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SANRAL to inject billions into construction industry in 2024

Location: News

SANRAL to inject billions into construction industry in 2024

The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has started adjudicating tenders worth R6.43 billion that will be awarded early in 2024 to boost the construction industry.

SANRAL’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Reginald Demana, said the 77 tenders for various road construction projects were advertised at the end of November 2023 under the road agency’s Interim Preferential Procurement Policy (PPP) and submission closed on 14 December.

“SANRAL is currently adjudicating 77 tenders which will give the construction industry a good start in the New Year, helping to create thousands of jobs and inject billions of rands into the economy.

“While the rest of South Africa is winding down for the festive season, SANRAL is working hard to get South Africa’s construction industry off to a flying start in the New Year. The fact that our officials are working through the holidays to adjudicate these tenders is an indication of our commitment to fulfilling the promises we made to the South African public and it shows that we are getting back to business as soon as possible.

“We understand the role that construction and infrastructure development plays in the construction industry and we are determined to overcome the disruptions which resulted from court challenges to our PPP adopted in May 2023.

“We are squarely focussed on developing, maintaining and improving the national road network in line with our mandate from government,” Demana said on Wednesday.

After several court challenges launched by construction companies, SANRAL announced on 24 October that it was withdrawing the PPP adopted in May 2023 and embarked on a countrywide consultation process with interested and affected parties to adopt an interim PPP.

The 77 tenders, which are currently being adjudicated, were advertised in line with the interim policy.

Demana stressed that SANRAL was making every effort to catch up on time that the industry had lost by putting out 86 of the less complex consulting and construction tenders that were cancelled and subsequently re-advertised at the end of November.

The CEO said 1 040 bids were received for the 77 tenders and this illustrated the significance of SANRAL projects in the construction industry.

The breakdown of the 1 040 bids is as follows:

  • 124 bids for national contracts with an estimated value of R350 million;
  • 279 received for the Northern Region (Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North-West) with an estimated value of R548 million;
  • 247 received for the Eastern Region (Free State and KwaZulu-Natal) with an estimated value of R2.1 billion;
  • 240 received for the Southern Region (Eastern Cape) with an estimated value of R2.83 billion, and;
  • 150 for the Western Region (Northern Cape and Western Cape) with an estimated value of R600 million.

“We are encouraged and at the same time humbled by this overwhelming response. It also tells us that the numerous engagements we had with interested and affected parties across the country has paved the way for more effective collaboration with all our stakeholders in the industry,” Demana said. 

The official shutdown period for the construction sector commenced on 14 December 2023 and will end on 9 January 2024.

While all conventional road construction will be suspended during this time, SANRAL’s Routine Road Maintenance teams remain on standby to respond to any incident on the national road network.

“We wish to thank all our consultants and contractors for working around the clock to keep our projects on track and within budget. May you all have a well-deserved break with your loved ones and stay safe wherever you may travel,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 10:00

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Severe thunderstorms warning

Location: News

Severe thunderstorms warning

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of severe thunderstorms with strong damaging winds, hail and heavy downpours leading to localised flooding of roads, settlements and bridges.

These conditions are expected on Thursday over the extreme eastern parts of the Free State, north-western parts of KwaZulu-Natal, eastern Highveld, escarpment areas of Mpumalanga, as well as the extreme south-eastern parts of Limpopo.

SAWS will continue to monitor this weather system and issue subsequent updates. The public has been advised to regularly follow weather forecasts on television, radio and social media platforms.

Updated information will regularly be available on www.weathersa.co.za, as well as on X at @SAWeatherServic and Facebook @SouthAfricanWeatherservice. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 14:20

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Radisson announces its first safari hotel in South Africa

Location: News
Radisson Hotel Group

Radisson Hotel Group (https://www.RadissonHotels.com) is proud to announce the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, its first Safari hotel in Africa and 11th hotel in South Africa. Tucked between two renowned nature reserves, Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon, the hotel is located 2km outside of Hoedspruit in the heart of the grasslands in the Limpopo province and just 20 minutes from Eastgate Airport.

Boasting majestic views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit (https://apo-opa.co/3TEcOPf) is surrounded by endless destination-immersing activities. Guests can take part in bucket-list safari adventures to spot local wildlife such as lions, rhinoceros, and elephants, go trekking on horseback, or take in the sprawling landscape from a hot air balloon.

Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit offers a range of room types from standard rooms with garden and mountain views to Premium Suites featuring their own private pools and relaxing outdoor seating areas to take in the natural landscape. With a contemporary Scandinavian design, the hotels 138 rooms and suites provide a calming setting with natural materials, wooden details and rich, earthy colors that pay homage to its African surroundings.

At the thatched roof restaurant, Mirage, guests can enjoy South African and Lebanese-inspired cuisine on the restaurant's wrap-around deck, with convenient access to a sunbathing area and pool in the summer, as well as an outdoor fireplace on cooler evenings. Pegasus restaurant offers fresh and wholesome Mediterranean, Italian, Mexican, and American-inspired dishes as well as gourmet ice cream and frozen cocktails, served alongside the adults-only swimming pool. At the hotel's third restaurant, Boma, guests can indulge in some of Africa's most popular delicacies such as the local sausage, Boerewors; Bobotie; and selection of game meat, while listening to the soothing crackling of the fire and stargazing in the clear night's sky.

“We are thrilled to open the doors of our first safari-inspired hotel in South Africa. The opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit marks our 11th hotel opening in South Africa and completes our own Golden Triangle Safari offering with exquisite properties in Cape Town and the recently opened Radisson Blu Resort Mosi-oa-Tunya in Livingstone,” said Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East & Africa, Radisson Hotel Group.

“My team and I are thrilled to introduce the world to the perfect combination of hospitality with Radisson's renowned Yes I Can! Service philosophy and our unmatched safari-inspired setting. Our extensive offering will ensure guests have an unforgettable experience whether they are enjoying a family holiday, a serene couples escape, or a meeting and event in a unique backdrop,” said Charles McCarthy, General Manager of Radisson Hotel Safari Hoedspruit.

Featuring a planter roof and inspiring views of the surrounding grasslands, Radisson Hotel Safari Hoedspruit will offer a tranquil and rejuvenating escape at its Amani Spa. Guests can indulge in a variety of pampering treatments in the spa's five treatment rooms including a private couple's suite. The spa also features a health bar, hair and nail salon and a soothing steam room. A 24-hour fitness center is also accessible to guests looking to stay active during their stay and offers the latest modern cardio and strength training equipment as well as yoga or Tai Chi sessions tucked away among the grasslands.

The hotel's versatile meetings and events spaces consist of five different meeting venues, including comfortable boardrooms, meeting rooms, and a main banquet hall that can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Media contact:
Saadiyah Hendricks
Area Director, PR & Social Media, Middle East, Africa and Mediterranean
Radisson Hotel Group
saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com

Nataliya Tkachenko
Senior Global Manager Consumer PR
Radisson Hotel Group
nataliya.tkachenko@radissonhotels.com

Connect with Radisson Hotels on: 
LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3xoxlLd)
Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/40Yykz4)
Twitter (https://apo-opa.info/3YyivgX)
Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3JrvtXH)  
YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3XxZrhu)

Connect with Radisson on: 
LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/43BJeMm)  
Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/43NKyLW)
Twitter (https://apo-opa.info/3JbVF9s)  
Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3qAEPul)  
YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3qAEYxT)

Radisson Hotel Group: 
The Radisson family of brands can be found around the world in more than 120 countries, with currently over 1,700 hotels in operation and under development. Radisson Hotel Group operates the business in EMEA and APAC with over 1,150 hotels in operation and under development. The international hotel group is rapidly growing with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. 

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.  

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.info/3Ir36tx) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.info/3xmLTuL) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.  

At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.info/40VCkR2) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as 100% carbon neutral Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. 

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. 

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.info/42HIP9S). 

About Radisson: 
Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian inspired hospitality, which enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment. We are committed to helping our guests find the right balance for their stay, removing the discomforts travelling may bring and enabling them to switch off and relax, using our Yes I Can! attitude to ensure satisfaction of every guest. Radisson hotels can be found in suburban and city settings, near airports and leisure destinations. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards. 

Radisson is part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels. 

For reservations and more information, visit our website (https://apo-opa.info/3p4KNn5). 

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Radisson Hotel Group
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Read moreRadisson announces its first safari hotel in South Africa

Health intensifies emergency services during the festive season   

Location: News

Health intensifies emergency services during the festive season   

The Department of Health has announced that it has intensified Emergency Medical Services (EMS) with over 1 540 ambulances deployed across the country’s major routes and strategic points and hotspots. 

According to the department, this move aims to accelerate a turnaround time for emergency medical response during the festive season, a period associated with a high demand for emergency medical services. 

“This number will be complemented by private sector ambulances as part of existing service level agreements entered with provinces to beef up EMS to ensure quick response to major accidents and to prevent avoidable loss of lives resulting from accidents,” the department explained.

The department is appealing to communities to join hands with government and law enforcement agencies during this period to create an enabling environment for frontline healthcare workers, especially nurses and paramedics to perform their lifesaving duties freely without fear of both verbal and physical violence and aggression. 

“Health workers have fallen victims of violence and crime in the line of duty over the months and recent years in the country and this can only be stopped if communities become protectors than by-standers. 

“Violence against health workers is unacceptable because it does not only negatively impact on their psychological and physical well-being, but also affects their job motivation and has potential to compromise the quality of care and puts health-care provision at risk.” 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines attacks against health care as any act of verbal or physical violence or obstruction or threat of violence that interferes with the availability, access and delivery of curative and preventive health services during emergencies. 

The department said emergency medical personnel play an essential role in the health system by providing timely and appropriate medical care to patients in need. 

“They respond to emergencies to save lives and risk theirs. It is not possible to have ambulances accompanied by police or armed private security, hence communities need to play a role in ending attacks against paramedics and other health workers.”

According to the WHO, health workers are at high risk of violence all over the world with between 8% and 38% of health workers suffering physical violence at some point in their careers. 

Some of the associated risks during the festive season include vehicle accidents, domestic violence, alcohol and substance abuse, and drowning.

In a life threatening emergency, people must dial 112 from a landline or a cellphone and be aware that the call centre agents will ask questions to enable them to dispatch an ambulance accordingly.

Important details that will be required when you make the call include name, phone number, address, nearest landmark and the patient's current medical status. 

“Ensure that you get a call reference number before the end of the call to be used when you follow up on the progress of the call.” 

All health facilities will remain open to enable South Africans to access health services.

Some of the major routes to be prioritised for ambulances in provinces include: 

  • The N2, N10, R61 and R72 in the Eastern Cape. 
  • The N1, N3, N5, N6 and N8 in the Free State.
  • The N1, N3, N4, N12, N17, R21, R59 and R101 in Gauteng.
  • The N2, N3 and R56 in KwaZulu-Natal.
  • The N1, N11, R36, R37, R71, R101, R518, R524, R528 and R579 in Limpopo.
  • The N2, N3, N4, N11, N12, N17, R23, R38, R40 and R573 in Mpumalanga.
  • The N4, N14, N12, N18 and R30 in the North West.
  • The N1, N7, N8, N10, N12, N14, N18, R31 and R382 in the Northern Cape.
  • The N1, N2, N7, R27 and R62 in the Western Cape. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 12/19/2023 - 09:52

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Read moreHealth intensifies emergency services during the festive season   

Reconciliation is a commitment to creating a united society, says President

Location: News

Reconciliation is a commitment to creating a united society, says President

President Cyril Ramaphosa says reconciliation is a commitment to creating a society where everyone is valued, where diversity is celebrated and where the scars of the past are transformed into stepping stones towards a brighter and more compassionate future.

“As we mark Reconciliation Day, we are reminded of just how extraordinary our experience was,” President Ramaphosa said.

Speaking at the National Day of Reconciliation at the Thohoyandou Stadium in Limpopo on Saturday, President Ramaphosa said reconciliation is not an act of forgetting or ignoring the wounds of the past.

“Instead, it is a courageous and intentional effort to confront our history, to learn from it and to build bridges of understanding across the chasms of misunderstanding and mistrust,” the President said.

This year the Reconciliation Month is being commemorated under the theme: “Strengthening unity and social cohesion in a healing nation”.

President Ramaphosa said many believed it was not possible for the former oppressor and the oppressed to make peace and reconcile and they did so.

“Our national days, our flag, the national anthem and our national symbols stand as testament to a new, unique nation that emerged from a difficult and bitter past. These are no mere symbols or gestures. They serve as important reminders of what we have been able to build within a relatively short period of time.

“Our democracy will soon be 30 years old. Some of the world’s oldest democracies are still grappling with racial and ethnic tensions among their people,” the President said.

He said South Africa, despite its many challenges, has not slid into the morass of bigotry, racism and tribalism that is prevalent many other societies.

“This year we bore witness to the power of reconciliation when our national rugby team the Springboks won the Rugby World Cup in France.

“To have seen so many South Africans of all races and all ages rallying behind the team, showing their support so passionately and joining in the victory celebrations reminded us that, despite our many challenges, we are a united nation, proud of who we are and proud of how far we have come.

“The proud and resilient South African spirit has carried us through the many difficulties of the past and it will continue to do so well into the future.

“We came together and rallied behind the national effort to contain COVID-19. We all played our part to keep ourselves and others safe,” President Ramaphosa said.

South Africans must confront the uncomfortable truths, learn from them and work together to create a society where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background or identity.

“Inequality is the greatest challenge to meaningful and lasting reconciliation in our country. Central to the advancement of reconciliation must therefore be a concerted effort to end poverty and unemployment and meaningfully reduce inequality.

“We have undertaken a massive redistribution of resources towards mainly black South Africans through the provision of basic services, subsidised housing, improved education and health care, and social grants,” the President said.

The National Day of Reconciliation aims to promote national unity, social cohesion, constitutional democracy, human rights, and equality by highlighting and advancing the constitutional values and principles that bind together all South Africans.

The day also serves as a call to action to individuals to take responsibility to fight racism, discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.

In 2022, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law three pieces of legislation to strengthen the criminal justice system, promote accountability across the state and support survivors of various forms of abuse or infringements of rights. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Sat, 12/16/2023 - 13:25

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Read moreReconciliation is a commitment to creating a united society, says President

SA marks Day of Reconciliation

Location: News

SA marks Day of Reconciliation

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today deliver the keynote address at the 2023 National Day of Reconciliation celebrations at the Thohoyandou Stadium in the Vhembe District in Limpopo.

This year, Reconciliation Month is commemorated under the theme: “Strengthening unity and social cohesion in a healing nation”.

The National Day of Reconciliation aims to promote national unity, social cohesion, constitutional democracy, human rights, and equality by highlighting and advancing the constitutional values and principles that bind together all South Africans.

The day also serves as a call to action to individuals to take responsibility to fight racism, discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.

South Africa has made significant progress in transforming from an apartheid state into a democratic one.

In 2022, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law three pieces of legislation to strengthen the criminal justice system, promote accountability across the state and support survivors of various forms of abuse or infringements of rights.

The National Day of Reconciliation focuses attention on national unity that is enriched by the diversity of histories and experiences, languages and cultures that make South Africa unique.

At the event, President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa.

President Ramaphosa will visit the Fulufhelo Special School, which is a legacy project in Thohoyandou. The school was established in 1987 by Phalalani Association for people with intellectual disabilities. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Sat, 12/16/2023 - 10:15

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Read moreSA marks Day of Reconciliation

South Africa: President to Address the 2023 National Day of Reconciliation Celebration

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Saturday, 16 December 2023, deliver the keynote address at the 2023 National Day of Reconciliation celebrations.

The national event will be held at Thohoyandou Stadium, Thulamela Local Municipality, Vhembe District in Limpopo.

This year, Reconciliation Month is commemorated under the theme “Strengthening unity and social cohesion in a healing nation”.

The National Day of Reconciliation aims to promote national unity, social cohesion, constitutional democracy, human rights, and equality by highlighting and advancing the constitutional values and principles that bind together all South Africans. 

The day also serves as a call to action to individuals to take responsibility to fight racism, discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.

South Africa has made significant progress in transforming from an apartheid state into a democratic one.

In 2022, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed into law three pieces of legislation to strengthen the criminal justice system, promote accountability across the state and support survivors of various forms of abuse or infringements of rights.

National Day of Reconciliation focuses attention on national unity that is enriched by the diversity of histories and experiences, languages and cultures that make South Africa unique.

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Mr Zizi Kodwa.

As part of the celebrations, President Ramaphosa will visit Fulufhelo Special School, which is a legacy project in Thohoyandou.

Fulufhelo Special School was established in 1987 by Phalalani Association for people with intellectual disabilities.

Media accreditation has concluded by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and no new applications will be accepted.

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

Read moreSouth Africa: President to Address the 2023 National Day of Reconciliation Celebration

SA, Zimbabwe gain a collective responsibility to prevent illegal activities at ports

Location: News

SA, Zimbabwe have a collective responsibility to prevent illegal activities at ports

Cooperation between South Africa and Zimbabwe in managing shared borders is critical for the protection of respective national interests.

“We have a collective responsibility to prevent illegal activities at our ports of entry and the border law enforcement areas such as illegal migration, any kind of smuggling, human trafficking, and all kinds of cross border crimes inclusive of the illegal movement of weapons, and or illicit goods between our countries,” Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner Michael Masiapato said.

He was speaking during a visit by the Zimbabwe Border Ports Authority in Pretoria on Wednesday.

The Commissioner said the South Africa/Zimbabwe border has long been a symbol of the intricate web of connections between the two countries.

“It is a border that does not just demarcate land but also represents a bridge of cultural, economic, and historical exchanges that we enjoyed over the years.”

He said besides geographic proximity, the two countries have a common and long history of regional affiliation as well as great aspirations for the development of the two nations.

“Therefore, it is in our interest to ensure effective border management which is crucial for ensuring the ultimate prosperity of both South Africa and Zimbabwe.

“Although cooperation on border management matters commonly embraces the aspects of enforcing territorial sovereignties, it also streamlines efforts for fostering economic growth and improvement in trade relations between nations.

“As the two jurisdictions within this sub-region, we have the responsibility to drive the objective of regional economic integration as articulated in the many resolutions of our leadership within the SADC [Southern African Development Community]  context,” Masiapato said. 

Border management is not just a matter of policy but a reflection of the shared commitment to regional stability and development of which border authority has to ensure the realisation of such an objective.

“As the Border Management Authority, South Africa, we are encouraged by the processes undertaken by the government of Zimbabwe in the development of the country’s Border Ports Authority Bill.

“This is critical towards the establishment of the Zimbabwean Border Ports Authority which carry similar resemblance our Border Management Authority,” the Commissioner said.

Masiapato is hosting his Zimbabwean counterpart for a bilateral visit in South Africa from 13 to 16 December 2023.

The visit aims to showcase South Africa’s model of administration and border management coordination.

The two countries are in a process of developing a Border Ports Authority Bill to establish the Zimbabwe Border Ports Authority and to provide for its functions.

In October this year President Cyril Ramaphosa presided over the launch of the BMA in Musina, Limpopo.

The launch of the BMA follows its formal establishment and assumption of its status as a schedule 3 (A) public entity on 1 April 2023.

The establishment of the BMA means that South Africa now has an integrated border management platform, with a single command and control with which to support the attainment of secure borders, safe travel and trade.

The BMA has, since its inception, recorded successes, among them intercepting stolen vehicles.

The authority is responsible for the execution of frontline border law enforcement functions related to, inter alia, port health, immigration control, access control, biosecurity, food safety and phyto-sanitary control, land border infrastructure development and maintenance, and border information and risk management. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 12/13/2023 - 14:45

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Read moreSA, Zimbabwe gain a collective responsibility to prevent illegal activities at ports

Weather service warns of heavy rain from Sunday

Location: News

Weather service warns of heavy rain from Sunday

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned of widespread heavy rain in the days ahead, which could result in flooding or river flooding that might cause significant disruption in some provinces.

Initially the weather this weekend will be relatively settled, with just a small chance of thunderstorms over some of the eastern provinces on Friday and Saturday.

“Incidentally, neither the Western Cape nor the Eastern Cape will be directly affected by this weather system. On Sunday, 10 December, weather conditions will begin to deteriorate significantly, as the cut-off low manifests itself over the northern parts of the Northern Cape, introducing marked instability into the atmosphere, to drive widespread showers and thundershowers.

“As tropical air begins to stream southward over Botswana and South Africa, conditions will become progressively cloudy to overcast. During the course of the day, rain will set in over numerous provinces, including North West, the Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo and to a lesser extent, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN),” SAWS said.

Heavy rainfall is likely to occur in many parts of the above-mentioned provinces, elevating the risk of flooding as well as river flooding.

The public has been urged to monitor, and to take heed of, regular weather updates and warnings issued by the weather service.

“Moreover, as the rain produced by this system is expected to continue unabated into Monday, 11 December, the ground is likely to become saturated, leading to widespread overland runoff into streams and rivers.

“Whilst this phenomenon will ultimately lead to increased dam levels, the risk of river flooding (and associated road closures and general traffic disruption) will remain particularly high. Disaster management practitioners are also advised to maintain a high level of vigilance during this period, should river flooding continue to pose a safety and health risk to the public at large,” SAWS said.

Motorists and pedestrians are urged not to try to cross rivers or streams, which are already flooded, under any circumstances.

“The cause of the widespread rainy weather will be the combination of three distinct circulation features in the atmosphere over southern Africa. Firstly, a cut-off low is expected to develop, in the upper air of the atmosphere, over the central interior during the latter half of the weekend.

“Secondly, a surface trough is expected to begin intensifying, in sympathy with the deepening upper-air cut-off low. The combination of these two features is well known to have the potential to drive episodes of widespread, often heavy, rain over southern Africa.

“Importantly, in this particular case, there is a third significant factor which is expected to elevate the risk of heavy rainfall from this system. This factor is the expected introduction of a stream of tropically sourced moisture, drawn southwards over the central and eastern interior of South Africa, under the influence of the circulation associated with the surface trough and upper-air system respectively,” SAWS said.

Tropically sourced air is well known to be associated with rainfall of a potentially heavy, widespread nature.

“Currently, numeric weather prediction models suggest that the rainfall in association with this system will start clearing from the west, during the course of Tuesday, 12 December, although areas of heavier rainfall may still linger over KZN, eSwatini and the lowveld regions of Mpumalanga and Limpopo.

“A surface high pressure system is likely to sustain light rainfall over aforementioned provinces on Wednesday, 13 December, as cooler, moist maritime air is introduced to the eastern coastal regions. However, the upper air cut-off low will have moved off the country completely by this time,” SAWS said.

The South African Weather Service will continue to monitor this weather system and issue subsequent updates and impact-based warnings over the next few days.

The public has been advised to regularly follow weather forecasts on television and radio, as well as all social media platforms.

Updated information will regularly be available at www.weathersa.co.za as well as on X at @SAWeatherServic and Facebook @SouthAfricanWeatherservice. – SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 12:18

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Read moreWeather service warns of heavy rain from Sunday

We need to mirror the pace of technological change by sharpening our tech skills

Location: MyPR

We need to mirror the pace of technological change by sharpening our tech skills With only a few weeks left in 2023, South Africans have endured another challenging year. It is anticipated that 2024 will be equally challenging; however, technological advances provide some hope for new opportunities. “In South Africa, one of the biggest challenges …

Read moreWe need to mirror the pace of technological change by sharpening our tech skills

Mchunu checks progress on Sekhukhune water projects

Location: News

Mchunu checks progress on Sekhukhune water projects

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu says he is concerned over delays in the implementation of water infrastructure projects, which are meant to benefit the community of Sekhukhune District Municipality in Limpopo. 

Mchunu on Friday met with Sekhukhune District Executive Mayor Minah Bahula, including the leadership of Lebalelo Water Users Association (WUA), and traditional leaders in the district.

Mchunu and his Deputy David Mahlobo visited the district on Friday to assess progress made in the Olifants Management Model Programme (OMM).

The Minister highlighted the Moutse Water Supply Scheme, which is going to address the long-standing water supply challenges in Moutse (under Elias Motsoaledi Municipality), as well as the Olifants Management Model Programme (OMM) by the Lebalelo Water Users Association.

Mchunu said this will address water challenges in the entire Sekhukhune District.

The OMM programme is a R27 billion infrastructure development project that was launched in October last year at Ga-Malekana, Burgersfort. The project is a 50/50 public-private partnership between the Department of Water and Sanitation and Lebalelo WUA.  

“The OMM programme includes the Olifants River Water Resources Development Project (ORWRDP), which will construct, operate and maintain defined bulk water infrastructure from Flag Boshielo and De Hoop Dams.

“The project will also expand to include potable water infrastructure provisioning to about 52 000 households (250 000 people) in Sekhukhune District and Mogalakwena Local Municipality,” Mchunu said. 

Mchunu also called for the establishment of a steering committee for the project to develop catch-up plans and interim measures to be taken to ensure water augmentation. 

Regarding Moutse Bulk Water Supply, the Minister called for the finalisation of the project, which is 97% complete. 

“There are long-completed sections of the project, and the remaining ones should be completed to expedite water supply to Moutse communities and the surrounding areas,” Mchunu said.

The Moutse Bulk Water Project will also be augmented by the cross-boundary Loskop Regional Bulk Water Supply Project, which abstracts water from Loskop Dam in Mpumalanga. It will supply water to 21 villages under Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, as well as eight villages in Moutse-East in Limpopo.

Findings on R143 million drought relief project

During his engagement with the Moutse community, Mchunu gave feedback on the investigation he commissioned around the R143 million drought relief project, which was meant to address water supply challenges in Moutse, with Lepelle Northern Water (LNW) as the implementing agent.  
 
Mchunu said the findings revealed that LNW appointed AES Consulting CC in 2020 for the development and refurbishment of boreholes, and installation of 2 000 x 5 000L water tanks on a turnkey basis. 

“The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) had also investigated the procurement processes that were followed to appoint service providers for this project and no irregularities were noted. It was found that the service providers were appointed through an open tender process.

“However, the department’s forensic investigations established that the delivery of water to communities was infrequent and this results in communities procuring water from community-based water sellers. Some of the water tanks have been stolen and there is no accountability over the remaining water tanks,” the Minister said.

The forensic investigation also included the joint engagement between LNW, as the implementing agent, and Sekhukhune District Municipality. 

“Both the institutions were encouraged to account for their individual responsibilities in the project by ensuring consistent water supply to the communities by water tankers at regular intervals. Sekhukhune District Municipality should also monitor the supply of water to communities by the drivers, and keep adequate documentation,” Mchunu said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Mon, 12/04/2023 - 10:03

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Mchunu to assess Sekhukhune water infrastructure projects

Location: News

Mchunu to assess Sekhukhune water infrastructure projects

Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu will on Friday visit the Sekhukhune District Municipality in Limpopo to assess progress on water infrastructure projects in the district.

During the visit, Mchunu and Deputy Ministers David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, together with Sekhukhune District Municipality Mayor, Minah Bahula, will meet with the Lebalelo Water Users Association (LWUA) to assess progress on the Olifants Management Model (OMM) programme.

The R27 billion OMM programme is an infrastructure development project launched in October last year at Ga-Malekana in Burgersfort.

The programme is undertaken by the Department of Water and Sanitation, in partnership with LWUA, to address water supply challenges in communities in Limpopo. 

“The programme is meant to fast-track potable and bulk raw water infrastructure development to ensure that communities, including mining and agriculture sectors, and other companies in Sekhukhune District, Polokwane and Mogalakwena Local Municipalities, have sustainable water provision by 2030,” the department said. 

During the visit, Mchunu will also give feedback on the investigation he commissioned around the R143 million drought relief project set aside in 2020 to address water supply challenges at Moutse in Elias Motsolaledi Local Municipality by Lepelle Northern Water, as the implementing agent.  

The Minister will also engage with members of the community at an event scheduled to take place at Philadelphia Sports Grounds, Dennilton. 

Water reticulation for Mopani District villages

Meanwhile, the department said it is working with Mopani District Municipality in Limpopo to increase the level of services from communal taps to yard connections for the reticulation of water in 55 villages within the district. 

“The 24 villages will be fully reticulated by January 2024, while Phase 2 of the 31 villages (out of 55 villages) will start in the 2024-2025 financial year,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 11/30/2023 - 10:59

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Falke Supports Battle Against Poaching

Location: MyPR

The special Olifants Reserve anti-poaching unit established in 2018 forms an integral part of the fight against poaching in the Greater Kruger National Park/Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park under the leadership of security manager, Callan Hartman. The Olifants reserve is prime rhino territory and home to populations of both white rhino and their more endangered black …

Read moreFalke Supports Battle Against Poaching

Empowering Youth for a Brighter Future: IYF and De Beers Group Celebrate Skills 4 Life Achievements in Limpopo

Location: MyPR

A Stakeholder Engagement event was held in Polokwane, Limpopo province, on 24 October 2023, where the International Youth Foundation (IYF) and De Beers Group collaborated to celebrate significant milestones achieved through their joint efforts in empowering the youth of that province via the Skills 4 Life Programme. IYF acknowledged the valuable contributions and collaborative endeavours …

Read moreEmpowering Youth for a Brighter Future: IYF and De Beers Group Celebrate Skills 4 Life Achievements in Limpopo

Kubayi orders improved services in Nelson Mandela Bay informal settlements

Location: News

Kubayi orders improved services in Nelson Mandela Bay informal settlements

Human Settlements Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has given the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan a directive to provide informal settlement dwellers with adequate human rights services, including water and sanitation -- in compliance with norms and standards -- within seven days.

Kubayi gave the directive during an outreach programme, which saw the handing over of keys to newly built government-subsidised homes and title deeds to beneficiaries in Motherwell in Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape.

The visit on Wednesday formed part of the coordinated effort amongst the three spheres of government to effect province-wide interventions to accelerate the delivery of sustainable human settlements.

Kubayi said the three spheres of government and relevant agencies should present tangible responses to improve living conditions of various communities by the end of January 2024.

Responding to various concerns raised by the community during an imbizo, Kubayi said the three spheres of government must find solutions to the inhumane conditions under which people live. 

“We cannot have instances where people live in Temporary Residential Units (TRUs) with inadequate ablution facilities. We can’t sit and watch injustice happen… we must intervene urgently,” the Minister said.

She noted some progress in the in-situ upgrading project in the metro, and acknowledged that more work needs to be done. 

This includes proper verification processes, as “some people who demand housing in the projects may not necessarily qualify for fully subsidised government housing”.

“There cannot be repeat benefits, as the system automatically disqualifies anyone who owned a property before,” Kubayi reminded the applicants.

She said the Eastern Cape province has about 53 000 houses that require rectification. 

“These are homes that predate democracy and also from the early days before the set norms and standards by the National Home Builders' Registration Council (NHBRC). Due to limited financial constraints, the rectification programme will be undertaken in a phased manner,” Kubayi explained.

Warning against sale of government-subsidised houses 

The Minister reiterated the warning to beneficiaries not to sell government-subsidised houses.

“The current Human Settlements policy is very clear on who should benefit from subsidised housing, and it does not include foreign nationals. It takes R350 000 to build each house and you sell them for R15 000, and three months down the line you come back demanding housing from the government,” the Minister said. 

The Minister also announced that she and Deputy Minister Pam Tshwete will conduct a verification programme, called Operation Ziveze, aimed at ascertaining that government-subsidised homes are occupied by their rightful owners.

Echoing the Minister’s sentiments, Tshwete warned residents about giving away their title deeds to loan sharks in exchange for quick, unsecured loans.

“I urge you to take care of your title deeds we are giving you today. This is not just proof of ownership, but also an asset for your children.”

The imbizo was part of a series of outreach programmes the Minister and Deputy Minister are embarking on to unlock challenges within the Human Settlements value chain.

Limpopo houses handover 

Meanwhile, Kubayi and Tshwete will on Thursday hand over government-subsidised houses to the qualifying beneficiaries in Bela Bela Ext 25 in the Waterberg District Municipality, Limpopo.

The project is one of the informal settlements upgrading projects aimed at restoring the dignity of people living in informal settlements. 

Bela Bela Extension 25 is expected to deliver over 1 000 housing units on completion. 

The housing handover will precede the last meeting for this calendar year between the Ministry and MECs of Human Settlements (MINMEC) to reflect on the performance of the sector since the beginning of the 2023/24 financial year.

Discussions will include the release of land parcels for human settlement development, an update on government’s efforts to upgrade informal settlements across the country and the delivery of housing units, and progress on the title deeds campaign. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK
Thu, 11/23/2023 - 10:15

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