No, we won’t move, say Butterworth shack dwellers
Residents of Sikiti informal settlement fear they’ll be forgotten if they agree to move to serviced sites nearby
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Transnet monitoring port operations as adverse weather continues
Transnet monitoring port operations as adverse weather continues
Transnet says it is continuously monitoring operations at the ports of Cape Town, Saldanha, Port Elizabeth and Ngqura amid adverse weather conditions in parts of the country.
In a statement, Transnet explained that strong winds have led to high wave swells that have led to shipping movements being suspended at some ports for safety reasons.
However, no major incidents have been reported thus far.
“The strong winds, which have created high swell conditions, must subside before vessel movements can resume.
“Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) marine operations are currently on standby to assist vessels where required. Industry stakeholders are being kept updated on the situation,” the State-owned company said.
Transnet noted the following:
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The Cape Town Container Terminal, which is experiencing high swells until Saturday, has three vessels on berth that are unable to work due to the terminal’s wind-bound status. Another four vessels are planned to arrive by Thursday.
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In Gqeberha, the Ngqura Container Terminal had its last vessel finish in the early hours of Sunday. The port authority resolved on not berthing any more vessels until Wednesday and port terminal gates have been closed since. The Port Elizabeth Container Terminal is also wind-bound, with one vessel on berth.
“The floods experienced in the Eastern Cape in June, along with current weather disruptions, have resulted in vessel congestion at the Port Elizabeth Bulk Terminal where manganese is handled. This has slowed down the progress. Despite this, vessel nominations continue.
“Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) is confident of managing the resulting vessel backlog with the recent acquisition of new cargo handling equipment across some of its terminals, as well as the support of contracted original equipment manufacturers supplying spares in the case of breakdowns.
“TNPA is taking appropriate measures to ensure safety of life, protection of the environment and prevention of damage to property,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 07/10/2024 - 09:52
437 views
Veldskoen’s Chic Take on the Humble Gumboot is Set to Surprise South African Audiences this Winter.
The new ladies’ Gumboot perfectly combines fashion with functionality, making it a staple for the all-year wardrobe. Cape Town, ~ Veldskoen Shoes ventured into new territory when they launched their latest product; The Veldskoen Gumboot on Friday. The ladies gumboot is designed to meet the demands of both urban and rural lifestyles. This is a …
GARDENA’s Top Three Winter Picks
Don’t let winter’s gloomy grey stop you from creating a colourful spectacle in your garden. Simply follow GARDENA’s top tips on planting and caring for violas, pansies and English daisies. These three winter wonder blooms are resilient and require similar care manageable by gardeners of all skill levels. They also make exquisite cut flowers with …
Another Makhanda water supply deadline missed
The town has experienced water shortages since 2012, but an upgrade to the water treatment works started in 2015 is still not complete
Win big: ‘Rising Stars’ competition offers prizes worth R150 000
A new competition is here to find and support the best emerging bakers in the Border Kei region. The Snowflake ‘Rising Stars’ competition, in partnership with the Border Kei Chamber of Commerce, invites bakers to showcase their skills by submitting their entries from 8 July to 5 August for the bake-off taking place on 31 …
Benefits of Fintech on Business Operations
There’s no getting around the fact that entrepreneurs or business owners building a thriving business today need to embrace digital and cloud-based technology. After all, our phones and devices, and the access that they provide us 24/7 are part of our personal and working lives – for better or for worse. Let’s explore how Fintech …
Teaching Kids Nutrition: A Vital Step in Combating Childhood Obesity in South Africa
Earlier this year, we launched our Taste Explorers Cookbook in collaboration with renowned registered dietitian Dr. Monique Piderit. Packed with over 25 nutritious recipes, it helps parents create healthy and delicious school lunches and dinners for their kids. Building on this success and driven by the shocking statistics of childhood obesity in South Africa, B-well …
Army destroys shacks in Marievale, leaving families homeless
Lawyers for Human Rights plans to go to court again
Streamlining Your Business with OCFO’s Fintech and Automation Solutions
The rise of the Fintech industry and cloud technology has changed the way in which we do business. Gone are the days of disjointed and disconnected technology platforms that are unable to talk to each other and lack real-time reporting capabilities. The Fintech, automation and digital landscape has exploded, with a number of cutting-edge technologies and software …
Exhibition honours work of late Bang Bang Club photojournalist
Ken Oosterbroek’s “photographs will bring awareness to the importance of photography in the creation of our collective historical record” says curator
Mall of the South Partners with SOJO Business and Tourism Helping Hands Foundation, Joining Hands and Connecting Communities with the Help Thy Neighbour Mandela Day community initiative
In a heartfelt effort to make a difference to the underserved community in the south of Johannesburg, Mall of the South is proud to announce its continued partnership with the SOJO Business and Tourism Helping Hands Foundation on the 18th of July at the MOMO’s upliftment centre. Together with the help of local organisations and …
KZN North Coast shows off great conditions for the Engen Ballito Downwind title
With a selection of the province’s top competitive paddlers taking to the Indian Ocean on Sunday, 7 July, the 2024 Engen Ballito Downwind was always going to be a hotly contested tournament. But in the end, it was East London brothers, Matthew and Joshua Fenn, who took top honours in the doubles surfski race from …
6 Benefits of investing in a modern, newly built home
Property investment is often one of the biggest investments an individual will make in a lifetime, which means considering various factors. Location, cost, and access to amenities are some of the important factors determining a property investment – another is deciding between older homes and newly built ones. “Investing in older properties might be an …
HYPROP MTN SHIFT Gaming Tournament ignites fierce competition at The Glen Shopping Centre
R200k in prize money, eight qualifiers nationwide, culminating in one epic gaming showdown… this is the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2024! The HYPROP MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience made its third electrifying stop at The Glen Shopping Centre in Johannesburg South, Gauteng, from 28 to 30 June 2024. This exhilarating event, part of South Africa’s largest …
New Labour Minister charts the way forward
New Labour Minister charts the way forward
Newly appointed Employment and Labour Minister, Nomakhosazana Meth, says the department is facing a mammoth task of ensuring that it continues in earnest to usher in, not only hope to citizens, but substantive positive change in their lives.
Meth was speaking during a Ministerial Committee meeting to welcome new principals and to present to them the department’s programme.
Together with Deputy Ministers Phumzile Mgcina and Jomo Sibiya, Meth held a meeting with the Executive Committee, including the department's Acting Director-General, Onke Mjo, and the department’s Deputy Director-Generals.
Monday’s meeting was also attended by heads of the Compensation Fund (CF) and Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), as well as heads of entities, such as Supported Employment Enterprises (SEE), Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), Productivity SA, and National Economic and Labour Council (Nedlac).
In her address, Meth said South Africa is still struggling with the stubborn triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
She said the scourge of unemployment remains a huge hurdle that the country is facing, with the official unemployment rate currently standing at 32.9% while the expanded unemployment rate is at 41.9%, according to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) for Quarter 1 of 2024.
“The picture becomes dire when it comes to the youth unemployment rate with youth aged 15 – 24 years standing at 59.7% and youth aged 25 – 34 years standing at 40.7%. These statistics should remind us that the stakes are still high, and we must hasten to strengthen the implementation of interventions to dent the unemployment rate.”
Meth maintained that substantive results can be achieved through an intensive and collaborative mechanism, “that will propel all of us to realise the department's objectives".
Priorities
She said in carrying forth its mandate, the department will be guided by a set of six priorities for the seventh administration, and these are:
• Priority 1: Put South Africa to work.
• Priority 2: Build our industries for an inclusive economy.
• Priority 3: Tackle the prohibitive cost of living.
• Priority 4: Invest in people.
• Priority 5: Defend democracy and advance freedom.
• Priority 6: Better Africa and the World.
“These priorities must find expression in the work of the Department of Employment and Labour family.
“The priority is to create and sustain 2.5 million work opportunities delivering public goods and services in communities; implement a cross-cutting industrial strategy that drives growth and creates opportunity for youth and other unemployed people; tackle the war on poverty by providing comprehensive social security and basic services through the Unemployment Insurance Fund and Compensation Fund; and continue enforcement of compliance with the National Minimum Wage across all applicable industries in South Africa,” Meth said.
Through investing in people, the Minister emphasised that the department, as the custodian of employment law, has a responsibility to ensure workplaces that are free of traumatic events and a deterioration in the quality of life of many workers; managing compliance with employment law and Immigration Act; and strengthen relations with stakeholders, internationally and at regional level.
“Ours in the seventh administration is to ensure that we shift gears and embrace the principles brought about by the Government of National Unity (GNU). I require active and impactful participation in the District Development Model (DDM) as that will continue to expand our reach as the department,” Meth said.
The DDM aims to improve the coherence and impact of government service delivery with a focus on 44 districts and eight metros around the country as development spaces that can be used as centres of service delivery and economic development, including job creation.
She also emphasised the department’s role at the International Labour Organization (ILO), which is a vehicle in building a better Africa and the world. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Tue, 07/09/2024 - 10:29
337 views
Manhattan Sweets Introduces the Manhattan Fun Lab!
Soweto July 2024 – Today, the children of Pimville in Soweto are celebrating as Manhattan Sweets pilots the “Manhattan Fun Lab”, a play initiative that sets out to tackle play inequity and deliver quality play opportunities for South African children living in impoverished areas. The first ever International Day of Play took place on the …
Unless this government fixes SAPS, it won’t meet its other objectives
We need a new approach to policing from Minister Senzo Mchunu
Get Ready to Dive Deep with Discovery Shark Week 2024 – Featuring South African Shark Experts!
The wait is over! Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, the longest-running and most anticipated TV event in history, returns to South Africa on Monday, 15 July, on Discovery Channel Africa (DStv channel 121). Hosted by the one and only John Cena, this year promises groundbreaking discoveries, thrilling encounters, and a spotlight on South Africa’s very own …
Protea Hotels by Marriott Strengthens Footprint with Two New Openings
To celebrate its 40th birthday, Protea Hotels by Marriott announced the opening of its first property in Angola while further strengthening its portfolio in South Africa with a new property in Pretoria. The newest additions – Protea by Marriott Luanda and Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield – will offer business and leisure travellers the chance to experience the vibrant local cultures and warm hospitality, along with exceptional accommodation, modern amenities and world-class service.
Protea Hotels by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's distinguished portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, has grown significantly since its founding in July 1984. Starting with just four hotels in South Africa, the brand now boasts over 60 properties throughout South Africa and eight other African countries, including Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and now Angola. This extensive footprint across primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations makes Protea Hotels by Marriott a popular choice for travellers exploring Africa.
Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President of Premium & Select Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Marriott International, said, “This month we celebrate four decades of exceptional service and genuine African hospitality. What better way to commemorate this milestone than by further strengthening Protea Hotels' legacy with our first hotel in Angola and the ongoing expansion of the brand in South Africa. Both properties will combine contemporary comfort with a deep appreciation for local culture and heritage, offering guests a unique and enriching stay.”
Protea by Marriott Luanda
Protea Hotels by Marriott makes its debut in Angola with the opening of Protea by Marriott Luanda. Situated between the city centre of Luanda and Talatona, the new hotel offers proximity to a wide range of business, sports and private event destinations, as well as leisure retreats near the sea. The hotel interior creates a comfortable ambience across its public space and 84 guestrooms and suites, using contemporary furniture in African-styled terracotta colour and furnishings made with locally sourced materials. Guests can also admire the paintings by Guilherme Mampuya, a renowned Angolan artist based in Luanda. Culinary offerings include Múcua, an all-day restaurant serving up a modern fusion of Portuguese and Angolan cuisines, and a rooftop bar where guests can unwind with drinks and light bites against panoramic views of the surrounding area. Other facilities include a fully equipped gym and an outdoor pool with a waterfall.
Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield
Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield is strategically located in Hatfield, one of the most sought-after areas in Pretoria, providing business and leisure travellers with easy access to diplomatic, government and corporate offices as well as shopping centres, entertainment destinations and sporting facilities. The hotel features 203 contemporary guestrooms designed for comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a memorable dining experience at The African Restaurant and Bar, which dishes up a fusion of global and African cuisines. A cosy 30-seater bar provides a relaxing space to unwind, while five state-of-the-art conference venues cater to both large-scale and intimate gatherings.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..
About Protea Hotels by Marriott:
Protea Hotels by Marriott® is the leading hospitality brand in Africa and it is one of the most widely recognized brands on the continent with over 60 hotels across nine countries including South Africa, Zambia, Nigeria, Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi and Angola. Protea Hotels by Marriott® is ideal for both business and leisure travellers by offering properties in primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations. Each hotel offers modern facilities, proactive and friendly service and consistent amenities such as full-service restaurants, meeting spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and well-appointed rooms, ensuring global standards for a high quality, relaxed and successful stay.
About Marriott Bonvoy®:
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit http://apo-opa.co/3LgyVpn. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.
Butterworth families evicted by chiefs in 2011 are still waiting for promised houses
People of Bhungeni were moved to make way for a mall which has still not been built
Commission issues Guide on Governance Practice for new Cabinet members
Commission issues Guide on Governance Practice for new Cabinet members
The new Cabinet and establishment of the Government of National Unity (GNU) is an important milestone in the existence of the 7th Administration, and public servants and other organs of the state must support the transition and ensure continuity of quality service delivery.
This is according to Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Anele Gxoyiya who briefed the media in Pretoria on Monday.
He said public servants are expected to serve and support the newly elected leadership and government of the day in a dedicated, competent and professional manner in executing priority policies.
“The PSC was established to oversee the public service, amongst others, for an efficient and effective performance of public administration,” Gxoyiya said, adding that the GNU marks a significant moment in the nation's journey towards an accountable and transparent governance.
“A more serious warning should go to the entire public service to rethink how it engages with the citizens, but most importantly to ensure that it is guided by the values and principles governing public administration,” he said.
Gxoyiya said such a public service will reinforce citizen’s trust in the constitutional democracy.
“It is further a call to citizens to be vigilant and hold government accountable for service delivery,” he said.
Gxoyiya said as part of fulfilling its oversight mandate in this period of transition, the commission has released the Guide on Governance Practice for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department (2024) and a Circular to advise Executive Authorities, Heads of Department and employees regarding the prevention and management of unlawful instructions.
“The Guide on Governance Practice for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department provides a simplified reference source for Executive Authorities and Heads of Department on processes and procedures that are essential to promote good governance and performance in the public service.
“It covers work emanating from the PSC’s mandate and provides reference to other critical sources of information from other departments.
“This PSC Guide is intended to supplement Guides and Manuals issued by The Presidency, the Department of Public Service and Administration, the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation and the National Treasury as part of readiness,” he said.
Gxoyiya said the commission encouraged Executive Authorities and Heads of Department to familiarise themselves with the contents of the guide.
The Guide is accessible at www.psc.gov.za under Documents, Reports, 2024. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 07/08/2024 - 14:48
378 views
President Ramaphosa Receives Congratulatory Call From President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of the Republic of Egypt
President Cyril Ramaphosa was honoured yesterday evening, Sunday, 7 July 2024, with a phone call from His Excellency President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt who warmly congratulated President Ramaphosa on his new term of office.
President El-Sisi shared with President Ramaphosa his expectation that South Africa and Egypt will continue to cooperate on issues of common interest.
President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for President El-Sisi's good wishes and agreed on the importance of continued partnership between our two countries on matters of bilateral, continental and multilateral interest.
Of particular significance to the two leaders is the need to work together on the Palestinian issue and the crisis in the Gaza strip.
The Presidents committed themselves to deepening the fraternal ties between Egypt and South Africa as part of advancing continental solidarity.
President Ramaphosa and President El-Sisi were also in agreement on the expansion of trade, mutual investment and other areas of economic cooperation between the two states.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
Warm up this winter with Tetley’s decadent new Chai Lattes
The delicious taste of spicy chai has been enjoyed for thousands of years, with its roots established in the fabric of Indian tea culture. Chai, which is actually the Hindi word for tea, has more recently become a popular choice in many countries, with the traditional Chai being reimagined in various ways. One of the …