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KZN learners to represent SA at Stockholm Junior Water Prize

Location: News

KZN learners to represent SA at Stockholm Junior Water Prize

Sanelisiwe and Sandisiwe Nhlozi from Buhlebemfundo Secondary School in Durban will represent South Africa in Stockholm, Sweden, at the Annual Stockholm Junior Water Prize in August. 

The 15-year-old twins emerged victorious at the 2024 National South African Youth Water Prize Competition (SAYWP) held at the Xylem Water Solutions Offices in Kempton Park, Gauteng on Friday.

The South African Youth Water Prize competition is a vital component of the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Education programme, which aims to educate learners and society on water resource management issues including water use efficiency, water quality monitoring, and protection of water resources among others.

The competition, organised in partnership with Xylem Water Solutions, Water Technology, the Water Research Commission, and other key stakeholders in the water sector, aimed to identify a project that would best represent South Africa at the 2024 Stockholm Junior Water Prize in Sweden.

The final competition follows a culmination of months of hard work and dedication from young water and sanitation enthusiasts’ countrywide.

The two learners were announced as the winners of the competition following their impressive presentation on their innovation awareness project “Drop-Drop”, earning them an opportunity to showcase their project on a global platform and compete against other talented learners from around the world.

The duo also walked away with prizes including R15 000 each, tickets to Sweden, laptops, a first-place trophy, R10 000 allowance and bursaries to further their education at the university of their choice.

Sanelisiwe and Sandisiwe expressed their gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to represent South Africa on the global stage.

“We feel super excited, we are so emotional right now. We are so grateful to the teachers, mentors, and everybody who supported us to this far and our family," the duo said.

They also pledged to elevate South Africa to new heights and secure the top spot on the global stage of the competition with their awareness approach.

Following closely behind was Kimberly Technical School, whose impactful awareness project secured them second place. The school received  prize of R14 000, bursary, laptops, and a second-place trophy. 

Middleburg Muslim Secondary School in Mpumalanga also made a strong showing, earning third place for their outstanding awareness project plus R12 500, a laptop, and a bursary.

The learners from all nine provinces who participated in the national finals were also rewarded with bursaries and laptops to support their academic pursuits. 

Pumla Ncumshe from the Department of Water and Sanitation said the event served as a testament to the bright future of the youth in South Africa and their commitment to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

“As we look towards the Stockholm Junior Water Prize in August, we cannot help but feel inspired by the dedication and creativity displayed by these young individuals. Their projects serve as a reminder of the importance of water conservation and the role that young people can play in shaping a sustainable future for all. 

“Congratulations to all the participants, and best of luck to Sanelisiwe and Sandisiwe as they represent South Africa on the international stage. Also, congratulations to the winners of the 2024 national finals, as well as all the participating schools, regional coordinators, media houses, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the program,” Ncumshe said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Sun, 06/09/2024 - 11:10

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Gautrain marks 14 years of operations

Location: News

Gautrain marks 14 years of operations

As Gautrain marks 14 years of operations, Gautrain Management Agency Chief Executive Officer, Tshepo Kgobe has described the high-speed rail network as a trailblazer in the South African rail and public transport sector.

In June 2010, the Gautrain saw the first ride for commuters leave the Sandton Station for O.R. Tambo International Airport, just in time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Highlighting some of the Gautrain project successes, Kgobe said since it started operating on 08 June 2010, the project has successfully completed approximately 192.8 million passenger trips.

“The idea of a high-speed rail network with an 80-kilometre route between the North, South, and East of the Gauteng province, sounded like a pipe dream to many when the Gauteng Provincial Government announced it. Fourteen years later, 1 500 staff are employed across operations and administration of the Gautrain project and we have managed to maintain an average of more than 90% availability and punctuality across all Gautrain services. 

“The Gautrain’s transport network includes 10 stations that connect Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekurhuleni, and O.R. Tambo International Airport, 96 rail cars (24 x4 electric multiple units), a fleet of 125 heavy haul buses, and 29 midibuses. In many ways, the Gautrain is a trailblazer in the South African rail and public transport sector…it is the first and only rapid rail network in the country, and it was the first Public-Private Partnership (PPP) of its scale in South Africa when it was launched,” Kgobe said. 

On the 14th anniversary of Gautrain’s launch, and in a year that South Africa marks 30 years of democracy and freedom, Kgobe maintained the Gautrain has proven to be more than just a transport project saying it “it is playing a bigger role in transforming spaces, people, and the economy through mobility.”

“The Gautrain has brought jobs, new skills, the easing of mobility for ordinary people, and major economic developments around stations. It is estimated that R46 million total GDP [gross domestic product] impact has been added to the Gauteng Provincial Government economy and a total of 245 000 jobs have been created due to property development induced by the Gautrain.

“The Gautrain is a strategic national asset valued at R45 billion, and once the current concession expires at the end of its 19.5-year term, the costs of establishing this long-term asset will have been paid off, allowing the Post 2026 Gautrain Project to reap the economic benefits. With a shared vision and strong team effort, a dream of a world-class public transport system became a reality,”Kgobe said.

Kgobe also announced that the current concession agreement between the Gauteng Provincial Government and the Bombela Concession Company comes to an end in 2026, and the Gautrain Management Agency has already gone to market to invite bids for the next concessionaire. 

He added that the new delivery partner will operate, maintain, modernise, innovate, and upgrade the current Gautrain system so that it continues to provide a safe and efficient public transport service. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Sun, 06/09/2024 - 12:35

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Erasmus names exciting Bok training squad

Location: News

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Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus named an exciting squad of 35 players for the team's first official training camp of the season, which starts in Pretoria on Monday where the focus will be on the opening Test of the season against Wales on 22 June.

The Boks are in for a blockbuster 2024 season kicking off later this month against Wales in London. The squad includes 11 uncapped players and a cohort of players from the 2023 and 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning squads.

The uncapped players in the squad are Jordan Hendrikse (the brother of Jaden Hendrikse), Quan Horn, Edwill van der Merwe, Morne van den Berg (all Emirates Lions players), Phepsi Buthelezi, Siya Masuku, Ethan Hooker (from the Hollywoodbets Sharks), Ben-Jason Dixon, Sacha Feinberg-Mgomezulu, Neethling Fouche and Andre-Hugo Venter (DHL Stormers), who were outstanding in their respective competitions this season.

Players based in Europe, the UK and Ireland will not be considered for the Boks' first Test of the season against Wales at Twickenham. Players in contention from the Vodacom Bulls, who advanced to the semi-final of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, were also not considered for this squad.

The squad includes 19 forwards and 16 backs. Rugby World Cup-winning flyhalf Handre Pollard and No 8 Jasper Wiese (who is serving a six-week ban) have been named in the group and will be allowed to train with their team-mates, but will only be available for selection after the Wales Test.

Erasmus included a local contingent from the newly crowned EPCR Challenge Cup champions, the Hollywoodbets Sharks, and the Emirates Lions – whose Vodacom URC seasons came to a halt at the conclusion of the pool stages last weekend – as well as the DHL Stormers, who were knocked out of the competition earlier this evening against the Glasgow Warriors. Players plying their trade in Japan were also named in the squad.

The only players in the group who did not participate in either of the Springbok alignment sessions in March and May respectively, as well as the virtual alignment camp hosted early in May, are Hooker and Van der Merwe.

“We selected a group of players featuring a good mix of youth and experience, and in terms of the young players especially, we believe they have the potential to make the step-up to top international rugby,” said Erasmus.

“We've been following all their performances closely, we had the luxury of presenting our plans to them and getting to know them as individuals off the field at the alignment camps, and we are pleased with the enthusiasm they showed and willingness to learn.

“With the players based in Europe, the UK and Ireland not available for Wales, we anticipate that there will be a few players making their Test debuts in that match, but even for those who do not make the cut, having them in camp and getting the chance to work closely with them on the field will set them and the team in good stead as we prepare for this season and start laying the foundation for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.”

Erasmus added: “We gained immense value by granting a few players a chance to prove what they can do at international level in the last few years leading up to the 2023 World Cup. Some of the players who made their Test debuts in that time were members of the squad that lifted the trophy in Paris, and we feel it is important that we continue blooding new players as we build toward the future.

“As things stand, we have a bunch of young players that already have Test experience and who know exactly how we operate as a team and what is expected of them at this level, and we have no doubt that we will reap the rewards in the years to come as we continue to increase our squad depth.

“As always there are a few unlucky players who missed out on selection this time, but the door will always be open for them to be called up if the need arises.”

Steven Kitshoff, Lood de Jager and Jaden Hendrikse among a handful players were not considered for the squad due to injury.

The Wales Test will be followed by the Castle Lager Incoming Series which features back-to-back Tests against Ireland (ranked second in the world) in Pretoria and Durban respectively (on 6 and 13 July) and a historic first Test against Portugal in Bloemfontein on 20 July.

The Springboks will then turn their attention to the Castle Lager Rugby Championship where they will line up against Australia in Brisbane and Perth (on 10 and 17 August) before facing arch-rivals New Zealand on consecutive weekends in South Africa in Johannesburg and Cape Town respectively (on 31 August and 7 September). They will then make a short trip to Argentina where they will face the Pumas in Santiago (on 21 September) and then in Nelspruit on 28 September.

This will be followed by the traditional year-end tour featuring Tests against Scotland in Edinburgh (9 November), England in London (16 November) and Wales in Cardiff (23 November).

Springbok training squad (in alphabetical order):

Forwards: Phepsi Buthelezi (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Joseph Dweba, Ben-Jason Dixon (both DHL Stormers), Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz), Eben Etzebeth (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Neethling Fouche (DHL Stormers), Vincent Koch (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Frans Malherbe (DHL Stormers), Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears), Bongi Mbonambi (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Ntuthuko Mchunu (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Salmaan Moerat (DHL Stormers), Franco Mostert (Honda Heat), Ox Nche (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Evan Roos (DHL Stormers), Kwagga Smith (Blu Revs), Andre-Hugo Venter (DHL Stormers), Jasper Wiese (Leicester Tigers).

Backs: Damian de Allende (Panasonic Wild Knights), Faf de Klerk (Canon Eagles), Andre Esterhuizen (Harlequins), Aphelele Fassi (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Jordan Hendrikse (Emirates Lions), Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (DHL Stormers), Ethan Hooker (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Quan Horn (Emirates Lions), Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath) Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles), Manie Libbok (DHL Stormers), Makazole Mapimpi, Siya Masuku (both Hollywoodbets Sharks), Handre Pollard (Leicester Tigers), Morne van den Berg (Emirates Lions), Edwill van der Merwe (Emirates Lions), Grant Williams (Hollywoodbets Sharks).

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Rugby.

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New vehicle fleet for the SAPS

Location: News

New vehicle fleet for the SAPS

Police Minister General Bheki Cele has handed over 130 cars to the Local Criminal Records Centre (LCRC) of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The vehicles are set to enhance and improve, among other functions, the response time to crime scenes by crime scene experts.

Speaking at the handover ceremony held at the Pretoria Police Academy, Cele said progress is being made in capacitating the police.

“We are working very hard to capacitate the organisation,” Cele said on Friday, adding that student police officers are part of the plan to the capacitate the force.

“We had to go Parliament, to the Portfolio Committee to be given permission to purchase this equipment that is supposed to be used by the intelligence world. Our job is to prevent, combat and investigate.”

Cele said the vehicles will play a role in assisting the police in their investigations, linking suspects to crime scenes through evidence collection and analysis.

Some of the vehicles will be distributed to the provinces.

Last month the Minister officiated at a ceremony where 78 vehicles were handed over to the Illicit Mining task teams also known as Operation Vala Umgodi.

Since inception in December 2023, Operation Vala Umgodi has resulted in the arrest of more than 6000 suspects including the seizure of uncut diamonds worth R32 million.

Public Order Policing Units received 52 minibuses. These units are key role players in responding to large gatherings and protests. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 06/07/2024 - 13:17

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Ensure a Seamless User Experience: The Importance of Fixing Broken Links on Your Website

Location: MyPR

Pretoria, South Africa – The navigation menu is the cornerstone of any website, guiding visitors to the most important pages with ease. Whether it’s a small business website or a large corporate platform, the user experience hinges on the functionality of these navigational elements. At Click Results, a premier digital marketing firm based in Pretoria, …

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An action-packed programme announced for Scottburgh’s Ocean Festival

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

World Ocean Day (8 June) takes centre stage at the conservation-focused Ocean Festival running Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast from 6 to 9 June 2024. Event organisers have just released the full Ocean Festival programme with events for all ages touching on themes of ‘Engagement, Education, and Economics’. “What started as a single World …

Read moreAn action-packed programme announced for Scottburgh’s Ocean Festival

President appoints acting Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

Location: News

President appoints acting Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Minister Maropene Ramokgopa to act as the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture until a permanent appointment is made under the new seventh administration.

This comes after Zizi Kodwa’s resignation as Minister and member of Cabinet on Wednesday.

The Minister appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday in connection with allegations that he received about R1.7 million in bribes. Kodwa challenges charges against him, which he has denied. 

“President Ramaphosa accepted Minister Kodwa’s resignation and thanked Kodwa for his service to the nation in his capacity as Deputy Minister of State Security from 2019 to 2023 and Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture from March 2023,” the Presidency said on Friday.

Ramokgopa is also the Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 06/07/2024 - 13:22

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Finance Minister gazettes maximum fines for registered auditors guilty of improper conduct

Location: News

Finance Minister gazettes maximum fines for registered auditors guilty of improper conduct

Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has gazetted the latest notice of maximum fines for registered auditors found guilty of improper conduct.

This followed the publication of a notice for public comment, in January 2024, proposing the withdrawal of the notice of maximum fines previously gazetted on 15 June 2023 and the publication of new maximum fines.

“The purpose of Government Notice No. 4933 of 6 June 2024, withdrawing Government Notice No. 3549 of 15 June 2023 and determining new maximum amounts, is to provide for the maximum amounts for both sections 51(2) and 51B(3)(b) of the Auditing Profession Act, 2005,1 as amended, to apply per charge.

“The addition of the words per charge in respect of fines imposed following a disciplinary hearing (which was the main amendment) was intended to align with the imposition of fines in respect of matters finalised through admission of guilt processes. This, having been the intention prior to publication of the 15 June notice,” National Treasury said on Thursday.

Following a 30-day comment period and having reviewed the written comments received by National Treasury, the Minister determined the following maximum amounts as maximum fines that may be imposed on registered auditors found guilty of improper conduct:

  • R5 million per charge, as the amount envisaged in section 51(2) of the Act, which may be imposed on an individual registered auditor who admits guilt as contemplated in section 49(4)(a) of the Act; and
  • R15 million per charge, as the amount envisaged in section 51(2) of the Act, which may be imposed on a firm of auditors that admits guilt as contemplated in section 49(4)(a) of the Act; and
  • R10 million per charge, as the amount envisaged in section 51B(3)(b) of the Act, which may be imposed on an individual registered auditor who is charged and found guilty or if the registered auditor admits guilt to the charge; and
  • R25 million per charge, as the amount envisaged in section 51B(3)(b) of the Act, which may be imposed on a firm of auditors that is charged and found guilty or if the firm admits guilt to the charge.

“These maximum fines will be applicable to improper conduct committed from 6 June 2024, being the date of publication of gazette notice 4933.

“Therefore, the notice does not apply retrospectively, and the maximum fines promulgated by the Minister on 15 June 2023 will remain applicable for improper conduct committed between 15 June 2023 and before 6 June 2024.

“A framework, which will guide the implementation of the maximum fines in a proportional and scalable manner, will be issued by the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA) in due course, for public comment, before adoption by the Board,” National Treasury said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 06/07/2024 - 09:40

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Rehabilitation of Lower Sundays Canal delayed after recent floods

Location: News

Rehabilitation of Lower Sundays Canal delayed after recent floods

The Department of Water and Sanitation has announced the postponement of the emergency rehabilitation of parts of the Lower Sundays River Canal, which was planned to start from Monday, 10 June to 15 August 2024.

The department said the postponement of the project is due to the recent heavy rainfall that resulted in flooding in various areas of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM), which may have compromised infrastructure, including water supply systems. 

“This is to afford the municipality time to complete its disaster assessment and response, as well as the resumption of the state of readiness for the project,” the department said in a statement.

The Lower Sundays River Canal forms part of the Lower Sunday’s Government Water Scheme (LSGWS).

The LSGWS canal system supplies two main users with bulk water, including agricultural users, the Sundays River citrus producing area, and domestic users, Kirkwood, Uitenhage, Enon, and the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro amongst others.

The LSGWS forms part of the greater Orange-Fish-Sundays Inter Basin Transfer Scheme and it transfers 740 million kilolitres of water annually from the Gariep Dam to the Eastern Cape through the 80 km Orange-Fish Tunnel. 

The repair of the canal is a result of a May 2017 incident, where a section of the canal embarkment slipped, about 4.4km south of Enon. 

The department then had to construct a temporary embarkment using a plastic membrane to ensure the continuous supply of water to users. However, a secondary embankment failure has occurred, with 200m downstream of the initial embankment and canal failure.

The work on the canal includes demolishing the existing canal at the upstream and downstream tie-in sections, surface preparations, and the placement of a High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) liner over the upstream and downstream tie-ins.

The department emphasised that during the tie-ins construction, the canal will not be completely shut down, but there will be intervals at which, upon completion of certain segments that are being repaired, water will be allowed to flow through to the dams for end users. 

“During this period, on average, the canal will be closed for seven to ten days for construction and be opened for seven days for the flow of water to fill up dams for the areas to be impacted by the temporary shutdowns. The major domestic users to be impacted by the canal supply interruptions will be the towns of Addo, Paterson and the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. 

“However, measures are being put in place to ensure less interruptions to these areas. Kirkwood, which is located upstream of the shutdown point will continue to be supplied from the main canal. Addo and Paterson which are supplied from the Caesar’s Balancing Dam, downstream, which will be filled prior to canal shutdown, and continuously recharged during the seven days open flows,” the department said.

The department also noted that balancing dams are designed to act as multipurpose reservoirs and are commonly used to serve as distribution points from where water is diverted into pipelines, canals, or to serve as pumping stations or store water for short period and immediate usage. 

It said the seven days closure and opening interval of the canal was determined based on the storage capacity of these dams. 

Considering the developments, the department said it will continue with its consultations on the new start date of the canal tie-in to bring all stakeholders on board to enable them to plan for this period and inform their customers. 

“The department continues to hold meetings with these stakeholders to discuss action plans to mitigate any possible challenges and bottlenecks when the planned dry period gets implemented. It is important to note that the emergency rehabilitation to be carried out is critical for the reliability and sustainability of supply to the users. If the damaged canal remains not repaired, the scheme stands a total collapse,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 06/07/2024 - 10:15

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Parliament working to usher in new representatives

Location: News

Parliament working to usher in new representatives

Parliamentary administrations are hard at work in preparation to receive and welcome the newly elected representatives of the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures.

This is according to Secretary of Parliament Xolile George, who was speaking during the official handover of the lists of new representatives on Thursday at the Constitutional Court.

The lists were handed over by Electoral Commission of South Africa Chairperson, Mosotho Moepya, to Chief Justice Raymond Zondo who in turn handed them to George.

South Africans headed to the polls last week to elect new representatives for the seventh administration in the country’s most competitive elections since the dawn of democracy in 1994.

“[Let] me take this opportunity, on behalf of our National Parliament, to extend gratitude, respect and congratulations to the people of South Africa who showed up in their numbers to exercise their Constitutional right to participate in our seventh democratic elections to determine their government and their national and provincial representatives.

“As the Parliamentary Administrations across the legislative sector, we have been hard at work preparing to welcome the elected representatives of the National Assembly and the Provincial Legislatures and the establishment of our sventh democratic Parliament and the nine Provincial Legislatures,” George said.

He outlined the “on boarding” processes that Parliament will undertake for the newly elected members of the National Assembly, the National Council of Provinces and the Provincial Legislatures.

“We have critically considered the parliamentary rules, mechanisms and processes to ensure that the work of Members of Parliament is facilitated and supported effectively.

“Arrangements are in place for the first sittings of the National Assembly, the Provincial Legislatures and the National Council of Provinces.

“With the receipt of the official list of elected representatives I assure the Chief Justice and our nation that our work will continue in earnest to ensure seamless, efficient and effective foundational processes, so that the work of Members of both Houses of Parliament and the Provincial Legislatures can commence without delay,” he said.

Will of the people

At the handover ceremony, Moepya revealed that Parliament will be made up of 174 females (43.5%) and 226 males (56.5%).

The age range for the representatives is as follows:

  • 12 candidates are aged 20 to 29
  • 67  are in the 30 to 39 age band
  • 110 are between 40 and 49
  • 110 are 50 to 59
  • 90 are 60 to 69
  • 11 are 70 and above

“These representatives reflect the choices, hopes and aspirations of millions of citizens who exercised their democratic rights.

“This list is not exhaustive – an election touches the lives of everyone in a nation. Their commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent election has been truly commendable,” Moepya said.

He emphasised that the lists handover is a critical part of South Africa’s democratic processes.

“We do so in keeping with an established practice in South Africa that after the announcement by the Electoral Commission of the results of the National and Provincial Elections the Electoral Commission hands over the lists of members of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures to the Chief Justice, who then hands them over to the Secretary to Parliament.

“This momentous occasion signifies the culmination of a robust and transparent electoral process, a process that echoes the unified voice of our nation.

“[Our] role as the Electoral Commission…is to ensure that South African voters exercise their rights to choose their leaders. We have carried out these responsibilities without fear, favour or prejudice. The lists that we present…reflect the choices of South Africans,” Moepya said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Fri, 06/07/2024 - 09:49

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Appliance Repairs Centre Offers Expert Solutions for Washing Machine Spin Cycle Issues

Location: MyPR

Pretoria, Centurion, and Midrand – Homeowners experiencing the frustration of washing machines that won’t spin dry can now find relief with Appliance Repairs Centre. With over 38 years of industry experience, Appliance Repairs Centre specializes in servicing and repairing a wide range of appliances, including washing machines, fridges, freezers, dishwashers, and tumble dryers. Their certified …

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Hammarsdale based Mathe Group & Van Dyck damps down the sound in London gyms

Location: MyPR

The sound of a heavy barbell hitting the ground or a kettlebell or medicine ball slamming onto a floor, the thump in a gym and bodyweight training and the drone of dance tracks and screeching trainers during fitness and spinning classes have created a whole new class of noise pollution. Add vibrations from equipment and …

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New liquid bulk facility to boost Durban’s economy

Location: News

New liquid bulk facility to boost Durban’s economy

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed a significant Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) with Mnambithi Terminals, paving the way for the development of a state-of the-art liquid bulk facility at the Port of Durban’s Maydon Wharf Precinct. 

The project, with an investment value of R1.3 billion, will transform the port’s infrastructure, and feature advanced direct rail and road loading capabilities, an on-site truck staging area, and automated loading systems. 

The upgrades will streamline operations and reduce road congestion in the Maydon Wharf area, thereby improving the overall logistical flow.

The agreement signed recently, follows a successful section 79 directive under the National Ports Act of 2005, which underscores the project’s alignment with national strategic and economic goals.

Transnet Group Chief Executive Advocate, Michelle Phillips, said the initiative forms part of Transnet’s broader Recovery Plan aimed at boosting volume recovery and operational efficiencies across its divisions. 

Phillips noted that the project’s completion will not only modernise the port, but also significantly contribute to Durban’s economy by creating over 50 to 100 direct jobs and more than 400 indirect job opportunities for local communities. 

Phillips said the 20-year TOA with Mnambithi Terminals, a 100% Black-owned subsidiary of Mnambithi Group, highlights TNPA’s commitment to fostering transformation and inclusive growth within the port industry. 

“TNPA is deliberate about enabling transformation in the industry and breaking barriers of entry by ensuring inclusion and access for all. We are therefore delighted to welcome Mnambithi Terminals and hope that this strategic relationship will promote the national, strategic, and economic interests of the country, as mandated by Section 79 of the National Ports Act of 2005,” Phillips said.

The project will be executed in two phases, with the initial phase involving the demolition of the existing structures, including foundations, installation of tanks, associated infrastructure, road loading gantry, as well as bulk transfer of pipelines connecting Mnambithi Terminals to the relevant berths to receive liquid cargo. 

The second phase will include the installation of remaining tanks and associated infrastructure. 

eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda commended the move, emphasising its potential to significantly grow the city’s economy. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 12:19

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Hyprop partners with MTN to host South Africa’s largest national console gaming tournament

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

R50k in prize money, eight qualifiers nationwide, culminating in one epic gaming showdown… this is the MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience 2024! Get ready for another exhilarating display of gaming prowess, MTN SHIFT Gaming Experience is back. Now in its second year, it is the largest national mall-based gaming tournament ever held in the country. This …

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Future-Proof Your Business With Next-Generation IT Services

Location: MyPR

SevenC, a leading IT infrastructure and network service provider striving to identify and make available the best possible ICT strategies for its clients’ unique needs, explores the benefits of next-gen IT services and how blending digital and IT integration expertise can future-proof your business. “One of the most effective ways to ensure your business stays …

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2024 BMX Freestyle South African Champions Crowned at the Park Lines BMX Tournament

Location: MyPR

2024 BMX Freestyle South African Champions Crowned at the Park Lines BMX Tournament Murray Loubser © Eric Palmer   Johannesburg, South Africa, 3 June 2024 – The 2024 South African BMX Freestyle Championshipstook place as part of the Park Lines BMX Tournament over the weekend. The event, sanctioned by Cycling South Africa and UCI, was …

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The strength of democracy

Location: News

The strength of democracy

Many will be wondering how South Africa’s seventh democratic government will be constituted following the recent elections that resulted in no political party gaining an outright majority to lead the country for the next five years.

Citizens did their part in exercising their right to vote as pointed out by Section 19 of the Constitution which states that every adult citizen has the right to free, fair and regular elections.

The results of the seventh National and Provincial Elections released on Sunday showed that the African National Congress (ANC) garnered 159 seats in the 400-member National Assembly (NA), followed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) with 87 seats and the uMkhonto weSizwe party (MK party) with 58 seats.

This translates to the ANC having received 40.18 % of the votes followed by the DA with 21.81% and the MK with 14.58%.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) garnered 39 seats while the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) got 17 and the Patriotic Alliance (PA) received nine seats.

Other political parties gained the other remaining seats in the House with between six, three, two, and single seats.

The distribution of seats in Parliament is proportional to the number of votes cast for the various parties.

The National Assembly Guide to Procedure 2004, states that the NA “is the House directly elected by the South African electorate” with the Constitution stating that the National Assembly must consist of no fewer than 350 and no more than 400 women and men elected as its members.

In August 2023, Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as Leader of Government Business, convened a National Dialogue on Coalition Governments. The aim of the dialogue was to lay the foundation for a National Framework on Coalition Governments, which would serve as a guide for effectively managing and navigating coalition governments where they become necessary.

The Presidency said at the time that the need for such dialogue was informed by the adverse effects that had been observed in certain coalition arrangements at local government, particularly their impact on service delivery and governance.

But what exactly is a coalition government?

“A coalition government exists when two or more political parties (or independent representatives) combine their votes in a legislature or a council, to elect a government, and to support the decisions it takes. This becomes necessary when no single party has a majority of the seats in the legislature or council,” notes a National Dialogue on Coalition Governments Q and A subsection.  

Elections in South Africa result in multiple parties being represented in Parliament, a provincial Legislature or a Municipal Council.

“And the executive leadership (President, Premiers and Mayors) is always elected by that legislature and can be removed by the Legislature. If none of the parties has more than 50% of the seats, a coalition is, therefore, necessary to support the executive. Otherwise, the President, Premier or Mayor is likely to be voted out of power,” the subsection further notes.

Government of national unity

South Africa is no stranger to coalitions having had one after the historic 1994 elections which resulted in a government of national unity (GNU).

In terms of the country’s then interim Constitution, the National Party and Inkatha Freedom Party participated in a government of national unity under President Nelson Mandela.

In 1994, the President was assisted by two Deputy Presidents, a Minister in The Presidency and 16 Ministers in the GNU which represented three political parties. In 1996 one political party exited the GNU, but maintained its official opposition status in the legislatures.

South Africa has also had coalitions at provincial level in the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

There have been coalitions in municipalities, ever since the first democratic local government elections in 2000.

The will of the people

Speaking at the Electoral Commission’s Election Results ceremony at the Results Operation Centre in Midrand, President Cyril Ramaphosa said that by going to vote, the people of South Africa have taken responsibility not only for the future of themselves and their families, but for the future of their country.

“Through their votes they have demonstrated, clearly and plainly, that our democracy is strong, it is robust and it endures. Our people have spoken. As the leaders of political parties, as all those who occupy positions of responsibility in society, we have heard the voices of our people and we must respect their wishes,” he said on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Parliament is fully prepared, and all the necessary arrangements have been made for establishing the new National Assembly. 

“Comprehensive plans are in place to ensure a seamless transition, including onboarding new Members of Parliament,” Parliamentary spokesperson, Moloto Mothapo said in a statement. 

READ | Plans underway for establishment of the seventh democratic Parliament

With South Africa having regularly held elections since 1994, the 2024 National and Provincial Elections are an affirmation of the strength this democracy. - SAnews.gov.za

 

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Wed, 06/05/2024 - 14:34

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From Trash To Treasure: Revolutionizing Wood Plastic Composite Decking With Recycled Pvc Bottles

Location: MyPR

What do a luxurious foam bath, a slice of toast with honey, and sunbathing on a swimming pool deck have in common? PVC bottle! Thanks to an innovative recycling initiative, post-consumer PVC bottles are being transformed into high-quality wood plastic composite decking, giving new life to plastic waste and benefiting the environment. “South African households …

Read moreFrom Trash To Treasure: Revolutionizing Wood Plastic Composite Decking With Recycled Pvc Bottles

Radisson Hotel Group targets expansion to 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030, doubling its current portfolio

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Radisson Hotel Group

Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) is proud to announce its goal to reach 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030, effectively doubling its current portfolio. This ambitious expansion along with the Group's recent updates to its South African portfolio underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence and contributing to the growth of the South African hospitality industry.

Daniel Trappler, Senior Director of Development, Sub-Sahara Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, shared insights into the Group's strategic approach to reach its ambitious goal of 25 hotels by 2030, stating, "We are prioritizing, through either management or franchise models, conversions for quicker market entry and exploring strategic collaborations with existing management companies to increase our footprint, which presents the potential introduction of the Radisson Individuals brand to South Africa, an ideal first step for individual hotels with strong service scores who may be considering transitioning to one of our other successful core brands at a later stage. We are also seeking opportunities to expand our upper-upscale portfolio and enter the lifestyle luxury market in Cape Town with our Radisson Collection and art'otel brands, leveraging the city's strong tourism performance and our successful existing portfolio.”

Radisson Hotel Group has announced significant updates to its portfolio of operating hotels in South Africa, including:

The debut of its first Safari hotel in South Africa with the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit:

In February Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit (https://apo-opa.co/3Kwoqy0) its first Safari hotel and 13th hotel in South Africa. This property offers a luxurious safari experience in the heart of South Africa's wildlife region, with premium amenities and exceptional service. Boasting majestic views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit is surrounded by endless destination-immersing activities.

“Building on the success of our recently opened Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, we plan to expand into safari and leisure regions like the Kruger National Park and the world-renowned Winelands region surrounding Cape Town. Additionally, we are targeting secondary cities displaying strong hotel demand generators such as Bloemfontein, Pretoria, Durban, and East London, following our successes in Port Elizabeth and Polokwane. In addition, we are also exploring entry into smaller tertiary cities and towns if it aligns with our expansion strategy,” added Trappler.

Extensive Refurbishments at Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg and Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town:

The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg (www.RadissonHotels.com), is undergoing a significant renovation, with 60% of the hotel's rooms already completed, enhancing the overall guest experience. This extensive refurbishment features upgraded wooden flooring, stone countertops, local artworks, carefully crafted furniture, and technological upgrades like smart TVs and conveniently located USB ports. This two-phase refurbishment project has already completed its first phase, with each floor and corridor renovated to showcase a new level of contemporary luxury.

The Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town (https://apo-opa.co/3Kvyebp) has announced its highly-anticipated refurbishment plans, reaffirming its commitment to offering guests world-class furnishings and contemporary interior design. Phase one is set to be completed by September 2024, with public Atrium and bedroom renovations expected in July 2024. An expert team of local and international designers has meticulously reviewed and handpicked the design, artwork, fabrics, and raw materials, ensuring an enhanced and stylish hospitality experience.

Rebranding of Park Inn Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore:

In April, Radisson announced the rebranding of Park Inn Cape Town Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore (https://apo-opa.co/3yVxYzK). This rebranding brings the renowned Radisson brand to South Africa's ‘Mother City'. Following an eight-month renovation, Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore's120 rooms now boast a fresh and modern decor that creates a relaxing environment for guests as well as magnificent views of the prominent Table Mountain and the city center. The hotel now hosts South Africa's first Filini restaurant, offering fresh, simple, and delicious Italian-style cuisine with an interactive open-plan kitchen setting. Additionally, the vibrant Harald's Rooftop Bar & Terrace provides an ideal spot to unwind with uninterrupted views of Table Mountain and the cityscape, complete with a perfectly positioned plunge pool for a complete rooftop experience.

“These significant updates to our South African portfolio reaffirm our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences across the country. Our ongoing growth in the region underscore our position as a leading force in the South African hospitality industry. This is just the beginning of a series of exciting announcements for our South African portfolio and the unmatched experiences guests can expect from our hotels,” concluded Sandra Kneubuhler, Country Director of Sales and District Director, South Africa at Radisson Hotel Group.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Connect with Radisson Hotels on: 
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3KrNeHc
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Ku07R3
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4aNzAJg
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/45hQsH2
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3Vq1zu6
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/45hQuPa

About Radisson Hotel Group:
Radisson Hotel Group is an international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with over 1,350 hotels in operation and under development in +95 countries. The international hotel group is rapidly expanding with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. 

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.  

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/3Vu87Ij) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.co/4aU1nHY) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.  

At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.co/45hQA9u) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as 100% carbon neutral Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. 

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. 

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.co/45hQC16). 

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