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Tourism monitors deployed to Table Mountain

Location: News

Tourism monitors deployed to Table Mountain

The deployment of 40 tourism monitors at the Table Mountain National Park has been welcomed by the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille.

The Tourism Monitors Programme is an initiative by the Department of Tourism to supplement safety and security measures by the South African Police Service to enhance the safety of tourists.

“The department has set aside R174.5 million from this year’s budget to deploy around 2 300 tourism monitors at key tourist attractions,” said the department.

The 2 305 tourism monitors will be deployed as follows:

Eastern Cape - 150

Free State - 150

Western Cape - 250

Gauteng - 100

Limpopo - 100

KwaZulu-Natal - 200

Mpumalanga - 220

North West - 100

Northern Cape - 70

iSimangaliso Wetland Park - 200

Ezemvelo nature Reserve - 150

SANBI Gardens - 130

ACSA Airports - 135

SANParks - 350

Out of the 350 monitors deployed to SANParks, 70 were allocated to Table Mountain National Park, of which 40 were deployed last week. The balance will be deployed in the New Year.

“Our national parks are key tourism attractions and remain top of our list for key source markets. The safety of all tourists remains paramount and we are determined to do all we can to ensure that all tourists have a safe and memorable experience.” – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:24

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Law enforcement out in numbers to ensure compliance

Location: News

Law enforcement out in numbers to ensure compliance

With traffic volumes expected to increase as holidaymakers travel to and from their destinations, Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga says law enforcement officials will be out in full force to ensure the roads are safe.

Authorities will be using technology to ensure compliance with the law on the roads.

“Over this period, we are deploying personnel and technologies across the country, especially in high-risk accident-prone areas to prevent incidents and accidents by ensuring all road users interact safely with the road,” Chikunga said.

The Department of Transport, together with provincial and municipal traffic departments, transport agencies such as the Road Traffic Management Corporation, the Road Traffic Infringement Agency, the Cross-Border Road Traffic Agency as well the South African Police Service will conduct road safety operations.

“Heightened operations are to be undertaken from Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Corridor operations will be undertaken during peak travel periods linking at provinces that share borders. Twenty-Four routes, which have recorded a high number of crashes and fatalities in the past will be prioritised,” the Minister said.

In an effort to improve compliance on the roads, law enforcement will deal with motorists who drive without number plates.

“This is generally done by speedsters and people who want to avoid detection by speed cameras. This is defeating the ends of justice, and such vehicles will be stopped and impounded until plates are properly attached.

“We know that our borders have been very busy during the festive seasons in the past and the Cross-Border Road Transport Agency has geared itself to ensure that vehicles coming into and out of our country are compliant with all requirements,” the Minister said.

The following ports of entry will be monitored: Beitbridge in Limpopo, Lebombo in Mpumalanga, Ficksburg in Free State and Golela in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Our relentless commitment to deal with corruption and bribery continues over this period. Our own assessment tells us that corruption relating to the issuing of learner’s licenses and bribery increase around this time. 

“We warn officials and members of the public to desist from corrupt behaviour, which is a major damper to our efforts of maintaining safer roads. Our anti-corruption agents will be deployed and the instruction to them is to show no mercy and arrest both corruptor and corruptee,” she said.

Last year’s crash statistics showed that road traffic crashes decreased during the six weeks of the festive season.

They dropped by 7% from 1395 crashes to 1 299.  On the other hand, fatalities decreased from 1 808 to 1 560.

“Therefore, everyone is called upon to put shoulders to the wheel to ensure a better outcome this season and throughout our 365 Day Road Safety Campaign. It is against the backdrop that we will be intensifying our efforts and interventions in the five province that contribute more than 80% of road crashes and fatalities,” the Minister said.

Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Limpopo and Mpumalanga will receive focused attention this year with nighttime deployment of traffic officers and road safety activations that are intended to improve pedestrian safety.

“Our interventions will be based on a six-point strategy that will guide all provinces in their operations this year. The strategy calls for interventions to deal with pedestrian safety, vehicle roadworthiness, public transport overloading, drunken driving, speeding and execution of warrants.

“Special instructions have been issued for all provincial authorities to conduct public transport inspections of buses and taxis at ranks before they join the freeways, weighbridges to remain open, to ensure height and load compliance.

“Heightened operations are to be undertaken from Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Corridor operations will be undertaken during peak travel periods linking at provinces that share borders,” Chikunga said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Fri, 12/22/2023 - 08:55

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Read moreLaw enforcement out in numbers to ensure compliance

SANRAL to inject billions into construction industry in 2024

Location: News

SANRAL to inject billions into construction industry in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The breakdown of the 1 040 bids is as follows:

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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Severe thunderstorms warning

Location: News

Severe thunderstorms warning

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

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

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

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

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

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Health intensifies emergency services during the festive season   

Location: News

Health intensifies emergency services during the festive season   

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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Read moreHealth intensifies emergency services during the festive season   

Chikunga calls for heightened vigilance on the roads

Location: News

Chikunga calls for heightened vigilance on the roads

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has reiterated her call to motorists and road users to exercise heightened vigilance on the roads as the festive season looms, with high traffic volumes expected to increase from Thursday.

Chikunga’s call comes after seven people lost their lives and over 50 sustained injuries during a major crash in Mpumalanga province.

According to reports, the incident occurred on Friday afternoon when a bus overturned on the R37 between Lydenburg and Sabie.

The reports indicated that the bus was ferrying passengers from Lydenburg to Sabie when the crash occurred. It is alleged that the bus had a tyre burst and the driver lost control and went through a barrier and down an embankment. The bus landed on its side approximately 30m from the road.

The Transport Department said crash reconstruction and investigation teams, together with law enforcement officers from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and the South African Police Service, will conduct investigations and submit an investigation report accordingly.

Chikunga has sent her condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of the deceased.  

“Our thoughts and our prayers are with all the families during this difficult time of sorrow.  Your pain is our pain and your loss is our loos.  

“We wish you all the strength as we come to terms with this tragic experience. We also wish a speedy return to good health to all the individuals who sustained injuries during the crash,” Chikunga said.

Chikunga has reiterated the clarion call for heightened caution and vigilance on the roads for motorists in particular and all other users.

“Road safety remains the responsibility of every individual. Let us heed the call and follow all the rules of the road without exception in order for us to save lives.  

“Roads are a public space that should be used and shared responsibly with due consideration for all the other users,” Chikunga said.

Road safety tips

With the festive season upon us, and traffic volumes are anticipated to increase as travellers make their journeys to and from various destinations.

The department reminded all road users of the following important road safety tips:

  • Do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
  •  Adhere to the speed limit.
  • Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy.
  • Avoid using cell phones while driving.
  • Buckle up at all times
  • For long journeys, take regular breaks.
  • Pedestrians must cross streets at marked intersections.
  • Pedestrians must wear bright clothing when walking in dark areas.

On 26 November, Chikunga launched the 2023/24 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign at Tsakane Stadium in the East Rand.

The globe commemorates the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims annually on the third Sunday of November to acknowledge sufferers of road traffic crashes and their families, as adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005.

The focus of this year’s campaign is on the impact of alcohol on road user behavior and its contribution to the carnage. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Sun, 12/10/2023 - 08:47

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South Africa: African Development Bank approves $1 billion guarantee from the United Kingdom to support SA’s Just Energy Transition

Location: News

African Development Bank Group (AfDB)
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The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a $1 billion guarantee program in collaboration with the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), which will allow the Bank to increase its lending capacity in support of South Africa's Just Energy Transition (JET).

Developed in close collaboration with the government of the Republic of South Africa, the program will support projects aligned with South Africa's JET investment plan, such as transmission and grid-balancing storage, renewable energy generation, energy efficiency, rehabilitation of municipal electricity delivery, green hydrogen, new electric vehicles. It also includes projects addressing the “just” dimension, notably in the Province of Mpumalanga, in the north-eastern part of the country, bordering Swaziland and Mozambique.

The approval, coming during COP28, where ramping-up climate finance is an issue, is timely and topical. African Development Bank Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth, Dr. Kevin Kariuki observed: “this is another innovative operation that reaffirms AfDB's leadership in crafting financial solutions to increase access to climate finance for Africa's low carbon development and net zero ambitions.”

Melinda Bohannon, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office Director General of Humanitarian and Development stated,” FCDO remains committed to the Just Energy Transition Partnership with South Africa, which supports green growth and jobs, improves energy security, and helps South Africa achieve its carbon reduction ambitions as set out in its National Determined Contribution.  This guarantee will unlock funds for projects within the remit of South Africa's recently released Just Energy Transition implementation plan. This comes alongside the recently significantly increased grant offer from the International Partners Group, and we are using some of those grants to help develop an investment project pipeline”.

Mmakgoshi Lekhethe, Deputy-Director General for Asset and Liability Management in South Africa's National Treasury commented, “We are pleased with the approval by the AfDB Board of the guarantee framework that will increase South Africa's access to funding from the Bank by $1 billion. This marks an important partnership between our government, the UK and AfDB to enhance our ability to implement South Africa's just energy transition in a way that is just and socially responsible. We look forward to working closely with the AfDB on the preparation and financing of a pipeline of programs and projects under our just transition priority areas, including those identified in the JET Implementation Plan. As a development bank with vast experience in just transition in the continent, the AfDB is an ideal partner for us on this important initiative”.

Max Ndiaye, Director of Syndications, Co-financing and Client Solutions, noted previous collaboration between the Bank and FCDO, and applauded this transaction as further demonstration of the Bank's continued efforts to heed the G20 recommendations on capital adequacy that call for increased collaboration and additional shareholder support for the balance sheet optimization of MDBs.

“By enabling the Bank to increase its lending capacity, this landmark guarantee agreement will greatly support South Africa's Just Energy Transition,” noted African Development Bank Director General for Southern Africa, Leila Mokaddem. “The African Development Bank remains committed to accompanying South Africa on this important journey," she added.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Link to Images: https://apo-opa.co/4afJ94I

Contact:
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Communication and External Relations Department
email: media@afdb.org

Technical contact:
Max Ndiaye
Director of Syndications
Co-financing and Client Solutions

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

Read moreSouth Africa: African Development Bank approves $1 billion guarantee from the United Kingdom to support SA’s Just Energy Transition

Weather service warns of heavy rain from Sunday

Location: News

Weather service warns of heavy rain from Sunday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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Read moreWeather service warns of heavy rain from Sunday

Mchunu checks progress on Sekhukhune water projects

Location: News

Mchunu checks progress on Sekhukhune water projects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Findings on R143 million drought relief project

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Read moreMchunu checks progress on Sekhukhune water projects

Our position to tackle climate action must leave no one behind – President 

Location: News

Our plan to tackle climate action must leave no one behind – President 

As the country grapples with an energy crisis, President Cyril Ramaphosa has used the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai, known as COP28, to emphasise that the nation's transition towards equitable energy will align closely with South Africa’s developmental objectives.

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, the President said in pursuing a measured, realistic and sustainable transition towards a low-carbon economy and society, the foremost priority is to secure the future of all South Africans and that no one is left behind. 

“As a country in the midst of an energy crisis, we were clear at COP28 that the pace of our just energy transition will be guided by our developmental priorities. Our JET Implementation Plan makes it clear that we can take effective action against climate change while pursuing energy security for all our people.

“Even as we confront several challenges, we are clear about the path we must take to tackle climate change and protect our country from its effects,” the President said.

The President attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference where important decisions taken so far will affect the future of the planet.

He said the discussions at COP28 have significant implications for South Africa and its people.

The President added that the impact of climate change is a measurable reality in South Africa, with poor, rural communities in particular bearing the brunt.

The overriding message the country took to COP28 is that climate commitments will be implemented in a manner that both addresses the current energy crisis and strengthens efforts to reduce poverty and unemployment. 

The country’s JET Implementation Plan focuses on expanding investment in transmission networks, investment in new energy vehicles and harnessing the potential of the green hydrogen economy. 
 
“Decarbonising our energy sector has become even more urgent in the face of carbon border taxes and other measures being taken by developed economies in the name of fighting climate change.

“These measures are going to hurt many countries with developing economies, making their exports less competitive and making them bear the economic burden of climate action. It is for these reasons that the South African delegation to COP28 spoke out against these unilateral actions,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President said the country already has sustainable, measurable and science-driven programmes in place to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. These include a successful renewable energy procurement programme, biodiversity and conservation management, air quality management, as well as successful natural resource management programmes such as Working on Fire, Working for the Coast and Working for Water. 

“But if we are to implement these and the other actions outlined in the JET Investment Plan we – like all other developing economies – will require massive financial support from those countries whose development has been the primary cause of climate change.

“The countries that have contributed most to global warming must support those countries that now bear the brunt of its effects,” the President said.

South Africa expressed its concern that developed economies are still not meeting their obligations to support developing countries with the finance, technology and capacity building needed for effective climate actions. 

He said the funding that has been channelled through entities like the Green Climate Fund and Adaptation Fund has been negligible. 

“The operationalisation at COP28 of a fund to help vulnerable countries with loss and damage caused by climate change is a step in the right direction, but it will need substantial funding if it is to fulfil its purpose.

“For the transition to lower carbon economies to be just, affected communities cannot live on promises. Workers and communities currently dependent on coal and other fossil fuel industries need viable alternative livelihoods,” the President said. 

The plan, which he announced at COP27 last year, outlines the path towards reducing the carbon emissions of the energy sector, which is the largest contributor towards South Africa’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

The plan focuses on investment in electricity infrastructure, new energy vehicles, green hydrogen, skills development and municipal electricity distribution.

“It emphasises that this transition must be underpinned by engagement and in partnership with workers, communities, business and civil society. Importantly, the plan also includes interventions to support affected communities, notably in Mpumalanga, where most of our country’s coal-fired power stations are located,” he said.

While in Dubai, the President visited the South Africa pavilion where he was shown a striking artwork called the Umlibo tapestry which was made by a group of rural women from Hamburg in the Eastern Cape. - SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM
Mon, 12/04/2023 - 10:22

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Read moreOur position to tackle climate action must leave no one behind – President 

Invest in your legacy with Simbini Lifestyle Estate

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

The concept of investment typically conjures images of urban real estate, stocks, and bonds. However, the allure of the African savanna, known colloquially as “The Bush”, presents an unconventional yet profoundly impactful investment opportunity. The rugged, untamed wilderness areas of the Mpumalanga Lowveld spring to mind when one hears someone say, “We’re off to our …

Read moreInvest in your legacy with Simbini Lifestyle Estate

Government committed to ending GBV

Location: News

Government committed to ending GBV

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reiterated that government remains committed to work aimed at eradicating the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“We will not rest until our communities are safe for all, especially women and girls. We must report and condemn the perpetrators who reside within our communities,” the Deputy President said on Saturday.

Mashatile presided over the launch of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign for 2023 at Nsikazi Stadium in Gutshwa, Mpumalanga.

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign this year will be commemorated under the theme: “Accelerating Actions to end Gender-Based Violence and Femicide: Leaving No One Behind”.

This is a call to action to raise awareness about the devastating impact that gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) has on women, children and the entire social fabric.

“Since the dawn of democracy, this government has consistently shown commitment to addressing GBV by implementing legislative, policy and other measures to advance equality and empowerment for women, children, and people with disabilities.

“Recently, we passed six pieces of legislation related to gender-based violence and femicide, and the ongoing implementation costing exercise underscores our commitment to ending GBVF,” Mashatile said.

He mentioned that one significant milestone is the recent assent of President Cyril Ramaphosa to crucial legislative reforms, which include the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act Amendment Bill, the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Bill, and the Domestic Violence Amendment Bill.

“This month marks a historic milestone with the passing of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill by the National Assembly. The establishment of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, underpinned by this robust legislative framework, is an urgent and critical task.

“In addition, we have established and capacitated the Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at provincial and local levels to end the pandemic. This includes the development of the Comprehensive National Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Prevention and the Integrated Femicide Strategic Frameworks, which signal a holistic approach to turning the gender-based violence tide,” Mashatile said.

The Deputy President noted the National School of Government's effort to impart knowledge through a dedicated online course covering gender mainstreaming and gender-responsive planning and budgeting, which exemplifies government's commitment to mainstreaming women's and girls’ priorities.

“The existence of the Intersectional Shelter Policy, the Psycho-Social Support Services (PSSS) Policy, and the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre, which is a 24-hour helpline, demonstrates our resolve to provide essential services and support to survivors.

“Provinces are identifying and refurbishing underutilised buildings for shelters and interim housing. The Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) are being expanded, with three new centres established. Our initiatives primarily focus on bolstering women’s economic empowerment across diverse sectors,” Mashatile said.

He recognised efforts by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in combatting GBV and femicide. 

“The recent identification and takedown of 27 sexual predators in the country and the recent sentencing of Mario Giusti to 6 400 years in jail after being found guilty of more than 1 000 charges of child pornography is a step in the right direction.

“Witnessing such law enforcement actions is encouraging, and we hope to observe further arrests of this nature in the future,” Mashatile said.

He called on government, communities and civil society to act on the widespread prejudice against the LGBTQIA+ community and the apathy that allows the victims to be "invisible" and denied basic human rights.

“Moreover, we must understand that sexual violence is not only about sexism. A woman can perpetrate against a man, a man can perpetrate against a woman, and it can happen between same-sex couples as well.

“Today, we must recommit ourselves to ending violence against women and children. We have the ability to shape a future in which women and children are safe and their rights are respected.

“I urge men in our communities to be role models to young boys. Remember, boys are born, and men are made. As men, we can help develop men in our society who respect women; men who do not see women as objects; men who recognise the equality of women,” he said.

The Deputy President also urged traditional leaders to intensify their role as community leaders against unfair inheritance practices and GBVF.

“As custodians of our culture, customs and origin, you must say no to cultural practices that are harmful to women and children, such as ukuthwala, child muthi killings, witchcraft burning, and many other practices.

“Let us join together, leaving no one behind, as a community to accelerate actions to end gender-based violence and femicide,” Mashatile said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Sun, 11/26/2023 - 09:02

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Ekurhuleni calls for active battle against violence

Location: News

Ekurhuleni calls for active fight against violence

As the country prepares to mark the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign, the City of Ekurhuleni has urged the citizens of the municipality to join hands and actively fight off any form of violence. 

Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor, Sivuyile Ngodwana,  said it is an unfortunate well-known fact that violence against women and children has been increasing drastically.

“It has become a trend which we are very ashamed of as a country and even more so as men because majority of the perpetrators of these crimes are males. I am raising my hand to be among those who vigorously fight against this continuing scourge.

“The City of Ekurhuleni stands in solidarity with all the activism taking place across the country during this campaign. It must be a daily fight which is not only comes alive during these 16 days but this period should be about intensifying our commitment to this cause,” Ngodwana said.

Ngodwana also called on everyone to stand up, unite and work hard to end any form of violence against women and children within their communities, schools or workplace. 

The mayor’s call comes a day before the official launch of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, scheduled to take place at Nsikazi Stadium in the City of Mbombela in Mpumalanga. 

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will preside at this year’s launch, which will be commemorated under the theme: “Accelerating Actions to end Gender Based Violence and Femicide, leaving no one behind”, a call to action to raise awareness about the devastating impact that gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) has on women, children, and the entire social fabric.

South Africa will observe 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children from 25 November until 10 December. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Fri, 11/24/2023 - 11:44

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Urgent call to address gaps in shelters supporting victims of gender-based violence

Location: News

Urgent call to address gaps in shelters supporting victims of gender-based violence

Lack of sufficient funding, transportation for victims of gender-based violence, lack of social workers in some facilities, shelters’ compliance with the norms and standards were some of the gaps identified on the first day of the two-day National Shelter Indaba currently underway in Sandton.

Delegates heard that half of the shelters’ allocated budget was spent on salaries and this stretched the finances of shelters that require more funding to efficiently render services to victims of gender-based violence. 

One of the shelter managers, Sindisiwe Msimango from Mpumalanga, indicated that most shelters struggle with transport.

“Transport is a problem for shelters, as victims must be transported to and from police stations and health facilities. Nowadays, perpetrators of GBV are using sophisticated ways to track their victims and this poses a risk for both the victims and social workers,” she said.  

She said the lack of security and delays in the payment of subsidies from government also posed a huge threat to the safety of persons working and living in the shelters.

Rose Bailey, from a shelter in the Northern Cape province, asked for shelters to be treated with dignity and not be seen as charities, as they play an important role in saving lives and restoring women’s mental health. She appealed for more attention to be given to the work provided by shelters.
 
Joining the Indaba virtually, former Deputy President of South Africa, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, reminded delegates that GBVF was declared a pandemic and said that it should be treated the same way as COVID-19 where everyone, including governments, were playing their part. 

She indicated that more often than not, women continue to be failed by the system because when they report abuse “their cases are not efficiently prosecuted, and this discourages them”. 

Providing solutions to some of the challenges by shelters, Uber SA shared that they partnered with the National Shelter Movement of South Africa to provide safe transportation for victims of gender-based violence and women in general. 

Uber SA senior operations manager, Collen Mphabantshi, told the summit the safety of women is at the centre of their business. 

“Uber SA strives to ensure that Uber users can travel under safe conditions with, amongst others, access to pre-onboarding applications such as Driver Screening, Vehicle Inspection and Driver Profile,” he said. 

He revealed that to date, Uber South Africa has successfully transported 6 715 women and their children to places of safety through the National Shelter Movement of South Africa.
 
Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu appealed to the private sector to come to the table and assist in supporting the work that is done by government through shelters. 

“Often in these gatherings, the private sector is not sitting around the table. We call upon the private sector to play a role by availing suitable buildings and infrastructure which can be used as shelters for victims and survivors of gender-based violence and femicide,” Zulu said. 

The Minister said that shelters for victims of violence and crime have been a central and a critical resource providing care, safety, support, opportunities for healing and an understanding of the dynamics of abuse to South African women and children. 

“Shelters have provided a much-needed refuge where women cannot only be safe but take stock of their lives and receive the emotional support needed to make critical decisions. They also play a significant role in interrupting and breaking the cycle of violence,” she said. 

The Department of Social Development has allocated more than R211 million for a period of four years towards 134 shelters rendering victim support services across the country. 

The Minister reported to the Indaba what the department had done since last year’s gathering, including the development of an inter-sectoral shelter policy for victims of violence and crime.

She revealed that during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children, the department will launch another shelter in the North West province. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Wed, 11/22/2023 - 12:13

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