Education department blames transport department for scholar transport fiasco
Hundreds of learners are stuck at home and not in school
Nelson Mandela
The Duke of Edinburgh celebrates youth and biodiversity in South Africa
His Royal Highness Prince Edward The Duke of Edinburgh has spent the last two days in South Africa (22 – 23 January), marking the first Royal visit of its kind since President Ramaphosa's historic State Visit to the UK in November 2022.
During the visit, His Royal Highness met Acting President Mashatile at Oliver Tambo House.
Alongside Ms Barbara Creecy, South Africa's Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, The Duke explored Pretoria's Botanical Garden with CEO of the South African National Institute (SANBI), Mr Shonisani Munzhedi. This followed President Ramaphosa's visit to the Royal Botanical Garden, Kew, in November 2022, and marked the long-term collaboration between Kew and SANBI to ensure the survival of South Africa's rich plant diversity.
HRH met a wheelchair user and her husband who are regular users of the Enabling Garden, to learn about the different indigenous plants suitable for hanging baskets. He learnt about some of South Africa's abundant flora biodiversity and medicinal plants, as well as viewing the National Herbarium where the largest collection of plant specimens in southern Africa are hosted (with over one million currently being digitised).
HRH met biodiversity organisations to hear about how they are conserving nature and reversing biodiversity loss.
At the British High Commissioner's Residence, The Duke toured an exhibition of President Award winners, moving from stand to stand to talk to young people about their journeys, alongside Award Chairman Modise Makhene and Deputy Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Kwati Candith Mashego-Dlamini.
This year, the President's Award (The Duke of Edinburgh International Award) celebrates its 41st anniversary in South Africa.
Launched in 1994 with Nelson Mandela as the Founding Patron-in-Chief, the Award today continues to serve as a shining example of our shared values of youth empowerment, community service and creating opportunities for all.
The Award supports approximately 3,000 young South Africans each year. Since 2011, over 65,000 young people are estimated to have participated in the programme.
HRH also attended a Reception at the Residence with Dr Blade Nzimande, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, to celebrate the launch of the UK's new International Science Partnership Fund.
UK High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:
“This visit reflects the significant breadth and depth of our modern-day friendship with South Africa – from youth empowerment, to climate, science research, biodiversity and democracy - our countries' shared values are clear. Continued collaboration and investment in these areas of mutual interest demonstrate our commitment to working together to address some of the world's most pressing challenges.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British High Commission Pretoria.
Melikaya Defending His Title At The Colchester Development 10km Dash
Top Nelson Mandela Bay road runner, Melikhaya Frans, will be defending his title this weekend at the Colchester Development 10km Run, which is part of the Legacy Project, sponsored by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, since 2016. The Colchester Development Run will take place from Mackay Bridge Angling Club in Colchester on Saturday, 27 January. Melikhaya, …
Nelson Mandela Bay Runified 50km returns
After 3 successful years which saw the event break 5 world records alongside numerous world age bests and national and continental records, the Nelson Mandela Bay Runified 50km returns to the beautiful Pollock Beach in Summerstrand, Gqeberha on Sunday 25 February 2024 and this time a little different from before, which will also include a …
Kickstart For EPA Track & Field Season This Weekend At NMU Stadium – Saturday, 20 January 2024
The first Track & Field event will be held at NMU stadium on Saturday, 20 January. EP Athletics Track & Field Chairperson, Riaan Barnard, confirmed that the track and field pre-season had started in September last year to ensure that the best local athletes can qualify to represent EPA at the National Athletic Championships in …
Kariega clinic reopens after residents volunteer to act as security guards
Ten residents have volunteered to rotate guarding the clinic until the stolen fence is replaced
Staff refuse to work at clinic after fence stolen
“We demand our safety as well as patients’ safety,” says nurse
SA speaks at ICJ case
SA speaks at ICJ case
Israel’s response to the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023 has crossed the line and breaches the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide also referred to as “the Convention”.
This is according to Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, who delivered his opening remarks at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Netherlands, on Thursday.
“Madam President, ‘in extending our hands across the miles to the people of Palestine, we do so in the full knowledge that we are part of a humanity that is at one’. These were the words of President Nelson Mandela. This is the spirit in which South Africa acceded to the Convention,” Lamola told the packed court on Thursday.
South Africa is currently on the floor in the ICJ in a legal battle against Israel, which is accused of genocide in Gaza.
South Africa approached the ICJ, under the Convention, for acts committed by Israel in its continued attack on Gaza that has claimed thousands of lives and injured many.
The Convention defines genocide as acts such as killings “committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group”.
The Minister believes that the violence and destruction in Palestine and Israel did not begin on 7 October 2023.
“The Palestinians have experienced systemic oppression and violence for the last 76 years, on 6 October 2023 and every day since October 7.”
Meanwhile, he said that since 2005, Israel has continued to exercise control over the airspace, territorial waters, land crossings, water, electricity, civilian infrastructure and other key governmental functions.
“Given that continuing effective control by Israel over the territory, Gaza is still considered by the international community to be under belligerent occupation by Israel.”
In the same breath, he took the stand to condemn the targeting of civilians by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups and the taking of hostages in October last year.
“That said, no armed attack on a State’s territory no matter how serious — even an attack involving atrocity crimes — can provide any justification for, or defence to, breaches of the Convention, whether as a matter of law or morality.
“Israel’s response to the 7 October 2023 attack has crossed this line and gives rise to breaches of the Convention.”
It is for this reason that he believes South Africa has a responsibility to prevent genocide as contained in Article 1 of the Convention.
He also welcomed Israel’s involvement with the case, to have the matter resolved by the court.
Legal counsel
South Africa’s case is presented by a team of six legal counsels, including Dr Adila Hassim, Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, Professor John Dugard, Blinne ni Ghrálaigh, Max du Plessis, and Professor Vaughan Lowe.
Hassim accused Israel is committing “acts of genocide” during its war against the Hamas terror group in Gaza.
The advocate also showed the map of Gaza, describing it as one of the most densely populated places in the world and home to about 2.3 million Palestinians, almost half of them children.
She said Palestinians in Gaza are being killed by Israeli weaponry and bombs from the air, land and sea.
“Israel deployed 6 000 bombs per week. At least 200 times, it has deployed 2 000-pound (907kg) bombs in southern Gaza, which it designated safe.”
According to Hassim, more than 1 800 Palestinian families in Gaza have lost multiple family members.
“Hundreds of multi-generational families have been wiped out with no remaining survivors – mothers, fathers, children, siblings, grandparents, aunts, cousins, often all killed together. This killing is nothing short of the destruction of Palestinian life.
“It is inflicted deliberately, no one is spared, not even newborn babies. UN [United Nations] chiefs have described it as a graveyard for children.”
Ngcukaitobi, who was the second lawyer to take the floor, said South Africa is not alone in drawing attention to Israel’s genocidal rhetoric against Palestinians in Gaza.
However, he said 15 UN special rapporteurs and 21 members of the UN working groups have warned that what is happening in Gaza reflects a genocide in the making.
Both South Africa and Israel are expected to lay bare their arguments during the two-day public hearing at the ICJ.
The arguments continue. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 01/11/2024 - 13:11
159 views
Many child support grant recipients left without money for January
SASSA spokesperson denies there is a problem, but officials speaking anonymously say otherwise
Minister hands over outdoor gym in Mpumalanga
Minister hands over outdoor gym in Mpumalanga
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa has handed over an outdoor gym and sporting clothes to a community in Mpumalanga.
“Government’s intervention to build outdoor gyms in Royal Great Places is a commitment to develop sport in rural communities. Further to this, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture is also building multipurpose sports courts in rural and township communities,” the Minister said on Tuesday.
He said historically, rural communities have lacked these sport and recreational facilities.
“This has meant that there are not enough resources available in these communities for people, and the youth in particular, to exercise and play sport. By focusing on sport development in rural communities, we are inspiring communities to live active lifestyles.
“We are also addressing the issue of youths needing to go to towns and cities to play sport, where there are more resources. By prioritising sport development in rural communities, we are also working to ensure that sport talent is identified in these communities, and that sport talent is given opportunities to flourish. It is in communities such as KwaMhlanga where the next Trevor Nyakane or Caster Semenya will be discovered,” Kodwa said.
He said the outdoor gym, which is located in Royal Great Places, means that communities can exercise in a safe environment, and the gym equipment can be well looked after.
“This year, South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom. One of the mandates of our government over the past 30 years has been to ensure social transformation in South African society through promoting social cohesion, social integration, and social inclusion.
“Sport plays a critical role in realising this goal. Just as President Nelson Mandela said, sport unifies people in ways little else can. Sport brings hope where there was once despair,” he said. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 01/09/2024 - 13:26
199 views
Children kayak in Kariega’s flooded streets
Local business owners scupper latest effort by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality to remove water
Bursaries open for application, for the 2024 academic year
As the opening of the 2024 academic year approaches, many prospective tertiary students find themselves without the means to afford their studies. As the last Nelson Mandela once said, “education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”, but how does one afford to educate themselves with the high price …
Tributes for Magubane continue
Tributes for Magubane continue
Tributes for the late veteran photographer Peter Magubane have continued to pour in.
Parliament’s Presiding Officers, led by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Amos Masondo, have joined the nation in mourning the passing of Magubane.
Magubane who passed away on Monday, cut his teeth as a photojournalist during apartheid and at the height of political segregation and oppression of the black majority in South Africa.
The Presiding Officers said Magubane made his name by documenting the country’s political and socio-economic injustices and major political events through scintillating photos.
“Mr Magubane stood out among the few journalists who braved the brutality of the apartheid regime by documenting the struggles of the black majority. He used his lens to shine a spotlight on the injustice meted out by the government of the day,” said the Presiding Officers in a statement on .
They said his photographic records of events like the Sharpeville massacre, the arrest of the late Mama Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, the Rivonia Trial, the Women’s March to the Union Buildings against Pass Laws, and many other iconic moments were evidence of the might of his camera lens.
“His passing saddens us as it marks the end of an era of brave and fearless journalists who risked their lives to tell the South African story in every way possible. Through his lens, he contributed to the hard-earned democracy that we enjoy today. As a nation, we owe it to his legacy to continue to work tirelessly to get rid of all social ills,” said the Presiding Officers.
Parliament extended its deepest condolences to the Magubane family, his associates in the media and arts fraternity, and to all South Africans.
The Nelson Mandela Foundation also passed its condolences to the family and friends of Magubane.
“As an activist and documentary photographer, he was renowned for his courage in face of apartheid state brutality. His photographic record of the life and times of Nelson Mandela is both extensive and full of emblematic images.
“At critical moments during the years of struggle, he provided support to Mandela family members.”
The foundation worked closely with Ntate Magubane over the years on a variety of projects.
“In 2008 we became the custodians of his original exhibition “Mandela: Man of the People” and have presented versions of it to the public in our own facility and in partner institutions. We will miss Ntate Magubane’s dry sense of humour and his sharp eye, and will always value a body of work carrying great historical and artistic significance,” it said.
Meanwhile, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, visited the family of the legendary photographer and anti-apartheid activist in Johannesburg on Wednesday to pay his respects.
The Minister was joined by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Morakane Mosupyoe.
The Minister, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Mosupyoe are among those who have expressed their condolences following the passing of the 91-year-old icon.
“I have learned with great sadness of the passing of… Peter Magubane. On behalf of government and the nation, I offer my deep condolences to the Magubane family, our veteran’s friends and his countless associates around the country and globally,” said President Ramaphosa.
The life and times of an icon
Magubane was born on 18 January 1932 Vrededorp (now Pageview, a suburb of Johannesburg), and grew up in Sophiatown. He began taking photographs as a schoolboy.
In 1954, he read a copy of Drum magazine, which detailed the effects of apartheid. He decided he wanted to be part of the magazine.
Magubane started employment at Drum as a driver. After six months of odd jobs, he was given a photography assignment under the mentorship of Jürgen Schadeberg, the chief photographer. He covered the 1955 African National Congress (ANC) convention.
Magubane photographed most of South Africa's historic moments, such as Sharpeville in 1960 and Nelson Mandela's Rivonia trial in 1964.
He was arrested in June 1969 while photographing protesters outside Pretoria Central Prison, where Winnie Madikizela Mandela was jailed. Magubane was later held in solitary confinement for 586 days.
Magubane has worked for Rand Daily Mail and has worked on assignments for Time magazine, the United Nations and Sports Illustrated photographing a series about the South African teenage runner, Zola Budd.
Following Mandela’s release from prison, Magubane became his official photographer in 1990, until he became the country’s President.
Magubane received several prestigious awards and honours throughout his illustrious career. Some of the notable recognitions he received include the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Press Photographers' Association (NPPA).
In 2017, Magubane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver.
Other notable achievements include:
1958 – First black South African to win a photographic prize in the country – first and third prizes were awarded to him for Best Press pictures of the year.
1985 – Robert Capa Gold Medal.
1986 – Dr. Erich Salomon Award.
1992 – Special Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.
1995 – Martin Luther King Luthuli Award.
1997 – Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mother Jones Foundation and Leica Cameras.
1997 – Fellowship by the Tom Hopkinson School of Journalism and Cultural Studies, University of Wales, Cardiff
1999 – Order for Meritorious Service Class II from President Mandela.
2003 – Honorary Doctorate degree from the University of South Africa.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Fort Hare.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Technology from the Tshwane University of Technology.
2006 – Doctor of Law (honoris causa) Rhodes University.
2008 – Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, UK.
2010 – Cornell Capa Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography.
2010 – Honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College (Chicago).
2015 – Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity.
He published a total of 17 books, two of which were banned by the apartheid regime. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Thu, 01/04/2024 - 13:11
120 views
Kodwa to visit Magubane family
Kodwa to visit Magubane family
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, is expected to visit the family of legendary photographer and anti-apartheid activist, Dr Peter Magubane, to pay his respects.
Wednesday’s visit follows the passing of Magubane on Monday.
The Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture said the Minister will be joined by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Gauteng MEC for Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Morakane Mosupyoe.
The Minister, President Cyril Ramaphosa and Mosupyoe are among those who have expressed their condolences following the passing of the 91-year-old icon.
“I have learned with great sadness of the passing of… Peter Magubane. On behalf of government and the nation, I offer my deep condolences to the Magubane family, our veteran’s friends and his countless associates around the country and globally,” said President Ramaphosa.
The President said Magubane created “iconic visual records of our struggle for freedom and of the full range of life in our country".
Kodwa wrote on social media: “South Africa has lost a freedom fighter, a masterful storyteller and lensman. Recognised in the ‘Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series’, Dr Peter Magubane fearlessly documented apartheid’s injustices. My thoughts and prayers are with Dr Magubane’s family.”
Meanwhile, Lesufi mourned the passing of the acclaimed photographer and anti-apartheid activist, saying Magubane documented the raw images of the horrific Sharpeville massacre and other crimes committed by the apartheid regime, which helped to change public sentiment against the system throughout the world.
“Dr Magubane was a gift to South Africa. With his camera lens, he shaped and changed South Africa’s destiny. He was a national treasure who will be remembered for his contribution to the field of photography and respected for his courage in the face of oppression.
“He never wavered in his resolve to record the truth, even in the face of attempts by the apartheid regime to intimidate and silence him. He leaves behind a rich legacy of having changed South Africa for the better,” said the Premier in a statement on Tuesday.
The life and times of an icon
Magubane was born on 18 January 1932 Vrededorp (now Pageview, a suburb of Johannesburg), and grew up in Sophiatown. He began taking photographs as a schoolboy.
In 1954, he read a copy of Drum magazine, which detailed the effects of apartheid. He decided he wanted to be part of the magazine.
Magubane started employment at Drum as a driver. After six months of odd jobs, he was given a photography assignment under the mentorship of Jürgen Schadeberg, the chief photographer. He covered the 1955 African National Congress (ANC) convention.
Magubane photographed most of South Africa's historic moments, such as Sharpeville in 1960 and Nelson Mandela's Rivonia trial in 1964.
He was arrested in June 1969 while photographing protesters outside Pretoria Central Prison, where Winnie Madikizela Mandela was jailed. Magubane was later held in solitary confinement for 586 days.
Magubane has worked for Rand Daily Mail and has worked on assignments for Time magazine, the United Nations and Sports Illustrated photographing a series about the South African teenage runner, Zola Budd.
Following Mandela’s release from prison, Magubane became his official photographer in 1990, until he became the country’s President.
Magubane received several prestigious awards and honours throughout his illustrious career. Some of the notable recognitions he received include the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Press Photographers' Association (NPPA).
In 2017, Magubane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver.
Other notable achievements include:
1958 – First black South African to win a photographic prize in the country – first and third prizes were awarded to him for Best Press pictures of the year.
1985 – Robert Capa Gold Medal.
1986 – Dr. Erich Salomon Award.
1992 – Special Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.
1995 – Martin Luther King Luthuli Award.
1997 – Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mother Jones Foundation and Leica Cameras.
1997 – Fellowship by the Tom Hopkinson School of Journalism and Cultural Studies, University of Wales, Cardiff
1999 – Order for Meritorious Service Class II from President Mandela.
2003 – Honorary Doctorate degree from the University of South Africa.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Fort Hare.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Technology from the Tshwane University of Technology.
2006 – Doctor of Law (honoris causa) Rhodes University.
2008 – Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, UK.
2010 – Cornell Capa Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography.
2010 – Honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College (Chicago).
2015 – Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity.
He published a total of 17 books, two of which were banned by the apartheid regime. -SAnews.gov.za
Neo
Wed, 01/03/2024 - 11:53
58 views
Tributes pour in for legendary photographer, Peter Magubane
Tributes pour in for legendary photographer, Peter Magubane
President Cyril Ramaphosa has paid tribute to veteran photographer and activist Peter Magubane, who passed away at the age of 91 on Monday.
“I have learned with great sadness of the passing of… Peter Magubane. On behalf of government and the nation, I offer my deep condolences to the Magubane family, our veteran’s friends and his countless associates around the country and globally.
“For most of his life, Peter Magubane created iconic visual records of our struggle for freedom and of the full range of life in our country.
“He documented our nation and the early years of freedom of President Nelson Mandela with a prosaic passion that was powered as much by what he felt from the heart as what he saw through his lens.
“He has sadly left us at the start of the year in which we are marking 30 years of freedom. As we revisit our journey to freedom and the progression of our democratic dispensation, Peter Magubane’s imagery will be an important part of our reflections.
“May his soul rest in peace,” said President Ramaphosa.
The life and times of an icon
Magubane was born on 18 January 1932 Vrededorp (now Pageview, a suburb of Johannesburg), and grew up in Sophiatown. He began taking photographs as a schoolboy.
In 1954, he read a copy of Drum magazine, which detailed the effects of apartheid. He decided he wanted to be part of the magazine.
Magubane started employment at Drum as a driver. After six months of odd jobs, he was given a photography assignment under the mentorship of Jürgen Schadeberg, the chief photographer. He covered the 1955 African National Congress (ANC) convention.
Magubane photographed most of South Africa's historic moments, such as Sharpeville in 1960 and Nelson Mandela's Rivonia trial in 1964.
He was arrested in June 1969 while photographing protesters outside Pretoria Central Prison, where Winnie Madikizela Mandela was jailed. Magubane was later held in solitary confinement for 586 days.
Magubane has worked for Rand Daily Mail and has worked on assignments for Time magazine, the United Nations and Sports Illustrated photographing a series about the South African teenage runner, Zola Budd.
Following Mandela’s release from prison, Magubane became his official photographer in 1990, until he became the country’s President.
Magubane received several prestigious awards and honours throughout his illustrious career. Some of the notable recognitions he received include the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Press Photographers' Association (NPPA).
In 2017, Magubane was honoured with the Order of Luthuli in silver.
Other notable achievements include:
1958 – First black South African to win a photographic prize in the country – first and third prizes were awarded to him for Best Press pictures of the year.
1985 – Robert Capa Gold Medal.
1986 – Dr. Erich Salomon Award.
1992 – Special Missouri Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism.
1995 – Martin Luther King Luthuli Award.
1997 – Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mother Jones Foundation and Leica Cameras.
1997 – Fellowship by the Tom Hopkinson School of Journalism and Cultural Studies, University of Wales, Cardiff
1999 – Order for Meritorious Service Class II from President Mandela.
2003 – Honorary Doctorate degree from the University of South Africa.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Fort Hare.
2006 – Honorary Doctorate of Technology from the Tshwane University of Technology.
2006 – Doctor of Law (honoris causa) Rhodes University.
2008 – Honorary Fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society, UK.
2010 – Cornell Capa Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography.
2010 – Honorary doctorate degree from Columbia College (Chicago).
2015 – Nat Nakasa Award for Media Integrity.
He published a total of 17 books, two of which were banned by the apartheid regime.
Tributes
Morakane Mosupyoe, the Gauteng MEC of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation described the passing of Magubane as a heart wrenching loss.
“Magubane's photography became a vital tool in documenting the realities of apartheid and the struggles of black South Africans.
“Peter Magubane was a luminary, a visionary photographer whose lens captured the essence of an era, revealing truths, and telling stories that went beyond mere images. His commitment to documenting the struggles, triumphs and everyday lives of people during apartheid was unparalleled.
“Through his lens, he not only captured moments but also echoed the aspirations and resilience of a nation. The legacy that Peter Magubane leaves behind is not solely within the frames of his photographs but in the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his work.
“His courage, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to his craft serve as an inspiration to generations of storytellers and activists. During this time of mourning, may the memories you shared with Peter bring you comfort and solace.
“His impact on the world will forever be remembered and cherished. Please accept my deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you, the Magubane family, and all those affected by this profound loss,” said Mosupyoe.
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, wrote on social media: “South Africa has lost a freedom fighter, a masterful storyteller and lensman. Recognised in the ‘Van Toeka Af Living Legends Recognition Series’, Dr Peter Magubane fearlessly documented apartheid’s injustices. My thoughts and prayers are with Dr Magubane’s family.” – SAnews.gov.za
Matona
Tue, 01/02/2024 - 13:28
182 views
Private Prepaid Electricity, Gas, and Water Meter Suppliers in Durban
Durban, a vibrant coastal city in South Africa, offers residents a range of options when it comes to private prepaid meter suppliers for electricity, gas, and water. These suppliers provide convenient solutions for managing utility consumption, promoting fairness in billing, and empowering residents to take control of their usage. In this article, we will explore …
Private Prepaid Electricity, Gas, and Water Meter Suppliers in Johannesburg
Johannesburg, the vibrant economic hub of South Africa, is home to a variety of private prepaid meter suppliers. These suppliers offer convenient solutions for managing electricity, gas, and water consumption. By opting for private prepaid meters, residents can take control of their utility usage, promote fairness in billing, and enjoy the convenience of managing their …
Private Prepaid Electricity, Gas, and Water Meter Suppliers in Bloemfontein
Bloemfontein, the judicial capital of South Africa, is a bustling city that requires efficient utility services. To meet the needs of residents, several private prepaid meter suppliers have emerged in Bloemfontein. These suppliers offer private prepaid electricity, gas, and water meters, providing a convenient and hassle-free way to manage and control utility consumption. In this …
Private Prepaid Electricity, Gas, and Water Meter Suppliers in Cape Town
Here are some private prepaid electricity, gas, and water meter suppliers in Cape Town: Prepaid Electricity Meter Suppliers in Cape Town: Straton Electrical: A reputable online supplier of private prepaid electricity and water meters in South Africa and Cape Town. They specialize in the installation of pre-paid meters in properties across Nelson Mandela Bay AND …
It’s Christmas without water for hundreds of families in Kariega
Municipality blames water shortage on vandalism of pump station last March
Embrace the Extraordinary this Christmas with Southern Sun
Step into the enchantment of the festive season with Southern Sun’s spectacular array of special offers, designed to elevate your celebrations to new heights. As we embrace the spirit of togetherness, Southern Sun invites you to savour the magic of Christmas with expertly crafted dining experiences. Explore the various dining offers on our website and …
Strengthening unity and social cohesion in a healing nation
Strengthening unity and social cohesion in a healing nation
By Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa
Following the record-breaking fourth Rugby World Cup title win by the Springboks, South Africa’s national men’s rugby team, President Cyril Ramaphosa declared 15 December 2023 a public holiday to celebrate the team’s momentous achievement. It is fitting that this celebratory holiday occurs during Reconciliation Month and a day before Reconciliation Day, which is dedicated to fostering reconciliation and strengthen unity in the country.
The theme for 2023 Reconciliation Month is “Strengthening Unity and Social Cohesion in a Healing Nation”. This theme acknowledges South Africa’s continuing journey of healing from past injustices and overcoming current challenges. The theme also underscores the important role of Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in fostering national unity and social cohesion. South Africa’s creatives, cultural practitioners, and athletes play an important role in uniting the country and sharing with the world the essence of South Africa as a country that values unity and social cohesion. This has been clear to see in 2023, in what has been a significant year for South African sport, arts and culture.
The year began with the Proteas Women’s national cricket team reaching the Women’s Cricket T20 World Cup for the first time on home soil and has been heightened by the Springboks’ record-breaking Rugby World Cup victory. South Africa has also hosted several mega-events such as the Netball World Cup and the World Rowing Regatta. Also, Banyana Banyana made the country proud by reaching the FIFA Women’s World Cup Round of 16, the first time a senior South African national football team – men or women – progressed from the FIFA World Cup group stages. The Proteas Men’s national cricket also made the nation proud by reaching the semifinals of the 2023 Men’s Cricket World Cup.
It has also been an eventful year on the creative and artistic front. South African amputee dancer, Musa Motha brought judges and crowds to tears with breakthrough performances in the Britain's Got Talent competition. Opera singer Pretty Yende continued to raise the country’s flag high on the world’s operatic stages and performed at the coronation of the United Kingdom’s King Charles III. South Africa’s Amapiano musicians have taken the genre to even greater heights internationally. Musicians Zakes Bantwini, Wouter Kellerman and Nomcebo Zikode won a Grammy Award this year, while Trevor Noah, Tyla, Just 6 and Musa Keys all received nominations for the 2024 Grammy Awards. Grammy Award-winning DJ and producer Black Coffee also made history when he performed at Madison Square Gardens in New York, becoming the first South African DJ or producer to achieve such a feat. Dr John Kani, who has received countless awards, was the fifth recipient of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s Van Toeka Af Living Legends series, and received further recognition internationally this year.
South Africa’s creative artists and athletes inspire and unite communities, giving expression to a winning nation. We have seen this in the way creative artists incorporate the country’s diverse cultures in their craft, and how South Africans and international audiences embrace and celebrate our diverse culture and creative talent. Our athletes also inspire unity with their excellence and unity. The most vivid example is that of the Springboks, who not only show how far South African sport has come in being representative of the country’s diverse population, but also enjoy great support across all backgrounds and generations in the country.
Government has been working hard to deepen the role of sport, arts, and culture to build national unity and to foster social cohesion in communities. One of the priorities has been to develop sport at grassroots level through the building of multipurpose sports facilities in rural and township schools and staging summer and winter school sport festivals. This year, we also convened a national school sport indaba to unify country’s school sport sector and establish a blueprint for school sport. Our community art centres also provide a space for communities to practice and showcase their creative art talent.
As we mark Reconciliation Month, let us continue to remember how far we have come as a country to unite in our rich diversity. Let us continue to use sport and the creative sector to strengthen unity and social cohesion. I call on all sport federations, clubs, and community art centres to take sports and the arts to communities.
The late former President Nelson Mandela said that sport unites people in ways little else can. Madiba would be proud to see the impact of sport and arts in building unity in the country. As South Africa continues its healing journey, let us use sport and the creative arts to help us on this journey to build the united and cohesive South Africa we desire. This momentum is especially important as we enter 30 years since the dawn of South Africa’s democracy.
*This message was first published in Public Sector Manager magazine: https://www.gcis.gov.za/content/resource_centre/news_and_mags/public_sector_magazine
Janine
Thu, 12/14/2023 - 11:28
137 views
Health Ombud releases findings on Zenizole Vena case
Health Ombud releases findings on Zenizole Vena case
The Health Ombud, Professor Taole Mokoena, on Tuesday released the findings of the investigation into the allegations of a patient denied provision of care at the Motherwell NU 11 Clinic in the Eastern Cape.
Mokoena said his office was requested by the Minister of Health, Joe Phaahla, to investigate potential negligence and suboptimal care at the clinic.
The complaint alleged that the clinic denied provision of healthcare to Zenizole Vena, a 15-year-old, which resulted in her death.
Vena had gone to the clinic, accompanied by an elderly woman, seeking healthcare after being sexually assaulted.
The investigation established that Vena was turned away by healthcare workers at the clinic and that she later died at the Motherwell Police Station Community Service Centre (MPSCSC) where she had sought assistance.
The allegation that Vena was denied provision of care at Motherwell NU 11 Clinic was substantiated and confirmed based on the information gathered during the investigation, said Mokoena.
It was also established that two nurses did not arrange transport to take both the elderly escort and the victim to MPSCSC or call the police to come to Motherwell NU11 clinic to take over the case.
The investigation further revealed additional findings, such as the failure of the Motherwell Police Station Community Service Centre to assist Vena upon her arrival at the charge office.
At the station, she was told to wait and was attended to her after she waited for one hour and 30 minutes. During this time, she experienced seizures and was foaming at the mouth. She was later found dead on the floor in the charge office.
“The investigation was conducted through analysis and triangulation of information and documentary evidence received from Motherwell NU 11 Clinic, the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Health (ECDoH), Nelson Mandela Bay District Health (NMBDH), onsite visits and interviews with relevant personnel,” Mokeona said.
Interviews were conducted with 13 witnesses between 28 February 2023 to 27 March 2023 by the investigation team from the Office of the Health Ombud.
“A further 10 interviews were conducted by the Ombud and the investigation team from 15 to 19 May 2023. This included eight witnesses, who were re-interviewed and they did not contradict themselves. Statements from three witnesses were also received from the Motherwell Police Station.
“It is important to mention that before the Office of the Health Ombud investigation, the Eastern Cape Provincial Department of Health had conducted an internal investigation in November 2022 and shared their report with the Office of the Health Ombud,” Mokoena said.
He said it was quite disturbing that a basic human instinct to assist a person in distress, particularly a child, does not seem to exist within the South African Police Service (SAPS) at Motherwell Police Station.
“The allegation that Motherwell NU 11 Clinic failed to refer Ms Z Vena to the next level of care was substantiated and confirmed.
“Based on the evidence obtained, it can be concluded that Ms Z Vena was not attended to in a manner that is consistent with the nature and severity of her health condition at Motherwell NU 11 Clinic,” Mokoena said.
The complaint was lodged by the Democratic Alliance’s Shadow Minister of Health, Michéle Clarke, in September 2022 against the Motherwell NU 11 Clinic.
In his remarks, Minister Phaahla said it is totally unacceptable for someone to be denied healthcare.
Recommendations include, among others, that the District Manager of the NMBDH should institute a disciplinary inquiry within one month against various personnel; the District Manager must, within two months, ensure that mentoring is provided to the healthcare workers to ensure that all the nurses are kept abreast of the new developments in the management of sexual assault cases; the District Manager of NMBDH and the Head of Department must, within six months, procure a service provider to install the Service/Notice Board at the Motherwell Clinic that indicates the health care services provided by the clinic and indication of working times at the clinic; the District Manager must within one month ensure the Standard Operating Procedure for the management of sexual assault cases is developed and in-service training is provided to the staff at Motherwell NU 11 Clinic.
The report with findings and recommendations was handed over to Health Minister for further analysis. It can be found on www.healthombud.org.za. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Tue, 12/12/2023 - 14:40
131 views
Why Enact Tourists Visit Soweto
Exploring the Heart of South Africa: A Journey Through Soweto Soweto, located to the southwest of Johannesburg, is not just South Africa’s most populous township; it’s a place brimming with historical and cultural richness. With a population estimated between two to four million, it encapsulates a spectrum of socioeconomic backgrounds, from areas of poverty to …