Mining Department Refuses West Coast Prospecting Bid
Government turned down Limpopo-based Nekwana Trading Enterprise’s application because of shortcomings in basic impact assessment
mining
The Ultimate Guide to Industry-Specific and Regional SEO Services in SA
Introduction In today’s digital age, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) has become a cornerstone of any successful business strategy. In South Africa, where enterprises span a myriad of industries and regions, understanding the nuances of SEO is critical. This comprehensive guide aims to break down the importance of industry-specific and region-based SEO services in South Africa. …
Illegal miners to appear before Sabie Magistrate’s Court
Illegal miners to appear before Sabie Magistrate's Court
More than 60 suspects arrested over the weekend are expected to appear before the Sabie Magistrate's Court today on charges of illegal mining, among other things.
In total, 68 male suspects, aged between 19 and 54, were arrested in connection with illegal mining activities in Mpumalanga.
Amongst them, two were nabbed for human trafficking, meanwhile two others were charged for possession of unlicensed firearms with ammunition, while eight were nabbed for alleged kidnapping.
The successes are part of Operation Shanela in the province, which was carried out at Sabie on Saturday. All arrested suspects are facing charges relating to the contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.
According to the police report, the operation was conducted by a team consisting of members of the police from Provincial Organised Crime, members from Sabie Vispol, members from the Local Criminal Record Centre in Lydenburg, Lydenburg K-9 Unit, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Minerals and Resources, personnel from the Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and guards from Phoenix Security and Amandla Security.
An operation was carried out after a victim from Lesotho came to the Sabie police station last month to report a case of kidnapping.
An investigation was thoroughly conducted and information was gathered. The investigating team coordinated and executed a sting operation in the early hours on Saturday.
When members arrived at the site, they managed to arrest the alleged illegal miners, well known as 'zama zamas', where two firearms with ammunition were found amongst the suspects.
The members also nabbed eight individuals, who are suspected to have been behind the kidnapping of the Lesotho national.
A preliminary investigation by the police revealed that two of the suspects are allegedly involved in the human trafficking of people from Lesotho, who were used for illegal mining in Sabie.
Two suspects face charges of human trafficking and more charges could possibly be added against them as the investigation continues.
The investigators are adamant that there could be more criminal activities that these men might be involved in. A probe is underway, where other stakeholders are assisting to ensure that the law take its course.
The confiscated firearms will be taken for ballistic testing to determine whether they were used previously in the commission of crime.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, has commended the outstanding work that has been done by the collaborative team.
"We are very glad that not only was a huge number of suspects arrested, but two firearms were discovered.
“The issue of illegal mining is a concern in our country and we are happy that the public can see that the state, in conjunction with the private sector, is working hard to address the challenge, hence this success," she said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 09/18/2023 - 09:24
780 views
Copper boom sparks conflict between mine and residents of Northern Cape town
We visited Concordia, where 29 people were arrested for protesting against a mine
Silicosis: the astonishing account of the driller from Lesotho
Family receives R340,000 payout after death of miner who suffered from silicosis
Law enforcement honing in on illegal mining kingpins
Law enforcement honing in on illegal mining kingpins
Law enforcement agencies have set their sights on arresting the kingpins which perpetuate illegal mining in South Africa.
This is according to Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who was addressing the media on Thursday the outcomes of a Cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
“In the first quarter of 2023 the Hawks arrested 611 suspects and seized various items including precious metals and diamonds, endangered species, vehicles, cash, firearms, ammunition, counterfeit goods, explosives and electronic devices worth R6 112 768 985.
“In addition, law enforcement arrested nine zama zama [illegal mining] kingpins and were granted preservation orders against their assets that include luxury vehicles such as a Lamborghini and precious metals and cash to the value of R34 million.
“This goes against the narrative that says in our fight against zama zamas we are only targeting runners. We are targeting the kingpins,” she said.
Ntshavheni said Cabinet had commended law enforcement agencies on “their fight to dismantle crime syndicates”.
“The successful actions in dealing with a heavily armed gang linked to a series of cash in transit heists in Limpopo is commendable. Cabinet reiterates that law enforcement should leave no stone unturned in dealing with those who seek to undermine South Africa’s national security and the laws of the Republic,” she said.
Turning to issues related to personal protective equipment (PPE) corruption, the Minister explained that although it is taking some time, progress is being made to bring wrongdoers to book.
“Cabinet welcomed the arrest of nine Northern Cape Department of Health officials for PPE corruption. The suspects are accused of fraud, corruption, money laundering and contravening the Public Finance Management Act.
“We know the impatience of our people in terms of the arrests of PPE corrupt officials and their business partners, but we are gradually making progress,” she said.
Regarding Operation Bring Back – which seeks to identify and recover illegally occupied buildings owned by the state – Minister Ntshavheni said Cabinet commended efforts to wrestle back control of hijacked buildings.
“As part of this initiative, the national government is providing support to municipalities to ensure the enforcement of by-laws to eradicate hijacking of buildings, their effective management and utilisation, and ability to account for the utilisation of government’s immovable assets,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/14/2023 - 11:06
466 views
Silicosis: diagnosing the disease beyond the grave
Q(h)ubeka Trust finds way to pay out widow of miner in spite of lack of medical records
Silicosis: 68-year-old mineworker gets compensation payout months before he dies
Q(h)ubeka Trust winds up after paying out R420-million in compensation following court settlement with employers
The Ultimate Guide to Industrial Pump Technology
Choosing the right pump for your industry can be a daunting task. With a plethora of options available, each designed for specific applications, the selection process can become overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll delve into various types of industrial pumps to help you make an informed decision. Centrifugal Pumps One of the most common …
The Future of Engineering: Tailored Solutions for Complex Problems
In a rapidly evolving world where technology, sustainability, and efficiency are critical, it’s more important than ever to find innovative solutions for complex engineering challenges. Companies have to work smart to stay ahead, and this is where engineered solutions come into play. Let’s explore how tailored solutions are revolutionising sectors from mining to agriculture. …
A Guide to Different Pump Types for Various Industries
Introduction Pumps are ubiquitous in every industry, whether you’re working in agriculture, food processing, or mining. The right pump can make all the difference in efficiency, productivity, and operational costs. But how do you choose the perfect pump for your specific needs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of pumps used in …
Copper 360 School of Mining launches first courses
Nababeep, Northern Cape: The Copper 360 (Altx CPR) School of Mining debuted its first set of courses on 11 September at its Concordia operation in the Northern Cape. The company announced the development of the training facility in August. The school will launch with seven courses: Basic Surface Geology, Sampling, Ore Body Technician, Mineral Resource …
Minister briefs Parliament on the Black Industrialists policy
Minister briefs Parliament on the Black Industrialists policy
Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel has highlighted the significant strides achieved by the Black Industrialists Policy within the food and energy sectors.
The transformative policy, initiated in 2015, is reshaping South Africa's economic landscape by nurturing new enterprises led by black South Africans.
Briefing the Portfolio Committee on Trade, Industry and Competition on Tuesday, Patel said historically transformation policies primarily focused on facilitating black ownership in existing enterprises.
However, the Black Industrialists Policy centres on promoting the development of new enterprises, fostering entrepreneurship and ensuring the emergence of businesses controlled by previously marginalized groups.
During the briefing, Minister Patel presented 46 case studies of Black Industrialists across the country in the food and energy sectors.
The evolution of empowerment policies over time has broadened their scope. Initially, they centered on individual share ownership, enabling capital accumulation among black South Africans. Subsequently, they embraced broad-based empowerment and community initiatives.
Today, the policy prioritises Black Industrialists, supporting individual black entrepreneurs with controlling stakes in new firms and employee share ownership (workers empowerment).
Minister Patel underscored that the Black Industrialists Policy is just one pillar of a broader transformation agenda.
Other transformation instruments include industrial financing, sector master plans, localization, competition measures, B-BBEE codes, equity-equivalent investment programs, special economic zones and state preferential procurement.
The Black Industrialists Policy spans various industries, including agro processing, automotive components, textiles, steel and metal fabrication, mining, machinery and equipment, aerospace equipment and technology.
"The Black Industrialists Policy represents a pivotal shift in South Africa's transformation strategy. It fosters new enterprise development, entrepreneurship, and economic inclusion while addressing historical disparities and promoting innovation,” Minister Patel said.
“The policy's impact on the food and energy sectors underscores its significance in driving South Africa's economic transformation,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/13/2023 - 10:11
132 views
Uninterrupted Power for Unstoppable Boks? EcoFlow Keeps Game On During Load Shedding
The Rugby World Cup 2023 is reaching fever pitch in South Africa. The players are in the yards, the fans are in the stands and the TV is on. But there’s one thing that South Africans know all too well can put a damper on the excitement – load shedding. It’s a challenge that transcends …
Assets of alleged illegal mining kingpins frozen
Assets of alleged illegal mining kingpins frozen
The Pretoria Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Hawks Priority Crimes Specialised Investigation and Serious Organised Crime Investigation have secured preservation orders to freeze assets “which are proceeds of unlawful activities of a syndicate dealing in unwrought gold” in Gauteng.
The frozen assets include 51 vehicles and seven properties with a value of more than R16 million.
“The orders were to preserve various properties belonging to Bethuel Ngobeni, Lerato Bathebeng, Poppy Mathongwane, Bongani Khumalo, Dumisani Moyo [and his company] Kesitaal Pty Ltd, Nhlanhla Magwaca, Neo Duba, Tsepo Dube, Itumeleng Magagane, Gloria Magagane Mlambo, Nhlanhla Mathebula, Manuel Nhamucho and Thabiso Sechele, which are proceeds of unlawful activities of a syndicate dealing in unwrought gold in Khutsong and Carletonville.
“This emanates from a criminal investigation by the DPCI [Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation] that resulted in six accused being arrested, who are alleged to be illegal mining kingpins. All the accused are remanded in custody, however Moyo was granted bail after he appealed at the high court. Some of the properties belong to four of the accused,” the NPA said in a statement.
The criminal case in this regard is expected to be heard in court on Thursday, 7 April. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Thu, 09/07/2023 - 09:49
59 views
Facelift for land ports of entry
Facelift for land ports of entry
Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, says officials are committed to making the country's border posts safer, less porous and more efficient in the facilitation and easing of trade, as well as the legitimate movement of people.
“The South African government is committed to putting in the latest infrastructure and relevant technology in its efforts to modernise and upgrade our ports to be on par with the current global best practices on border management,” Motsoaledi said.
Addressing media in Pretoria on Wednesday, Motsoaledi said the main objective of upgrading border posts is to make it easier for law-abiding people and companies to easily enter and exit South Africa through the borders, while the illicit movement of persons and goods is nipped in the bud.
“It has taken a while for us to get to this point. I would like to commend my team consisting of officials from the Border Management Authority, the Department of Home Affairs, The Presidency’s Infrastructure SA, National Treasury, SARS, the DBSA’s Infrastructure Fund, and the transactional advisors, Bowmans and Ernst & Young, for their hard work in getting us to this point,” Motsoaledi said.
He said South Africa’s ports of entry were designed during the apartheid era, with the primary objective of tightened security, while neglecting the effective facilitation of regional and international trade.
“Since the advent of democracy, there has been an exponential increase in the number of people moving between South Africa and the countries in the region. The volume of regional and international trade has similarly increased.
“As a result, our land ports of entry are very congested and that continues to stifle trade, instead of enabling it. If you want to understand what we are talking about, just take a visit to the Lebombo Border Post between SA and Mozambique, where you will see trucks lining up for kilometres, bumper to bumper, for hours on end, on the N4 Corridor,” Motsoaledi said.
He said this is because mining companies in the North West, Limpopo and Mpumalanga took a decision to use the Maputo Port for their exports and no longer Richards Bay Harbour.
“Given the current narrow design of the port, this has led to congestion. The announcement we are making today will make sure that what is happening there, will become history (sic),” the Minister said.
Improvements to boost continental trade
Motsoaledi said SA has 72 ports of entry, 53 of which are land, 11 are international airports and eight are seaports -- all of which are now operated by the Border Management Authority.
“Of the 53 land ports of entry, we have now earmarked six of our largest and busiest, by traffic volume, for redevelopment in order to address the congestion. The outcome of the redevelopment of these ports of entry will be used as a blueprint in the long-term for all other South Africa’s land ports of entry.
“The primary intention is to ensure the realisation of regional economic integration in the SADC region, while facilitating the realisation of African Continental Free Trade Area,” the Minister said.
Motsoaledi said in order to ensure that ongoing operations at each of the designated Ports of Entry are not interrupted, construction will be undertaken in phases.
“During construction, the project is expected to create in the order of 38 000 jobs in areas around the six designated ports of entry,” he said.
The six ports of entry earmarked for upgrading or redevelopment are:
• Beitbridge - Zimbabwe
• Lebombo - Mozambique
• Maseru Bridge – Lesotho
• Ficksburg - Lesotho
• Kopfontein - Botswana
• Oshoek - Eswatini
The redeveloped ports of entry will result in:
• Efficient cross-border management of the movement of people, goods and services.
• Improved administration of persons entering and leaving the Republic.
• Better regional economic integration, and enhanced support for the African Continental Free Trade Area.
• Improved revenue collection and addressing leakages caused by the illegal movement of goods and illicit financial flows.
• Protecting local industry from harmful imports and exports.
• Effective migration management including curbing illegal migration. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 09/06/2023 - 13:10
405 views
Govt reviews Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act
Govt reviews Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act
President Cyril Ramaphosa says government has embarked on a comprehensive review of the Intergovernmental Relations Framework Act of 2005, to ensure that the different spheres of government work in a joined-up and coordinated manner to secure the well-being of the people of South Africa, among other things.
“In the design of our democratic unitary state, we introduced cooperative governance to ensure that the three spheres of government worked together to meet the needs of the people. Each sphere of government has constitutionally assigned powers and functions that cannot be encroached upon, but need to be mutually respected.
“Chapter 3 of the Constitution requires all spheres of government to cooperate with one another in mutual trust and good faith by, among others, fostering friendly relations and assisting and supporting one another. Importantly, the Constitution says that all spheres of government must secure the well-being of the people of the Republic,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President said the District Development Model (DDM) is geared towards improving and strengthening the intergovernmental relations system as an approach towards giving effect to the Constitutional principles of cooperative governance.
“The District Development Model approach has made great strides in ensuring that the principles of cooperative governance guide how we plan, budget and implement key government programmes and projects across the country. This is demonstrated through the Presidential Izimbizo and implementation of key catalytic projects identified in intergovernmental long-term One Plans.”
To date, the President said, experiences in the implementation of the DDM have placed greater emphasis on the requirements to undertake a review and re-look at the policy instruments framing and guiding of intergovernmental relations system, and cooperative governance.
Progress in addressing challenges identified at Imbizos
President Ramaphosa highlighted some of the progress made and key service delivery interventions through Izimbizo, and these include road maintenance projects in Mpumalanga, the provision of title deeds in North West, measures to tackle livestock theft in the Free State, and the provision of water in North West, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal.
The President said through the Izimbizo government has further identified opportunities for skills development in key economic sectors in districts such as mining and agriculture in North West and Limpopo and energy programmes in Northern Cape.
“Through the information and contribution collected during the various Izimbizo, it has been possible to identify interventions that are required in many localities across the country. The benefit of these engagements therefore extends beyond the communities in which they take place as they are able to improve service provision more generally,” President Ramaphosa said.
He added that the documenting and tracking of key resolutions emanating from the Izimbizo are part of the design of the Izimbizo.
“Quarterly implementation reports indicate that measurable progress is being made in addressing the challenges identified, which are done in an intergovernmental manner. The various intergovernmental platforms established through the Izimbizo protocols are also tasked to address challenges where these occur.
“District Development Model political champions are assigned for each district and metro, and are tasked to provide regular updates not just to the established intergovernmental platforms but also to the respective communities,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 09/06/2023 - 10:01
181 views
SA benefits economically from BRICS grouping
SA benefits economically from BRICS grouping
Outlining the economic benefits of South Africa's participation in the BRICS grouping, President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed Members of Parliament that South Africa’s trade with the bloc has increased by an average of 10% every year over the period 2017 to 2021.
“The total South African trade with other BRICS [Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa] countries reached R830 billion in 2022, which represents an increase of more than 70% from R487 billion in 2017,” the President said on Tuesday in Cape Town.
Participating in a Questions for Oral Reply session in the National Assembly, President Ramaphosa explained that BRICS is an important source of foreign direct investment in key areas such as mining, automotive, transportation, clean energy, financial services and information technology (IT).
These investments and projects lead to significant job creation.
“South Africa has experienced significant benefits through its membership as well as its association with the BRICS grouping of countries. South Africa uses its BRICS membership to improve investment, trade, tourism, as well as capacity building, and it also flows into skills acquisition and technological capabilities that we see this relationship yielding for our country.
“Strengthening economic as well as financial ties between BRICS member countries is one of the key pillars of this cooperation that we have forged with all these countries,” the President said.
In 2020, the countries adopted the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership to increase access to each other’s markets, promote mutual trade and investment, and create a business-friendly environment for investors in all BRICS countries.
“Furthermore, the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women’s Alliance bring together important commercial networks that promote trade and investment partnerships among BRICS countries. In 2015, BRICS countries launched the New Development Bank to finance and largely support infrastructure and sustainable development projects,” President Ramaphosa said.
To date, the New Development Bank has provided funding to 12 projects in South Africa to the value of over R100 billion.
“Our membership of BRICS makes a valuable contribution to the implementation of our Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan. For example, growing the tourism industry is one of the priorities of the Plan. The BRICS countries are becoming increasingly important tourism markets for South Africa.
“In terms of supporting energy security in South Africa, another pillar of our recovery plan, BRICS countries have the expertise and technologies to support energy cooperation. In 2020, BRICS adopted a Road Map for BRICS Energy Cooperation up to 2025 aimed at building a strategic partnership in energy cooperation,” the President said.
On infrastructure investment, which is another pillar of the recovery plan, South Africa will continue to access funding from the New Development Bank for energy, transport and water.
“The inclusion of Argentina, Ethiopia, Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as new members of the group will strengthen beneficial cooperation with South Africa in political, economic and financial matters.
“These countries will enhance economic partnership in key sectors such as oil and energy, telecommunication and information technology, agriculture, textile, logistics, air transportation and tourism and medicine,” the President said.
Last month’s three-day BRICS Summit wrapped up with several successful outcomes, including the expansion of the six aforementioned countries to become full members of BRICS effective from January 2024.
South Africa hosted the 15th BRICS Summit from 22-24 August in Johannesburg. This year’s summit took place under the theme, ‘BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism’.
The President said South Africa expects that its trade links and investments participation with all the additional countries will increase.
This addition is also expected to contribute to the growth of the country’s tourism industry.
“In economic terms, all these new additional countries are big players and on the horizon are a number of other countries that have indicated their willingness to be part of BRICS and they too will be considered in the next phase.
“We will obviously look at the economic value in terms of participation for all of us as BRICS members. These additional countries will be boosting our Economic Recovery and Reconstruction Plan and we expect great benefits from all this.
“The benefits for our countries has been very clear right from the beginning. It has led to enhanced activity amongst ourselves and all these countries. Being a BRICS member does contribute a great deal to economic growth as well,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 15:18
615 views
South Africa’s GDP grows by 0.6%
South Africa's GDP grows by 0.6%
Stats SA has announced that South African real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded by 0.6% in the second quarter of 2023, which measured is from April to June.
Six industries on the supply side of the economy grew in the second quarter, with manufacturing and finance driving much of the upward momentum.
“On the demand side, the country benefitted from a sharp rise in investments in machinery and equipment, which included products related to renewable energy. Despite a decline in the overall household consumption, consumers continued to spend more on restaurants and hotels,” Stats SA said on Tuesday.
The GDP growth in the second quarter follows a 0.4% rise in the first quarter.
“Manufacturing production expanded by 2.2%, mainly pushed higher by petroleum, chemical products, rubber and plastic products. Manufacturers in metals, metal products, machinery and equipment also recorded a good quarter, driven in part by increased demand for crude steel.
“Increased investment in South Africa’s automotive sector helped lift the production of transport equipment and motor vehicles. The finance industry edged higher by 0.7%, boosted by financial intermediation, insurance and real estate services,” Stats SA said.
After two consecutive quarters of decline, South Africa’s agriculture sector recorded a positive performance with a 4.2% rise in output, which was driven by increases in the production of field crops and horticulture products.
“Favourable weather conditions, increased cultivation and a rise in export demand provided further support. Mining looked good too, posting a second straight quarter of growth. Platinum group metals, gold, minerals classified in the category ‘other metallic minerals’ and coal helped lift the industry.
“The personal services industry was positive on the back of higher growth in education and health. The rise in general government services was mainly due to an increase in staff numbers.
“Not all industries had a good second quarter. After 18 months of consistent growth, the transport, storage and communication industry stumbled, declining by 1.9%. Transport support services were lacklustre and there were declines in land freight and road passenger transport,” Stats SA said.
The trade industry was down on the back of weaker retail and wholesale figures.
The overall decline was partially offset by increased activities in the motor trade, tourist accommodation and restaurant, catering and fast-food sectors.
“After holding its head above water for nine months, the construction industry lost steam in the second quarter. A decline in economic activity related to non-residential and residential buildings pulled the industry lower. There was a small uptick in construction works, but this was not enough to lift the industry into positive territory,” Stats SA said.
Investments in machinery and equipment
Stats SA noted that a sharp rise in investments in imported machinery and equipment – mostly for electricity infrastructure – drove gross fixed capital formation higher.
“This was supported by an increase in sales of locally produced electric motors, generators and special purpose machinery. The demand for machinery and equipment contributed to the 3.3% rise in imports. Imported products included those related to renewable energy, batteries, vegetable products, artificial resins and plastics, base metals and articles of base metals, and animal and vegetable fats and oils.
“South African exports edged higher by 0.9%, driven by increased trade in chemical products; prepared foodstuffs, beverages and tobacco; vehicles and transport equipment; mineral products and machinery and electrical equipment.
“Household consumption decreased in the second quarter as consumers cut back on a variety of goods and services. Despite the overall decline, households continued to increase their spending on restaurants and hotels, representing a seventh consecutive quarter of growth for this category,” Stats SA said. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 09/05/2023 - 12:29
56 views
Achieving Net Zero in the Mining Industry: Challenges, Opportunities, and Action Sandrine Pfister – Sustainability Market Leader, Bureau Veritas Africa
In the year 2050, the world has successfully reduced carbon emissions, with the contribution of efforts of mining and metal industry players who achieved their targets in greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction. Through project-specific approaches, these companies assessed their carbon footprints, identified emissions hotspots, developed tangible net-zero roadmaps and invest in low-carbon technologies leading to improved …
Lessons to be learnt from tragic building fire
Lessons to be learnt from tragic building fire
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated that the tragedy in which 74 people died during a fire in Johannesburg must not be allowed to happen again.
He was speaking during a meeting of the Presidential Coordinating Council (PCC) at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Tshwane on Friday.
The PCC meeting was attended by Cabinet members and provincial Premiers and was preceded by a moment of silence for the victims of the fire.
“We are meeting here just a day after a catastrophic building fire in central Johannesburg claimed the lives of more than 70 people. As we await further information on the cause of the fire and the huge loss of life, we must ask hard questions about the effectiveness of our interventions to improve the living conditions of our people.
“As we grieve this devastating loss, let us learn from this tragedy and make sure that it never happens again,” President Ramaphosa said.
According to the Presidency, the meeting discussed various issues of national importance including service delivery, the District Development Model and crime and “the need to continue enhancing intergovernmental coordination”.
“The meeting…deliberated on service delivery constraints and proposed interventions; the implementation of the District Development Model (DDM); and corrective action plans to address the worst performing municipalities in terms of the Blue Drop and Green Drop assessments of water and wastewater treatment quality.
“The meeting reaffirmed the need to continue enhancing intergovernmental coordination, with a particular focus on infrastructure development and related financing mechanisms in view of the constrained fiscal environment. The meeting also welcomed proposals on the institutionalisation of the District Development Model and the roll out of the DDM support tool that will enable more focused and improved serviced delivery.
“On the ongoing fight against crime, the PCC resolved to strengthen the partnership between law enforcement agencies and the various provincial crime fighting initiatives to address illegal mining, intimidation of contractors and other security threats, and to bolster community based crime fighting capacity,” the Presidency said.
The PCC is the President’s platform for consultation and engagement with provinces and local government in order to raise matters of national interest, ensure alignment of strategic priorities, strengthen coordination, and discuss performance.
The PCC transcends local boundaries and coordinates action across spheres of government in a holistic and transversal manner, according to the Presidency. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Sun, 09/03/2023 - 10:16
112 views
11th-hour out-of-court settlement reached on West Coast diamond mining
A major legal battle over the extension of 30-year mining rights has been averted
Court challenge to 30-year extension of West Coast diamond mining rights
Fishers say they were ignored when the original rights were awarded between 1994 and 1998
DPE, China Development Bank sign agreement
DPE, China Development Bank sign agreement
The Department of Public Enterprises has entered into a Collaboration Framework Agreement with the China Development Bank (CBD) which the department says will enhance the sustainability of State Owned Companies (SOCs).
The CBD already has funding agreements with Eskom and Transnet for locomotives and the building of power stations, Medupi and Kusile.
“We are laying the foundation for a more sustainable path to ensure that our developmental goals as a country stay on track. This agreement is also a sign of our commitment as government to create an enabling environment for our SOCs. They are a critical lever to drive service delivery and economic opportunity to improve the lives of millions of South Africans,” DPE Minister Pravin Gordhan said.
He added that the agreement will open new paths for SOCs.
“This agreement is a culmination of the discussions and engagements that we conducted with the CDB during our visit to Beijing in May this year. The DPE is confident that this agreement will allow us to better position our SOCs for future growth as we leverage the exchange of expertise, technical skills and other strategic catalysts that this collaboration framework agreement makes possible,” Gordhan added.
The agreement was signed on the side lines of the 15th BRICS Summit held in Johannesburg and is one of the key initiatives to deepen China-South Africa relations following Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Official State Visit to Pretoria on Tuesday.
CBD Vice Chairman and President, Tan Jiong, said: “We view this agreement as one more step in our efforts to enhance cooperation across a range of key strategic sectors to enable further development that is underpinned by a strong relationship between our two countries".
“The CDB already has a close relationship with Transnet and Eskom, but now we also have the opportunity to work with the DPE in other areas of mutual interest, including mining and forestry”. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Fri, 08/25/2023 - 09:06
981 views