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Transnet works to curb shipping delays

Location: News

Transnet works to curb shipping delays

The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has enhanced its ability to curb shipping and cargo-handling delays caused by long waves that impact vessels berthed at its ports, thanks to the delivery of six more hydraulic shore tension units destined for the ports of Cape Town and Ngqura.

From the 52 units procured by TNPA in September 2023, this batch brings the total number of mooring units delivered to 12 and adds to the eight that were installed in the Cape Town and Ngqura ports prior to this acquisition. 

In a statement on Tuesday, Transnet said the timely delivery solidifies the execution of the Transnet Recovery Plan, which aims to improve operational efficiencies and increase the value of service to customers.

Shipping and cargo handling operations at the Cape Town and Ngqura ports are often impacted by strong winds reaching 35 to 50 knots and high sea swells exceeding 3.5 meters. 

Such inclement weather conditions cause operational and safety disruptions leading to delays in vessel movements. 

A hydraulic tension mooring unit is a system placed on the quayside to ensure the safety of docked vessels by mitigating the severity of long-wave effects on vessels. The benefits include minimised downtime and safety incidents during operations.

“The introduction of the shore tension units at the Port of Cape Town has significantly improved our vessel operations,” said National Operations Manager at CMA CGM South Africa, Leon Reddy, commenting on the delivery as one of the shipping lines that are benefiting from the installed shore tensions.   

“With the ability to keep our vessels stable and secure alongside the berth, we have seen a notable reduction in vessel movement and ranging.

“This has resulted in increased container productivity and reduced port stay times, leading to improved overall efficiency and reduced costs. We support TNPA's initiative to invest in additional shore tension units and look forward to continued cooperation to enhance port operations," he said.

TNPA has procured 52 shore tension units with an allocation of 16 units for the Port of Cape Town with six delivered, 14 for the Port of Durban, eight for the Port of Port Elizabeth, six for the Port of Ngqura with all six delivered, four for the Port of Saldanha and four for the Port of Richards Bay. 

The phased delivery of the rest of the units will be completed by early 2025.

TNPA is responsible for the safe, effective, and efficient economic functioning of the national port system, which it manages in a landlord capacity. 

It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa – Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay and Ngqura. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 09/17/2024 - 10:53

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Cabinet commends addition of SA sites to UNESCO list

Location: News

Cabinet commends addition of SA sites to UNESCO list

Cabinet has commended the latest addition of the South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in the prestigious list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites.

The sites in the prestigious list include the Union Buildings, Constitution Hill, Liliesleaf farm, Sharpeville memorial, Walter Sisulu Square, 16 June 1976: The Streets of Orlando West, University of Fort Hare and ZK Matthews House, Mqhekezweni, Waaihoek and Ohlange.

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee also inscribed three Middle Stone Age sites in recognition of South Africa’s significant contribution to the understanding of the origins of modern human behaviour.

These include Diepkloof Rock Shelter close to Elands Bay in the Western Cape, Pinnacle Point Site Complex in Mossel Bay also in the Western Cape and Sibhudu Cave in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.

“The sites termed as The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites, not only help preserve South Africa’s unique heritage, but catapults our country to prominence as a major tourist attraction for World Heritage Sites, thereby boosting tourism and the economy,” said Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni.

The Minister was briefing media at a post-Cabinet briefing held in Pretoria on Thursday.

READ | UNESCO inscribes more World Heritage sites for South Africa

South Africans are living longer

Meanwhile, Cabinet has also welcomed the Mid-Year Population Estimates (MYPE) for 2024, which showed that South Africans are living longer.

The MYPE shows that life expectancy has increased to 66.5 years from 53.6 years in 2005 due to multiple government interventions, including the expanded rollout of antiretroviral therapy - which is one of the largest antiretroviral therapy programme in the world.

The estimates also show the provision of vaccinations and the decrease in the infant mortality rate from an estimated 57 infant deaths per 1000 live births in 2002 to 22.9 per 1000 live births in 2024.

“South Africa’s population now exceeded 63 million, growing 1.33 percent from July 2023 to July 2024. The updated population growth figures will assist government in its planning and resource allocation as we continue to better the life of all South Africans,” Ntshavheni said.

High-tech rail infrastructure

Cabinet has also commended the introduction of new high-tech trains on the Central Line in the City of Cape Town by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). PRASA is an agency of the Department of Transport.

The service has been extended from Nyanga to Mandalay station.

Ntshavheni highlighted that the trains utilise modern signalling system from Langa to Mutual Line, to enhance the safety and reliability of the rail service.

“The modern hi-tech features in these trains include automated doors, and CCTVs for each coach are for improved passenger safety,” the Minister said.

Cabinet has further commended the recovery of more rail lines part of government’s priority of providing safe, reliable and affordable public transport.

READ | PRASA introduces new modern trains in Cape Town

This as Cabinet held its first normal meeting of the seventh administration at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Wednesday. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 08/08/2024 - 12:38

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UNESCO inscribes more World Heritage sites for South Africa

Location: News

UNESCO inscribes more World Heritage sites for South Africa

The Presidency has welcomed the latest inscription of South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites.

The sites – termed as The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites – include the following:
- The Union Buildings
- Constitution Hill 
- Liliesleaf
- Sharpeville (comprising three component parts) 
- Walter Sisulu Square 
- 16 June 1976: The Streets of Orlando West
- University of Fort Hare and ZK Mathews House (comprising two component parts)
- Mqhekezweni
- Waaihoek
- Ohlange

“Collectively, this serial property demonstrates the events and ideas that served as the core of South Africa’s liberation struggle, which continue to inspire humanity and the embrace of reconciliation, a quarter century later. 

“The 14 components exemplify strong memories and beliefs in the triumph of human rights, liberation and reconciliation,” the Presidency said in a statement.

Furthermore, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee also inscribed three Middle Stone Age sites as “recognition of South Africa’s significant contribution to the understanding of the origins of modern human behaviour”.

The three sites, inscribed is The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa, are:

- Diepkloof Rock Shelter close to Elands Bay, Western Cape
- Pinnacle Point Site Complex in Mossel Bay, Western Cape
- Sibhudu Cave in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.

The addition of the two serial properties will bring South Africa’s number of World Heritage sites to 12.
The Presidency expressed “heartfelt gratitude to the members of the 46th session Committee for the honour bestowed to the country, its history and rich legacy”.

“The Presidency also acknowledges the members of the Africa Group and most importantly, the African World Heritage Fund, which is an intergovernmental organisation created in 2006 by the African Union and UNESCO to address challenges faced by the African State Parties in the implementation of the 1972 World Heritage Convention, specifically the under-representation of African sites on the World Heritage List and the insufficient conservation and management of these sites.

“The Presidency calls on all South Africans, spheres of Government, management authorities and heritage stakeholders to work in a coordinated manner to ensure that these precious treasures of humanity are safeguarded and optimally deployed to meaningfully contribute to sustainable development in communities and further entrench the values of human rights, freedom, peace and reconciliation,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Mon, 07/29/2024 - 10:04

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Presidency welcomes UNESCO inscription of Human Rights Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites

Location: News

The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa
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The Presidency has welcomed the latest inscription of the South African human rights and liberation struggle sites in the prestigious list of UNESCO'S World Heritage Sites. 

The inscription follows the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India held from the 21 - 31 of July 2024. 

The inscribed sites termed as The Human Rights, Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites, which is a serial property comprising of fourteen (14) components that are located in four provinces and seven municipalities across South Africa are, the Union Buildings, Constitution Hill, Liliesleaf, Sharpeville (comprising three component parts), Walter Sisulu Square, 16 June 1976: The Streets of Orlando West, University of Fort Hare and ZK Mathews House (Comprising two component parts), Mqhekezweni, Waaihoek and Ohlange. 

Collectively, this serial property demonstrates the events and ideas that served as the core of South Africa's liberation struggle, which continue to inspire humanity and the embrace of reconciliation, a quarter century later. 

The 14 components exemplify strong memories and beliefs in the triumph of human rights, liberation and reconciliation.

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee further inscribed three Middle Stone Age sites as recognition of South Africa's significant contribution to the understanding of the origins of modern human behaviour. 

The second South African serial site inscribed is The Emergence of Modern Human Behaviour: The Pleistocene Occupation Sites of South Africa. 

The sites are located in the Western Cape Province and KwaZulu-Natal. The three sites are:

- Diepkloof Rock Shelter close to Elands Bay, Western Cape

- Pinnacle Point Site Complex in Mossel Bay, Western Cape

- Sibhudu Cave in KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal.

The inscription of these two serial properties, increases South Africa's list of World Heritage Sites to 12. 

The two newly inscribed properties join the following; Robben Island, Vredefort Dome, Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape, Cape Floral Region Protected Areas, Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape and iSimangaliso Wetland Park. 

The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains, Cradle of Humankind /Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa, Maluti Drakensberg Park and The Khomani Cultural Landscape.

The Union Buildings joins global sites like the Kremlin, Kasubi Tombs, Mose oaThunya, Taj Mahal, The Vatican and others onto the World Heritage List.  

On behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, The Presidency wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to the members of the 46th session Committee for the honour bestowed to the country, its history and rich legacy. 

The Presidency also acknowledges the members of the Africa Group and most importantly, the African World Heritage Fund, which is an intergovernmental organisation created in 2006 by the African Union and UNESCO to address challenges faced by the African State Parties in the implementation of the 1972 World Heritage Convention, specifically the underrepresentation of African sites on the World Heritage List and the insufficient conservation and management of these sites. 

The fund is hosted by the Government of South Africa on behalf of the African continent. 

The Presidency would like to recognise the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture team that worked tirelessly for months preparing this nomination and the contribution of the Provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape. 

The Presidency calls on all South Africans, spheres of Government, management authorities and heritage stakeholders to work in a co-ordinated manner to ensure that these precious treasures of humanity are safeguarded and optimally deployed to meaningfully contribute to sustainable development in communities and further entrench the values of human rights, freedom, peace and reconciliation.

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

Read morePresidency welcomes UNESCO inscription of Human Rights Liberation and Reconciliation: Nelson Mandela Legacy Sites

EnerGeo Alliance Champions Gas as South Africa’s Transition Fuel of Choice

Location: News
African Energy Chamber

In its latest natural gas policy brief, global trade association EnerGeo Alliance has positioned natural gas as the premier transition fuel for South Africa, citing its reduced carbon emissions, scalability and cost competitiveness. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org)– as the voice of the African energy sector – supports these data-driven findings and calls for greater foreign investment in Africa's natural gas prospects.

South Africa's power supply remains in urgent need of diversification away from aging coal- and diesel-powered plants. While the country is looking to renewables to diversify its power mix and alleviate load shedding, the brief identifies natural gas as the ideal transition fuel to achieving a low-carbon future and meeting the demands of South Africa's rapidly growing population and economy. According to the report, countries that use gas as a source for power generation have seen their electricity supply grow approximately three times faster in the past decade than those without gas. The Chamber has long advocated for the exploration and development of Africa's natural gas resources – of which the continent holds over 620 trillion cubic feet – and commends EnerGeo Alliance for championing its expanded role in the energy mix.

With member companies spanning more than 50 countries, EnerGeo Alliance brings together the global geoscience industry to discover, develop and deliver alternative energy and low-carbon energy solutions that meet growing energy demand. Natural gas emits 50-60% less carbon dioxide, rendering it a relatively clean energy source able to meet power demand reliably and at scale. Gas also serves as a critical feedstock for the production of fertilizers and petrochemicals, as well as a source of process heat in energy-intensive industries, creating the potential to decarbonize heavy industry. According to the World Economic Forum, a tripling of sub-Saharan Africa's power consumption using natural gas would only correspond to a one percent increase in global carbon emissions.

Natural gas also represents the most cost-effective pathway to energy security for South Africa and the continent at-large. It can provide both base load and backup power – whereas solar and wind power present intermittency problems – and is more cost-competitive as a base load supply than nuclear. According to the policy brief, large-scale discoveries like Brulpadda-Luiperd, the offshore Orange Basin and shale reserve prospects in the Karoo Basin suggest that South Africa could not only meet its power demand through domestic gas resources, but also stimulate broader economic development through regional gas exports.

EnerGeo Alliance highlights South Africa's promising reserves in Mossel Bay and the Orange River Basin, as well as shale gas in the Karoo Basin, for further upstream investment. Through advanced seismic survey, upstream geoscience and data generation activities play a key role in identifying potential gas reserves, de-risking exploration and reducing the environmental footprint associated with gas exploration and extraction. Major investment is also needed across South Africa's midstream and downstream sectors, including regional transmission pipelines, gas storage facilities and gas-to-liquids, regasification and LNG plants. While the construction of gas-fired power plants is already underway at Coega, Richards Bay and Saldanha Bay, new projects are needed to boost South Africa's gas availability and reliability.

“The AEC supports the EnerGeo Alliance in positioning gas as critical to South Africa's energy independence and low-carbon future. The science confirms this, and the bottom line confirms this. More capital must flow to African upstream and integrated gas projects, and we must support the geoscience community so that natural gas exploration is no longer seen as a risk, but as a given,” says NJ Ayuk, AEC Executive Chairman. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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African Energy Chamber
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Mossel Bay: Fisherman rescued

Location: News

Johan Ehlers, NSRI Mossel Bay duty coxswain, said: At 22h17, Tuesday, 21 May, NSRI Mossel Bay duty crew were activated following eyewitness reports of a suspected drowning in progress at Beacon Wharf, Mossel Bay – near to Mossel Bay harbour Our NSRI rescue vehicle and NSRI rescue swimmers, in their private vehicles, By Grace ambulance …

Read moreMossel Bay: Fisherman rescued

Louis Fourie Road transport infrastructure project on track

Location: News

The Provincial Minister of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, recently visited the Louis Fourie Road and transport infrastructure upgrade project in Mossel Bay. The project experienced a few challenges in the initial stages that led to unforeseen delays. However, the project team has learnt from these setbacks which bodes well for the future of the project as …

Read moreLouis Fourie Road transport infrastructure project on track

Discover the Splendour of South Africa on an Epic Hiking Adventure

Location: MyPR

Looking for a holiday with a difference? Tired of the same ol’ same ol’ family trips and fancy the idea of trying something new these school holidays? Then perhaps you should consider embarking on an outdoor adventure to explore magnificent sights, often only accessible by hiking. With the cooler autumn season upon us, it’s a …

Read moreDiscover the Splendour of South Africa on an Epic Hiking Adventure

Transnet expands port to meet industry demands

Location: News

Transnet expands port to meet industry demands

In its ongoing drive for port expansion and operational performance improvement, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is repositioning its Western Region ports of Cape Town, Mossel Bay and Saldanha for the provision of world-class port infrastructure to support the regions’ booming shipping demand.

Projects in the pipeline include Phase2B of the Cape Town Container Terminal expansion at the Port of Cape Town.

“As part of the project, TNPA is currently finalising a detailed design of the rail infrastructure upgrade - a key deliverable that will enable the construction phase. The design work will be completed by December 2024. The project scope also includes container stack upgrade as well as a truck staging area and automation.

“The expansion will see a capacity increase from 1 million TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) to 1.4 million TEU, with an investment value of approximately R1.775 billion. Project commencement is planned for September 2025,” Transnet said on Monday.

TNPA is also reviewing and finalising precinct plans for the Culemborg Intermodal Logistics Precinct Development in the Port of Cape Town, and that will be followed by a request for proposals during the 2024/25 financial year.

“This project will culminate in the development of land parcels near the port to create additional back of port capacity. Key projects at the Port of Saldanha include the extension of the multi-purpose terminal and the development of berth 205, which will cater for rig repairs. The new berth will also provide additional capacity for break bulk operations,” Transnet said.

Meanwhile, strategic initiatives in the Port of Mossel Bay include the construction of the cruise reception facility to enable international cruise vessels to call to the port. The slipway rehabilitation project planned for 2024/25 financial year will increase the port’s slipway and cradle capacity from 200 to 500 tons.

“The execution of these projects is not only a demonstration of our commitment to investing in the creation of addition port capacity, but also critical for the Ports Authority to respond to the need to improve operational performance of the South African ports,” acting TNPA Managing Executive for the Western Region ports, Captain Vernal Jones said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 11:02

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WC pig owners urged to heighten biosecurity to contain swine fever

Location: News

WC pig owners urged to heighten biosecurity to contain swine fever

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture has urged pig farmers to heighten biosecurity measures following laboratory results confirming African Swine Fever (ASF) in pigs of small farmers on the outskirts of Groeneweide Park, George.

ASF is a virus that affects pigs and there is no vaccination or treatment currently available for the prevention of the disease.

The department said the new outbreak confirmed recently is the fourth outbreak of disease in the Garden Route area since 2022. 

“Previously, there had been outbreaks in KwaNonqaba and Mossel Bay in 2022 and 2023, which were both resolved; and an outbreak in Thembalethu in 2022, which remains a concern. It is estimated that about 45 pigs have died thus far, with about 250 pigs remaining in the area,” department spokesperson Daniel Johnson said. 

Johnson said the area has been placed under quarantine, and community members have been urged to not remove any pigs or pig products from the area to prevent the further spread of the disease.

Johnson has also emphasised that ASF virus is specific to pigs and does not affect humans or other species of animals. 

“The public needs to know that pigs slaughtered at abattoirs have undergone meat inspection. Pork products found in supermarkets are safe for human consumption,” Johnson said.

Critical measures to minimise the spread of ASF 

•    All carcasses should be disposed of safely.
•    Pigs should be confined to prevent roaming and potentially picking up and spreading the disease.
•    Hands, shoes, clothing and equipment should be sanitised before and after being in contact with a pig. 
•    Any meat products should be thoroughly cooked before being fed to pigs. 
•    Farmers should confirm that any purchased pigs are bought from known ASF-free herds.

Usually, the first signs of an ASF outbreak are the sudden death of pigs, and in some cases, other symptoms can include breathing difficulties, redness of the skin, especially underneath the pig and on the ears, hind leg weakness and loss of appetite. 

“Occasionally, the pig may also have blood in their faeces and their vomit. Should these signs be seen, please contact your closest State Veterinary Office at https://www.elsenburg.com/veterinary-services/animal-health-and-disease,” Johnson said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 13:21

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K-9, rural safety units fabricate inroads in battle against crime

Location: News

K-9, rural safety units make inroads in fight against crime

The Mossel Bay, Overstrand and Swartland K-9 Units, in partnership with the areas Rural Safety Units (RSUs), continue to make inroads in the fight against crime, particularly in their communities. 

Between 4 and 17 December 2023, the units with various municipal law enforcement agencies and the South African Police Service, arrested 57 people for various crimes. 

Of the 57 arrested, 32 were apprehended in the Overstrand municipal area, three in Mossel Bay and 22 were arrested in the Swartland.

This is according to the Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety.

“In total, 18kg of dagga was confiscated in the last two weeks, along with more than 726 mandrax tablets. Other contraband, including West Coast Rock Lobster, their tails and abalone were also confiscated,” the department said.

It said the Mossel Bay K-9 unit had various operations, which included searches at two different addresses in Herbetsdale, where a combined total of 1kg of dagga, including more than 155 mandrax tablets and 21 plastic bankies, suspected to be tik, were discovered and confiscated. 

One person was also found with half mandrax tablets at a taxi rank in the Mossel Bay’s central business district. 

The department said the Swartland units had operations in Malmesbury, Moorreesburg, Riebeek-Valley, Vredendal, Vredeburg, Saldanha Bay, Yezerfontein and Piketberg with suspects arrested for among other things, dealing in liquor, possession of drugs, dealing in drugs and possession of stolen property.

The units also confiscated 505 mandrax tablets, 4kg parcels of dagga and 3 small zipper bags of tik. 

“Amongst others, the Overstand arrests included 9 for possessions of drugs; 2 for dealing in drugs, 5 for illegal possession of marine life and 9 wanted suspects. This unit confiscated 13kg’s of dagga, 6 mandrax tablets, 32 West Coast Rock Lobster, 35 West Coast Rock Lobster tails and 35 whole abandoned abalone,” the department said.

Western Cape MEC of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Reagen Allen, commended the K-9 and Rural Safety Units for their continued effort.

Allen said the provincial government has made a commitment that the province’s K-9 and Rural Safety Units will be more visible throughout the festive season. 

“These results are testament to their activity and effective execution. These units are demonstrating what the Western Cape Safety Plan seeks to achieve, particularly since we want our residents to live in improved and safer environments,” Allen said.

K-9 unit is a specialised group of law enforcement officers who use service dogs to perform the responsibilities of a general police officer. In addition to their usual duties, each K-9 officer is also a dog handler, meaning that they have to train and care for their canine partner. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 12/21/2023 - 12:18

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Transnet increases tug availability at Durban port

Location: News

Transnet increases tug availability at Durban port

The Port of Durban has made significant strides in the improvement of its marine craft status by increasing tug availability to an average of six tugs as of December 2023.

The increased tug availability is set to complement the 24-hour helicopter service, ensure a quicker turnaround of vessels at the port and allow terminal operators to implement the Container Recovery Plan at the port, with agility. The Plan was put in place to clear backlogs and improve the turnaround time of vessels calling the container terminals.

The port has seen severe delays recently due to various factors, including adverse weather conditions and equipment availability and maintenance. 

“Having all six tugs operating is a big step in the right direction for the port and our investment in the marine fleet exhibits our commitment to continuous improvement and ensuring the port remains a gateway for trade.

“We are optimistic about the positive impact these tugs will have on the current container recovery plan and our general service offering to our customers,” Transnet National Ports Authority, Port Manager at the Port of Durban, Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana said on Friday.

The six operational tugs namely: Umkhomazi, Mkhuze, Lotheni, Palmiet, Pholela and uMhlali, are playing a vital role in adding the required tug capacity and availability in the improvement of operational efficiencies in the port.

“This milestone comes after the introduction of the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) wide fleet renewal programme, which seeks to ensure that marine crafts are maintained and serviced periodically to mitigate against breakdowns and provide a buffer should there be a need.

“The provision of tugs falls within the ambit of TNPA as stipulated in Section 11 (n) of the National Ports Act of 2005, which states that the authority should provide or arrange for tugs, pilot boats and other facilities and services for the navigation and berthing of vessels in the ports.

"Most of the repair and maintenance of the Port of Durban marine fleet has been carried out by TNPA’s internal heavy engineering workshop, Workshop 24, which is based in the Bayhead Precinct in the port," Transnet said.

TNPA also anticipates the delivery of three second-hand tugs to the Port of Durban in the first quarter of 2024.

TNPA is responsible for the safe, effective and efficient economic functioning of the national port system, which it manages in a landlord capacity.

It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa – Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay and Ngqura.

It operates within a legislative and regulatory environment and is governed by the National Ports Act (Act No. 12 of 2005). – SAnews.gov.za

 

 

nosihle
Fri, 12/08/2023 - 13:01

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Escape The Mid-Year Burnout: Discover Unforgettable Breaks

Location: MyPR

South Africa is a world-renowned travel destination. From coast-to-coast all the way into the heart of the country, South Africa offers a variety of travel options. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a wildlife enthusiast, a culture connoisseur, or simply looking to unwind in stunning landscapes, these curated travel options promise unforgettable experiences at every turn. …

Read moreEscape The Mid-Year Burnout: Discover Unforgettable Breaks

Women in engineering increasing in SA

Location: News

Women in engineering increasing in SA

While there is still a need to invest in the profession to develop women, South Africa has noticed a growth in females registered with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), Deputy President Paul Mashatile has said.

“We are now seeing an average of 35% year-on-year growth among registered female engineers in the database of the council,” the Deputy President told the National Council of Provinces on Thursday. 

He said there are 7 000 women engineers who are currently registered with the ECSA. 

“We agreed that there is a need to ensure that we deliberately target women to consider entering the engineering profession and encourage those who are not registered to register.” 

The country’s second-in-command was answering a question about whether the state has any measures to address the dire shortage of women in the engineering profession. 

“In our work leading the Human Resource Development Council, we have made a long-term commitment to invest in the skills revolution, especially among women, youth, and persons with disabilities, to build a productive and globally competitive society.” 

He also told Parliament that he interacted with the ECSA President Refilwe Buthelezi, CEO Dr Bridget Samula and many engineers in August this year at the UNESCO Africa Engineering gathering.

“We agreed that there is a need to ensure that we deliberately target women to consider entering the engineering profession and encourage those who are not registered to register. 

“Empowering female engineers is paramount in achieving sustained development and global competitiveness.” 

He said government is championing the implementation of several women empowerment programmes like the Women Economic Assembly (WECONA) launched by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2021. 

WECONA, he explained, is a catalyst platform for women-owned enterprises anchored on collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society. 

“This is an ongoing initiative to encourage women to be economically active to bring together the private sector, government and civil society to drive change in the economic landscape.” 

Meanwhile, he said the AgriSETA has identified several priority interventions from the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan that speak to empowering women in agricultural engineering and agricultural scientists in the sector. 

Together with the Sector Education Training Authorities (SETAs), he said government aims to simplify funding application processes to avoid delays in processing funding for third parties. 

This, he noted, slows the government’s efforts to address challenges plaguing women in the sector. 

“While government continues to implement programmes to empower women in the engineering sector, there is a need to address the structural challenges of social and gender inequalities hindering their progress. 

“As government, we provide social, political, and economic conditions for women to thrive, especially in critical engineering sectors, with our social partners and businesses.” 

Agricultural economy

The Deputy President also noted the report issued by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) on the agriculture, forestry and fishing industry, which highlighted an increase of 4.2% in the second quarter of 2023, contributing 0.1 of a percentage point to gross domestic product (GDP) growth. 

“Increases in the production of field crops and horticulture products mainly drove this rise in output. Favourable weather conditions, increased cultivation, and increased export demand provided further support,” he explained. 

Port of Mossel Bay, he said, has been identified as one of the key strategic points in the market-oriented agricultural economy. 

“The improvement of the operational capacity of Mossel Bay Harbour also forms part of the implementation of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, which is aimed at, among other things, modernising and reforming network industries and associated state-owned enterprises.” 

He announced there are also plans to boost exports, create employment opportunities, and improve innovation. 

“According to the Ministry of Public Enterprises, the improvement of the operational capacity of Mossel Bay Harbour is a long-term project. Therefore, concepts and designs are continuously being refined.” 

The first phase, he said, is planned for completion by the end of the 2026/27 financial year, while the final step is scheduled for completion by the 2029/30 financial year. 

The country’s second-in-command was responding to the question about the role in leading government efforts to fast-track land reform and the coordination of programmes to accelerate agricultural support to farmers to access international markets and concrete steps in place to improve the operational capacity of Mossel Bay Harbour. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Fri, 10/27/2023 - 10:51

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