrations and we hope it will continue to bring down the number of late registrations of births.

“These trucks are assets meant for the benefit of all people and all communities. The Department of Home Affairs will soon be unveiling a kiosk model that allows you to access services just like withdrawing money at an ATM,” he said.

In total, 100 mobile offices were unveiled and they will be distributed to other provinces.

The mobile offices will help reduce the influx of people at the department's offices. The mobile trucks will take home affairs services to people in rural areas and will ensure services are accessible during load-shedding and times of poor network connection. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 21:25

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Read moreMobile Home Affairs offices to bring convenience for Mokopane residents 

President launches new Home Affairs offices in Limpopo

Location: News

President launches new Home Affairs offices in Limpopo

Through the use of innovation, the Department of Home Affairs aims to offer its services at a quicker pace and closer to where people reside, says President Cyril Ramamphosa.

“The programme we are launching is called Home Affairs on Wheels, and it is going to change the provision of Home Affairs services for the better across South Africa. We don’t just want to make it easier. We want to make it faster and we want to make it cheaper.

“For many people, especially in the rural areas, travelling to reach government services can take a lot of time and be expensive,” the President said on Tuesday.

This as he officially opened the new Home Affairs offices in Mokopane, Limpopo.

“The Department of Home Affairs will soon be unveiling a kiosk model that allows you to access services just like withdrawing money at an ATM.”

President Ramaphosa said once the system is up and running, people will be able to use this walk-in kiosk to do things like applying for replacement copies of a birth, marriage or death certificate.

“You will also be able to use the kiosk to apply for a passport or a smart ID card. Another way we have taken government’s services to you, the people, is by opening Home Affairs offices in hospitals for birth registrations.

“This has made a big difference in the rate of civil registrations, and we hope it will continue to bring down the number of late registrations of births.”

Apart from the 412 Home Affairs offices in different parts of the country, the Department of Home Affairs has been able to expand the reach of services through partnerships with the banks, with shopping malls and with expanded offices like the one launched in Mokopane today.

“I call on each of you to see these new Home Affairs trucks as your own and to treat them as your own. Take pride in them and help us to care for them. These trucks are assets meant for the benefit of all people and all communities.”

He also told those at the venue that 2024 marks 30 years since South Africa attained freedom.

“With the advent of democracy, we set out on the path to restore the dignity of all South Africans. During apartheid, the regime denied black South Africans their dignity by controlling where we lived, worked and travelled.”

He added that since 1994, government has progressively built a Department of Home Affairs that is the custodian and protector of the citizens of South Africa and other people who are legally residing in South Africa.

“By recognising people’s legal identity and by providing them with the necessary documentation, the department is helping them to lead lives of dignity.

“It ensures their right to access public services and social protection. It allows them to vote, to find work, to open bank accounts and to travel beyond our borders.”

Since the dawn of democracy, government have taken important steps to ensure that civil registration is made as accessible as possible.

“The opening of the expanded Home Affairs office here in Mokopane and the introduction of these mobile offices are a great leap forward,” President Ramaphosa said.

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, echoed the President’s call in urging communities to look after the mobile offices as they exist to serve them.

“These are for you. They are there to serve you,” the Minister said.

Services closer to home

The launch of the new Home Affairs office and the unveiling of the mobile offices was welcomed by the locals.

Rethabile Masunke from Mahwelereng told SAnews that she is happy that she is now going to get Home Affairs services closer to where she stays.

“I am happy that now I don’t have to spend money to travel to Home Affairs offices which are far,” Masunke said.

Echoing the same sentiments, was Thabo Rabotho who said he is happy with what government has done in bringing services closer to where he stays.

“Now I just walk to Home Affairs offices and apply for whatever document I need,” he said.

According to the Department of Home Affairs, the new 100 mobile offices will extend the reach of the department’s services, especially in remote areas and that the unveiling of these mobile offices is part of Home Affairs’ Hybrid Access Model which expands services in areas where the department’s footprint is limited.

The purpose-built office offers all Home Affairs services in a convenient way which includes shaded waiting areas and ample parking. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 14:16

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Read morePresident launches new Home Affairs offices in Limpopo

Government activities for the week 06 – 10 May 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 06 - 10 May 2024

On Monday, 06 May, the Provincial Minister of Infrastructure Tertius Simmers together with the Executive Mayor will hand over 600 title deeds in the Overstrand Municipality.

On Tuesday, 07 May, President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially open a new, purpose-built Department of Home Affairs office in Mokopane, Limpopo, and unveil 100 new mobile offices that will extend the reach of the department’s services, especially in remote areas.

Also on Tuesday, 07 May, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Professor Blade Nzimande, will launch the 4IR Centres of Excellence at TVET Colleges at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in Pretoria.

On Wednesday, 08 May, Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation will hand over the 30-Year Review Report of South Africa’s democracy to President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria.

 

Janine
Mon, 05/06/2024 - 11:36

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Read moreGovernment activities for the week 06 – 10 May 2024

Limpopo mother arrested for son’s gruesome murder

Location: News

Limpopo mother arrested for son's gruesome murder

A woman has been arrested after allegedly decapitating her 18-year-old son in the Leshikishiki village in the Lebowakgomo policing area in Limpopo. 

According to a statement by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the 48-year-old mother was arrested on Friday after a report was lodged at around 13:00. 

“Upon arrival of the police at the scene next to a local tavern, they found the decapitated body of an 18-year-old man lying on his wheelchair and his head on the ground. Shockingly, there were no people found on the scene,” the statement read. 

The police began their initial investigations and the deceased’s mother was located. 

“After thorough investigations, she was positively linked to the murder of her son and arrested,” said police.

The SAPS seized a knife at the scene believed to be used by the suspect to cut off the victim’s head.

Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said she was deeply shocked by the incident.

“This is a heartbreaking incident that has deeply affected our community and the SAPS family. 

“While the police are duty bound to protect and serve the public, parents have a critical role to nurture and protect their children. This horrendous act by the senseless mother is condemned... The law will take its course without fear or favour,” she added. 

Police have opened a case of murder and the motive behind the gruesome attack is not yet known.

The suspect will appear before the Thabamoopo Magistrate’s Court in due course. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sun, 05/05/2024 - 10:13

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President Ramaphosa’s diary for the upcoming weeks

Location: News

President Ramaphosa's diary for the upcoming weeks

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to attend several events over the coming week.

This as the Presidency on Monday released the first citizen’s list of of public events, starting from Tuesday, 30 April to 9 May 2024.

National Orders

As Grand Patron of the National Orders, the President will on Tuesday, 30 April 2024, bestow the 2024 National Orders Awards on distinguished citizens and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans.

The National Orders are the highest awards that a country, through its President, bestows on its citizens and eminent foreign nationals.

The President will bestow on deserving recipients the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.

Black Business Council Summit Dinner

The President is expected to deliver the keynote address at the annual Black Business Council (BBC) Summit Dinner to be held at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, O.R. Tambo in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

The BBC is convened under the theme “30 Years of Democracy – lessons learned and plans for the next 30 Years."

The BBC is the over-arching confederation that represents black professionals, business associations and chambers.

The objective of the BBC is to lobby government on policy related matters and to play an advocacy role where policies are in place in order to accelerate the participation of black business in the mainstream economy.

Unveiling of Home Affairs trucks in Limpopo

President Cyril Ramaphosa will, on Tuesday, 7 May 2024, officially unveil 100 additional Home Affairs mobile trucks that will assist the Department of Home Affairs improvement its services reach to especially remote areas.

The unveiling of these mobile trucks in Mokopane, is made possible by the department’s approved Hybrid Access Model to ensure an expansion of services in areas where the department’s footprint is limited.

The approach is to increase the fleet by 100 every financial year until they reach 1000 from the current fleet of 120.

30 Years Review Report

On 8 May 2024, the President will attend the launch of the 30 Years of Democracy Review Report in Pretoria.

The report to be handed over to the President by the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation will reflect on the political, social, and economic journey of transformation of South Africa since 1994, the advent of democracy, in order to derive lessons and make recommendations for the country’s development agenda.

The report will also provide critical evidence for the development of the new Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) 2024 – 2029, which serves as a five-year plan of government towards the implementation of the National Development Plan Vision 2030.

Presidential Imbizo

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 9 May 2024, lead government’s interaction - in the form of a District Development Model (DDM) Presidential Imbizo - with communities and stakeholders within the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality in the Northern Cape province.

Themed "Leave No One Behind, the 12th Presidential Imbizo promotes participatory democracy and inclusive development by allowing community members and stakeholders to voice proposals and express any concerns or dissatisfaction they may have about conditions in the district or province.

The Imbizo is directed at enabling successful implementation of the “One District, One Plan” District Development Model in which residents, traditional leaders, business formations, organised labour and faith- and community-based organisations work with government across all phases of planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Preceding the Imbizo, there will be a series of build-up outreach activities led by Ministers, MECs and Mayors in parts of John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality and across the Northern Cape. - SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 15:09

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Read morePresident Ramaphosa’s diary for the upcoming weeks

SA heads to the polls in a month’s time

Location: News

SA heads to the polls in a month's time

With one month to go, the Electoral Commission (IEC) is in the final stretch of preparations for the seventh democratic elections, which are believed to be the most contested in the history of the country.

South Africans will go to the polls on 29 May 2024 to the elect the leadership for the seventh administration out of the 70 political parties and 11 independent candidates that were published by the IEC as final contestants in these elections.  

In total, there are over 14 903 candidates vying for 887 seats in the National and Provincial Legislatures.

“The finalisation of the list of candidates contesting seats in the 2024 National and Provincial Elections (NPE2024) means that the Commission can now go ahead with the printing of ballot papers for the elections. The 27.79 million registered voters will receive three ballot papers to elect candidates to represent them in the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures.

“In consort with the provisions of the election timetable, the Electoral Commission has also published the list of addresses of the 23 292 voting stations that will be used in these elections. The route for mobile voting stations has also been published,” the IEC said recently.

The highest number of voting stations will be in Kwazulu-Natal (4 974), then the Eastern Cape (4 868) and Limpopo (3 216). All voting stations are now contracted with lease agreements concluded with landlords or owners.

A list of the voting stations can be found on the Electoral Commission’s website.

Special votes

For those who would like to apply for special votes, for the purposes of home visits and voting station visits, there is still time to do so as the deadline for applications is on 3 May 2024.

“Home visits are intended for those voters who are unable to travel to voting stations whilst special votes at voting stations are for everyone who is unable to be at the voting station on Election Day. Special voting will be conducted on the two days preceding Election Day, on 27 and 28 May 2024,” the IEC said.

Special votes may be accessed using one of the following modalities:

  • Using the secured online application form found at www.elections.org.za.
  • By SMSing your identity number to 32249 (R1.00 per SMS) for voting station visit only.
  • By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1B form for a voting station special vote.
  • By visiting your local IEC office and submitting an Appendix 1A form for a home visit special vote. Forms can also be hand-delivered, but someone else can deliver a form on behalf of a voter.

Special votes will also be administered at South Africa’s diplomatic missions abroad to service 58 000 registered voters. These voters will be provided for at the diplomatic missions of the Republic.

Security plan

Government has, meanwhile, assured citizens that the elections will be conducted in a safe and secure environment.

“As the government, we want to issue a stern warning to anyone with intentions to disrupt the elections that law enforcement officers will deal with them decisively and will put them behind bars. We want to assure the public of the readiness of the JCPS [Justice, Crime Prevention and Security] Cluster to execute its mandate of protecting the public, our country’s strategic installations and infrastructure during the election period. We will do everything in our power to protect all those who want to exercise their Constitutional right to vote,” Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise said.

Government also urged members of the public to report any crime related to elections to their nearest police station or IEC offices.

“A protocol has been established between the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to prioritise all election-related crimes.

“Prosecutors stand ready to prosecute offences such as electoral fraud and corruption, removing or defacing political party and campaign posters, interfering with the duties of the electoral officials as well as forcing anyone to vote,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 04/29/2024 - 11:36

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SA students to participate in solar panel programme in India

Location: News

SA students to participate in solar panel programme in India

Twenty-two female Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) engineering students are set to participate in a solar panel manufacturing learning programme in India.

The Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma in partnership with the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA), briefed the media on the women’s participation in the programme on Friday.

The 22 TVET college engineering students hail from the Limpopo, North West and Free State provinces.

“Emanating from the 2023 South Africa chairship of BRICS [Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa], the Solar Technology Training Programme for women in South Africa is one of the resolutions from the BRICS Women in Business meeting that calls for women to lead community initiatives and take part in resolving the energy crisis in South Africa particularly in rural areas,” said the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) in a statement.

“Access to electricity should always be easily available given the important role it plays in many aspects of human and wellbeing. It is an essential service and governments must make societies function better through the provision of this kind of basic [service],” said Minister Dlamini Zuma.

The programme is expected to provide theoretical and practical skills in solar panel manufacturing and installation.

The learnership programmed is supported by key stakeholders such as the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, the EWSETA, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA).

The DWYPD said that starting and operating a solar business in South Africa with solar products, from panels and batteries to solar-powered appliances, can be a lucrative venture.

“The DWYPD in partnership with the EWSETA will continue to engage stakeholders such as the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, Department of Small Business Development to open windows of opportunities to the female learners to venture into business when they return to South Africa in August,” said the department.

The programme is set to start on 1 May 2024.- SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sat, 04/27/2024 - 13:08

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Probe into tributary blockages to Middle Letaba Dam

Location: News

Probe into tributary blockages to Middle Letaba Dam

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu is set to establish an independent investigation into the alleged blockage of tributaries that lead to the Middle Letaba Dam in Limpopo, which has resulted in low water levels in the dam.

This follows Mchunu’s visit to the Oliphant Catchment Area, where Middle Letaba Dam is located.

The Minister and his Deputies, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, conducted a site inspection at the streams and tributaries along some of the biggest farms at Mooketsi on Wednesday before interacting with the concerned farmers and community members, who have been negatively affected by the alleged blockages.

READ | Twenty-four Giyani villages expected to have running water by June

Middle Letaba Dam is fed from the Middle Letaba, Koedoes and Brandboontjies rivers in the Middle Letaba sub-catchment within the Olifant Catchment Area. Its primary objective is to supply raw water to domestic users and for irrigation purposes. 

The dam is a source for Middle Letaba, Mapuve and Giyani Water Treatment Works, through a 60km canal. It supplies 82% of water to agriculture, with industry and mining using 3% and 6% respectively, while 8% of water is for domestic use. 

However, due to the low levels of the dam (currently at about 2.8%), the department said the water treatment works cannot yield raw water according to their designed capacities, resulting in restricted water supply to communities.

Mchunu said the department has received complaints from the concerned local farmers and community members, and it has conducted investigations into the claims. 

He said the department has also implemented interventions that include developing groundwater to maximise the available source from the dam, and the transfer of water from Nandoni Dam to Nsami Dam to augment water in the Nsami system in Giyani.

Mchunu said the investigation will pave the way to solving the allegations of blockages of streams and illegal dams, and finally bring closure to the matter, ensuring fair distribution of water in the area. 

“There have been complaints on these illegal blockages which cause water supply challenges in the area, and we have therefore resolved to set up an independent investigation into the matter, and its recommendations will give way to the resolution of the matter. 

“We understand that this is an urgent matter, and we will give our full attention to ensure that there is justice and fairness for everyone in the area,” Mchunu said. 

The Minister also visited Tzaneen Dam, where the R550 million wall raising project is currently underway. 

He commended progress made on the project, which commenced last year and is currently at 25% completion. 

The raising of the Tzaneen Dam wall by three metres will result in increased storage capacity, providing much-needed additional water for domestic, industrial, and agricultural use in the north-east of Limpopo. 

Mchunu and his deputies will on Thursday and Friday conduct an oversight inspection of bulk water infrastructure projects that are currently underway in Lebowakgomo and Burgersfort in Limpopo. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:39

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SA on track to eliminate malaria disease by 2028 

Location: News

SA on track to eliminate malaria disease by 2028 

The Department of Health says South Africa is on track to achieve malaria elimination status by 2028, as outlined in the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan. 

This, according to the department, is despite facing challenges such as heightened heatwaves exacerbated by climate change, with the potential to directly impact transmission and the burden of disease. 

According to the department, malaria elimination promises both health and economic benefits, in line with the goals of the 2030 National Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“This has the potential to also benefit the Southern African countries collectively on issues of trade, tourism, health, and economic growth,” the statement read. 

While progress has been made in reducing the burden of malaria in provinces such as Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal, the department believes further efforts are needed to curb local transmission. 

South Africa is today joining the global community to observe World Malaria Day to recognise global efforts to control malaria to reduce the burden of the disease and avoid preventable deaths. 

Each year on April 25, South Africa joins the global community in recognising World Malaria Day.

READ | SA commemorates World Malaria Day

The Department of Health has since urged all stakeholders, including communities, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations and international partners to collaborate in intensifying the fight against malaria, aiming to foster a healthier and more equitable world for current and future generations. 

Malaria is a preventable and curable life-threatening disease transmitted by a type of female mosquito called Anopheles, which remains a significant global health concern.

In 2022, an estimated 249 million new cases and approximately 608 000 deaths were reported, with Sub-Saharan Africa enduring the most of the burden. 

In South Africa, 9 795 cases and 106 deaths were reported in 2023, demonstrating notable progress, including the subnational elimination of malaria in the King Cetshwayo District of KwaZulu-Natal. 

“The government is committed to integrating the ethos of ensuring equal access to malaria prevention and treatment services for all with the principles of the National Health Insurance, which essentially has the objective of attaining Universal Health Coverage.”

The department is of the view that eliminating malaria is an ambitious task that requires sustainable resources, collaboration with neighbouring countries including Botswana, Eswatini, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, evidence-based policies, strong partnerships and a dedicated workforce. 

“South Africa is working towards strengthening and harnessing its domestic expertise while collaborating with global partners.” 

Last year, South Africa was amongst the countries that received global prestigious awards from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for their efforts to achieve important milestones towards malaria elimination. 

The 2024 World Malaria Day will be commemorated under the theme: ‘Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world’, which focuses on acknowledging the varying effects of malaria on men and women, emphasising the need to address these discrepancies in prevention and healthcare access. 

Malaria symptoms include headache, fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain that occur up to three weeks after first potential exposure. 

However, early diagnosis and treatment are strongly recommended as the disease rapidly progresses to severe illness, often with severe consequences. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 11:43

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Read moreSA on track to eliminate malaria disease by 2028 

SA commemorates World Malaria Day

Location: News

SA commemorates World Malaria Day

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) said it was forging ahead with supporting the national Department of Health to eliminate locally acquired malaria in South Africa through several activities.

According to the NICD, Africa bears more than 90% of the global malaria burden, with one child dying every minute from malaria – a preventable and treatable disease. 

Each year on April 25, the NICD joins the global community in recognising World Malaria Day. 

This year’s theme will focus on ‘Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world’.

The NICD said that in South Africa, cases of malaria are associated either with local transmission of the malaria parasite in areas of the Limpopo, Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, or exposure to malaria parasites in travellers to other endemic regions returning to South Africa.

According to a report on malaria case trends based on notifications captured through the Notifiable Medical Conditions Surveillance System (NMC-SS) from September 2022 to August 2023, the majority of malaria cases in South Africa came from the malaria-endemic province of Limpopo. 

Data reveals that 5 813 cases were recorded of which 2 845 were logged in Limpopo. 

Meanwhile, Gauteng reported the second-highest number of cases, all of which were associated with imported malaria. 

In contrast, the national public health institute said KwaZulu-Natal reported the lowest number of infections sitting at 424 among the endemic provinces. 

“In KwaZulu-Natal, nearly all of the cases reported were imported cases, supporting claims that the province is edging closer to halting local transmission of malaria,” the NICD explained.

As per the NICD, peaks in malaria notifications typically follow periods of increased national and international travel to malaria-endemic regions. 

Data also shows that economically active young males, especially those aged between 20 and 39 years, appeared to be the most at risk population group, a trend observed in other low transmission areas. 

“These findings emphasise the importance of targeting young males with messaging during major holidays and strengthening malaria test-and-treat activities along shared international borders.” 

The NICD’s Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases supports the National Department of Health in eradicating locally acquired malaria through several activities. 

These include contributing to malaria surveillance for accurate monitoring of the occurrence of malaria in South Africa and providing technical support to provincial malaria control programmes.

The centre monitors insecticide resistance in malaria mosquitoes, screens for antimalarial drug and diagnostic resistance, teaches and trains on various aspects of malaria, and supports improved quality control for laboratory testing for malaria. 

The team also leads innovative research, including investigating novel ways to control malaria mosquitoes and assessing the impact of environmental pollutants on malaria mosquitoes lifecycles and their ability to transmit malaria parasites.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) and further information on malaria prevention is available on the NICD website www.nicd.ac.za. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

Gabisile
Thu, 04/25/2024 - 09:57

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Twenty-four Giyani villages expected to have running water by June

Location: News

Twenty-four Giyani villages expected to have running water by June

The Department of Water and Sanitation says all 24 villages, which are part of Phase 1 of Giyani Water Projects, are expected to have running water from their taps by the end of June this year.

“While some of the villages are receiving water from their taps and some have not, the department anticipates that all of the 24 villages will have water running from their taps by the end of June.

"The remaining 31 villages will be part of Phase 2 of Giyani Water Projects and its reticulation is expected to start in this new financial year,” Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu said this week.
 
Mchunu, who is currently traversing various villages in Giyani to inspect progress on the Phase 1 of the reticulation component of the Giyani Water Project, has expressed satisfaction with the progress made to restore water supply and extend yard connection services to 55 villages in Giyani in the Mopani District Municipality, Limpopo.  

READ | Giyani water project is still on course

The project is funded by the Department of Water and Sanitation and implemented by the Mopani District Municipality as the Water Services Authority.

Mchunu said the remaining components of the Giyani Water Project to be completed include the refurbishment of Giyani Water Treatment Works, bulk pipeline, and water reticulation projects, which is an extended service from communal taps to metered yard connections for the 55 villages. 

He said 24 of the 55 villages currently have taps installed in their yards, with some already receiving water.

VIEW | Oversight visit to Giyani water project

Oversight visit of Giyani bulk water project. Oversight visit of Giyani bulk water project.

The 24 villages in Phase 1 include, Thomo A and B, KaMninginisi, Mhlaba Willem, Homu 14 A and B, Mapayeni, N’waKhuwani, Ngove A, B and C, Gawula, Mahlathi, Bambeni, Mageva, Sikhunyani, Maphata, Xikukwani, Makoxa, Dzingidzingi and Bode, among others.

Mchunu said construction in some villages to connect bulk pipeline to local reservoirs, including the refurbishments of existing reservoirs and installation of elevated steel tanks is underway. 

Despite delays in the project, Mchunu acknowledged the plans implemented by the municipality, which led to unblocking project delays. 

“I am satisfied with the work currently underway, although we are behind schedule due to the history of this project. However, the level of commitment demonstrated by the contractors has showed that we are making progress in getting water to the people’s households. 

“This indeed signals a new era of ensuring that households in rural and urban areas have access to clean, fresh water in their homes. We are determined to provide equal quality service to all the residents of the country,” Mchunu said.
 
Accompanied by his Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, and Limpopo Cooperative Governance Human Settlement and Traditional Affairs MEC, Basikopo Makamu, Mchunu also visited the completed 40.5 km pipeline, which is now transferring bulk water from Nandoni Dam to Nsami Dam, and the Giyani Water Treatment Works, which is being refurbished to reach its maximum capacity of treating 30 megalitres of water per day to benefit the local residents and the villages. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Wed, 04/24/2024 - 14:45

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Read moreTwenty-four Giyani villages expected to have running water by June

Minister welcomes sentencing of Home Affairs employee for fraud

Location: News

Minister welcomes sentencing of Home Affairs employee for fraud

Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has welcomed the sentencing of a Home Affairs employee for issuing birth certificates to foreigners for cash. 

According to the department, Amos Ngwenyama was sentenced to eight and six years imprisonment on two counts of fraud and corruption at the Giyani Commercial Court in Limpopo, on Friday. The sentences will run concurrently.

Ngwenyama was based at the Home Affairs office in Malamulele. 

“Mr Ngwenyama was arrested following a joint investigation by the Home Affairs Counter Corruption Unit and the Hawks in Limpopo in 2023 for issuing birth certificates to undeserving foreign nationals in exchange for money.” 

Motsoaledi reiterated his warning to officials involved in fraud and corruption that “their days are numbered”. 

“We have no tolerance for any acts of corruption and malfeasance. Public members expect government officials to uphold the highest ethical and moral standards. They are also expected to be honest in serving the public and the state,” Motsoaledi said.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 08:58

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Read moreMinister welcomes sentencing of Home Affairs employee for fraud

Minister Joe Phaahla on state of public health service

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: Department of Health
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Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla notes with concern and condemns in strong terms the acts of anarchy, violence and criminality targeting healthcare facilities with the intention to disrupt the provision of essential health services, depriving patients of life-saving treatment.

The recent acts of violence committed in Themba Hospital in Mpumalanga which threatened the safety and security of the health workers, patients, service providers and infrastructure is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. These acts disrupt the provision of essential health services, threaten the safety and security of health workers, patients, and health infrastructure.

We welcome the swift response and interventions by members of the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to normalise the situation to enable the health workers to perform their life-saving duties in a safe and protected environment without disruption and acts of violence, and at the same time enable the patients to access essential health service including life-saving treatment.

The government will continue to respond proportionally to these criminal acts to protect those who need help in the hospital, the healthcare workers and the healthcare infrastructure we have. We are already working with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that healthcare service continues undisrupted and prevent future incidences. We want to assure the healthcare workers and community at large that the similar acts will not happen unattended and will be responded with speed and appropriately.

The National Department of Health (NDOH) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have signed Memorandum of Agreement in 2019, at which have committed to cooperate to ensure security and safety of patients, workers in the health facility and the entire infrastructure. The SAPS in response to criminality in the health facility will deploy a dedicated team to ensure security of the facility.

We call upon anyone with evidence of unethical behaviour by health officials or concerns about the level of service delivery, operations of the health facility or whatsoever, to raise them through proper channels instead of resorting to violence and intimidation because that will not be tolerated, and the law will take its course.

We will not entertain any form of anarchy and feeling of entitlement in our facilities because we follow normal procurement processes like any other public institution. We implore people to exercise their constitutional rights to protest peacefully within the confines of the law, without infringing the rights to life by others and access to healthcare.

We can confirm that no life has been lost in the facility due to the recent unfortunate violent incidents, but a number of patients couldn't access their chronic medication, while some planned surgeries had to be rescheduled. Other patients were transferred to nearby hospitals, while stable patients were discharged. The situation is now under control and the hospital is fully operational. Staff members are back at work.

Human Resources for Health

The Department of Health continues with efforts to address the challenge of unemployment of health professionals, including medical doctors who completed statutory community service programme. We are working closely with Provincial health departments focused on all critical vacant posts to strengthen healthcare delivery to adequately respond to the needs of our people. We are making progress in the recruitment of the qualified health professionals across the country. Let me dispel the myths by some critics and allay fears that the department is dragging its feet to recruit and appoint unemployed health professionals.

There are 2012 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors on the health sector establishment at the current moment across nine provinces which require R2,4 billion to fill them. This numbers excludes other categories of health professionals like nurses, pharmacists, radiographers, dentists et cetera. We are happy to announce that a total of 2066 health professionals have been appointed between January and March 2024 across the country.

This consists of 1121 medical officers on Grade 1 of entry level, 579 professional nurses, 127 Allied Health workers, 100 pharmacists, 91 Radiographers, 23 Dentists Grade 1 and 9 Environmental Health Officers. The recruitment processes are continuing in provinces to finalize more appointments scheduled to enable the successful candidates to assume duties in May 2024.

The Ministry continues to work closely with the provincial Health MECs to activate unfunded vacant posts using the allocated additional budget to enable recruitment of more health workers. It is our wish to employ as many health professionals as possible to play a meaningful role in the public health system of the country. It is important to emphasize that the filling of posts is done in line with the employment guidelines as issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration. This means the applicants should not limit themselves to the provinces or districts of their residence.

Cholera Update

The country has recorded more than 150 suspected cholera cases, 12 laboratory- confirmed cases and one death between 1 January and 18 April 2024. Eleven of these cases were recorded in Limpopo and one in Gauteng. Three of these cases are imported from Zimbabwe, with no definite history of contact with other confirmed cases. The demised patient was a 48-year-old male South African citizen from Musina, in Vhembe District who experienced diarrhoeal symptoms and was admitted in hospital on 16 March, unfortunately he passed away on 21 March 2024 in Pietersburg hospital.
 
The risk of both imported cases and local transmission remains high due the cross- border movements to and from both Zimbabwe and Mozambique. We appeal to the organisers of social gatherings including religious and traditional events to ensure strict compliance with personal hygiene (including handwashing) especially during food preparation and serving, and ablution facilities to prevent possible transmission of cholera and other foodborne and waterborne diseases.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of Health.

Read moreMinister Joe Phaahla on state of public health service

Health addressing 2 000 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors

Location: News

Health addressing 2 000 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors

There are currently 2 012 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors in the health sector across nine provinces and government requires R2.4 billion to fill them. 

This number excludes other categories of health professionals such as nurses, pharmacists, radiographers, dentists and so on.

However, Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, has assured citizens that the department is working around the clock to address the challenge of unemployed health professionals including medical doctors who have completed statutory community service programmes. 

“We are working closely with provincial health departments focused on all critical vacant posts to strengthen healthcare delivery to adequately respond to the needs of our people. We are making progress in the recruitment of qualified health professionals across the country,” he said in a statement on Friday.

“Let me dispel the myths by some critics and allay fears that the department is dragging its feet to recruit and appoint unemployed health professionals.” 

Meanwhile, the Minister said he was pleased to announce that a total of 2 066 health professionals have been appointed between January and March 2024 across the country.

According to Phaahla, the number consists of 1 121 medical officers at Grade 1 entry level, 579 professional nurses, 127 allied health workers, 100 pharmacists, 91 radiographers, 23 dentists and nine environmental health officers. 

“The recruitment processes are continuing in provinces to finalise more appointments scheduled to enable the successful candidates to assume duties in May 2024.” 

The Minister said he continues to work closely with the provincial Health MECs to activate unfunded vacant posts using the allocated additional budget to enable recruitment of more health workers. 

“It is our wish to employ as many health professionals as possible to play a meaningful role in the public health system of the country. It is important to emphasize that the filling of posts is done in line with the employment guidelines as issued by the Department of Public Service and Administration.” 

This means the applicants should not limit themselves to the provinces or districts of their residence.

Cholera

Shifting his focus on cholera, he said South Africa has recorded more than 150 suspected cases, 12 laboratory-confirmed cases and one death between 1 January and 18 April 2024. 

Eleven of these cases were recorded in Limpopo and one in Gauteng.

“Three of these cases are imported from Zimbabwe, with no definite history of contact with other confirmed cases.” 

According to Phaahla, the deceased was a 48-year-old male South African citizen from Musina, in Vhembe District who experienced diarrhoeal symptoms. He was admitted on 16 March and passed away on 21 March in Pietersburg Hospital. 

“The risk of both imported cases and local transmission remains high due to the cross-border movements to and from both Zimbabwe and Mozambique,” the Minister explained. 

He appealed to the organisers of social gatherings including religious and traditional events to ensure strict compliance with personal hygiene including handwashing, especially during food preparation and serving, and ablution facilities to prevent possible transmission of cholera and other foodborne and waterborne diseases. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 04/19/2024 - 14:31

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Read moreHealth addressing 2 000 unfunded vacant posts of medical doctors

DPD Laser and Multiserv partner to democratise parcel delivery to all South Africans

Location: MyPR

South Africans live busy lives and the massive growth in online retail and associated deliveries since the COVID-19 pandemic really does show just how much they’ve come to depend on the convenience it makes possible. The only part of the online shopping process that some consumers may find less than ideal is being tied to …

Read moreDPD Laser and Multiserv partner to democratise parcel delivery to all South Africans

Mashatile to launch second phase of Wi-Fi connectivity project in Limpopo

Location: News

Mashatile to launch second phase of Wi-Fi connectivity project in Limpopo

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will lead the official launch of Phase 2 of the South Africa Connect project on Friday, 19 April 2024. 

The project is a flagship programme aimed at bridging the digital divide by providing Wi-Fi access to communities and ensuring universal access to the internet. 

The SA Connect Phase 2 launch event is organised by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies and will take place at the Ephraim Mogale Stadium, Modimolle Local Municipality, Waterberg District, in Limpopo. 

The project aligns with the government’s commitment to achieving the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030 goals related to technology.

The programme also aims to create an inclusive information society and enable the government to provide broadband to communities. 

By playing an enabling role in the provision of broadband, the Presidency said, government will be better positioned to meet the needs of its citizens.

“It also galvanises the capability, resources, and energy of public and private sectors towards realising a bold vision to reach 80% connectivity by 2024,” the statement read. 

Deputy President Mashatile is launching Phase 2 which is expected to connect more than 42 000 government facilities, including schools, health facilities, post offices, police stations, and government offices, to broadband services.

The project will cover eight rural district municipalities.

So far, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has successfully confirmed that more than 751 232 households and about 4 366 community Wi-Fi hotspots are connected in 11 district municipalities. 

These include Mount Ayliff in the Eastern Cape and Kokstad in KwaZulu-Natal, with other districts to follow.

The Deputy President will also take the opportunity to interact with members of the surrounding communities to witness progress achieved by government in providing core access to network infrastructure to enable broadband connectivity to community Wi-Fi hotspots that connect households. 

The Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, Members of the Limpopo Provincial Executive Council, District and Local Mayors, as well as senior government officials will support Deputy President Mashatile. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Wed, 04/17/2024 - 11:23

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Read moreMashatile to launch second phase of Wi-Fi connectivity project in Limpopo