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SA, Zimbabwe to sign agreement for treated water transfer to Musina

Location: News

SA, Zimbabwe to sign agreement for treated water transfer to Musina

Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, and his Zimbabwean counterpart, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development Minister, Dr Anxious Jongwe Masuka, will on Thursday sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the transfer of treated water to Musina.

The bilateral agreement between the two countries will allow for supply of about 15 million cubic metres per annum (m3/a) which is equal to 41 Ml/d of treated water from Beitbridge Water Treatment Works in the Republic of Zimbabwe to Musina in South Africa. 

The Musina Local Municipality has a total population of 132 009 people residing in 192 villages and one town, which is Musina. The area is dry with limited sources of water and largely relies on groundwater for supply.

“South Africa and Zimbabwe signed a bilateral agreement on Co-operation on Water Resources Management and the Establishment and Functioning of the Joint Water Commission (JWC) in 2015,” the department said in a statement.

Limpopo Watercourse Commission agreement amendment

On the day of the signing of the agreement, Mchunu with his counterparts from Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Mozambique - who are all members of the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) - will also sign the amended LIMCOM Agreement in the transboundary agreement.

LIMCOM is a transboundary organisation established by four member countries to use management of the shared water resources in an equitable manner.

The department said the agreement will enable the Ministers to adopt policies, decisions and provide guidance on the promotion and coordination of the management, development, and equitable utilisation of the shared water resources. 

“During the Commission Sitting, the four countries will sign a commitment to implement the Integrated Transboundary River Basin Management for the Sustainable Development of the Limpopo River Basin.

“The agreement will strengthen South Africa’s relations with the three riparian states which share the basin and use water from the river to support various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, tourism, energy generation, as well as for domestic use,” the department said.

National Water Month

Meanwhile, Mchunu and his Deputies, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, together with Vhembe District Municipality Mayor, Freda Nkondo, will on Friday engage with the community of Musina at Musina Showgrounds, to provide feedback and progress made to address water supply challenges in the area. 

The two-day activities form part of the annual National Water Month host by the Department of Water and Sanitation in March.

The National Water Month is South Africa's expansion of World Water Day, which is observed on 22 March and focuses attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

This year’s World Water Day will be observed under the theme ‘Water for Peace’, which focuses on the critical role water plays in the stability and prosperity of the world. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Mon, 03/11/2024 - 12:47

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Read moreSA, Zimbabwe to sign agreement for treated water transfer to Musina

Police seize over R30 million worth of fake goods

Location: News

Police seize over R30 million worth of fake goods

The South African Police Service (SAPS) says it remains relentless in its efforts to uproot the illicit trade in counterfeit goods, as it has a detrimental impact on the economic growth of the country.

The police services’ National Counterfeit Unit led another integrated takedown operation in the Johannesburg CBD on Friday, which resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods worth over R9 million.

The team comprised of SAPS members, officials from the South African Revenue Services (SARS), Gauteng Traffic, Brand Protectors, Crime Prevention Wardens and security companies.

During the operation, the team seized over 11 000 counterfeit items such as clothing apparel, shoes, watches, handbags and sunglasses. 

“This was the third takedown operation in Gauteng province in the last four weeks,” the SAPS said in a statement. 

In addition, the team also seized over R8 million worth of counterfeit goods during a takedown operation in Rustenburg, in the North West province last week.

“This brings the total value of counterfeit goods seized for the past four weeks to over R30 million.”

Illicit drugs

Meanwhile, in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, three male suspects aged between 38 and 43 years were  arrested for the unlawful possession and dealing in illicit drugs in the early hours of Friday.

Acting on intelligence regarding illicit drug activities in Bela-Bela, the Waterberg District Illicit Mining Task Team conducted a swift and intelligence-driven operation resulting in the apprehension of these suspects.

During the operation, the SAPS said a 38-year-old South African male suspect was apprehended at his residence, where the police discovered 2 900 sachets of nyaope and about six 25 litres of diesel suspected to be stolen.

Meanwhile, two foreign nationals aged 43 and 34 years were intercepted in separate locations in Bela-Bela.

“They were found in possession of illicit drugs, including ninety sachets of crystal meth and nyaope.”

In Musina, the border policing team made significant arrests as part of Disruptive Operation Vala Umgodi at the Beitbridge port of entry. 

“Five Zimbabwean nationals were apprehended and subsequently processed for direct deportation by Immigration Officers from the Department of Home Affairs.” 

In a separate operation, members of the Mopani District Illicit Mining Task Team conducted thorough searches during Operation Vala Umgodi on the same day, leading to the seizure of multiple mining equipment in Myakayaka village. 

This equipment are believed to be linked to illegal mining activities in the Maake policing area. 

Furthermore, the SAPS confiscated drugs with an estimated street value of R90 000 during an intelligence-driven operation in Bela-Bela.

The arrested  suspects are to appear before the Bela-Bela Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 11 March 2024. 

“The South African Police Service is committed to combatting illegal activities and ensuring the safety and security of our communities.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Sun, 03/10/2024 - 14:21

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Read morePolice seize over R30 million worth of fake goods

Lebowakgomo police arrest four illegal mining suspects

Location: News

Lebowakgomo police arrest four illegal mining suspects

Police in Lebowakgomo have successfully apprehended four male suspects for engaging in illegal mining activities and violation of immigration laws at Makurung village in the Capricorn District Municipality in Limpopo.

The arrest of the foreign nationals, aged between 22 and 35, forms part of the ongoing high-density Operation Vala Umgodi.

“Acting swiftly, the members of the SAPS Capricorn District Illicit Mining Task Team conducted a targeted operation on Wednesday at approximately 20:30 in the Lebowakgomo policing area, leading to the discovery of an illegal mining site in Makurung village.

“Upon approaching the scene, the police noticed an idling power generator. As they moved closer to the site, they discovered the four male suspects actively engaged in illegal mining. The suspects attempted to flee, but were successfully apprehended,” said the police in a statement.

They said during the arrest the police seized various mining equipment utilised in the illicit activities, including three shovels, two electrical cables, two fans, one spade, one rake, one pick, one container containing chrome, one jackhammer, one power generator, one drill point and two cellphones.

In a separate incident, the SAPS Vhembe District Illicit Mining Task Team successfully recovered abandoned mining equipment at an illegal mining site in the Muchipise village, outside Malamulele.

The recovered items included three picks, three spades, one hammer, two headlamps, two cellphones and a 10 kg bag filled with precious stones.

“Upon realising that the police had arrived at the scene, the suspected illegal miners swiftly fled in various directions, managing to evade arrest and leaving their equipment behind.

“The team confiscated the items and continued with their efforts to disrupt illegal mining activities through a series of crime prevention techniques, including foot patrols, vehicle checkpoints and stop-and-search operations,” police said.

During the course of Operation Vala Umgodi in Malamulele, a total of 30 vehicles and 122 individuals were subjected to thorough searches.

The police said they would remain vigilant in pursuing the individuals involved in illegal mining and those who fled from the scene to avoid arrest.

“This ongoing endeavor underscores the commitment of the police in combating illicit activities and upholding the rule of law in the province.” – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 03/08/2024 - 14:00

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Read moreLebowakgomo police arrest four illegal mining suspects

Limpopo University digital innovation lab to help job creation efforts

Location: News

Limpopo University digital innovation lab to help job creation efforts

Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, will on Wednesday unveil the University of Limpopo Digital Innovation Lab (LDIL).

The LDIL is a strategic initiative designed to improve the development of information and communication technologies (ICT) skills in Limpopo and address unemployment.

LDIL is a Software Development Programme aimed at combating the high unemployment rate in Limpopo, with a curriculum that covers coding, programming fundamentals and digital social innovation.

Through a 10-month Software Development (SWD) initiative that introduces coding fundamentals and digital social innovation, the LDIL programme also seeks to empower 25 unemployed youth each year.

The programme also places a strong emphasis on providing unemployed youth with practical, real-world experience.

Dlamini Zuma, who is the University of Limpopo Chancellor, will deliver the keynote address at the official launch of the lab, which is in collaboration with Samsung Electronics South Africa and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic). 

“This historic event marks a significant step towards empowering women, youth and persons with disabilities and encouraging innovation in Limpopo to showcase and inspire similar innovative measures for other young people across the country,” the department said in a statement. 

The event, which will see the official plaque unveiling and ribbon cutting, will take place at the university’s R-40 Conference Hall. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 12:58

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Read moreLimpopo University digital innovation lab to help job creation efforts

Three suspects arrested in connection with VBS corruption

Location: News

Three suspects arrested in connection with VBS corruption

Three suspects, aged 33, 42 and 64, were arrested during an early morning raid in Limpopo by the Serious Corruption Investigation of the Hawks.

The 64-year-old suspect, who was previously the Chief Financial Officer and Acting Municipal Manager for the Greater Giyani Local Municipality, was arrested in Lulekani.  

He was arrested on charges of contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), corruption and money laundering.

The 42-year-old suspect was arrested in Giyani. She was a Budget Manager and Acting Chief Financial Officer, and currently the Chief Financial Officer, of Giyani. She is facing charges of flouting the MFMA.

The third suspect, aged 33, is a businessman. He was arrested in Muhuya village, Thohoyandou, on allegations of money laundering.

During 2017, two of the suspects invested a total of R148 656 282.00 into VBS Mutual Bank. Large amounts were paid to VBS affiliated companies as so-called "commissions".

Some of this money was laundered through several bank accounts, including that of the third suspect.

From the suspect’s company, a total amount of R87 600.00 was paid to the first suspect over a period of time as gratification, which was a great loss to the Giyani Municipality.

The trio will make their first appearance on 6 March 2024 in the Giyani Magistrates’ Court for formal bail application. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 15:02

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Read moreThree suspects arrested in connection with VBS corruption

Local movies are the flavour of the month on the big screen from March to May

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

Local movies are the flavour of the month in March when Ster-Kinekor releases a number of homegrown films and a new title from our Namibian neighbour. These films, which celebrate our local cultures through creative and authentic storytelling, will be released in select Ster-Kinekor cinemas, with the Namibian title also being screened in the two …

Read moreLocal movies are the flavour of the month on the big screen from March to May

Police seize counterfeit goods, dismantle illegal crossings near Beitbridge

Location: News

Police seize counterfeit goods, dismantle illegal crossings near Beitbridge

A successful operation conducted by a border police team at Musina near the Beitbridge Port of Entry on Sunday has resulted in the seizure of counterfeit goods.

The team also recovered an inflatable boat believed to be used for illegal crossings of the Limpopo River between Zimbabwe and South Africa.

“During the operation, members of the SAPS OR Tambo International Airport Border Police intercepted a smuggling attempt and seized one inflatable boat, 25 litres of diesel, counterfeit cigarettes and liquor that were being smuggled between South Africa and Zimbabwe.

“Despite some suspects managing to evade arrest by fleeing on foot and crossing the Limpopo River, homemade wooden bridges used for illegal crossings were successfully dismantled during the operation,” said the police in a statement.

In a separate incident, nine male Zimbabwean nationals were apprehended by the Vhembe District Proactive Police for contravening the Immigration Act during a separate Vala Umgodi operation.

These individuals were arrested less than 10km from Beitbridge.

The Department of Home Affairs Immigration Office was engaged for immediate deportation of the illegal immigrants. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 03/05/2024 - 10:59

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Read morePolice seize counterfeit goods, dismantle illegal crossings near Beitbridge

Government activities for the week 04 March to 07 March 2024

Location: News

Government activities for the week 04 March to 07 March 2024

On Monday, 04 March, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in partnership with the Department of Justice and Correctional Services will launch the 2024 Human Rights Month at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre.

Also on Monday, Eastern Cape Rural Development and Agrarian Reform MEC Nonkqubela Pieters hands over industrial machines, agricultural inputs, and tools to business owners in Bathurst.

Monday also marks World Obesity Day.

From Monday, 04 March to Thursday, 7 March, the Department of Employment and Labour will be taking a basket of its services to the communities of eMalahleni Local Municipality, Mpumalanga.

On Tuesday, 05 March, the Electoral Commission will launch its annual national Civic and Democracy Education Tertiary institutions campaign to improve youth understanding and participation in the country’s democratic processes, in Limpopo.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe will deliver a keynote address at the 16th annual edition of Africa Energy Indaba in Cape Town.

On Thursday, 7 March, the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo will take place in  the eMalahleni Local Municipality, Nkangala District in Mpumalanga.

 

 

 

 

Neo
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 14:19

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Read moreGovernment activities for the week 04 March to 07 March 2024

Mpumalanga learners get bicycles

Location: News

Mpumalanga learners get bicycles

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has handed over 455 bicycles to pupils in Mpumalanga to use for travelling to school.

Learners that benefitted from the national Shova Kalula or Ride Easy Bicycle Programme include those in Sindawonye and Kwakwari Primary, as well as Mgudlwa, Mkhephuli, Mbedlwana, Sozilani and Hlomanani Secondary Schools in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality.

“We hope that these means will help in them to get to and from school quicker, and that it will inspire them to pursue their educational dreams,” Chikunga said on Monday.

The national Shova Kalula or Ride Easy Bicycle Programme was initiated as a pilot project in 2001 with the purpose of promoting and maximising the use of bicycles as a low-cost mobility solution to poor communities, particularly in the rural areas.

“The Shova Kalula Programme is part of the broader learner transport programme, focusing on learners who walk less than 5 kilometre (km) and walk more than 3 km to schools. Other learners on the learner transport programme are being ferried through buses and taxis through contracts that are managed by the provinces,” the Minister said.

In addition, all provinces are implementing the National Learner Transport Policy though the National Learner Transport Programme.

“There are 900 946 learners in 5 635 schools that required learner transport to access their schools in 2023/2024 financial year. These learners have been identified by the provincial Departments of Education, which are responsible for the selection of learners to benefit from the subsidised learner transport service, in line with the National Learner Transport Policy and provincial policies,” Chikunga said.

The National Learner Transport policy recognies the deep challenges of learners who walk long distances to school, which has an adverse impact on their school attendance and performance.

“In order to deal with these mobility challenges, government has been implementing the National Learner Transport Policy to provide learners who live more than 5km [from school] with transport to school,” the Minister said.

Moloto Road

While in Mpumalanga, the Minister also conducted a site inspection of the bridge under construction along the R573 Moloto Road in the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality.

“Work on the project is progressing steadily across all the three provinces of Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo. The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) team is working tirelessly to make the road safer for road users. In Mpumalanga, Work Package 2 is currently ongoing, and it is 75% complete.

“The anticipated completion date of construction for this phase is June 2024. In Limpopo, Work Package A2 is currently underway, and it is 95% complete. The anticipated completion date of construction is February 2024. In Gauteng, SANRAL is on the verge of appointing a contractor to start with works on this section of the project in 2024,” the Minister said.

SANRAL has invested R4.5billion in this project over five years.

“About 12 500 jobs are expected to be created throughout the project duration. In line with SANRAL’s Transformation Policy, the inclusion of youth- and women-owned businesses will be prioritised.

“Furthermore, the roads agency has launched a programme to empower Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), headed by people with disabilities, to form part of the construction of Moloto Road.

“Nearly R130 million has also been earmarked to train prospective contractors from designated groups, to get them to the point where they are able to submit compliant, competitive and profitable tenders for such projects,” Chikunga said.

SANRAL has introduced several additional safety interventions on the R573 to minimise crashes, paying particular attention to pedestrian safety.

“So far, we have worked on the Moloto Road in Mpumalanga and Limpopo and we hope to begin work in Gauteng this year. The spend to date is R559 million on upgrading of national road R573, Section 2, Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, Mpumalanga; and R362.8 million on upgrading of national road R573, Section 3, from Slovo to Siyabuswa, Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Mon, 03/04/2024 - 15:01

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IEC campaign to help youth participate in democracy

Location: News

IEC campaign to help youth participate in democracy

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) will on Tuesday launch its annual national Civic and Democracy Education Tertiary Institutions campaign to improve the youth’s understanding of and participation in the country's democratic processes.

The launch will take place at Mopani Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College in Limpopo.

The campaign aims to engage the youth of South Africa in democracy education and encourage participation in electoral processes. The event will expose over 3 000 young people Phalaborwa and the surrounds to various electoral processes.

The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, will deliver the keynote address. Also in attendance will be IEC chairperson, Mosotho Moepya; Commissioner Judge Dhaya Pillay; Chief Electoral Officer, Sy Mamabolo and Dr Levy Baloyi, the principal of Mopani TVET College.

READ | Cabinet welcomes 29 May as date for General Elections

In the 2021 Municipal Elections, 71% of registered youth aged 18 - 19 turned up to vote, while only 35% of youth aged 20 - 29 voted. However, less than 10% of eligible voters aged 18 - 29 were registered to vote in the elections.

It is against this backdrop that in the run-up to the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, the Electoral Commission heightens efforts to empower youth to participate meaningfully in democratic and electoral processes.

The campaign will be rolled out to nearly 100 tertiary institution campuses countrywide until September 2024. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sun, 03/03/2024 - 12:38

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DWS kick-starts National Water Month  

Location: News

DWS kick-starts National Water Month  

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) will be embarking on advocacy programmes as part of National Water Month.

Today, the department kick-starts National Water Month, which is conceptualised along the annual commemoration of World Water Day.

World Water Day is spearheaded by the United Nations (UN) and is observed on 22 March.

The UN uses World Water Day to focus attention on the global water crisis and raise awareness of the 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water, with the aim of aspiring nations to commit to long-term action.

This is to ensure that everyone in the world has access to safe water by 2030, while not impacting the environment. 

World Water Day also brings attention to the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. 

This year’s Water Day will be observed under the theme, 'Leveraging Water for Peace', which encourages communities and countries to use water as a tool for peace, when cooperating over this precious shared resource.

The theme also highlights that water can spark and intensify conflict when access is denied and usage unfairly shared. 

The department said National Water Month will be used to reflect and deliver the department’s mandate in response to these challenges, with the strategies to avoid the projected deficit.

Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately-owned land

The ministerial launch of the Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately owned land, scheduled to take place in KwaZulu-Natal, will be the highlight of this year’s National Water Month. 

“The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, will launch this holistic policy with the intention of unifying and simplifying the provision and regulation of sustainable and equitable water services to residents living on privately-owned land,” the department said. 

The month-long activities will also see Mchunu visiting Limpopo to assess progress on the Giyani Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which will benefit 24 villages.

This follows his commitment to accelerate the project through, among others, optimisation of the Giyani water treatment works to its original capacity and increase the project scope to ensure 55 villages benefit from the scheme. This is through funds allocated for reticulation and expanding access to yard connections. 

To this end, the department said 24 villages are in various stages of construction and some of the villages will soon be receiving water in their taps. 

“Minister Mchunu will also meet with his four counterparts from Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to sign the amendment of the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) by the four riparian States which share the Limpopo River Basin and use water from the river to support various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, tourism, energy generation, as well as for domestic use.

“The agreement signed in 2003, will be amended to formalise the establishment of the LIMCOM Council of Ministers to be the main policy and decision-making body on transboundary, water resource management issues in the Limpopo River Basin,” the department said. 

The department has reiterated its call to all South Africans to make a difference by changing the way they use, drink and manage water in their respective lives. 

“South Africa is a dry and water-scarce country with an average annual rainfall of 470mm compared to the global annual average of 814mm. Thus, it has limited water availability, which is diminishing compared to other countries,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:58

756 views
Read moreDWS kick-starts National Water Month  

SA, Netherlands recommit to cooperation in water and sanitation sector

Location: News

SA, Netherlands recommit to cooperation in water and sanitation sector

The governments of South Africa and the Netherlands have undertaken to explore more cooperation opportunities in the water and sanitation sector in order to strength the existing relations between the two States.

The two countries made the undertaking when Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu joined by Director-General, Dr Sean Phillips, met with the Ambassador of the Netherlands to South Africa, Joanne Doornewaard, in Pretoria this week.

Mchunu and Doornewaard held their first meeting since the Ambassador was posted to South Africa in August 2023. 

A number of issues were discussed at the meeting, including the bilateral agreement on water management between the two countries, as well as other collaboration opportunities in the water and sanitation sector.

Expanding on the existing relations between the two States, Mchunu acknowledged the expertise and contribution offered by the Netherlands in the water and sanitation space, saying that it has a significant impact. 

Mchunu said the visit by His Majesty the King of Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Máxima in South Africa in October last year, as part of the Blue Deal Project, demonstrated the love they have for the people of South Africa.

The Minister outlined some challenges that the country continues to face, including delipidating infrastructure at municipal level, resulting in water losses.

“South Africa remains one of the driest countries in the world, yet we have a high rate of non-venue water at municipal level, losing so much water that we so need. We need lots of work around this matter [through] investing more in our water infrastructure to ensure that we nip this in a bud,” Mchunu said.

He said that South Africa has more challenges in water services than it has with water resources. 

Mchunu, however, maintained there is no water crisis in the country but is experiencing “isolated incidents that do not equate to a crisis".

Phillips said the department and the sector at large are reaping the benefits of some programmes undertaken by the Netherlands government under the Blue Deal Project, particularly in the supply chain management in infrastructure procurement.

“We have had an internationally renowned expert in infrastructure procurement, who has imparted so much knowledge that we are currently implementing to modernise our systems. This is going to make a huge improvement in our service delivery, and we want to take this to our water boards and municipalities to implement as well,” Phillips said.

Doornewaard outlined several projects that they want to undertake in Limpopo and other parts of the country, as part of support to the country’s water challenges and other sectors.

“We just want to lend a helping hand to the country,” Doornewaard said.

South Africa and the Netherlands signed the Blue Deal agreement, which aims to support water management by exchanging knowledge and experience. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 13:30

261 views
Read moreSA, Netherlands recommit to cooperation in water and sanitation sector

DWS kickstarts National Water Month  

Location: News

DWS kickstarts National Water Month  

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) will be embarking on advocacy programmes as part of National Water Month.

Today, the department kick-starts National Water Month, which is conceptualised along the annual commemoration of World Water Day.

World Water Day is spearheaded by the United Nations (UN) and is observed on 22 March.

The UN uses World Water Day to focus attention on the global water crisis and raise awareness of the 2.2 billion people living without access to safe water, with the aim of aspiring nations to commit to long-term action.

This is to ensure that everyone in the world has access to safe water by 2030, while not impacting the environment. 

World Water Day also brings attention to the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. 

This year’s Water Day will be observed under the theme, 'Leveraging Water for Peace', which encourages communities and countries to use water as a tool for peace, when cooperating over this precious shared resource.

The theme also highlights that water can spark and intensify conflict when access is denied and usage unfairly shared. 

The department said National Water Month will be used to reflect and deliver the department’s mandate in response to these challenges, with the strategies to avoid the projected deficit.

Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately-owned land

The ministerial launch of the Water and Sanitation Services Policy on privately owned land, scheduled to take place in KwaZulu-Natal, will be the highlight of this year’s National Water Month. 

“The Minister of Water and Sanitation, Senzo Mchunu, will launch this holistic policy with the intention of unifying and simplifying the provision and regulation of sustainable and equitable water services to residents living on privately-owned land,” the department said. 

The month-long activities will also see Mchunu visiting Limpopo to assess progress on the Giyani Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which will benefit 24 villages.

This follows his commitment to accelerate the project through, among others, optimisation of the Giyani water treatment works to its original capacity and increase the project scope to ensure 55 villages benefit from the scheme. This is through funds allocated for reticulation and expanding access to yard connections. 

To this end, the department said 24 villages are in various stages of construction and some of the villages will soon be receiving water in their taps. 

“Minister Mchunu will also meet with his four counterparts from Botswana, Mozambique and Zimbabwe to sign the amendment of the Limpopo Watercourse Commission (LIMCOM) by the four riparian States which share the Limpopo River Basin and use water from the river to support various socio-economic activities, including agriculture, tourism, energy generation, as well as for domestic use.

“The agreement signed in 2003, will be amended to formalise the establishment of the LIMCOM Council of Ministers to be the main policy and decision-making body on transboundary, water resource management issues in the Limpopo River Basin,” the department said. 

The department has reiterated its call to all South Africans to make a difference by changing the way they use, drink and manage water in their respective lives. 

“South Africa is a dry and water-scarce country with an average annual rainfall of 470mm compared to the global annual average of 814mm. Thus, it has limited water availability, which is diminishing compared to other countries,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 03/01/2024 - 10:58

124 views
Read moreDWS kickstarts National Water Month  

South Africa and Netherlands recommits their cooperation in the water and sanitation sector

Location: News

South African Government
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South Africa and Netherlands governments have undertaken to forge more cooperation opportunities in the water and sanitation sector in efforts to strength the existing relations between the two states.

This undertaking was made on Tuesday, 27 February 2024 in Pretoria when the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr Senzo Mchunu, joined by Director-General, Dr Sean Phillips met with the Ambassador of Netherlands to South Africa, Joanne Doornewaard.

The meeting between Minister Mchunu and Ambassador Doornewaard was the first one since she was posted to South Africa in August 2023. Several issues were discussed, including the bilateral agreement on water management between the two countries as well as other collaboration opportunities in the water and sanitation sector.

Expanding on the existing relations between the two states, Minister Mchunu appreciated Netherlands expertise and the contribution that they are making in the water and sanitation space, saying that it has a significant impact. Acknowledging, the assistance from Netherlands government, he said the visit by the King and Queen of Netherlands to South Africa, as part of the Blue Deal Project, demonstrated the love they have for the people of South Africa.

Minister Mchunu outlined some challenges that the country continues to face includes the delipidating infrastructure at municipal level as well as water losses as a result of that.

“South Africa remains one of the driest countries in the world, yet we have a high rate of non-venue water at municipal level, losing so much water that we so need. We need lots of work around this matter, that is investing more on our water infrastructure, to ensure that we nip this in a bud”, he emphasised.

In addition, Minister Mchunu said that South Africa has more challenges on water services that it has on water resources, saying the dams are full but the ability to take that water to the taps. However, he said, there is no water crisis in the country, what is experienced, are isolated incidences that do not equate to a crisis.

Director General, Dr Phillips said the department and the sector at large is reaping the benefits of some programmes undertaken by the Netherlands government under the Blue Deal project, particularly in the supply chain management in the infrastructure procurement.

“We have had an internationally renowned expert in infrastructure procurement who has imparted so much knowledge that we are currently implementing to modernise our systems. This is going to make a huge improvement in our service delivery, and we want to take this to our water boards and municipalities to implement as well”, he said.

Ambassador Doornewaard outlined several projects that they want to undertake in Limpopo and other parts of the country as part of support to the country's water challenges and other sectors, saying they just want to lend a helping hand to the country.

South Africa and Netherlands signed a Blue Deal agreement which aims to support water management by exchanging knowledge and experiences, assist the national, regional and local organisations and cooperate with key stakeholders. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

Read moreSouth Africa and Netherlands recommits their cooperation in the water and sanitation sector

Limpopo records progress in improving citizens’ lives

Location: News

Limpopo records progress in improving citizens' lives

Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha says much has been done to improve the lives of people in the province.

“When we achieved our April 1994 democratic breakthrough, less than 30% of rural households had access to electricity,” Mathabatha said.

Delivering the State of the Province Address in Polokwane on Thursday, Mathabatha said the provincial government has electrified at least 94.% of rural households in the province, marking a significant improvement in access to electricity.

“People in rural areas overwhelmingly depended on firewood to cook, using three-legged pots. There was deforestation, impacting trees and other plants, an important source of oxygen supply for human life, and a key resource of environmental conservation,” Mathabatha said.

Mathabatha said forests have risen in various areas that were affected due to the massive household electrification programme.  

“In healthcare, it is pleasing that we currently have 476 clinics in Limpopo and 216 of healthcare centres (45%) operate 24 hours a day,” Mathabatha said.

Mathabatha said in 2010, the province reached 80% access to water, reaching more communities and improving public health outcomes.

“However, because of various countervailing factors, we have experienced a decline to 69.1%. We are worried about this, and we are hard at work with authorities in the water provision space to improve the situation.

“It is important to note that we have improved access to sanitation to 63.1%, up from 26.9% in 2002, and up from a far lower baseline in 1994.” 

Mathabatha said the tarred roads network in the province has significantly expanded since April 1994.

“It is now covering rural areas that were neglected before. Through this progress, we have enhanced connectivity and improved transportation efficiency, facilitating economic development in Limpopo. At present, our target is to surface 13 800 kilometres from gravel to tar,” he said.

Mathabatha said the provincial government has worked very hard in education.

“Our efforts are now visible in improved matric results. We have improved from a 38% matric pass rate in 1996. At 79.5% in 2024, our matric pass rate now approximates our 80% target.”

Mathabatha said Limpopo's contribution to the national economic output over the past three decades has improved.

He said in 1996, Limpopo contributed 5.3% to the national gross domestic product.

“Despite the global economic and pandemic crises, our contribution to national GDP reached 7.3% by 2023. This reflects the strategic efforts undertaken by the province to harness its vast natural resources, develop critical sectors and attract investment.

“From just over 911 000 households in 1996, we have increased to over 1.8 million households in 2022. This substantial growth in households highlights Limpopo’s growing population. We have now reached over six million people, according to the latest census,” the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 13:45

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Limpopo committed to good governance, says Mathabatha

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Limpopo committed to good governance, says Mathabatha

Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha says the province has, over the past decade, worked tirelessly to bring stability and sound administration.

“Through collective effort and unwavering commitment, we have seen remarkable improvements in audit outcomes and overall provincial performance,” Mathabatha said.

Delivering the State of the Province Address in Polokwane on Thursday, Mathabatha said the once prevalent disclaimer audit opinions are now a thing of the past in the provincial departments, public entities and municipalities.

"In 2013, Limpopo was at a critical juncture. Five departments were under national administration. Confidence in our provincial administration was waning. Our task was clear, yet daunting. It was to breathe life back into these departments and restore confidence in our governance.

“[Now] no department is under administration. As we reflect on the progress we have made, let us also look to the future with optimism and determination,” Mathabatha said.

Mathabatha said the story of Limpopo's renewal and development is far from over.

“It is a continuous journey, one that requires an active citizenry, and the collective effort of every community and leader. Together, we can build on the foundation we have laid, striving for even greater achievements and a brighter future for all who call Limpopo home.

“Our trajectory towards a Limpopo that we all yearn for is taking shape during an unfavorable, harsh global reality,” he said.

Mathabatha said under the circumstances, the province needs to build greater self-reliance and increase its share of value addition in finished products.

“It is important to continue our efforts to achieve manufacturing localisation, to deepen and expand domestic beneficiation of our minerals and primary agricultural products, industrialise and drive large-scale employment,” he said.

Mathabatha said since 2022, the province has become the fifth largest province in South Africa.

“Although we have moved from the fourth spot, we have become the largest contributor to Gauteng’s population.

“Our economic and social development programmes should help us retain our youth, while protecting their freedom of movement. Democracy has brought about many shifts. More people stay where they want to,” he said.

Food security

Mathabatha said the provincial government remains determined to support its people in food production.

“Limpopo has established a firm role in food security in our country.”

Mathabatha said 29% of households in the province now grow food in their yards.

“This is a testament to the fact that we have an active citizenry in food production. We remain determined to support our people in food production,” Mathabatha said.

He emphasised the need to build on the progress made, harnessing the potential of the  youth, investing in infrastructure, fostering industrialisation and promoting sustainable development.

“... We have made progress in addressing the legacy of colonialism and apartheid. We also all acknowledge that there is still a lot of work to be done. I am sure we all agree that the road to success is a journey, not a sprint,” Mathabatha said.

Mathabatha said as the province, they reaffirm what President Cyril Ramaphosa said during the State of the Nation Address earlier this month, that the provincial government must strive for a non-racial and non-sexist democratic South Africa. - SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Thu, 02/29/2024 - 13:07

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Stats SA records decrease in number of employed persons

Location: News

Stats SA records decrease in number of employed persons

The Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) results for the fourth quarter of 2023 by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) indicate that the number of employed persons decreased by 22 000 to 16.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 when compared to the third quarter. 

Addressing a media briefing on Tuesday in Pretoria, Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said the number of unemployed persons increased by 46 000 to 7.9 million compared to quarter three. 

“Additionally, the number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 218 000 to 13.4 million, while discouraged work-seekers decreased by 107 000 in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to the third quarter of 2023. This resulted in a net increase of 111 000 in the not economically active population.

“The above changes in employment and unemployment resulted in the official unemployment rate increasing by 0.2 of a percentage point from 31.9% in the third quarter of 2023 to 32.1% in the fourth quarter of 2023.

“The unemployment rate according to the expanded definition decreased by 0.1 of a percentage point to 41.1% in Q4: 2023 compared to Q3: 2023,” Maluleke said.

Formal sector employment decreased by 128 000 in Q4: 2023, while informal sector employment increased by 124 000 over the same period.

The industries that contributed to the net employment decline include community and social services (down by 171 000), construction (down by 36 000), agriculture (down by 35 000), trade (down by 28 000) and manufacturing (down by 1 000).

However, finance (up by 128 000), transport (up by 57 000), mining (up by 37 000) and private households (up by 18 000) recorded the largest employment gains. 

“Provincially, employment losses were recorded in Eastern Cape (111 000), Limpopo (40 000), North West (30 000) and Northern Cape (2 000). The largest employment increase was recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (62 000), followed by Mpumalanga (48 000) and Western Cape (23 000) during the same period.

“The youth (15–34 years) remain vulnerable in the labour market; the fourth quarter of 2023 results show that the total number of unemployed youth increased by 87 000 to 4.7 million while there was a decrease of 97 000 in the number of employed youth to 5.9 million. This resulted in an increase in the youth unemployment rate by 0.9 of a percentage point from 43.4% in Q3: 2023 to 44.3% in Q4: 2023,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 12:01

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