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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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Employment and Labour conveys condolences to the families of the 11 departed miners in Implats 

Location: News

Employment and Labour conveys condolences to the families of the 11 departed miners in Implats 

The Department of Employment and Labour has sent its deep condolences to the families of the 11 miners who tragically lost their lives at the Impala Platinum Mine in Rustenburg in the North West.

On Monday, Implats reported that a serious safety incident involving a winder rope occurred at its 11 Shaft operation at Impala Platinum.

According to the mine, workers were being brought to the surface at the end of their shift when the conveyance system that carries workers up and down an underground shaft 1 000 metres deep began a rapid descent. 

Employment and Labour Minister Thulas Nxesi said the department views the occurrence as the most painful. 

“Our hearts are heavy for the lives lost and those touched by this tragic incident. The department will ensure relevant support is provided where necessary and needed.
 
“The Department extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the 11 miners, their families, colleagues, and the mining industry as a whole,” the Minister said.

The department also wished the 75 employees who were hurt a speedy recuperation.

Nxesi also urged those responsible for Health and Safety in the mines to conduct quick investigations, to establish whether there was negligence or not. If there was, the Minister emphasised that the law should take its course, within the relevant prescripts. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Wed, 11/29/2023 - 10:02

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Investment in teaching and learning infrastructure pays off

Location: News

Investment in teaching and learning infrastructure pays off

Gabi Khumalo

Government’s commitment to strengthening and developing the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector, has brought about change to the community of Msinga.

The community recently witnessed the opening of a new state-of-the-art campus of the uMgungundlovu Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College.

Officially opened by Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister, Dr Blade Nzimande, the Msinga Campus which is located in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, is part of the response to the community, which has been calling for the building and upgrading of the college.

This commitment to strengthening the PSET sector was made through investing in infrastructure to provide quality teaching, learning and research, and innovation spaces.

The campus, which was built by the Department of Higher Education and Training, as part of its TVET Infrastructure Development Programme, is funded in part through the National Skills Fund (NSF) and the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA).

The R143 561 753.44 Msinga campus commenced with formal programme provision at the new site in January 2022. To date, the campus has three buildings.

These include the administration block that contains offices, a staff room, exam centre and the official reception site. The theory building consists of two computer laboratories that can accommodate up to 70 students each, and double sized classrooms. Included on the campus is an engineering block that consists of four workshops, as well as smaller skills venues on the upper floor.

Programmes offered

The campus offers National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) programmes, including Nated Public Management (N4-N6), Nated Business Management (N4 – N6) and Farming Management.

The campus also offers a new National Certificate Vocational programme in Mechatronics Level 2 – Level 4, which the Minister described as a cutting edge Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) programme.

The decision to offer this programme to the young people of Msinga according to Nzimande was because “we want this youth to be highly skilled and be able to compete at any level with the youth that is based in urban areas, including competing with the any youth at an international level.”

“Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field that refers to the skill sets needed in the contemporary, advanced automated manufacturing industry. Mechatronics specialists work with massive industrial robots, smaller robots in pick-and-place operations, control systems for bottling or packaging of food and drink products, drones, designing control systems for rides in amusement parks, [and] prototype development.

“Some mechatronics specialists are employed in firms where it is necessary to design and maintain automatic equipment [and] this includes industries such as manufacturing, mining, aviation, robotics, defence, and transport. Other mechatronic specialists are employed by large manufacturing companies involved in high-volume production,” Nzimande explained.

Nzimande also highlighted that mechatronics is a financially lucrative career with the average mechatronic engineer earning around R360 000 per year or R185 per hour in South Africa. He said the entry-level positions start at R300 000 per year, while most experienced workers make up to R4 050 000 per year and more.

Investment

The Department of Higher Education and Training has identified the expansion of the TVET sector as a national priority in the Post-School Education and Training system. This as 13 new campuses have been identified for development with three existing campuses identified for additional buildings.

“We have embarked on this intense expansion programme to ensure that our post school education and training sector produce[s] many technical and vocational skills and to also reinvigorate the South African construction industry and the economy in general,” Nzimande said.

The department has invested over R2.880 billion in the development and refurbishment of 16 new TVET campuses that will enable the expansion of the TVET system over the medium term.

Of the 16 sites, 10 campuses, including Thabazimbi, Umzimkhulu, Graaf-Reinet, Nongoma Msinga, Aliwal North, Kwagqikazi, Ngqungqushe, Nkandla A and Bhambanani are completed.

Nzimande said the three new campuses, including Greytown, Sterkspruit and Balfour are at their final stages of completion, while the remaining three sites of Vryheid, Giyani and Nkandla B will be completed by the end of the 2023/24 financial year with enrolments planned for 2024/25.

Skills

The Minister reiterated the vision and objective for the public TVET colleges sector, which is to expand and strengthen the TVET sub-system in order to provide quality technical and vocational education and training to prepare students for the world of work, self-employment and other forms of sustainable livelihoods.

However, Nzimande acknowledged the constraints caused by skills ‘mismatches,’ --as being real and perceived-- towards the attainment of the TVET colleges’ objective, particularly the ability to grow the country’s economy, which further perpetuates a barrier to social inclusion and poverty reduction.

In response to this mismatch, the department has since developed a one country one skills plan – the Master Skills Plan, which is an implementation plan of the Human Resource Development Strategy.

“In order for our sector to invest in relevant skills development, we are also using the National List of Occupations in High Demand (OIHD) in South Africa, which is one of the many instruments that guides government’s investment in skills development.

“This list has 345 occupations that are in high demand [and] tells us which occupations are likely to have what vacancies and which occupations are likely to grow due to new investments, by both government and the private sector,” he said.

The Minister is confident that the skills that students will acquire at Msinga College, will take them to greater heights with prospects of a successful career.

To further illustrate government’s commitment to massify skills development, in 2018 the department embarked on a campaign to launch 26 Centres of Specialisation located in 19 of 50 TVET colleges prioritising 13 occupational trades in high demand.

This move aimed to curb the shortage of trade and occupational skills, while reducing unemployment and poverty.

The centres were provided with resources to upgrade their workshops and equipment to deliver effectively on much-needed skills.

“These Centres of Specialisation are well positioned to prepare students for the workplace, or for self-employment, through the maintenance of close working relationships with employers in their areas of study. We have also established entrepreneurship hubs at TVET Colleges to support students to move into self-employment after completion of their programmes.”

Artisans

Nzimande also believes that the country is well on track to produce 30 000 qualified artisans per year by 2030.

This follows the launch of the Decade of the Artisan campaign in 2013, which promotes artisanship as a career of choice for the youth.

Launched under the theme: “It’s cool to be a 21st Century Artisan”, the campaign ensures the development of the necessary artisans to successfully implement the country’s Strategic Infrastructure Projects, which include the construction of roads, schools, universities, harbours, power stations, and other social and economic infrastructure.

“The reality is that South Africa needs at least 60% of school leavers to pursue artisanal type training to meet the country’s demand for scarce skills. We honestly need to do more to encourage school leavers to pursue technical trades.

“Our Government’s National Development Plan (NDP) and our White Paper for Post-School Education and Training expects of us that by 2030, the country should be producing 30 000 qualified artisans per year. At present, our country is producing an average 20 000 qualified artisans per year,” Nzimande said.

He stressed the need to ensure that the number increase drastically leading up to 2030 for the country to realise the NDP target.

“We however do believe that we are well on track to attain this goal and even surpass it. The Msinga campus is very much part of this agenda and will help us greatly to produce more artisans.”

Nzimande said with the current challenges within different sectors in society, more artisans are needed than ever before and the work of artisans will always be guaranteed.

Progress made to date, shows that government is burning the candle at both ends. – SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Tue, 11/28/2023 - 15:37

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Sebastião Salgado Outstanding Contribution To Photography Award 2024

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

The World Photography Organisation is delighted to announce the acclaimed Brazilian photographer Sebastião Salgado as the Outstanding Contribution to Photography recipient of the Sony World Photography Awards 2024. One of the most accomplished and globally celebrated photographers working today, Sebastião Salgado has achieved international renown for his remarkable black-and-white compositions captured over a career spanning …

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Hawks hard at work in dealing with national priority offences

Location: News

Hawks hard at work in dealing with national priority offences

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Police killings

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

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

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

Illegal mining

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

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

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

Kidnappings, drugs and CITs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Asset Forfeiture Unit scores R1.5bn seizure order

Location: News

Asset Forfeiture Unit scores R1.5bn seizure order

The National Prosecuting Authority's Asset Forfeiture Unit, in collaboration with a special illegal mining unit in the South African Police Service, has obtained a provisional preservation of property order for the seizure of assets to the estimated value of more than R1.5 billion.

The frozen assets include a farm in Carolina, coal, cars and heavy duty machinery used at an alleged illegal mine in Mpumalanga.

National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Monica Nyuswa said an estimated 270 000 tons of coal was allegedly mined illegally at on two portions of the farm over a two year period by a company named GNJ Mining.

“At a minimum estimated market value price of R980 per ton, the estimated 270 000 tons that were illegally mined amounted to about R264 million worth of coal, that was illegally mined at the farm during the 2 years.

“GNJ Mining never had lawful authorisation/permit from the DMRE [Department of Mineral Resources] and/or the DARDLEA [Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs] to mine coal at the farm. The illicit coal that was mined at the farm was taken to Droogvalley Barrel Plant (Droogvalley) in the Carolina area, where the coal was processed and “washed” to prepare it for sale to GNJ Mining’s coal-using clients,” she said.

Nyuswa explained that the seizure comes after a man was arrested following a raid on a farm.

“Following credible information, the SAPS held an operation at the farm on Tuesday 19 September 2023, where they saw the magnitude of the illegal coal mining operation at the farm and Droogvalley. On the day, the SAPS arrested the illegal Mine Manager Paul Boshoff (Boshoff) and seized most of the mentioned assets at the farm and Droogvalley.

“Boshoff was arrested on 19 September 2023 and appeared in court the following day,” she said.

The criminal case is expected to be heard on 16 February 2024 in the Carolina Magistrates’ Court. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 11/21/2023 - 10:09

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Government committed to rooting out illegal mining

Location: News

Government committed to rooting out illegal mining

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

This is according to Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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Cabinet approves Just Energy Transition Implementation Location

Location: News

Cabinet approves Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan

Cabinet has approved the Just Energy Transition Implementation Plan (JET IP), which will guide South Africa’s transition to a low carbon economy through the scaling up of renewable energy sources.  

The JET IP sets out a number of interventions South Africa needs and investments required for the country to transition to a low carbon and climate resilient economy in line with the National Determined Contributions presented to the United Nations. 

Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said on Monday Cabinet is of the view that the JET IP demonstrates South Africa’s commitment to a just transition in line with the country’s energy needs. 

She said the JET IP will be driven by a combination of reforms in the energy sector, including the Mpumalanga Just Transition, new energy vehicles and green hydrogen, among others.

“The plan further responds to South Africa’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change as well as NDP [National Development Plan] commitments.

“The Jet IP will enable South Africa to gradually meet its carbon emissions reduction commitments while at same time, it will ensure inclusive economic growth, energy security and employment,” Ntshavheni said during a post-Cabinet media briefing. 

Criminal Assets Recovery Account

Cabinet has also approved the use of monies in the Criminal Asset Recovery Account to fight against illegal mining and other crimes. 

Ntshavheni said R2 172 359 is allocated to fight illicit mining which continues to be a threat to the South African economy.  

“The money is allocated to the SAPS [South African Police Service], SANDF [South African National Defence Force], Department of Home Affairs and Border Management Agency. The SAPS will use the funding to buy vehicles, helicopters, nyalas and will deploy more than 4000 officers for 18 months,” Ntshavheni explained.

Illegal mining and other organised crimes cost South Africa billions of rands each year and it affects the country’s position as an investment destination, the Minister said.

National Petroleum Company Bill

Cabinet has also approved the publication of the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) Bill for public comment. 

The Bill gives effect to the Cabinet decision to merge PetroSA, South African Gas Development Company (iGas) and the Strategic Fuel Fund.

Ntshavheni noted that the Bill makes provisions for the establishment of a state-owned company that will ensure South Africa participates meaningfully in oil and gas development. 

“It will also guarantee the country’s security of energy supply to support economic development and growth. The SANPC will oversee strategic planning, coordination and governance of the country’s petroleum resources and this will contribute to development and job creation,” the Minister explained.

Draft National Public Transport Subsidy Policy 

Cabinet also approved the Gazetting of the draft National Public Transport Subsidy Policy for public comment. 

The policy proposes that South Africa’s public transport funding should move from subsidising a particular mode of transport to a user-subsidy model.

“Government recognises that the transport sector is at the heart of the country’s development with most households completely reliant on public transport for mobility.”

African Peer Review Mechanism celebrations  

Meanwhile, Cabinet has considered and supported the request for South Africa to host the 20th anniversary celebrations of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APMR) from 23 to 30 November 2023. 

The Minister said South Africa supports the APRM mission to promote the African Union’s shared values of democratic governance and inclusive development on the continent. 

The 20th anniversary celebrations will include the participation of current and former Heads of State and government, and the African Union Commission. – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

GabiK
Mon, 11/20/2023 - 13:50

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Balance Required to Ensure Sustainability of Regular Force Medical Continuation Fund

Location: News

Republic of South Africa: The Parliament
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The Joint Standing Committee on Defence has called on current South African National Defence Force members to reconsider their resistance to the increase in their contributions to ensure that the Regular Force Medical Continuation Fund (RFMCF) remains viable and sustainable. The committee is concerned that the sustained low contribution model will have dire consequences for members when they retire. The envisioned balance will ensure quality medical services upon retirement.

“While the committee acknowledges that the RFMCF is a private entity, it is important to ensure the viability of the fund because it ensures the wellbeing of members after retirement. The welfare of our members, active or retired, is important,” said Mr Cyril Xaba, the co-Chairperson of the committee.

While the committee welcomed the fund's improved financial management and governance, it emphasised that its funding model should be reconsidered in the light of the cost of healthcare, which is above inflation in most cases.

The committee also highlighted the consequences of weaknesses within the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS), which directly impacts on the fund's viability and which has resulted in the increased use of the private sector. A functional SAMHS should be providing quality healthcare to all its members, both active and retired. “We have been emphatic about the need to resolve challenges facing the SAMHS to ensure that it is enabled to provide adequate support to all members and also save the fiscus excessively high private medical costs,” said Mr Mamagase Nchabeleng, the co-Chairperson of the committee.

Meanwhile, the committee unanimously supported the President's decision to deploy 3 300 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members for service in cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to combat crime and maintain and preserve law and order under Operation Prosper. The SANDF deployment is part of the security cluster's efforts to address the prevailing high level of brazen organised crime and illicit mining.

While the committee supports the deployment, it is concerned that the unfunded mandate will have an impact on the Department of Defence's baseline budget, especially in light of further budget cuts. Despite this, the committee acknowledged that illegal mining is a serious challenge and requires the active participation of all to defeat it.

The committee further highlighted that the SANDF deployment is a short-term solution and that broader solutions must be developed to deal with this crime.  

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

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The Case for an Industrial Revolution in Africa: Can South Africa’s Re-industrialisation be the spark?

Location: MyPR

Paul Terna Gbahabo is a research consultant and a PhD graduate in Development Finance at Stellenbosch Business School. Africa, a continent of immense potential, stands at a critical juncture. The call for an industrial revolution is not merely a suggestion but an economic imperative. Africa desperately needs an industrial revolution. Though daunting, it is not …

Read moreThe Case for an Industrial Revolution in Africa: Can South Africa’s Re-industrialisation be the spark?

Official unemployment figures decrease in third quarter of 2023

Location: News

Official unemployment figures decrease in third quarter of 2023

The results of the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) indicate that the number of employed persons increased by 399 000 to 16.7 million in the third quarter of 2023 compared to 16.3 million in the second quarter of 2023. 

In the same quarter, the number of unemployed persons decreased by 72 000 to 7.8 million during the same quarter.

“Additionally, the number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement decreased by 160 000 to 13.1 million, while the discouraged work-seekers decreased by 26 000 in the third quarter of 2023 compared to the second quarter of 2023. This resulted in a net decrease of 186 000 in the not economically active population,” Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) said on Tuesday.

The above changes in employment and unemployment resulted in the official unemployment rate decreasing by 0.7 of a percentage point from 32.6% in the second quarter of 2023 to 31.9% in the third quarter of 2023.

“The unemployment rate, according to the expanded definition, decreased by 0.9 of a percentage point to 41.2% in Q3:2023 compared to quarter 2 of 2023.

Formal sector employment increased by 287 000 in quarter 3 of 2023 and informal sector employment increased by 29 000 over the same period.

Industries that recorded increases include finance (up by 237 000), community and social services (up by 119 000) and agriculture (up by 61 000), recording the largest employment gains.

Employment losses were recorded in manufacturing (down by 50 000), mining (down by 35 000), transport (down by 20 000) and utilities (down by 16 000).  

The employment increases were recorded in KwaZulu-Natal (up by 152 000), Limpopo (up by 70 000), North-West (up by 61 000) and Mpumalanga (up by 44 000), which was the largest employment increases in quarter 3 of 2023.

Employment losses were only recorded in Free State (down by 3 000) during the same period.

“The youth remain vulnerable in the labour market, however, the third quarter of 2023 results show that the total number of unemployed youth (15 – 34 years) decreased by 174 000 to 4.6 million while there was an increase of 237 000 in the number of employed youth to 6.0 million.

“This resulted in a decrease in the youth unemployment rate by 1.9 percentage points from 45.3% in quarter 2 of 2023 to 43.4% in quarter 3 of 2023,” Stats SA said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 11/14/2023 - 14:07

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President to undertake State Visit to Qatar

Location: News

The Presidency: Republic of South Africa
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President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 15 November 2023, undertake a State Visit to Qatar at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.

The State Visit will form part of two days of engagement between the governments of South Africa and Qatar on 14 and 15 November.

The visit occurs in the context of three decades of diplomatic relations between the two countries who will celebrate the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations on 11 May 2024. This visit will be President Ramaphosa's first visit to the State of Qatar as Head of State.

The programme will include meetings with His Highness Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and high-level business engagements.

During their meeting, President Ramaphosa and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani are expected to deliberate on various geopolitical issues that are currently impacting the world.

Both parties are committed to enhancing their economic ties and focusing on improving economic relations including trade, investment, and tourism.

In 2022, Qatar became South Africa's fifth-largest trading partner in the Middle East.

There is significant potential for further economic cooperation between the two countries. South Africa exported USD 206 million worth of trade to Qatar in 2022.

The bulk of the exports were in the manufacturing sector, accounting for about 56% of total exports. South Africa has witnessed a surge in its imports from Qatar between 2017 and 2022, primarily due to the import of petroleum oils.

South African imports from Qatar amounted to USD 252 million in 2022.

The President will be joined by a high-level business delegation and is expected to engage the Qatari business community to explore opportunities for cooperation in areas such as the creative industries, energy, mining, agro-processing, retail, healthcare, tourism, and shipbuilding. 

South Africa is a significant investor in Qatar, especially in the petrochemical-related sector, with a total investment of approximately USD 8.7 billion.

Sasol has a 49% shareholding with Qatar Petroleum, and established ORYX GTL, the world's first commercial-scale gas-to-liquids plant. Sasol's GTL technology is used in ORYX GTL to convert natural gas into liquid fuel and chemical products.

The governments of South Africa and Qatar share deep concern regarding the conflict, notably the unfolding human catastrophe in Palestine, violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law, the large-scale loss of life and the ongoing hostilities, especially in Gaza.

The leaders will discuss respective efforts to ensure that the conflict does not escalate to other parts of the region and that a peaceful resolution is found.

South Africa also welcomes Qatar's mediation efforts in this crisis.

The President will be accompanied by the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation; Trade, Industry and Competition; Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Mineral Resources and Energy; Defence, Basic Education and the Minister in the Presidency. 

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

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Progress made in the battle against criminality

Location: News

Progress made in the fight against criminality

Government is making inroads into destroying criminal activities as well as syndicates and has vowed to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that criminals are dealt with, says Defence and Military Veterans Minister Thandi Modise.

“We will make sure that as the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster, we create a safe and secure environment for our people to live [in],” Modise said on Friday.

The Minister was addressing a JCPS cluster media briefing to provide progress made in combating organised crime which she said, is a growing concern as it negatively impacts on the livelihood of citizens, the economy and compromises the safety and security of people.

“South Africans have borne the wrath of criminals masquerading in our communities causing disruption in their daily lives. In some parts of our communities, extortion and protection fees demanded by criminal syndicates have become the order of the day.”

She added that infrastructure mafias continue to destabilise the construction industry through intimidation and the threatening of people’s lives.

 “These and other criminal activities have put fear in our people and undermine the authority of the state.”

Operation Shanela

Through the South African Police Services’ Operation Shanela, South Africa has adopted a decisive approach in reducing the high levels of crime.

Operation Shanela is the SAPS crime combating high density operations incepted in May 2023.

 “It is through Operation Shanela, that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully arrested 213 059 suspects for various crimes such as cash-in transit robberies, extortion at construction sites and kidnappings in the past six months.

“During the same period, 2 657 illegal and unwanted firearms were confiscated,” Modise said.

The operation has led to the arrest of 19 299 suspects who were arrested for drug possession while 7 580 were arrested for drug trafficking and dealing in the last six months.

On cash-in-transit (CIT) heists and crimes associated with it, law enforcement agencies continue to make inroads with the police having arrested 75 wanted suspects in the past six months.

“The arrests were made during foiled CIT attempts, during the commission of these crimes and during targeted tracing operations,” she said.

On the drugs front, the latest drug busts are a clear indication that government remains committed to the fight against drug trafficking. Law enforcement is hard at work in identifying emerging trends in the transportation and packaging of these drugs and closing down of clandestine laboratories.

 “It is therefore encouraging that nine drug laboratories worth more than R3 million were dismantled in Gauteng, North West and the Western Cape. In a space of three weeks, police have intercepted large quantities of cocaine in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.

“The latest cocaine consignment was seized last week at the sea port in Gqeberha where R65 million worth of cocaine was seized from a vessel that was coming in from Brazil,” Modise said.

Two other drugs busts were made in KwaZulu-Natal where R150 million worth of cocaine was seized in the space of two days.

With regard to extortion at economic and construction sites, Modise said various threats were identified that impact negatively on the economy of the country.

“From April 2023 to date, 61 suspects linked to these extortions were arrested. Since 2019, 27 accused have already been convicted for a collective 43 years direct imprisonment.”

On kidnapping for ransom, Modise said from April 2023 to date, 98 suspects have been arrested for these crimes and more than 30 victims have been rescued.

The cluster said government continues to deploy Anti-Gang-Unit members in provinces prone to gang violence such as the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Gauteng.

“190 arrests have thus far been effected in 145 cases,” she said.

Also speaking at the media briefing held in Pretoria was Police Minister, Bheki Cele, who said police operations are continuing to ensure that criminals are flushed out.

“They are interfering with the lives of communities. They are armed, they need to be pursued,” he said, adding that law enforcement has identified some of the people involved in illegal mining and is on their trail.

“Some of these people are from our neighbouring countries and relevant Ministers are dealing with the matter. We are hoping to find a lasting solution to this matter,” he said.

Illegal mining

Responding to a question on illegal mining, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said there is a plan to seal all the illegal mines.

“The Department of Mineral Resources is working on the policy matter to close all the illegal mines in the country,” Ntshavheni said.

Ntshavheni said some of the mine owners can’t be traced.

Modise said in the past twelve months, government has witnessed an increase in incidents where illegal miners held communities at ransom, committing various violent crimes, including murder and rape.

“Illegal mining has also been linked to other organised crimes such as gangsterism, human trafficking, money laundering, dealing in illegal weapons and explosives, tax evasion, illegal immigration and transnational organised crimes,” she said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has roped in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to assist in dealing with illegal mining in the country.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

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

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Read moreProgress made in the battle against criminality

More officers to bolster police force to battle crime

Location: News

More officers to bolster police force to fight crime

Deputy President Paul Mashatile announced on Thursday that government is working around the clock to capacitate the police force which will see the country having 30 000 officers in the coming years as South Africa wages war against crime. 

The Deputy President was responding to oral questions in the National Assembly on Thursday.

“The [Police] Minister also announced that recruits are being enlisted to increase the capacity of the police in this regard. Ten thousand new trainees have already graduated and over the next financial years, additional trainees will graduate bringing the total number to 30 000 new police officers.” 

In addition, 1000 of the newly recruited personnel have been ring-fenced to include the capacity of public order policing (POP) which deals with crowd management issues and threats resulting from that. 

The POP, he said, had by the end of October 2023 received an additional 4 000 members resulting from the recruitment drive. 

In addition, as part of efforts to assess the progress government is making in implementing its programmes, the Deputy President said he and President Cyril Ramaphosa have been meeting Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Director-Generals and Heads of Departments.

“In this regard, the President and I have had the opportunity to meet with the Minister, Deputy Minister and Commissioner of Police to brief us on the departmental plans to fight crime in the Republic of South Africa.”

He told Parliament that the Ministry was implementing Operation Shanela, a comprehensive plan to combat crime throughout the country. “The plan includes clamping down on illegal mining areas.”

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has established specialised units to work with businesses, private security and state-owned entities (SOEs) to tackle illegal mining, the construction mafia, cable theft and the vandalism of economic infrastructure.

“I have confidence not only in Minister [Bheki] Cele, Deputy Minister [Cassel] Mathale and Commissioner [Fannie] Masemola but in all men and women in blue right to the lowest-ranking police officers who are committed to fighting and defeating crime in our communities.”

In addition, the country’s second-in-command touched on the recently launched “Combating Crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community Involvement” and the operationalisation of the increased Crime Prevention and Combating Action Plans through Operation Shanela. 

These programmes, he said, are yielding results in the fight against crime in the country.

“We will continue to work jointly with the private sector to invest in efforts to combat crime.” 

The Deputy President urged communities to continue to be involved in efforts to fight crime. 

“They must work with the police and expose the rotten apples within our police stations. Together we will win this fight. Let’s continue to build safer communities.”

Bills

Deputy President Mashatile also spoke about his role as Leader of Government Business. 

He is responsible for tracking the procession of priority Bills and introducing measures to effectively monitor and improve the quality of legislation submitted by the Executive for approval.

In line with these responsibilities, a dedicated official from his office has been introduced to focus on tracking legislation as introduced by Cabinet.

It also means all Bills are tabled before the Cabinet Committee before being submitted to Cabinet for final approval. 

“Bills that do not meet the required standards are not submitted to Cabinet but sent back to the relevant departments for further work.”

He said he was pleased that that Cabinet approved 42 Bills on the 2023 legislative programme on 29 March 2023. 

“As of 26 October, 22 Bills on the 2023 legislative programme have already been introduced to Parliament.” – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 15:43

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Read moreMore officers to bolster police force to battle crime

Battle against illegal mining receives a boost

Location: News

Battle against illegal mining receives a boost

President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised the employment of 3 300 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for service in cooperation with the South African Police Service to prevent and combat crime and maintain and preserve law and order under Operation Prosper.

“Members of the SANDF will, in cooperation with the South African Police Service, conduct an intensified anti-criminality operation against illegal mining across all provinces, from 28 October 2023 until 28 April 2024,” the Presidency said in a statement on Thursday. 

The expenditure expected to be incurred for this deployment amounts to R 492 143 296.

The President set out the employment in a letter to the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Amos Masondo. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM
Thu, 11/09/2023 - 10:44

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Read moreBattle against illegal mining receives a boost