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President assents to law Bill criminalising hate crimes, hate speech

Location: News

President assents to law Bill criminalising hate crimes, hate speech

President Cyril Ramaphosa has given his approval to the Preventing and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, which criminalises hate crimes and hate speech. 

The law also outlines the prosecution process for individuals who perpetrate these offences.

“This legislative measure gives effect to South Africa’s obligations in terms of the Constitution and international human rights instruments concerning racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, in accordance with international law obligations,” the Presidency explained in a statement on Thursday. 

According to the statement, the Constitution sets out certain basic values, including human dignity, the achievement of equality and the advancement of human rights and freedoms and non-racialism and non-sexism.

The Bill of Rights, in Section 9 of the Constitution, prohibits direct or indirect unfair discrimination against anyone on the grounds of race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, conscience, belief, culture, language and birth.

“The Bill of Rights gives everyone the right to dignity and gives everyone the right to freedom and security of the person, which includes the right to be free from all forms of violence from either public or private sources.”

The President’s Office explained that the new Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act provides for the prevention of hate crimes and hate speech, effective enforcement measures, and the gathering and recording of data on hate crimes and hate speech.

“A hate crime is committed if a person commits any recognised offence under any law that is motivated by prejudice or intolerance based on one or more characteristics or perceived characteristics of the victim, as listed in the legislation or a family member of the victim.”

The definition of the crime, the Presidency said, extends to offences targeting the victim’s association with or support for a person with one or more of the listed characteristics or a group of persons who share these characteristics.

“The offence of hate speech applies to any person who intentionally publishes, propagates, advocates, shares or communicates anything to one or more persons in a manner that could reasonably be construed to demonstrate a clear intention to be harmful or to incite harm and to promote or propagate hatred based on defined grounds.

“The law also makes it an offence when speech material is intentionally distributed or made available in electronic communication, and the said person knows that such electronic communication constitutes hate speech.” 

However, the law does not consider actions undertaken in good faith during engagement as part of hate speech.

These actions include artistic creativity, performance or other form of expression; academic or scientific inquiry; and fair and accurate reporting or commentary in the public interest. 

It also excludes interpretation and articulating or espousing of any religious conviction, tenet, belief, teaching, doctrine or writing that does not advocate hatred or constitutes incitement to cause harm.

The law also contains directives on training and other measures to be undertaken by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to ensure effective processing of the newly defined crimes. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 11:39

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Inner Drive: An epic journey, told through individual narratives

Location: News
inDrive

How does a startup, founded far from the advantages and resources of the world's tech hubs, go on to reach unicorn status? And more deeply, just how far can the drive for meaning and purpose ultimately take you? The inDrive documentary (www.inDrive.com) sets out to answer these questions.

In an exclusive premier in Johannesburg, South Africa, the inDrive documentary offered audiences a rare glimpse into the heart and soul of the company, with never-before-seen footage and candid stories from the individuals at inDrive's roots, including founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky.

Far from being a run-of-the-mill corporate film, this narrative delves deep into the butterfly effect of positive impact, illustrating how inDrive's initiatives have rippled through communities, creating waves of change that extend far beyond their initial touchpoints.

In the frozen Yakutsk winter, a group of people band together against the unfair price collusion of taxi companies that leaves people stranded in the cold. One of them starts a social media group where people can request and offer rides, negotiating prices on their own terms.

It's a simple enough idea, but it carries the potential to be revolutionary. From this frozen seed, a collective stance against injustice, inDrive takes root. Today, the company has grown to become the world's second largest ride-hailing app, operating in over 700 cities in 46 countries, fuelled by deep-seated ideals and ambitions that extend far beyond profit.

inDrive wants to reimagine capitalism, no less: to put people back in control, restore their freedom to choose, and so make their lives better.

Among the heartwarming tales shared, the film follows the journey of Obadiah, a young Nigerian boy once enveloped in the despair of his surroundings. inDrive's Beginit initiative is now paving the way for a brighter future for him and many others.

Reflecting on the film and its message, inDrive Founder and CEO Arsen Tomsky said: “We should focus on the path, on the journey. And if you do something important for you, that is very meaningful for you, and you develop an external environment during that journey, you are getting more and more with each step. And that is something which nobody can take from you. Even if you don't reach a peak, you will have something available to you.”

The production is directed by Lagos/Nairobi-based, Emmy Award winner Dan McCain, and Greek producer and editor Theo Papadoulakis, each renowned for their talents in portraying everyday individuals facing remarkable situations. Dan is a prolific filmmaker who specializes in locally relevant and impactful storytelling, while Papadoulakis, recognized with over 70 international accolades, particularly excels in showcasing the resilience of the human spirit.

"In making this film with inDrive, we hope to honor the resilience and determination of individuals whose dreams lead to something profound. It's a privilege to be part of a multi-country international production, collaborating with other talented directors, where we weave together inspiring narratives that add to the epic tale of human potential," said Dan McCain.

Person by person, the documentary tells inDrive's story. From the remarkable individuals in Nigeria, Indonesia, Mexico and beyond, who use the ride-hailing app to take control of their futures, to the communities who take their chance to move forward.

From Arsen Tomsky, the company's visionary CEO, who overcomes challenges both personal and social to take an idea to the world, to the employees who come on board to help inDrive evolve and grow, fuelled by shared values and a common goal. It's an epic journey, told by connecting people around the world. And it's far from over.

Watch the inDrive movie here: movie.inDrive.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of inDrive.

Press Contact:
Public Relations Manager - inDrive Africa
Lineo Thakhisi
Phone: +2781 3636 872
Email: lineo.thakhisi@indriver.com

About inDrive:
inDrive is a global mobility and urban services platform. The inDrive app has been downloaded over 200 million times, and was the second most downloaded mobility app in 2022 and 2023. In addition to ride-hailing, inDrive provides an expanding list of urban services, including intercity transportation, freight delivery, task assistance and  courier delivery. In 2023, inDrive launched New Ventures, a venture and M&A arm.

inDrive operates in 749 cities in 46 countries. Driven by its mission of challenging social injustice, the company is committed to having a positive impact on the lives of one billion people by 2030. It pursues this goal both through its core business, which supports local communities via a fair pricing model; and through the work of inVision, its non-profit arm. inVision's community empowerment programs help to advance education, sports, arts and sciences, gender equality and other vital initiatives.

For more information visit www.inDrive.com

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Foot and Mouth Disease detected on Eastern Cape farm

Location: News

Foot and Mouth Disease detected on Eastern Cape farm

The Eastern Cape Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform has confirmed cases of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) on one of the farms in the province.

A case of FMD was confirmed on a dairy herd located at Humansdorp in the Kouga after the National Veterinary Reference laboratory conducted epidemiological investigations.

This after the animals showed clinical signs of the disease and on 1 May 2024, the positive laboratory results confirmed the diagnosis. 

The provincial department’s Veterinary Services Chief Director, Dr Cebisa Mnqeta, said the farm initially recorded about 70 animals that were showing clinical signs and has since been recording an average of 10 new cases per day.

Mnqeta said the infected farm, including adjacent neighbouring farms and contact farms, have been put under quarantine whilst waiting for laboratory results to rule out the presence of the disease in those farms. 

“The first batch of samples were shipped to the National Veterinary Reference laboratory on 03 May 2024 from three contact farms including an adjacent communal area. All these samples tested negative for the virus.

“The surveillance on neighbouring farms and on any other farm that is reported to have animals showing signs or symptoms of foot and mouth disease is ongoing. We have established a joint operations centre at the Kouga Local Municipality for coordinating work of all key stakeholders to contain [the] further spread of the disease in our province,” Mnqeta said.

Signs and symptoms of foot and mouth disease include hyper salivation, animal refuses to eat and when the mouth is opened vesicles and ulceration in the tongue and buccal membranes are observed, lameness is observed and the drop in milk production especially in the highest producing dairy animals.

Symptoms

Clinical signs can vary from mild to severe, and fatalities may occur, especially in young animals. 

Mnqeta has urged farmers, livestock owners and people of the province to be alert and look for any signs and symptoms of the disease in their herds.

“Farmers are advised not to move their animals unnecessarily to avoid the spread of the disease. Should farmers feel obliged to move their animals, they must contact their local veterinarian for advice.”

Tracing and containing the virus

Mnqeta added that the department, collaborating with affected farmers and local stakeholders, continue to investigate the origin or source of the virus through backward and forward tracing.

As part of the strategy to control the spread of infection to the neighbouring farms, Mnqeta said the department will from today start the vaccinating of all cattle in the index farm and associated farms. – SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 12:28

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Exploring Vape Options in South Africa: Your Guide to the Best Choices at Downtown Vapoury

Location: MyPR

Introduction Vaping has become a popular trend in South Africa, offering a modern alternative to traditional smoking. For enthusiasts or those new to vaping, finding the right shop is crucial. Enter Downtown Vapoury, a premier vape shop known for its wide selection and excellent customer service. Why Choose Downtown Vapoury? Downtown Vapoury stands out in …

Read moreExploring Vape Options in South Africa: Your Guide to the Best Choices at Downtown Vapoury

Public-private partnerships essential to unlock SADC opportunities

Location: News

Public-private partnerships essential to unlock SADC opportunities

Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are essential to unlock economic opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in the transport and logistics industry for the movement of goods across the continent, says the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).

“Collaboration between the private sector and government is key to unlocking opportunities. For instance, the Lobito Railway Corridor is a brownfield project, where the private sector identified the opportunity and partnered with government,” DBSA Senior Deal Originator Bongo Bacela said on Thursday.

The Lobito Corridor project entails the construction of almost 350 miles of rail line in Zambia, along with hundreds of miles of feeder roads, linking the southern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the northwestern part of Zambia to regional and global markets via Angola’s Port of Lobito.

The Lobito Corridor ushers in myriad new opportunities for economic growth and development that will unlock the region’s commercial competitiveness. This infrastructural investment is a powerful catalyst for the establishment of small businesses along the railway transport routes, fostering local economic growth.

“They [Zambia] entered into a concession agreement because the State-owned enterprise that was running the line was struggling to run it in an efficient manner, so given the experience and the knowledge of the industry by the private sector, they entered into a concession agreement with government.

“We believe that there will be economic opportunities that will be unlocked, traffic will be higher, both the DRC and Angola will benefit from a tax point of view. Jobs will be created and the whole world will benefit from the minerals that will be transported on the corridor," Bacela said.

The bank is involved in a number of transport corridors in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

"We are involved in these projects because we understand the region needs regional integration to promote trade amongst the countries in Africa so we can achieve our developmental goals as the continent and improve economic activity between the various countries in the region.

“Without these [projects], there is now way that the countries can promote trade if we don’t improve our transport infrastructure in the transport sector,” Bacela said during a webinar hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) on Thursday.

The bank is involved in the financing of the Lobito Railway Corridor, together with an American Development Finance Institution.

“We are looking to provide funding to the tune of up to $200 billion. We see this as an important corridor because of the minerals that are coming out of the DRC mines that must be evacuated and exported to markets such as China and the United States

“Our interest is mainly around some of the transition minerals such as lithium and some rare earth minerals that are coming from mines in the Zambia and the DRC,” Bacela said.

The DBSA is a government-owned development finance institution mandated to promote economic growth as well as regional integration for sustainable development projects and programmes across the African continent.

It finances infrastructure projects in six sectors, namely, transport and logistics; Information and Communication Technologies (ICT); water and sanitation; energy, and social housing.

“Government cannot succeed without the private sector and the private sector cannot succeed without government because governments will have to issue licences and permits that are required for the private sector to operate the infrastructure,” Bacela said.

He cited regulations, skills shortage, funding shortages and the currency mismatch as some of the challenges that the transport and logistics sector experience in the region. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 13:47

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DMRE hosts Battery Energy Storage bidders’ conference

Location: News

DMRE hosts Battery Energy Storage bidders' conference

The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy will today host a bidders' conference in respect of Battery Energy Storage (bid window 3) under the Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (BESIPPPP).

The department launched a third Request for Proposal (RFP) under the Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (IPPPP), calling for the procurement of 616 MW of new generation capacity from battery energy storage technologies.

“The third battery energy storage bid window calls for 616 MW (2464 MWh) battery energy storage capacity and ancillary services in line with the power system service requirements as set out by the system operator. The procurement round will procure five storage facilities that are located within the Free State province,” said the department.

The new bid window was released on 28 March 2024 in accordance with the Ministerial Determinations made under the 2019 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2019).

“In support of this significant milestone in the IPPP programme, and to engage with potential bidders and other energy sector stakeholders, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), and the Independent Power Producers Office, will host a virtual bidders' conferences on Thursday, 9 May 2024,” said the department.

The conference will allow all stakeholders to engage with members of the DMRE and IPP Office on queries or clarification questions in relation to the released RFP.

Hosted on an e-platform, it further aims to provide more information on the qualifying criteria and bid submission requirements.

The conference is open to any interested parties of the BESIPPPP BW3 Programme. Stakeholders can register at the following link: conference registration.

Further queries can be sent to events@ipp-projects.co.za or query@ipp-storage.co.za. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Janine
Thu, 05/09/2024 - 09:42

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Putting Clients First: Centurion Law Group Rebrands as CLG

Location: News
CLG

Pan-African legal and business advisory group Centurion Law Group has officially rebranded to CLG (https://CLGGlobal.com), underscoring a firm-wide commitment to innovation and growth. The rebrand aligns closely with the firm's mission to consolidate its position as the leading legal practice and business advisor in an ever-evolving energy environment. With the rebrand, clients can expect expanded service offerings and elevated levels of excellence, as the firm moves to become the go-to legal platform for the African continent.

CLG's rebranding responds to growing client and shareholder demand for leadership in tackling complex legal issues across all energy sectors. As one of the continent's fastest-growing industries, energy is undergoing significant development and rapid change. The rebrand positions CLG to support these developments with a team of internationally-trained lawyers offering a suite of comprehensive services.

The firm's team of experienced legal professionals offers an in-depth understanding of the market and excels at navigating complex operating environments. CLG is the preferred professional services partner in Africa, equipped to offer on-the-ground support across multiple sectors.

CLG's rebranding journey is driven by several key motivations, including strategic differentiation, a more streamlined identity, global appeal and expanded service offerings. The new brand identity reinforces the firm's commitment to excellence, while signaling a fresh perspective and approach to legal services. It also provides a modern corporate identity that resonates with clients and stakeholders across diverse markets and builds broader brand recognition.

As a firm, CLG has a rich history of spearheading transformative oil and gas transactions across Africa, setting it apart as the leading law firm for the oil and gas industry. With extensive experience and deep-rooted technical expertise in the sector, CLG has a proven track record of providing top-tier legal services and strategic advice to clients across the energy spectrum. Its team has successfully guided clients through complex regulatory landscapes, contractual negotiations and large-scale transactions.

The firm's comprehensive understanding of the industry and its nuances ensures it is well-equipped to handle all legal aspects of oil and gas projects. From exploration and production to refining and distribution, CLG offers tailored solutions that address the specific needs and challenges of its clients.

Operating in several markets including South Africa, Nigeria, the Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Mauritius, Ghana, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique and Germany, CLG prides itself on building lasting relationships with clients and delivering exceptional results. The firm's reputation for excellence and commitment to client satisfaction makes it the trusted choice for businesses operating in the energy sector.

CLG recently achieved several significant milestones, including securing a listing on the Open Market of the Düsseldorf Stock Exchange under Calvert International AG (CIAG). Founded in 2007, the firm has quickly established itself as a leading pan-African legal and advisory conglomerate, dedicated to providing innovative and strategic solutions to clients across the continent. With a focus on excellence, integrity and client satisfaction, CLG has played a central role in driving the growth and success of its clients in an ever-evolving business environment.

The firm's positive track record serves as a cornerstone for future success, and the CLG rebrand marks a pivotal moment in its journey, symbolizing a strategic shift towards greater success, resonance and impact within the global legal and business landscape. This transformation is not only cosmetic, but also underscores CLG's commitment to serving as a modern, dynamic and global-minded legal, business and tax partner.

“While we are proud of our accomplishments, our sights are set on the future, driven by an unwavering commitment to adapt, innovate and position our company for continued growth and success in an ever-changing business environment. CLG stands resolute in our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our clients and enhancing the scope and quality of our services,” stated CLG CEO Zion Adeoye.

“The rebranding to CLG signifies a new chapter for our clients as we enhance our focus on delivering exceptional legal, tax and business advisory services. Our clients can expect a more streamlined and impactful experience, backed by our unwavering commitment to their success,” Adeoye added.

Visit CLG's new website at https://CLGGlobal.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.

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Government committed to resolve SA challenges

Location: News

Government committed to resolve SA challenges

While government has made significant progress in improving the lives of its citizens in the past 30 years, President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged that for millions of South Africans, the promise of 1994 has not yet translated into a meaningful change.

“That is why we must, and we will, continue to work in earnest to resolve the challenges that are holding back our progress,” the President said on Wednesday in Pretoria.

Addressing the launch of the 30 Year Review Report, he said there is room for improvement in growing the economy, addressing unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment.

The 30 Year Review Report reflects on the work the country has collectively undertaken to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa.

“We continue our efforts to overcome the energy crisis, to implement structural reforms to boost economic growth, to drive programmes that create more employment, and to improve the capacity of the state to deliver services,” Ramaphosa said.

He said the democratic breakthrough of 1994 represented both a decisive break with a painful past and an opportunity for South Africa to chart a new course.

WATCH | Launch of the of the 30 Years of Democracy Review Report in Pretoria

Strides made

“South Africa is a vastly different place compared to what it was 30 years ago. Guided by our Constitution and its Bill of Rights, successive democratic administrations have implemented progressive policies and programmes to uplift the material condition of all South Africans, particularly society’s most vulnerable,” the President said.

These policies have included the provision of basic services, housing, education, health care and social support.

“We have established a unitary, democratic state and created institutions to uphold democracy and promote accountability.

“We have an independent judiciary, a robust civil society, a free media and a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government.

“We have advanced transformative policies to change the racial and gender composition of the economy and the workplace. We have implemented laws to protect workers and advance their rights.”

Government has restored land to many who had been dispossessed and has provided emerging farmers with the means to productively use their land.

Challenges

“South Africa today is a valued member of the international fellowship of nations. We pursue a progressive foreign policy rooted in advancing the African Agenda, in social justice and solidarity, and in support of multilateralism. Yet we know that still much more needs to be done.

“We are contending with slow economic growth, high unemployment, poverty, inequality and underdevelopment. What is made clear by this Review Report is that the task of consolidating our democratic gains is not just the responsibility of the state. It is a responsibility that we all share.

“Just as we stood together to overcome COVID-19, just as we have united to confront other crises, we can overcome this period of difficulty in the life of our nation together,” the President said.

He said government was to create a better South Africa, a transformed South Africa, a South Africa that leaves no-one behind.

“The story of 30 years of democracy contained in this report is an honest and critical appraisal. It presents both light and shade, both progress and challenges. It is a vital reference for anyone who wants to understand the last 30 years and for everyone who wants to look into our future.

“It is our hope and expectation that this Review Report will be studied in detail and that its findings will be applied. This 30 Year Review Report is much more than a chronicle of a changing nation.

"As we chart the path ahead for our democracy, we will look to this Report as a valuable instrument for transformation, progress and growth. Let us make this a living document that inspires, encourages and guides us as we continue to build a democratic, prosperous and free South Africa,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Wed, 05/08/2024 - 13:55

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Looking past the elections: A more courageous role for big business in delivering the promises of the Constitution

Location: MyPR

Professor Brian Ganson is Head of the Centre on Conflict & Collaboration at Stellenbosch Business School, a hub for research and reflection on the private sector, conflict, and human security. We already know that whatever new governments emerge at local, provincial, and national levels due to voting on 29 May, they will face overwhelming challenges …

Read moreLooking past the elections: A more courageous role for big business in delivering the promises of the Constitution

The Rise of Padel Tennis: Exploring the Latest in Padel Rackets

Location: MyPR

Padel tennis has been gaining popularity worldwide as a fun and accessible sport. This increase in interest has spurred developments in the equipment used, particularly in padel rackets. Exploring High-Quality Padel Rackets The padel racket market is vibrant, with a wide range of options tailored to different skill levels and playing styles. High-performance rackets like …

Read moreThe Rise of Padel Tennis: Exploring the Latest in Padel Rackets

Mobile Home Affairs offices to bring convenience for Mokopane residents 

Location: News

Mobile Home Affairs offices to bring convenience for Mokopane residents 

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday unveiled 100 Department of Home Affairs (DHA) mobile offices in Mokopane, Limpopo.

The unveiling of the new mobile offices is part of the DHA’s Hybrid Access Model, which expands services to areas where the department’s footprint is limited.

This purpose-built offices offers all Home Affairs services in a convenient way, which includes shaded waiting areas and ample parking.

Speaking at the unveiling of the mobile offices, President Ramaphosa said these trucks are assets meant for the benefit of all people and all communities.

“This new fleet of mobile Home Affairs offices won’t be moving constantly around the provinces. They will be available in a village or town at a particular time so that people can know when to go there,” President Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa called on communities to see and treat these new Home Affairs trucks as their own.

WATCH I 

He said they should take pride in them and help government to care for them.

President Ramaphosa said apart from the 412 Home Affairs offices in different parts of the country, the Department has been able to expand the reach of services through partnerships with banks, shopping malls and with expanded offices like the one launched in Mokopane on Tuesday.

READ | President launches new Home Affairs offices in Limpopo

“Another way we have taken government’s services to you, the people, is by opening Home Affairs offices in hospitals for birth registrations. This has made a big difference in the rate of civil registrations and we hope it will continue to bring down the number of late registrations of births.

“These trucks are assets meant for the benefit of all people and all communities. The Department of Home Affairs will soon be unveiling a kiosk model that allows you to access services just like withdrawing money at an ATM,” he said.

In total, 100 mobile offices were unveiled and they will be distributed to other provinces.

The mobile offices will help reduce the influx of people at the department's offices. The mobile trucks will take home affairs services to people in rural areas and will ensure services are accessible during load-shedding and times of poor network connection. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 21:25

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Step Inside The Ford Territory Titanium To Understand Why It Ticks All The Boxes

Location: MyPR

The Ford Territory Titanium is the brand-new SUV you have been looking for. Ford’s new Top Spec vehicle, the new Ford Territory Titanium. The Ford Territory Titanium is ready to hit the road. The three new models in the Ford Territory range are now available for a test drive through Nigel Ladwig at the Eastern …

Read moreStep Inside The Ford Territory Titanium To Understand Why It Ticks All The Boxes

Second Adjustments Appropriation Bill, the Electoral Matters Amendment Bill signed into law

Location: News

Second Adjustments Appropriation Bill, the Electoral Matters Amendment Bill signed into law

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Second Adjustments Appropriation Bill and the Electoral Matters Amendment Bill.

In signing the two Bills, President Ramaphosa said: “In a year in which voters are presented with the greatest diversity of electoral choice, the legislation that is now enacted constitutes tangible, material support for a vibrant, competitive, open and equitable electoral system and democratic culture.”

According to the Presidency, the two Bills will expand “financial resources for South Africa’s multiparty democracy, including support for independent candidates and representatives”.

“[The] Second Adjustments Appropriation Bill…provides for a net movement of R290 million across functions and economic classifications in line with the requirements of the state.

“Furthermore, the Bill provides additional financial support to a number of departments and institutions, including R200 million to the Department of Home Affairs for the purpose of transferring the money to the Independent Electoral Commission for the Represented Political Parties Fund,” the Presidency said.

The resources in the fund are to be provided annually from the National Revenue Fund and expected to be distributed to political parties represented in both the national and provincial legislatures.

“By providing for this funding, the Second Adjustments Appropriation Bill gives effect to the provision of Section 236 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, which directs that national legislation must provide for the funding of political parties participating in national and provincial legislatures on an equitable and proportional basis,” the Presidency said.

The Electoral Matters Amendment Bill, the Presidency explained, amends the Political Party Funding Act of 2018 to provide for the regulation of the private and public funding of independent candidates and independent representatives, among other provisions.

“The Bill makes consequential amendments to the Electoral Act of 1998, the Electoral Commission Act of 1996 and other relevant legislation, which arise from the introduction of independent candidates and independent representatives in the National Assembly and provincial legislature.

“In this context, the new legislation provides for independent representatives to receive funds from the Multi-Party Democracy Fund, which is also administered by the Independent Electoral Commission.

“While the Represented Political Parties Fund is resourced by the fiscus, the Multi-Party Democracy Fund aims to raise and distribute donated funds from the private sector to represented political parties. The fund will now include independent candidates,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 09:45

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Successful KZN South Coast clothing manufacturer shows investment potential

Location: MyPR

The investment potential on the KZN South Coast is being uncovered with manufacturing identified as a key growth sector. Prominent South African babywear manufacturer, Shiva Clothing, exemplifies the opportunities for success in the region. Established in 1992 in a garage by husband-and-wife team Dolly and Siva Naidu, the small cut, trim, and manufacture (CTM) facility …

Read moreSuccessful KZN South Coast clothing manufacturer shows investment potential

Ruby Digital Acquires WeDev.Africa to Extend Web Development Solutions

Location: MyPR

Cape Town, South Africa – In a strategic move that marks a significant milestone in the digital marketing landscape, Ruby Digital, South Africa’s premier digital marketing agency, has announced its acquisition of web development house, WeDev.Africa. This acquisition reaffirms the Ruby Digital Group’s commitment to digital innovation and its AI transformation. Founded in 2011 by …

Read moreRuby Digital Acquires WeDev.Africa to Extend Web Development Solutions

President launches new Home Affairs offices in Limpopo

Location: News

President launches new Home Affairs offices in Limpopo

Through the use of innovation, the Department of Home Affairs aims to offer its services at a quicker pace and closer to where people reside, says President Cyril Ramamphosa.

“The programme we are launching is called Home Affairs on Wheels, and it is going to change the provision of Home Affairs services for the better across South Africa. We don’t just want to make it easier. We want to make it faster and we want to make it cheaper.

“For many people, especially in the rural areas, travelling to reach government services can take a lot of time and be expensive,” the President said on Tuesday.

This as he officially opened the new Home Affairs offices in Mokopane, Limpopo.

“The Department of Home Affairs will soon be unveiling a kiosk model that allows you to access services just like withdrawing money at an ATM.”

President Ramaphosa said once the system is up and running, people will be able to use this walk-in kiosk to do things like applying for replacement copies of a birth, marriage or death certificate.

“You will also be able to use the kiosk to apply for a passport or a smart ID card. Another way we have taken government’s services to you, the people, is by opening Home Affairs offices in hospitals for birth registrations.

“This has made a big difference in the rate of civil registrations, and we hope it will continue to bring down the number of late registrations of births.”

Apart from the 412 Home Affairs offices in different parts of the country, the Department of Home Affairs has been able to expand the reach of services through partnerships with the banks, with shopping malls and with expanded offices like the one launched in Mokopane today.

“I call on each of you to see these new Home Affairs trucks as your own and to treat them as your own. Take pride in them and help us to care for them. These trucks are assets meant for the benefit of all people and all communities.”

He also told those at the venue that 2024 marks 30 years since South Africa attained freedom.

“With the advent of democracy, we set out on the path to restore the dignity of all South Africans. During apartheid, the regime denied black South Africans their dignity by controlling where we lived, worked and travelled.”

He added that since 1994, government has progressively built a Department of Home Affairs that is the custodian and protector of the citizens of South Africa and other people who are legally residing in South Africa.

“By recognising people’s legal identity and by providing them with the necessary documentation, the department is helping them to lead lives of dignity.

“It ensures their right to access public services and social protection. It allows them to vote, to find work, to open bank accounts and to travel beyond our borders.”

Since the dawn of democracy, government have taken important steps to ensure that civil registration is made as accessible as possible.

“The opening of the expanded Home Affairs office here in Mokopane and the introduction of these mobile offices are a great leap forward,” President Ramaphosa said.

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, echoed the President’s call in urging communities to look after the mobile offices as they exist to serve them.

“These are for you. They are there to serve you,” the Minister said.

Services closer to home

The launch of the new Home Affairs office and the unveiling of the mobile offices was welcomed by the locals.

Rethabile Masunke from Mahwelereng told SAnews that she is happy that she is now going to get Home Affairs services closer to where she stays.

“I am happy that now I don’t have to spend money to travel to Home Affairs offices which are far,” Masunke said.

Echoing the same sentiments, was Thabo Rabotho who said he is happy with what government has done in bringing services closer to where he stays.

“Now I just walk to Home Affairs offices and apply for whatever document I need,” he said.

According to the Department of Home Affairs, the new 100 mobile offices will extend the reach of the department’s services, especially in remote areas and that the unveiling of these mobile offices is part of Home Affairs’ Hybrid Access Model which expands services in areas where the department’s footprint is limited.

The purpose-built office offers all Home Affairs services in a convenient way which includes shaded waiting areas and ample parking. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Tue, 05/07/2024 - 14:16

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